Often regarded as Costa Rica’s most beautiful beach region, the province of Guanacaste is located on the northern most Pacific coast of the island. The natural wonders of Guanacaste Province are unmatched, hosting more than ten different types of habitat, including mangroves, evergreen forests, rain forests, swaps, volcanoes, pristine river plains, and warm sandy  beaches. Housing both the Rincon de la Veija Volcano National Park and Santa Rosa National Park, the area is a wildlife refuge for birds, mammals, reptiles and an impressive array of vegetation.  The biggest draw for tourists is perhaps the beaches and warm blue oceans, but Guanacaste offers many other wonders to explore.

Terrain of Guanacaste Province

Guanacaste Province is bisected by  the Tempisque River, which flows from north to south, separating the sandy land along the coast from the mountain terrain along the eastern border. With the Guanacaste Mountains to the east, views of the craggy volcanoes and mountain peaks can be seen from the entire province. Within this mountain range, there are a collection of national parks, including the Parque Nacional Volcano Tenorio and Parque Nacional Guanacaste.

Along Guanacast’s southeast border lie the Tilaran mountain range, which begin at the south end of Lake Arsenal and extend south along the coast, leaving only a small sliver of coastal lowland. At this lowland, the Inter-American Highway travels north into Guanacaste from Puntarenas. This Highway makes traveling among Guanacaste’s many tourist destinations easy and safe. From the Inter-American Highway, there are many side roads that lead to the highlands and tropical forest areas. This forest houses a host of exotic animals and vegetation, including monkeys, birds and reptiles.

Where to Visit

But it is the beaches that draw visitors to the Guanacaste Province. Because of this, what was once a small fishing region is now a bustling and growing tourist destination, with resorts being developed and a vast array of beachside accommodations. One of the biggest resort projects under construction is the Gulf of Papagayo Project, which promises to develop a whopping 2,300 coastal acres into a tourist wonderland of shopping, luxury accommodations and fine dining. This has prompted nearby construction of other huge complexes of hotels, villas and shopping space all the way from Culebra Bay to the beaches of Panama.

The bay area of Tamarindo has also been transformed from a small fishing village to a tourist destination known for luxury accommodations and bustling nightlife. Tamarindo is Guanacaste’s largest coastal town, and a favorite holiday destination for travelers from Europe, North America and Asia. Offering some of the largest, and most pristine white sand beaches, Tamarindo Bay  is unrivaled in Costa Rica as the premier tourist destination.

Liberia is the largest town in Guanacaste, and serves as the capital of sorts, with the seat of the administrative and economic governments housed there. Liberia is a main landing point for many incoming travelers, as it offers the nation’s international airport, Daniel Oduber International Airport. With its close proximity to most of the Pacific coast destinations and towns, Liberia provides the perfect “home base” for travelers as they explore the coast and surrounding natural habitats.

Guaitil and San Vicente Pottery

White sand beaches and natural wonders aren’t the only things that draw visitors to Guanacaste Province. Traditions of  several generations of potters can be found in the two cities of San Vincente De Nicoya an Guaitil de Santa Cruz. These potters have been fashioning clays using natural dyes and baked in wood burning ovens for thousands of years. These beautiful pieces can be traced back to the traditions and ancestry of the Chorotega peoples, an indigenous group who once inhabited this part of Costa Rica.

Gauitil is located between the cities Nicoya and Santa Cruz, and is considered to be one of Costa Rica’s most important centers of native handicrafts. The ceramics produced here are traditional to the Chorotegas, passed down through hundreds of generation. The Guaitil Art Cooperative supports the entire community.

Souvenir ceramics may be purchased in both Guaitil and Santa Cruz, where tourist sales of pottery make up the residents’ main source of income. The communities schools even teach the time honored traditions of pottery to its students.

Other Places of Interest

The Santa Cruz festival in January of each year is one of the largest festivals and celebrations in the region. Residents and visitors mingle to enjoy  dancing, sports, games and to feast on wonderful local foods. This is an excellent time to explore the local pottery makers. Other festivities in the area include the Coco Beach festival in February and street festivals in Liberia in February and July.

