We adore the flowers of the tropics, and the floral beauty in Costa Rica is extraordinary. Although I love flowers and gardens, I admit to being mostly ignorant of the names and details but am more than happy to take endless photos.

Enjoy this display of some of the glories of the country.

Even in urban San Jose, it was possible to find brilliance around every corner.

The stunning displays only got better as we headed west to the Caribbean. As we slowly worked our way through the mangrove swamps teeming with life, the colorful tropical vegetation was on display.

In Tortuguero Village, my traveling crew became frustrated with my slow pace but I couldn’t resist stopping often in awe of the natural beauty surrounding me.

One photo even captured an unexpected, and I’m told, non-venomous friend.

After we left the coast and headed into the hills to Orisi Valley the floral display remained vibrant with different varietals and our stop at the Lankester Botanical Gardens was one of many highlights of our time in the country.

During our winding road towards the coast, this time the Pacific, the visual display continued.

Costa Rica is well worth a visit for a multitude of reasons, not the least of which is nature on display around every bend.