Millions of tourists flock to Costa Rica each year to see its impressive wildlife and national parks first-hand.
But with flights taking upwards of 15 hours to reach the dreamy destination from London, and costing hundreds of pounds, for some travellers it’s simply out of budget.
There is a location closer to home that resembles Costa Rica however, and it’s found in sunny Spain.
Just a short four-hour flight away from the UK is the lesser-known Canary Island of La Palma.
One of the smaller islands, La Palma is around 708 square kilometers in size and is known for being green and vibrant, often called ‘la isla bonita’ – ‘the beautiful island’.
Despite being small, there’s plenty of lush spaces to explore and it even boasts a national park.
Much like Costa Rica, there are world-class walking treks and one, the Caldera Taburiente hike, takes walkers through the vast preserve area.
The Caldera de Taburiente National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is covered in Canarian pine woods and ravines – home to a range of fauna, birds and reptiles.
Alternatively, those feeling more of an adventure can drive up to La Palma’s highest point – the Roque de Los Muchachos.
At 2,426 metres high, the rocky mound offers great views of the island.
As for La Palma’s coastal areas, it’s a perfect base for whale watching.
Holidaymakers can sail out of Tazacorte on the west coast and will soon be able to catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins.
The beaches are covered in black sand and there are plenty of stargazing opportunities on the island too.
Experiencing all of La Palma’s natural wonders won’t break the bank either.
A pint of local beer costs as little as €1.50 (£1.30) and an all-inclusive holiday with TUI can be found from £567 per person in April, including return flights to Gatwick and luggage – working out at £81 a night.
Temperatures in the summer reach average highs of 28 degrees – just as hot as Costa Rica but without the long-haul flight.
For keen hikers who don’t want to bask in the sun by the pool all day, there is even a volcano crater on the island to discover.
A new crater was created on Tajogaite Volcano in 2021 after the site erupted and completely changed the landscape. It was previously called Cumbre Vieja.
Now, it’s possible to hike 6.5km on the newly christened Tajogaite and see incredible views of the lava flows and the Aridane Valley.
But those considering a holiday to La Palma any time soon should be aware of upcoming strikes in Spain.
A whopping 14 hubs in Spain and the Canary Islands will be hit by air traffic controller industrial action later this month, and La Palma is one.