However, the biggest cites in Guanacaste aren’t necessarily the only places to visit in the province. Only a short drive away from Liberia lie some of the most pristine beaches and quaint, sleepy towns. Picturesque Conchal, with its shell powder sand and sparkling blue waters offers some of the best snorkeling in Costa Rica. Flamingo Beach, only one hour by car from Liberia, is a popular fishing destination that also offers perfect turquoise waters, luxury hotels and a surprising abundance of nightlife and clubs.

Guanacaste is a favorite among bird watchers, with a wide array of native parakeets, toucans and other tropical favorites. Nature lovers will find hiking along volcanoes, trails through mangroves and beautiful protected national parks all at their disposal for exploring. The province is the perfect place  for kayaking, sport fishing, horseback riding, and unique canopy tours available only in Costa Rica.

Rich in history and culture, Guanacaste is surely the jewel of Costa Rica. With its great history and tradition held intact despite tourist growth, Guanacaste is the largest province in Costa Rica, which coincidentally also has the smallest population. This allows for the perfect blend of natural reserves and luxurious vacations, and makes Guanacaste a complete travel destination.

Situated on the Northwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Tamarindo features crystal blue waters, stunning natural surroundings and perfect sunshine year-round. First and foremost a fishing village, this area in the northern regions of Guanacaste province is the area’s most well developed destination for tourists, featuring accommodations of all types for all budgets. The pristine beaches and ease of travel around the town make Tamarindo an ideal get away.

How to Get There

Major tourist destinations in Costa Rica are connected by daily buses that travel to and from the largest city of San Jose. These buses are first come first served, so popular routes are often totally booked. Bus routes typically travel to and from San Jose only, making this large city a natural hub for getting to Tamarindo. Expect a bus trip from San Jose to Tamarindo to take at least 4-5 hours. Car rentals are available and the roads between Tamarindo and San Jose are paved and well marked.

If you prefer to fly to Tamarindo, the international airport in Liberia, Guanacaste is just a 45 minute drive from the beach cities. From San Jose, domestic flights are available to Tamarindo Domestic Airport. The main internal airlines that service the major tourist towns are Sansa and Nature Air. Be prepared to travel light, as these airlines have strict limits on their carry-on weights.

Tamarindo Beaches

The beaches at Tamarindo are located within a bay, formed by a cape called Cabo Velas (Sailfish Cape). Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, the largest and most well known beaches are Tamarindo Beach, and inside the cape to the north lays Playa Grande. Between the two large beaches runs a natural salt water estuary called Estero Tamarindo. Situated to the south of Tamarindo Bay is another lovely estuary and across it, a large beach called Playa Langosta. All of these are within a short drive of each other and each offers pristine sand beaches perfect for enjoying the perfect Costa Rican weather year round.

One of the most unique and incredible features of the beaches at Tamarindo Bay are the nesting giant Leatherback turtles. As they are inside the national park system of Costa Rica, both Playa Grande and Playa Langosta are protected as the largest major nesting areas worldwide for these, the largest of the sea turtles. Between the months of October and March, these remarkable creatures dig nests and bury their eggs in a clutch, which then hatch during the next full moon. As these turtles and their nests are protected wildlife, the best way to view them is by taking one of the official tours, led by naturists trained to locate and discuss the nests.

In addition to the incredible spectacle of the Leatherback turtles, Tamarindo also offers the chance to hear and see other wildlife, such as Howler monkeys, which can be seen and heard swinging through the branches throughout Tamarindo. Wild giant Iguanas are abundant and often wander through crowded areas and beaches without so much as acknowledging their human neighbors. Parakeets are native to Costa Rica, and travel in flocks through the trees, and can be heard in the evenings as they squabble and talk amongst themselves. Visitors can take a jungle tour on small, shallow boats that move through the mangrove forests, where an incredible diversity of animals, including colorful tropical birds, rare anteaters and slow moving sloths.

Fishing, Water Sports and Other Activities

Tamarindo Bay is a favorite destination for surfers and sport fishermen. Fishing for giant tuna, sailfish, and marlin off the coast is a must for the blue water fishermen wishing to experience the best of Costa Rican fishing. A fleet of talented and ecologically minded captains are available for service. Deep blue water fishing, reef fishing, and shoreline fishing are all abundant. If you don’t wish to hire a boat for fishing, surf casting and hand lining right on the beaches for jack fish and snook can be another great way to fish the shores of Tamarindo. Many of the hotels and local beachfront restaurants offer the service of cooking your fresh catch for you.

