A trip to Costa Rica is: lush tropical forests teeming with life, beaches stretching for miles, washed by azure waves, and locals who welcome you with open arms and warm smiles.
Travel to Costa Rica.
The bustling capital of San Jose. Street vendors selling mouth-watering empanadas, brightly painted buildings decorated with street art, and the constant noise of life.
A breathtaking zipline tour through the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Flying through the crowns of trees, surrounded by misty greenery, you feel like a bird soaring in the sky.
And boat tours of the Tortuguero National Park, surrounded by a symphony of wildlife. From lazy sloths hanging from trees to playful monkeys scurrying around, this is a spectacle of the greatness of nature. And then sitting on the sandy beaches of Guanacaste, watching the sun sink below the horizon. Costa Rica is not just a destination.
A little dive into the rich past of Costa Rica
This place is more than just a tropical paradise, it is a land rich in history and culture rooted in the distant past.
San Jose. Can you believe that this city was once part of the Mexican Empire after the War of Independence in 1821? Yes, you heard right!
But the history of Costa Rica goes even further back in time. We are talking about the times when indigenous tribes roamed these lands, living off fertile valleys and creating complex societies. It is inconceivable to think that this place has been inhabited since 5000 BC!
Fast forward a few centuries and the Spanish conquistador Juan de Cavallon will lead the first colonizers to Costa Rica. The influence of these cultures is still noticeable today, from architecture to local customs and traditions.
However, this small country adheres to its democratic values. Since the first free and fair elections in 1890, Costa Rica has been a beacon of democracy in Central America.
Making your way to Costa Rica
Getting there is easier than you think. From the USA, it’s a fast flight lasting six and a half hours, with lots of inexpensive options. You can choose to land at Juan Santamaria International Airport near San Jose or Guanacaste if you want to see the golden beaches right away.
Once you are on Costa Rican soil, the adventure begins for real. Take a bus from Managua or Panama City if you like car travel. Or, even better, take a local flight to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and immediately start soaking up the Caribbean atmosphere.
We travel along the paths of Costa Rica Pura Vida
First of all, let’s talk about the capital, San Jose. This city is the beating heart of Costa Rica, a vibrant center that connects you to all corners of the country. Whether you take a bus, take a taxi, or rent a car, your journey will probably start here.
Now let’s move on to the little things – traveling around Costa Rica. If you have a limited budget (or you just want to get to know the local lifestyle), the bus system is your best choice. It’s cheap, reliable, and will take you almost anywhere from sun-drenched beaches to misty cloud forests and everywhere in between.
But perhaps you are a freer person and want to explore the Pura Vida country at your own pace. In this case, it is best to rent a car. Just be prepared for a few potholes and a random dirt road – it’s all part of the fun!
And for those of you who prefer a bird’s-eye view, domestic flights are a fast and relatively affordable way to get around. One moment you’ll be sipping a cocktail on a Caribbean beach, and the next you’ll be climbing a volcano. Traveling in Costa Rica is as diverse and fascinating as the country itself. Whether you’re a backpacker, a luxury lover, or something in between, you’ll find a way to explore what suits your style.
Background on Costa Rican visas
So, here’s the good news. If you are going on a short-term vacation, you can stay there for up to 180 days without a tourist visa. Just make sure that your passport has at least one blank page for the entry stamp and it is valid for the entire duration of your stay.
Perhaps you have plans to teach English, study Spanish, or just enjoy the “Pura Vida” lifestyle in the long run. In this case, you will need to get a temporary visa. And for those digital nomads who live there, Costa Rica calls you by name. You can extend your 90-day tourist visa and work remotely from this tropical paradise for a whole year or even longer.
The best time to go on a trip to Costa Rica
Most people will tell you that mid-December- April, the dry season, is your golden ticket. It is at this time that Costa Rica has the sunniest weather, which makes it ideal for every visitor acquainted with the lively city of San Jose. But keep in mind, now is the peak of the tourist season, so expect company.
However, if you prefer little-known roads, consider visiting Costa Rica between May and June. Fewer people, lush landscapes and a little rain to preserve freshness are the hidden gem of the season for traveling in Costa Rica.
