The Southern Caribbean offers tropical rainforests and picture-perfect beaches. It is ethnically influenced by Jamaican heritage from the times they were exploited as cheap workforce on banana plantations and to build the country’s railroad system. You can feel this heritage in the diversity of the population – as well as the food. Limón is the main port of the Caribbean. When going down towards the coast on the way to Limón, you will pass through banana plantations as far as the eye can see. With a rather high crime rate and not much to see, you can skip Limón as a tourist. Better continue further south to Puerto Viejo, which offers a laid back caribbean vibe. In terms of beaches, Playa Cocles or Playa Chiquita south of the town of Puerto Viejo are recommended. Cahuita is a second nice option to stay. From there, you can visit the Cahuita National Park, which consists of a long trail along the beach from one park entrance to the other – definitely worth a visit. From Puerto Viejo, we recommend renting bikes and cycling to Manzanillo. If you would like to continue, enter the park walking a little further down to Punta Manzanillo. Also, the area offers some nice snorkeling spots.