Travel

10 Must-Do Activities in Liberia, Costa Rica

Petrina Darrah

Posted: April 8, 2023

Liberia, Costa Rica is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an adventure in Central America. The city offers a perfect combination of rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. From eco-tourism activities to beach fun and nightlife, Liberia has something to offer for every kind of traveller. Here are the top 10 things to do in Liberia, Costa Rica.

1. Visit the Historical and Cultural Sites of Liberia

Liberia is rich in cultural heritage, and visiting the city’s historical sites is a great way to discover its past. Start with the Guanacaste Museum, which is home to a collection of local artefacts, historical objects, and art exhibits. Then visit the city’s iconic landmark, the Church of La Ermita de la Agonia, which is known for its ornate architecture and religious significance.

2. Explore the Rincon de la Vieja National Park

The Rincon de la Vieja National Park is one of the best places to explore Costa Rica’s natural beauty. The park offers various eco-tourism activities, including hiking, zip-lining, and horseback riding. You can also visit the park’s geothermal features, which include hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.

3. Take a Wildlife Tour

Costa Rica is famous for its diverse wildlife, and Liberia is no exception. You can take a wildlife tour to see the country’s exotic animals, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and parrots. The wildlife tours offer a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures.

4. Hit the Beaches

Liberia is home to some of the best beaches in Costa Rica. Playa Hermosa is one of the most popular beaches in the city and is perfect for surfing and sunbathing. Other top beaches include Playa del Coco and Playa Panama, which offer a range of water activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing.

5. Go on a Sunset Cruise

A sunset cruise is a great way to end a day in Liberia. The cruise takes you along the coastline and offers stunning views of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. You can also enjoy a romantic dinner and drinks while watching the sun go down.

6. Try the Local Cuisine

Costa Rican cuisine is a blend of African, Spanish, and indigenous flavours. Liberia offers a range of traditional dishes, including gallo pinto (rice and beans), ceviche (marinated seafood), and arroz con pollo (rice with chicken). You can also try the local beer, Imperial, which is a must-try for beer lovers.

7. Visit the Liberia Street Market

The Liberia Street Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local crafts. You can find a range of items, including handmade jewellery, pottery, and textiles. The market is also an excellent place to try local street food, including empanadas (stuffed pastries) and tamales (stuffed corn cakes).

8. Enjoy the Nightlife

Liberia has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can enjoy live music, cultural performances, and dancing till the wee hours of the morning. Some of the popular nightlife spots in Liberia include Bar Las Tablas and La Casa del Guanacaste.

9. Take a Coffee Tour

Costa Rica is known for its high-quality coffee, and taking a coffee tour is a great way to learn about the country’s coffee culture. You can visit a coffee plantation, learn about the coffee-making process, and even try some of the best coffee in the country

10. Relax and Recharge at a Spa

After all the adventure and exploration, it’s time to relax and rejuvenate at one of the many spas in Liberia. You can indulge in a range of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Some of the popular spas in Liberia include the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo and the Blue River Resort & Hot Springs.

In conclusion, Liberia, Costa Rica, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. From exploring the city’s historical sites to hitting the beaches and indulging in the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Liberia. This is just one of the many places you can visit when you volunteer in Costa Rica with GVI. Check out our Costa Rica programs to learn more about how you can immerse yourself in this spectacular country!

By Petrina Darrah

Petrina Darrah is a freelance writer from New Zealand with a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable travel. She has been writing about travel for more than five years and her work has appeared in print and digital publications including National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Travel, Business Insider, Atlas Obscura and more. You can see more of her work at petrinadarrah.com.

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