This area has a mix of ecosystems that allows for even more incredible biodiversity than in other parts of Costa Rica. You will see the lush vegetation of the rainforest, colorful flowers, and outstanding mosses of the cloud forest, plus animals from both. 

There’s an orchid exhibit on-site and a butterfly garden (with 4,000 butterflies) that's regarded as one of the best in the world. 

You'll also find a hummingbird garden here with 26 species. These tiny marvels of nature have become used to humans and will likely hover quite close to you. Don’t touch them, though, as they are fragile, but feel free to take tons of pictures. It’s a self-guided tour so that you can hang out with hummingbirds for as long as possible. 

Other specialty exhibits include the Ranarium, a free-range frog exhibit where the frogs hop through the landscaped enclosure at will. The Serpentarium houses 30 snakes, some venomous. You can also see monkeys in another area, as well as rehabilitated sloths. 

You’ll also want to check out the aviary with a wide range of colorful and interesting birds - all rescued or donated. Birdwatchers love the chance to see them without binoculars. 

Finally, don’t forget to stop by the jungle cats exhibit, with a 200-pound jaguar and various panthers, ocelots, and more.

Although there’s much to see and do at La Paz, there's also time for relaxation and cultural tours. Teach your kids to fish on the trout lake (and catch your dinner) or make a stop at the “Casita,” a farmhouse reproduction that shows what rural life in Costa Rica used to be like. Try fresh milk, ride in an ox-driven cart, sample some handmade tortillas, or look at some old tools.