One of the biggest draws for sports enthusiasts to Costa Rica is the warm water surfing. Tamarindo’s year round perfect waves makes this area and favorite among beginners and life-long surfers alike. The waves that grace this part of the Pacific coast are among the easiest to learn to surf, as they are consistent and predictable. Many movies and surf reels have been filmed on the coast of Tamarindo Bay.

Visitors to Tamarindo beaches can also enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, jet skis, kayaking (both river and ocean tours available), horseback riding, wind surfing, catamarans, and beach cruises that travel around the entire area with many short stops along the way. A wide array of rentals are available, as well as lessons, tours and instruction. Renting bicycles is a favorite among visiting tourists, especially families. Golfers have access to two championship courses in Tamarindo Bay, Paradisus Conchal and Hacienda Pinilla, both boast world class design.

The climate in Tamarindo is near perfect, offering only two seasons: dry and rainy. From November through April, visitors enjoy the dry season, which is hot and sunny daily. The humidity is low and temperatures are quite comfortable. The rainy season begins in late April and continues through October. Most days during the rainy season are sunny or only partly cloudy until later in the afternoon or early evening, when showers form and move offshore. These clouds and rain produce spectacular sunsets, especially along the coast. During this time of year, the landscape is green and lush. Temperatures average between 80 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit year round in Tamarindo.

Tamarindo could certainly the called the perfect Costa Rican beach town. With the perfect weather year round for enjoy sun, sand, surf and many other activities for visitors. With sport class fishing, sailing, golfing and touring available, there is something for even the most avid sportsman. Ideal for honeymooners, destination weddings, families and eco-tourists, Tamarindo Bay is a multi-cultural community sure to have something to offer every tourist looking for a beach adventure.

For a licensed diver there are few places in the world that offer the rich underwater exploration and biodiversity of Costa Rica.  While there are many sites that offer excellent diving few areas offer the clarity of view at depths that can be found in Costa Rica.  The water is crystal clear with amazing visibility offering the seasoned diver (or even beginners) the opportunity to interact in a thriving oceanic ecosystem.   And since scuba diving is one of the major tourism draws for Costa Rica there are not shortages of diving guides as well as instructors should visitors decide to pursue their PADI five star open water diving certification.

Bahia Drake

Bahia Drake (Drake Bay) is located in the northern tip of Costa Rica and offers what most agree is the best diving in the entire region.  It offers a small residential population and gorgeous lodges and all inclusive resorts.  However given the remote location some services such as high speed internet can be intermittent and unreliable.   Cell phones are also not able to be used in most locations in Bahia Drake.  But it is for that reason (the remote location) that Bahia Drake offers the most amazing eco-diving opportunities .

The famous Corcovado National Park (Parque Nacional Corcovado) is located in Bahia Drake and well worth the visit.  It features the tallest rainforest canopy in the entire world and there is wildlife in the park that exists in no other ecosystem.  It is a global treasure and the pristine oceans around the park are teeming with life making it an incredible dive location.

Isla del Caño

Take a quick boat to the Island (it is only twenty kilometers off the shore of the mainland Costa Rica) for some incredible diving and underwater exploration.  The area is historically significant as it is a burial site which dates back to the pre-Columbian era.   The unique land mass was created over fifty million years ago and the ocean surrounding the island offers some of the bluest waters in Costa Rica with unencumbered visibility and pristine underwater plant and animal life.  Given the variable depths of the water it is also an excellent location for snorkeling for the novice explorer and it also offers a variety of sea life including sharks and exotic fish.  On the mainland of the island you can expect to see birds such as the black hawk and osprey, various species of reptiles and snakes, frogs, wild pigs and bats amount the local fawna.

Playa Ocotal

Boasting one of the cleanest and most quiet beaches in all of Costa Rica, Playa Ocotal is one third of a mile long with gorgeous beaches and crystalline waters for snorkeling or diving.  There is a mysterious mist that surrounds the area (which is a combination of salt and fresh water mixing) that generations have believed to hold unexplainable healing properties.   Given the rare beauty of the region accommodations are not economical and many tourists choose to visit for the day only.

