Costa Rica is a nation of impossible natural beauty. Misty purple volcanoes, radiant sunsets, smoky rainforests, and beaches teeming with sea turtles are common places. Combine these unforgettable sights with the country’s unmatched ecotourism, (comparatively low) prices, and warm-hearted locals, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of the Americas.
Travel to Costa Rica: Where should I go?
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, definitely has its fans. If you are traveling on a budget and need a place to stay, try Costa Rica Backpackers Hostel.
The most common travel itinerary in Costa Rica is Forest -> Beaches, in that order. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is the most popular destination for canopy and zip line tours, such as those offered by Aventura Canopy Tours. Stay in Santa Elena for some local color and better prices. Near La Fortuna, next to Lake Arenal and the Arenal Volcano, it is another great destination. Visit a hot spring like Baldi Termae and enjoy steam pools and swim-up bars.
On the coast, travelers frequent all the beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula, from Playa Hermosa to Playa Tamarindo and up to Montezuma. Other popular beaches are Jaco and Manuel Antonio. Scuba diving and snorkeling are spectacular anywhere, but the best is far offshore, in Costa Rica’s remote island reserves like Tortuga and Cocos – book a boat trip from any major city.
What can i see
Costa Rica has approximately five percent of biodiversity worldwide. Fortunately, the county acts together. Twenty-five percent of its total territory is protected in a number of wildlife refuges, parks, and biological reserves. National parks are visited more frequently by tourists and offer a greater number of activities and services.
Due to its forward thinking, Costa Rica offers pure landscapes at its best. It is a natural nation in mosaic of cloud forests swirling with mist, rainforests, mangroves, grasslands and dry tropical forests, surrounded by countless beaches.
Costa Rica is a paradise for bird watchers. As for mammals, the largest, such as sloths, jaguars, and tapirs, are shy and are rarely seen. But chances are you will see a monkey or a whole troop of them, swinging through the canopy above. You are sure to hear the howlers – their loud calls can be heard up to two miles away!
How are the people?
Costa Ricans, called Ticos , have a strong sense of nationalism. They pride themselves on the natural beauty of their country and its democracy. While much of Costa Rican culture is distinctly Western, Costa Rica is a Catholic nation and is more conservative in many respects than the United States; it is important to dress respectfully in all areas except beach resorts.
How do I get there and around?
The public bus system in Costa Rica is the cheapest and often the most convenient way to travel anywhere you want to go. The buses range from flashy vintage American school buses (or “chicken buses”) to higher-quality, air-conditioned express buses. Check the Toucan Guides bus schedule in Costa Rica for schedules and destinations.
The main bus transit center in Costa Rica is the Coca Cola Bus Terminal in San José.
If you travel with a large amount of luggage and don’t visit remote areas, it may be worth renting a car. Taxis are also widespread and will take passengers long distances for a price.
If you are going on a field trip, Ticabus is the best way to do it. This comfortable and accommodating bus line runs throughout Costa Rica, to Guatemala in the north and Panama in the south.
How much will I pay?
Costa Rica is a country that can accommodate travelers seeking all levels of comfort. Budget hostels and guesthouses are everywhere, and the local bus ride is very cheap, but luxury travelers will also find top American-quality resorts and services. If you want, you will never have to walk through a local village, but where’s the fun in that?
When should i go?
The American summer is the wet season of Costa Rica. While that means occasional (often stormy) storms, it also means far fewer commuters. November and December are the driest months to visit, but prices skyrocket, and there are so many traveler reservations that need to be made for everything well in advance. So it is a jolt, it all depends on your personal concerns.
