This small, breathtakingly beautiful country is a treasure trove for the nature-lover. Separating the lowlands facing the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean is a range of active volcanoes surrounded by mountain cloud forest, lowland tropical jungle and savannah grasslands. Trees laden with orchids are home to quetzals, trogons and hummingbirds. On the Pacific coast, the jungle creeps down to the shoreline, enlivened by the chattering of monkeys and parrots; the Caribbean shore hosts volcanic beaches and palm-sheltered coves.There is a sophisticated, conservation-minded tourist infrastructure with a well-developed network of national parks; the many excellent hotels and lodges offer a high level of service and facilities. Road travel is always scenic and there are many light aircraft services to reach the remoter spots.32

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