Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja

Lonely Planet review

Active Volcán Rincón de la Vieja (1895m/6217ft) is the steamy main attraction here, but the region bubbles with fumaroles, tepid springs and steaming, flatulent mud pits. (If this doesn't sound like fun, you've never read Dr Seuss). All these can be visited on well-maintained but sometimes steep trails, and if you haven't visited Yellowstone National Park, this is a good substitute.

The park is home to 300 bird species as well as morpho butterflies, tapirs, monkeys and pumas. Watch out for ticks, especially in grassy areas, and wear closed shoes and trousers. About 700m (2296ft) west of Las Pailas ranger station, the Sendero Cangreja leads 5km (3mi) to Catarata La Cangreja, a waterfall plunging from a high cliff into a blue lagoon - ideal for swimming!