Costa Rica remains a gem as an area of amazing quality sites and locations.  With a variety of other activities it is a favorite destination for professional and novice divers and offers an authentic engagement with the one of the best protected rainforest sites in the world.

When you think of Costa Rica, most people think of sun and sand and piña coladas on the beach.  Sure, that is a valid description for many parts of this tropical paradise, but a closer look uncovers an untamed land ripe for exploration and adventure.

A Short History of Costa Rica

The first Europeans to discover Costa Rica came from Spain.  Christopher Columbus set foot on the eastern shores near what is now Limón on September 18, 1502, seeking respite for his battered ships and crew.

There they found around 200,000 natives, divided into several independent tribes.  These indigenous people were masters of ceramics, weaving and metal work, and were living very well off the land.

It wasn’t until 1562, after much turmoil, that Costa Rica began to see any signs of modern colonization.  Cartago Valley was the first successful settlement started by the Spanish.

In 1821, Costa Rica declared its independence from Spain; and in 1824 San Jose was named the new capitol of Costa Rica, and remains so today.

Vignettes of the Areas of Costa Rica

• North Caribbean: From the San Juan River to Limón city lies the North Caribbean are of Costa Rica.  The city of Limón provides stop over accommodations for many tourists on their way to other areas of Costa Rica.  It also functions as touring center as well as handles much of the distribution in the area.
• South Caribbean: The South Caribbean area of Costa Rica runs from the city of Limón over to the Panama border. The South Caribbean is where you will find a beautiful collage of beaches surrounded by stunning mountains and the soothing sound of the waves crashing upon the shore.  The South Caribbean is a brilliant mixture of sun kissed beaches and majestic mountain tops.
• San Jose Region: The San Jose region often gets a bad rap because of its status as the main stop over for Costa Rican vacation destinations.  However, San Jose is a sophisticated and lively city in its own right.  From its modern shopping malls to its vibrant and colorful nightlife, San Jose is a vacation destination not to be over looked.
• Monteverde Region: Monteverde means “green mountains” in English, and a truer description could not be said. The region is rich with lush green forests and wildflower covered mountainsides.  It is truly a breathtaking sight to behold.  Each of this region’s stunning reserves is actually owned privately and cared for by private citizens who are dedicated to keeping the beauty and natural vistas of the region intact.
• Northern Region: The Northern Region is the northern most tip of the tourism region in Costa Rica. It’s known for its fierce and fiery Arenal volcano, which is the most active volcano in Costa Rica, and one of the 10 most active volcanoes in the world, and its equally thrilling white water rafting.  The area also boasts abundant wildlife with over 600 species of birds and numerous butterflies and mammal species.  It is quickly becoming a favorite destination of eco-minded travelers.
• North Pacific Region: The North Western region of Costa Rica, from the Nicaraguan border to the central port town of Puntarenas up to, and including the Nicoya Peninsula, is called the North Pacific Region.  This area is largely undeveloped and as such, is home to some of the most pristine and secluded beaches in Costa Rica.  Volcanoes, dry tropical forests and of course, undeveloped ocean beaches all share this region.  The Taiwanese government is developing some transportation systems to allow for easier travel to the region, but on the whole it has been left untouched.
• Central Pacific Region: The Central Pacific Region sets the scene for a perfect getaway.  With its quiet and quaint seaside towns and villages, to its idyllic beaches surrounded by picturesque bays and coves, one can see why it is a popular vacation destination.  Appealing to the touristier crowd, you will find many restaurants and shops, in addition to its many beaches.
• South Pacific Region: The South Pacific region is popular for its remote beaches, dolphin and whale watching, fishing and its abundant wildlife.  Costa Rica’s indigenous people reside mostly on Indian reserves in the Talamanca mountain range in this region.  These tribes have existed in Costa Rica for nearly 400 years and continue to practice their customs, separate and apart from the “outsiders” that have now come to inhabit most of the land.

