Lankester Gardens is one of Costa Rica’s out-of-the-way gems: a stunning botanical garden showcasing over 1000 species of orchids.

Started by Charles H. Lankester, the gardens are now operated by the University of Costa Rica and is one of the chief centers for orchid research in the world. Stroll along well-maintained pathways and study the magnificent flowers, most of which are native to Costa Rica’s rainforests.

Aside from orchids, the gardens contain many other plant species, including those in its famous Japanese garden. Of course, the collection attracts a wide array of interesting insects.