Costa Rica’s prime attraction is its nature. Considered one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world, you could find yourself coming face-to-face with toucans, erupting volcanoes, lumbering sloth, chattering monkeys, and nesting turtles. Costa Ricans are well aware of this great national treasure and almost 25% of the country is protected in ecological preserves. A visit to Costa Rica lets you meander through the natural canals of the Tortuguero National Park, sheltered by the rainforest canopy, while you view turtles, protected crocodiles, manatees and otters. Arenal Volcano, active since 1968, offers curative hot mineral springs and spectacular views. Hike the cloud forest, view the colorful hummingbird gallery, and “skywalk” on exotic hanging bridges of the Monteverde Preserve. The adventurer can raft the wild and scenic Pacuare River, water toboggan, or ride horseback through magnificent, undeveloped terrain. With a pleasant year-round temperature and a peaceful, friendly lifestyle, Costa Rica extends a warm bienvenida!

Weather and Geography

Costa Rica is located in the tropics and has a pleasant year-round temperature, with breezes prevalent in the coastal areas. The average annual temperatures range from 89°F degrees on the coast to 62°F inland. There are only two seasons: rainy, or green, which lasts from May to December, and the dry season, which lasts from mid-December through the end of April. Expect daily afternoon showers during the rainy season.

Costa Rica occupies a privileged spot in the heart of Central America. While it has vast coastlines on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, the country is surprisingly accessible. It’s possible to travel from coast to coast in just three hours by car, or 45 minutes by plane.

Most of Costa Rica is mountainous, with rugged highlands that range from approximately 3,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level extending the entire length of the country. There are several active volcanoes, including Arenal Volcano, Irazu Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano and Turrialba Volcano.

Quick Facts

• Spanish is the principal language of Costa Rica, though English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and attractions. All the Spanish you’ll really need to know is “pura vida,” a common greeting, that literally translates to “pure life,” but which is used to mean everything from “Hello” to “goodbye” to “that’s cool.”
  
  
• The Ticos, as Costa Ricans are commonly, and affectionately, called, are primarily descended from Spanish immigrants, though many families have roots in other parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Central America.
  
  
• Costa Rica enjoys a stable democracy, a high literacy rate, and a relatively high standard of living for Latin America. It is also one of the few countries in the world that doesn’t have an army.
  
  
• Tap water is safe to drink nearly everywhere in the country, but bottled beverages are recommended in rural areas.
  
  
• You will need a valid passport for travel to Costa Rica and passengers departing from San Jose at Juan Santamaria International Airport are required to pay a $26 per person International Boarding Tax.
  
  
• For more information about Costa Rica, visit the official Costa Rica Tourism Board website at visitcostarica.com

Expert Travel Tips

• Wear loose, light-colored clothing to beat the tropical heat and humidity.And be sure to drink plenty of water during to stay hydrated before, during, and after recreational activities.
  
  
• Experience the beaches, rainforests, and wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park. Don’t be surprised if you see a sloth hanging in the treetops above you or hear the distinctive whoop of a howler monkey.
  
  
• Drink a delicious cup of coffee the way Costa Ricans do – with hot milk.
  
  
• Relax in the therapeutic Tabacon Hot Springs near the base of active Arenal Volcano. You’ll find hot pools, cool pools, and pools that are a perfect blend of warm and cool currents that are perfect for soaking your aches and pains – and cares – away.
  
  
• Swing through the treetops on a canopy tour. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest and Costa Rica’s many streams and waterfalls.

Find A Place To Stay

Ready to choose your adventure? Call one of our friendly tour sales representatives at 800-455-0123 to begin planning your Costa Rica vacation today.