Handy Tips for Traveling in Costa Rica

• Medical: There are no shots required for travel in Costa Rica, however, it is always best to make sure that you are up to date on all of your shots, including tetanus, before traveling abroad.  Also be sure to bring plenty of bug repellant.  Although not a major problem, Dengue Fever, contracted from mosquitoes, is a possibility when traveling anywhere in South America.
• Water: Unless specifically stated (commonly marked “not potable”), the water is safe to drink.
• Time: Costa Rica is in the Mountain Standard Time time zone during US Daylight Savings time, the rest of the year it is the same as Central Standard Time.
• Forms of Payment: In the tourist areas, major credit cards are widely accepted; however, once you step off the beaten path you should expect to pay cash.
• Tipping: On your restaurant bill, look for I.V.I.; this will let you know that a 10% tip and 13% sales tax have already been added to your bill.  As far as bellhops, tourist guides etc., customary tips similar to the states are just fine.
• Prostitution: Prostitution is legal in Costa Rica.
• Bathrooms: Most sewer systems in Costa Rica are unable to handle toilet paper.  If there is a basket next to the toilet, consider that a signal not to flush the toilet paper, but to throw it in the basket.

Highlights of Costa Rica

• Arenal and La Fortuna de San Carlos area: Any adventure lover would be remiss if they didn’t get to experience the region’s most active volcano, the Arenal Volcano. During the rainy season, if you catch it at dark, you can watch as the volcano creates its own weather in the form of a lightning storm.
• Tamarindo Beach: For those who want to kick of their shoes, dig their toes in the sand and get away from it all, Tamarindo Beach is the place.  Love to surf? Look no further, some of the best surfing in Costa Rica is in this area. If food is your thing, make sure you venture outside of the resorts and try some of the local restaurants, you will not be disappointed.
• Coffee Plantation Tour: Did we mention that this is coffee heaven? Take a few hours and check out one of the many coffee plantation tours, it’s quite fascinating to see!
• Monteverde Cloud Forest: More than 8 miles of trails are available to explore this wonder. If you are the adventurous type, you may want to give zip lining a try.  However you explore this incredible nature filled habitat, do so.

Weather

Like many of the countries found in the Caribbean and Equator regions, there are two seasons in Costa Rica, wet (rainy) and dry.  The wet season begins in May and goes into November, with the dry season beginning in December and ending in April. Average temperatures can drop as low as 70 degrees during the day in the cooler months of November through January, up to an average of 81 degrees the rest of the year.  Make sure you bring an umbrella during the wet season, as Costa Rica averages about 100 inches of rain during the year. For those who enjoy the rain, some areas in the mountains can get as much as 300 inches of rain during the year.  For those concerned with working on their tan, don’t fret.  Being so close to the Equator, Costa Rica averages about 12 hours of daylight all year long.

Costa Rica has six separate weather zones, each having some unique conditions.  The zones are broken down into the North, Northern Pacific, Central Pacific, Central Valley, Southern Pacific and the Caribbean.  The lowland areas tend to be drier and warmer, while higher regions get more rain and cooler temperatures.  The Central Valley averages about 72 degrees, thanks to cool coastal breezes.

While the proximity to the Equator and its varying elevations are the major factors in Costa Rica weather, the trade winds also have a significant impact on the weather.  The trade winds are tropical winds near the Equator, blowing from the northeast to the southeast.  Early sailors from Europe used the trade winds to sail the oceans.  These winds, strongest in December, January and February, bring moisture to the forests during the dry season, but are blocked by warm air masses during the wet season, creating calmer wind and rain.

Fly a helicopter over an active volcano, hike through the rainforest, discovery the lush green lands of a mountainside on horseback, or live it up in the sun and surf; whatever you decide, Costa Rica has something for everyone.

Founded in 1769 Liberia Costa Rica is populated by 35,000 residents and is located in the North West.   Featuring multiple active volcano’s Liberia is a locale that must be visited and explored.  It is a haven for wild life and natural wonders such as stunning waterfalls, volcanic mud pits and natural hot springs.  The ring of volcanoes in Costa Rica is famously known as “The Ring of Fire”.  The region of Liberia is taken from the word Libertad (Liberty) and freedom and adventure awaits tourists in the small but eclectic colonial community of Liberia.

Geographic Features

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano (Ring of Fire) National Park is located nearby as homage to the regions history of volcanic volatility.  The park is designated as a World Heritage Site and the last recorded eruption of the volcano was in 1998.  The park is rich in flora and fawna featuring more than 300 different varieties of bird life as well as larger animals such as big cats like the cougar and jaguar.

