Costa Rica: A land of natural wonders.

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I've been exploring Costa Rica for a decade now. And I've been fortunate enough to visit many of the national parks and private reserves. Here are some tips for day hikers.

In addition to the usual (water, snacks, camera), I'd bring water purification tablets, compact binoculars, a hat, a mosquito net that covers your head, and a walking stick. The stick could either be a wooden staff or a high-tech model. It's really useful for places that are steep and muddy. Rubber boots are necessary for rainforest trails but are less important during the dry season or while hiking on trails in tropical dry forests such as those found in the Guanacaste area in Costa Rica's northwest. (Some lodges will provide both boots and staff.) Early morning is the best time to set out as animals (including birds) come out when it is cool.