We understand money: Local and popular currencies
The currency in Costa Rica is the colon, but don’t worry if you have dollars. They are accepted in many places, especially in tourist centers. Nevertheless, when you go to explore the Pacific Ocean from the southwest of Costa Rica or go to the lesser-known corners of the Central Valley, it does not hurt to have a few colons in your pocket.
Remember that traveling in Costa Rica is not just sightseeing. It’s about immersing yourself in the Pura Vida lifestyle. And part of that experience is getting to know the local traditions.
Main dishes and drinks that are worth trying
Costa Rican cuisine – from the traditional gallo pinto for breakfast to the hearty casado with chilled guaro sour for lunch – is a fragrant fiesta. And don’t forget to end your day with a cup of steaming world-famous Costa Rican coffee. So, fellow gastronomists, get ready to embark on a taste-rich trip to Costa Rica.
Places
1. Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo, my friends, is a paradise for beach bums. The salty sea air, the rhythm of the waves, and the relaxing vibes are like plunging into a tropical dream. Oh, Caribbean cuisine is a feast in the mouth! Think coconut curry, spicy dried chicken, and fresh seafood from the ship. This is the place from which you will want to take off your shoes, let down your hair, and live according to island time.
2. Cahuita
The next stop is Cahuita. In this quiet town, there is a fantastic national park where nature puts on a real show. Imagine howler monkeys swinging in trees, sloths lazily strolling, and brightly colored birds serenading you with their songs. And the beaches? Pure bliss! Golden sands, crystal clear water, and almost no tourists. This is an ideal place for a relaxing holiday. And snorkeling. Explore vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside tropical fish.
3. Tortuguero
Ever heard of Tortuguero? This is a small pearl of the Caribbean coast, known for its national park and turtle nesting sites. Imagine a boat cruise through the canals in the jungle, spotting crocodiles, toucans, and iguanas along the way. A night walk to watch turtles lay eggs. A must-visit for all wildlife lovers!
4. Corcovado
And no less important – Corcovado. If you love hiking and biodiversity, this is your place. Located in the Corcovado National Park is the embodiment of a tourist’s dream. Trails wind through lush rainforests, past roaring waterfalls, and offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. But be prepared to walk along the path with monkeys, tapirs, and maybe even a jaguar, if you’re lucky! This is wild, uncultivated, real Costa Rica.
5. Arenal
Next on the list is Arenal, which represents the national parks of Costa Rica. This place is associated with the mighty Arenal volcano, towering over lush tropical forests and a sparkling lake. If you are a lover of hiking, this is your paradise. Take a dip in natural hot springs to soothe tired muscles. Arenal, you’re beautiful!
6. Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio, oh, how lovely! Imagine a national park where the rainforest meets the sea, where you can go for a great walk in the morning and surf in the afternoon. Trails wind through dense jungles leading to pristine beaches that look like they came off a postcard. Monkeys, sloths, iguanas – whatever you call it, they have it. And the sunsets? Pure magic!
7. Monteverde
High in the clouds you will find Monteverde. This is a place where fresh air, breathtaking views, and an abundance of wildlife. I stayed in a nice, clean hostel with a stunning view of the cloud forest. Wake up every morning to the singing of birds. Monteverde is all about the simple joys of life.
8. Poas Volcano
Have you ever been inside a volcano? Well, on Poas Volcano you can do just that. The crater with its turquoise lake is a sight worth seeing. But keep in mind, that the smell of sulfur is very strong. However, it’s worth every second. It’s not every day you get to look inside Mother Earth!
9. Santa Teresa
And last but definitely not least, Santa Teresa. This coastal town will conquer your heart with its relaxed atmosphere and stunning surfing spots. But what really made this place special was the nearby national park with Destiny (as they call the park’s beloved sloth). As for the excellent tourist routes? They are the cherry on the cake. Santa Teresa, you are a real find!
Conclusion
Have you ever dreamed of a place where the rainforest meets the sea, where the sounds of calypso fill the air, and wildlife is just a stone’s throw away from you? Welcome to the beautiful Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Emerald rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife, pristine beaches washed by azure waves, and volcanoes reaching the skies. This is Costa Rica, a quiet haven in Central America, where every turn is a new discovery, and every view is a masterpiece.