The entire area is full of volcanic vents (consistent with the presence of an active volcano) which means there are relaxing natural hot springs and what is known as “mud bowls” which are volcanically heated pits of mud.    The region also offers striking waterfalls such as the Cocolito Falls , the San Luis waterfall and the Llanos del Cortez which in their natural surroundings present amazing opportunities for photographers. Some of the rarest and most beautiful flowers in the world hidden among plant species which are endangered in other countries.  This makes Costa Rica an ideal spot for academic research.

Interspersed in stunning landscapes are hidden “swimming holes”.  These areas are strikingly beautiful and ideal for a mid afternoon cool down after touring.  One of the most popular swimming holes is called “Los Chorros” which requires the payment of a small fee by tourists to access the swimming area.   For the fee the tourist is entitled to access the swimming hole and the authority has provided clean restrooms, picnic areas and even a five star hotel for top class amenities for weary travelers.

Colonial History

Liberia enjoys a very unique ambience and features colonial style buildings that are not found anywhere else in Costa Rica.   The region was founded as an agricultural center and has continued in the tradition of cash crops and cattle. The typical foods produced and enjoyed in Costa Rica are coffee (in a wide variety of popular flavors) and bananas both of which are combined exports for the country.

Enjoy the colorful scenery of old Colonia homes which have not been painted in the new style.  You will forget for a moment that you are in Costa Rica when you have had a chance to really immerse yourself in the rich culture of the region.

Outdoor Adventuring

Have you ever wanted to swing from the top of a lush jungle canopy and enjoy the view?  In Liberia you can take a “zip line” through an area known as the “cloud forest” for an exciting adventure.   What about a relaxing and picturesque tour of Liberia and the surrounding country side by horse back?  The community is highly agricultural and horses are readily available for tours and rental of horses for tourism is an important stream of income for local residents.

If sport fishing is more in tune with your idea of fun, there are a number of annual fishing tournaments that take place in Liberia.  It has been the location of more than four world records made for the capture of a species called the billfish.  After measuring and weighing the trophy fish are returned unharmed into the ocean as per the value structure in place in Costa Rica to protect its wildlife and it’s rainforest regions. The expansive mangrove forests make an excellent breeding ground for many popular types of game fish  so don’t forget to pack your suitcase full of lures and hooks and fishing equipment if this is your kind of daily activity.

Hostel Accommodation

Given its popularity with younger travelers there is a wide network of youth “hostels” available for rental on a day by day basis.  Unlike some European hostels the accommodations are very beautiful and extremely under priced for that they offer.  A one night stay at a hostel in Liberia will run you on average $10 to $15 US per room per night.  Some set the fee for the room  by counting the individuals staying in the room or sharing accommodation, so splitting a hostel room in Liberia is not always more economical.   However if affordability is less of a concern there are many gorgeous hotels around with North American style amenities.

Ecology

In recognizing the value of its inherent tourism trade, Costa Rica has been extremely environmentally aware for decades in an effort to retain it.   Third world and developing countries such as Haiti have taught the world a lesson in the value of appreciating and caring for the gifts that you have been given.   The Haitians while unregulated quite literally raped their land of natural resources, which then gave tourists little reason to plan a vacation to Haiti.  By contrast Costa Rica has placed a great impetus on the environment protecting it and valuing it as an important resource for future education and much more.

The Arts

For such a small suburban place Liberia certainly boasts a great deal.  The sabaneros offer fine culinary experiences while the wide and empty beaches offer excellent meditation and peace. The region is full of many festivals that take place throughout the year.  One of the more popular festivals is held on the Guanacaste Day (July 25^th).

In a world of growing environmental consciousness it becomes the responsibility of all Nations to preserve the health of their habitat and the number of animals residing there.  Costa Rico has become a key example of the good that can happen which large businesses take into account the feelings and viability of a small workers in their own communities as well as the greater good.

If you are looking for a vacation that you will never forget, Costa Rica is a country that can offer beautiful natural beaches, expansive rainforests that cover the inland and also unique culture that will leave you wanting more. This country has become well known as the Mecca for eco-tourism adventures and other sustainable activities. Whether you are the type of traveler that enjoys the all inclusive vacations or you are an active adventurer, Costa Rica has something that will cater to everyone’s needs.

