The climate in the region goes a long way in making the northern plains so special. Misty cloud forest environments, verdant rolling hills and a lake make the region a must on any visit to Costa Rica. The ideal way to visit the region is by car. The landscapes as you drive along twisting roads make for incredible photographs.

The Northern zone stretch out to the Nicaragua border. To the northwest of the "Cordillera Central" lie two more mountains chains, the "Cordillera de Tilaran" and the "Cordillera de Guanacaste".  The "Cordillera de Tilaran" is characterized by rolling mountains which used to be covered with cloud forest.  The famous cloud forest reserve at Monteverde is an important and popular destination. Separating the "Cordillera de Tilaran" and "Cordillera de Guanacaste" is Lake Arenal and the nearby Arenal Volcano, currently the most active volcano in Costa Rica.

Of the 850 bird species identified in Costa Rica, 600 are permanent residents in this region.

Major attractions: Arenal Active Volcano and National Park, Hot Springs, Lake Arenal, rivers, waterfalls, Monteverde Private Cloud Forest Reserve, Canopy, Skywalk & Sky Trek, Cheese Factory, Hummingbirds Gallery.

Activities available: Hiking, Horseback riding, Hiking and nature observation, Bird watching, Hummingbird & butterfly gardens, Horseback riding, Canopy.