Welcome to Costa Rica, a stunning Central American country known for its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and beautiful beaches. With its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and diverse landscapes, Costa Rica is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation, or both.
Getting there and around:
Most international visitors to Costa Rica arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport SJO in San Jose, the country’s capital city. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to your destination. Domestic flights are available from San Jose to other cities and regions within the country.
If you plan to explore multiple destinations within Costa Rica, renting a car is a great option. Alternatively, public buses are an affordable and reliable option for getting around, but they can be slow and uncomfortable at times.
Top destinations:
Arenal Volcano National Park home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Arenal Volcano National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park is also known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and zipline tours.
Manuel Antonio National Park located on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park is a stunning combination of rainforest, beach, and ocean. The park is home to numerous species of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve this biodiverse forest reserve is home to over 2,500 plant species, 100 species of mammals, and 400 species of birds. Visitors can hike through the misty forest, explore the canopy via zipline, or visit a butterfly or hummingbird garden.
Tortuguero National Park located on the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is a prime nesting site for endangered sea turtles, including the green turtle and the hawksbill turtle. Visitors can also explore the park’s canals by boat and spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and caimans.
Nicoya Peninsula this picturesque peninsula on the Pacific coast is known for its stunning beaches, excellent surfing, and laid-back vibe. Popular towns include Santa Teresa, Montezuma, and Tamarindo.
Activities:
Surfing Costa Rica is known for its excellent surf spots, especially on the Pacific coast. Popular surf destinations include Jaco, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa.
Zip lining soar through the treetops and get a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest on a zip line tour.
Rafting Costa Rica’s rivers offer excellent white-water rafting opportunities for all levels of experience.
Wildlife spotting Costa Rica is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and jaguars. Join a guided tour or hike to increase your chances of spotting them.
Beach-hopping with over 800 miles of coastline, Costa Rica has plenty of stunning beaches to explore. Whether you’re looking for a secluded cove or a lively beach party scene, there’s something for everyone.
Food and drink:
Costa Rican cuisine is a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Typical dishes include gallo pinto a breakfast dish of rice and beans), ceviche marinated seafood), and casado a lunch or dinner plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat). Costa Rica is also known for its coffee, which is among the best in the world.
Safety:
Costa Rica is generally a safe country for travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables out of sight, and avoid walking alone at night.