Sesancestros

Hiking trails lace through the rainforest at Quebradas Biological Center (45 minutes’ drive), a nature reserve dotted with small waterfalls and high observation points. The area features abundant birdlife, and you might also be able to spot the occasional sloth hanging from a tree during your exploration. If you’re into plants and flowers, head to Jardines Secretos (one hour), where you can stroll among lush ferns, bamboo groves and other tropical vegetation; there are also turtle ponds and colourful butterflies; at Orquilandia (one hour and 15 minutes), you can admire more than 2,000 varieties of orchids in a forested setting. In addition to hiking trails for various abilities, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve (one hour and 10 minutes) has guided tours that take in cloud forest and waterfalls. Whether alone or with an expert naturalist, it pays to keep your eyes peeled for vibrantly coloured butterflies and birds like the resplendent quetzal.