About Costa Rica

Costa Rica is located in Central America and is bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. The name Costa Rica actually means “Rich Coast.” The country prides itself on its efforts to promote sustainability and green activities. It is a top ranked Latin American country in the Human Development index and has been rated as one of the greenest countries in the world.

This small country is extremely diverse in the amount of attractions that you can see. With extensive rainforests, volcanoes, beautiful beaches, numerous mountains, and a host of natural resources in national parks, it is easy to see why Costa Rica is one of the most highly valued tourist destinations in the world. The country is divided into 7 distinct provinces that each offers their own share of adventures for travelers.

Beaches

The first thing that often comes to people’s minds when it comes to taking a vacation is beach vacation. When it comes to beaches, there is no such thing as a shortage of options that are available for you to choose from. Being sandwiched in between the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean enables Costa Rica to have spectacular beaches on both sides of the country. If you are feeling adventurous you can rent a car and drive from one side to the other in around 3 hours.

One of the great advantages that Costa Rica beaches offer is being located right next to lush jungles. Unlike Mexico that is been overdeveloped with resorts from head to toe, the beaches in Costa Rica are often very secluded and protected. Right off the coast of Costa Rica you will find pristine coral reef and a huge amount of underwater diversity. Divers have a number of options available as there are some great dive spots located around the country.

Surfing is another activity many people choose to do from the beaches of Costa Rica. If you are into surfing, you will love some of the breaks that the beaches of Costa Rica have to offer. The combination of warm water temperatures and easy going lifestyle makes Costa Rica an extremely popular destination for those travelers and adventurers that enjoy the ocean.

Culture and Heritage

The rich culture of Costa Rica is a combination of the indigenous people who were originally settled in the country and the Spanish immigrants that have mixed into the population. Among these two dominant demographics, there are other ethnic groups that have blended in with these cultures.

This is one of the only countries in the region that prides itself on not having an official military. Their military was officially abolished in 1948, where the money was used to improve the quality of life to the rest of the population. This is one of the underlying factors that contribute to the level of happiness that many Costa Ricans find themselves privy to. Costa Ricans are well regarded as extremely hospitable and friendly to travelers visiting the country.

Attractions and Adventure

One thing that Costa Rica is not short of is adventures. If you are the type of person that likes to experience thrills and many different sights while traveling, there are a number of options to consider. This country is well known for their many rainforests, volcanoes, waterfalls, and rivers the cut through mountains. Adrenaline junkies and adventure travelers will find no shortage of thrills.

In the stunning rainforests you will find a number of activities like tree top observations, bird watching, and zip lining through the forests. The sheer amount of diversity that the country has to offer is something that is second to none in terms of sights and sounds that you will experience while in the jungle. Costa Rica is unique because of the strenuous efforts the government has taken to ensure that a lot of the natural landscapes and habitats are protected in national reserves.

If you are into water sports, there are is a number of options that are available. Kayaking and river rafting has become a staple for those who like to experience Costa Rica from and adventure point of view. Adventurers who like ocean sports will have the opportunity to wind surf, surf, dive, and also fish in the Pacific or Atlantic Ocean.

Ecotourism

One of the main attractions that draw many people to Costa Rica is the Eco tourism aspect of the country. There is no country on earth that is better prepared to offer tourists a chance to see nature at its finest. With a number of national reserve parks scattered throughout the country, it is not surprising that Costa Rica is the destination of choice for those looking to get in touch with nature.

Some highlights include the Tortuguero national parks which is very famous for its seat turtle nesting that happens every year. There are also a whole range of natural canals that have an abundance of wildlife including manatees, otters, and crocodiles.

Costa Rica Vacations

When it comes to visiting Costa Rica the hard part is putting it all together. There is no way that you can see and do everything that you want to on your first trip. Most people who visit the country often have to go back on separate trips to see the different sights and sounds that the country has to offer. It is up to you to focus on putting together a trip that will meet your needs.

Sometimes the best option for new vacationers is using a travel agent to help you book your vacation experience. Going through a qualified travel agent is a good way to ensure that you plan your trip out efficiently. While you might not be able to pack everything in on the first trip, there is definitely a lot of see when you are traveling to this beautiful country. Taking the time to look at various options that are available is a great way to ensure you find a vacation that is right for you.