Located in Central America, between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica boasts incredible wildlife, surfing, rainforests, volcanoes, stunning sunsets, and happy people.The local saying in Costa Rica is ‘Pura Vida’, meaning ‘life is good’ or ‘pure life’, which is exactly what you’ll experience while in this beautiful country. Here are 6 reasons why Costa Rica deserves a spot on your bucket list…
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1. Adventure Activities
If you're a thrill seeker, Costa Rica is the place for you. There are ziplining tours through the rain forest canopy, whitewater rafting on world-class rapids, kayaking, surfing, sky diving, kitesurfing, scuba diving, and more. Whether you’re an extreme adrenaline junkie or just simply looking for a fun adventure, there’s an activity for you in Costa Rica.
Related: 3 Reasons Why You Should Visit Latin America
Tip: If you choose to do ziplining, we recommend bringing active wear, like yoga pants, stretchy pants or something you would be comfortable with being in a harness, closed-toe shoes or tennis shoes, a windbreaker or light jacket. Your tour may include some extensive walking and due to the higher elevation, it can get chilly, so these items are best to wear when doing this kind of activity.
2. Beaches
If you’re not a thrill-seeker, don’t worry—there are plenty of beaches in Costa Rica where you can relax the day away. There is almost 1,000 miles of stunning coastline on the Pacific and the Caribbean with nearly 300 beaches to choose from. Because there is such a vast amount of shoreline, the beaches in Costa Rica are diverse and each one is unique, ranging from pristine stretches of white sand to tiny coves only accessible by boat.
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3. Biodiversity
Nestled between North and South America, the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, Costa Rica’s geography offers multiple micro-climates and ecosystems, and is home to nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity. Costa Rica is the greatest birdwatching country as there are nearly 900 species of birds alone! Turtles, sloths, monkeys, iguanas, anteaters, dolphins, and manatees are just a few of the other animals you might see on a visit to Costa Rica.
Best Places to See Nature and Wildlife:
Tortuguero National Park - Exclusively and only accessible by boat or airplane, you won’t but help fall in love with all the natural beauty this park has to offer. Tortuguero translates to “region of turtles” in Spanish, but that’s not the only species you’ll catch sight of. You’ll also be able to spot howler monkeys, toucans, caimans, and you may even see a jaguar!
Tip: If you don’t mind simpler accommodations, it’s a must to stay at an ecolodge in Tortuguero National Park. There’s nothing quite like being surrounded by wildlife and lush tropical forest. Don’t mind the Capuchin monkeys as they may be swinging around right in front of you.
Rio Grande of Tarcoles- Another must try experience is hopping on a jungle crocodile safari. You’ll be able to witness one of the world’s largest wild crocodile populations, while also spotting other animals like the extraordinary scarlet macaw. Fun fact: the crocodiles you’ll see can live up to 120 years old and they don’t stop growing.
Tip: If you’d like to spot the most wildlife, it’s best to visit Costa Rica during the dryer seasons. Dry season starts from mid-November and continues through April. If you choose May, you can still see plenty of wildlife, but may catch some rain.
4. People
‘Pura Vida’ is a way of life for the people of Costa Rica, and it shows—Costa Rica is known as being one of the happiest countries in the world. Costa Rican people, or ‘Ticos,’ as they are known, are relaxed, easygoing, social people who will do their best to make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. You will experience the warm hospitality of the locals wherever you go.
5. Volcanoes
Located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Costa Rica has over 200 volcanic formations. Arenal is the most famous of Costa Rica’s volcanoes and is considered one of Central America’s most beautiful volcanoes. Other notable volcanoes include Irazú, the tallest volcano in Costa Rica and home to beautiful green and color-changing lakes, and Poas, one of the most visited volcanoes in Costa Rica and known for having one of the world’s only lakes to be made up of molten sulfur. Fun Fact: The country’s rich biodiversity is due largely in part to the presence of the volcanoes making the soil rich and fertile.
Must Try Activities When Visiting Arenal:
- Ziplining – You’ll be able to take in stunning views while gliding over the rainforest and will have a perfect view of Arenal. If it’s your first time ziplining, no need to fear, there are instructors that will show you how to go and stop.
- Hiking – This is perfect for those looking for a moderate leveled activity. You’ll be able to cross lava fields and enjoy sights at your own pace.
- Hanging bridges – These are the perfect places to take great pictures!
- Visit the nearby city of La Fortuna for great restaurants and bars
6. Chocolate Plantations
Whether you’re a chocoholic or just like seeing how things are made, visiting a cacao plantation is a must thing to do while in Costa Rica. From the cacao fruit, beans, fermentation, roasting and grinding, you’ll be able to see how one of Costa Rica’s most well-known products is made. The best part of visiting one of the plantations is sampling the finished product. We recommend trying the licor de cacao, you’ll soon be saying delicioso!
Other Foods to Try in Costa Rica:
- Plantains- A key ingredient in Costa Rican dishes are plantains. You can enjoy them sweet as a dessert or savory as a side dish.
- Gallo Pinto – This rice and bean side dish is a staple to most Costa Rican dishes.
- Coffee – The coffee in Costa Rica is easy to drink but is still a strong brew.
FAQ’s and General Tips for Costa Rica
When is the best time to go to Costa Rica?
If you would like to see more wildlife, it’s best to visit during dry season which takes place from mid-November to April. If you would like to experience more tropical weather, rainy season is from May to mid-November.
What language do they speak in Costa Rica?
The official language is Spanish; however, you’ll able to find people that speak English. It is helpful to learn some Spanish phrases, especially when using taxis or Ubers.
What is the currency in Costa Rica?
The Colon is the currency used, however, most places accept US dollars and major credit cards.
What to wear in Costa Rica?
Keep in mind that the weather is warm year-round and is tropical, so it is best to have layers and a light jacket in case it rains.
Additional Tips:
- For economical transportation: take a bus when visiting different cities
- Take bug spray and reapply frequently
There are a lot more than six reasons to go to Costa Rica, but these are just a few to help convince you. Costa Rica has so much more to offer than your typical tropical destination! You’re sure to have the adventure of a lifetime and come back with a rejuvenated spirit and true sense of ‘Pura Vida.’
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