When was the last time you really spent time in nature? Not walking through a carefully landscaped city park, but in the heart of the great outdoors, where the air smells sweet, birds sing, and the wildlife dwells in their natural habitat? Nature is alive and well in Monteverde, Costa Rica. The home of two cloud forests — a rare type of high-moisture forest —, countless varieties of plants and animals, and an impressive amount of outdoor recreational activities, exploring nature in Monteverde is anything but boring. If you're an academic and/or artist, you'll enjoy taking a leisurely stroll with a naturalist guide who can help you identify flora and fauna. More of an adrenaline junky? Zip line through the forest at top speeds, rappel down waterfalls before immersing yourself in secluded swimming holes, and enjoy rugged hikes. If you're an early riser, there are some incredible birdwatching opportunities; if you like to sleep in, you can go on a rainforest night tour. Rediscover how fun and interesting nature can be when you enjoy an outdoor getaway in Monteverde.

Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula is the home of Drake Bay and a gateway into the Corcovado National Park. Follow in the footsteps of its namesake, Sir Francis Drake, and become a modern day explorer on your Costa Rica nature vacation. There's no need to choose between beaches and forests, because Drake Bay has them both. Head out to sea and visit Costa Rica's marine life that includes whales, dolphins, sharks and too many species to name. The most common entrance into Corcovado from Drake Bay is at Sirena biological station a 1 hour boat ride. When the forest beckons, you can trade in your sandals for hiking boots. Drake Bay and nearby Corcovado National Park are supreme destinations for a nature vacation. They literally cannot be beat for the density of biodiversity on planet earth. Monkeys, tapirs, butterflies, sloths, the ever present Scarlet Macaw and thousands of other species thrive in this region. Though the Sun will inevitably set, there's no need to say, "Goodbye!" to nature. Staying at a nearby ecolodge or beachside hotel ensures that you're never far from the outdoors. P.S. Do a little wandering and you'll be able to find one of Drake Bay's many deserted stretches of beach — perfect for early morning yoga or spending a quiet moment with your favorite person.

There are many things that make Tortuguero, Costa Rica special, but the most notable might just be the region's abundance of nature. Tortuguero is translated as 'region of turtles,' which is an appropriate name when you consider the fact that the region is an important nesting ground for green sea turtles. If you're lucky, your trip will coincide with the hatching of baby sea turtles, and you'll be able to witness them make their way to the water for the first time in their little lives. As you might have guessed, turtles aren't the only creatures to call Tortuguero home. Crocodiles live in the marshes, as do monkeys and tropical birds. Additionally, scheduling a tour with a naturalist guide will help you identify a wealth of plants and animals you might otherwise miss. Take the scenic route when you explore canals via kayak or canoe. Although you can find natural beauty all over the country, you can see nature with ease when you pay a visit to Tortuguero National Park. Spanning an impressive 46,815 acres (18,946 ha), over 20 miles (32 km) of the park is coastline. It's your vacation, so why not treat yourself to a guided boat tour? If you really can't stand to be far away from nature, you can stay in hotels and lodges that offer you easy access to the beach or place you in the heart of the jungle. Either way, the sounds of nature will lull you to sleep every night. If you're in desperate need of a reprieve from the concrete jungle, then a Costa Rica nature vacation in Tortuguero will give you ample opportunity to come back down to Earth.

Need to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect to nature? San Gerardo de Dota is a place of rugged yet pristine beauty in the high mountains of the South Central region of Costa Rica. Bird lovers will be in heaven on Earth with the opportunity to observe over 200 bird species. Wander through cloud forests and see countless plants and animals including peccaries and butterflies. The only thing to distract you on this vacation is the great outdoors! Catch fish on the Río Savegre. Listen to the roar of the Naranjo Waterfalls. Take a walk in the refreshing mountain air and do some botanical sketches. Grab your binoculars and spot some wildlife. Or simply bring a snack and a bottle of water with you whilst you walk outside — take your time, because no one is rushing you or waiting on you. Getting back in touch with nature continues when you stay at one of San Gerardo de Dota's fine eco lodges and cabins. There is no real town with restaurants or shopping. All of the activities and meals are included in the price of the hotel where you will enjoy hot showers, cozy fireplaces, pleasant breakfasts, and a great night's sleep as you find yourself surrounded by the calm of nature. Nature never went away, she's been waiting for you in San Gerardo de Dota all along.