Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges- La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Admittedly, a hanging bridge park sounds like a tourist trap. A disappointing, overpriced commercial enterprise, not worth the time or money. But in the case of Mistico, it is an absolutely enthralling, immersive experience, with 15 different bridges (6 hanging) along a two mile trail- which is absolutely worth the price of admission.

Located in a private rainforest reserve, at the intersection of two ecosystems (highland and lowland wet forests), the biodiversity here is outstanding, including over 700 plant species. The canopy also offers seemingly unlimited bird watching opportunities, with both resident and migratory species present. A local guide is invaluable here for identification purposes, and well worth the cost- ours located a poison dart frog, which given its size is the equivalent to finding the proverbial needle in a haystack.