If you want a spelunking good time followed by conversation with one of Costa Rica’s few remaining indigenous populations, you should shake your tail feather down to San Rafael de Guatuso.

Sightseeing
Guatuso is home to the Venado Caves which are perfect for a rainy day but are probably not for you if you hate huge spiders, bats and being dirty—you’ll be crawling around on the floor in here so it’s wise to wear trousers and bring a hat, as well as a change of clothes for after your complimentary shower.

Getting there
Guatuso is easily accessible by Highway 4, and lies in between Upala and Muelle on a diagonal line going from Upala in the north-west to Muelle in the south-east. You can get here by bus from either Ciudad Quesada or San José, or if you have a car, you can drive here easily. You can organize a day trip from La Fortuna to this area, but it will cost you more than if you take the bus and find a guide.