Costa Rica

The most peaceful place on the planet

Guide to Costa Rica

Basic Information

In Spanish, Costa Rica means "rich coast." This name is quite fitting as this country-reserve boasts breathtaking natural landscapes. From the panoramic views of smoking volcanoes to mountains cloaked in forests, incredible caves, and white sand beaches, Costa Rica dazzles with its natural beauty. Moreover, Costa Rica is the most prosperous country in its region. Its central part resembles a European nation, and its tourist routes are sure to delight even the most seasoned travelers seeking iconic sights.

Photos of Costa Rica

The suspension bridge in the National Park

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Capital

San Jose

Language

Spanish

Currency

Colón

Time zone

GMT -6

Population

4 825 144

Territory

51,100 km²

Dishes worth trying:

Casados — The name refers to a mixture of rice and beans with meat.

Arreglados — patties filled with meat, cheese or chicken.

Patacones — are fried plantain stalks.

Arroz con camarones — a kind of rice and crab pilaf.

Refrescos fruit juices. — mixed with milk ("leche"), water ("aqua") and ice, instantly made right in front of the customer in a regular mixer.

Come to Manuel Antonio National Park, nearby Palmar Sur and see why Costa Rica is called the greenest country in the world.
Try to catch a butterfly at a butterfly farm in Alajuela.
Visit the Indian reservations at La Amistad Park in Limon.
Swim surrounded by tiger sharks, seven-meter mantas and whales off the famous Cocos Island.
Visit the towns of Quepos and Limon in one day to swim in the waters of the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean.

Tips

Although tap water in Costa Rica is relatively clean, visitors should opt for bottled water.

Before traveling, a malaria vaccination will not be unreasonable.

Going on an excursion to one of the volcanoes, it is recommended to wear not only comfortable shoes, but also clothes that completely cover the body.

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Sights

Despite the developed tourist infrastructure, the main attractions of Costa Rica to this day remain its national parks, picturesque valleys, waterfalls, caves, white sand beaches, and, of course, volcanoes. Amazing beauty of Catholic cathedrals of the XIX century can be found walking along the streets of the capital San Jose.

Corcovado National Park

An untouched corner of civilization on the Pacific coast. If you behave quietly, you can see armadillos, sloths and anteaters on its territory.

Arenal

Natural attraction of Costa Rica, under which hides the most popular volcano in the country. It attracts increased interest from tourists due to the fact that it was erupting a couple of years ago.

The gold museum in San Jose

A Costa Rican attraction that requires no description. It has over 2 million exhibits and one of the largest collections of gold pieces in all of Central America.

Tours to Costa Rica

What do tourists seek in Costa Rica? Naturally, they seek beautiful beaches and clear seas. One can choose trips to both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean here. Naming the best beaches in the country is nearly impossible, as Costa Rica offers places for family vacations with children and secluded corners favored by honeymooners. The beaches themselves vary in sand shades, from white to even black in some areas.

Consequently, different parts of the country's coastline cater to various sports activities, including surfing, diving, rafting, and more. Yet, the sea and beaches are just the beginning of what Costa Rica has to offer on vacation.

Upon arrival, travelers are sure to indulge in sightseeing tours to explore the local natural wonders. Options include trips to volcanoes, tours of natural parks, visits to butterfly farms, and much more. Separate tours are also organized to explore Indian reservations.

Logically, finding budget-friendly trips to a destination as far as Costa Rica can be challenging. The flight distance contributes to relatively high travel costs, with a one-week stay costing around $1,800 USD. If you opt for combined trips that include visits to neighboring countries, the cost can easily double.

However, it's worth seeking out affordable options among last-minute deals. A reliable resource in this regard is the tripmydream service, which aggregates information about hot travel deals from leading tour operators.

Where to go to Costa Rica?

Despite the fact that our tourist about overseas vacation is almost nothing known, Costa Rica is famous for its diverse and exciting vacation. The presence of a multi-kilometer coastal zone, provides ample opportunities for beach recreation and water activities. Volcanoes, national parks, lakes and waterfalls allow you to go on unforgettable sightseeing tours.

Jaco

When to go to Costa Rica

Costa Rica enjoys relatively warm weather throughout the year. This is due to the fact that the country is located in the subequatorial climate zone. Only the rainy season, which lasts from May to November on the territory of the country, can somewhat overshadow the upcoming vacation. Knowing the peculiarities of the relief of this country and in the low season you can find favorable places for rest.

Costa Rica in spring

With the arrival of spring, the high season in Costa Rica continues to delight. The temperature rises slightly and the humidity also becomes higher. From May, the rainy season officially begins.

Costa Rica in summer

Summer in Costa Rica is dominated by the so-called green season. Heavy rains occur only in June. With the arrival of the second summer month, their intensity begins to decline. The air temperature is +28°C.

Costa Rica in the fall

In autumn, the weather situation in Costa Rica stabilizes. The rains gradually become less. Due to the fact that the high tourist season has not yet begun, the tour can be purchased at a reduced price.

Costa Rica in winter

In winter in Costa Rica there is no snow and frost. On the contrary, from December to February is the height of the high tourist season. The gentle sea and cloudless skies will do everything possible to make your vacation perfect.