In 2020, a large majority of your travel may have consisted of going from the couch to the fridge and back again—so it’s understandable to crave an actual vacation that involves actually getting out of your house. While there are tons of destinations to choose from, one spot that likely ticks nearly all of your boxes—no matter what you’re looking for—is Costa Rica. Whether you want to hit up the beach, or the rainforest, or the mountains, or a city, or a little bit of everything, Costa Rica truly has it all. Plus, the country is dedicated to sustainability, with a program in place called the Certification of Sustainable Tourism (CST) that gives tourism companies guidelines for running sustainable businesses. As of 2019, more than 400 companies in the country have been awarded the CST certification, which means that traveling with them helps you leave Costa Rica better than you found it.

Not sure where to start? Here are 10 trip ideas to help you get a jump on planning. While varied in geography and focus, each will show you the “pura vida” (pure life) way—and help Costa Rica’s sustainability in the process.

FOR A LUSH RAINFOREST GETAWAY: Lapa Ríos Lodge Location: Osa Peninsula

If you think of lush rainforest vibes when you think of Costa Rica, Lapa Ríos Lodge delivers on that daydream. Located in the southwestern part of the country, smack dab in the middle of the Osa Peninsula—one of Costa Rica’s most wild, jungly, undeveloped areas—Lapa Ríos Lodge is perched in the canopy of a 1,000-acre rainforest reserve. Many of the villas and bungalows have private balconies nestled within the trees—some with private plunge pools!—so you can walk out your door with your morning cup of coffee, and listen to the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds and insects buzzing all around you. Plus, the hotel offers multiple tours and activities, including a local medicine tour to learn about traditional medicinal plants—and you can even plant your own tree!

FOR A CLASSIC COSTA RICAN SURF RETREAT: Del Mar Surf Camp Location: Nosara

Situated in Guanacaste, an area of Costa Rica known for its wide stretches of coastline and picture-perfect sunny weather, Del Mar Surf Camp is the perfect place to learn the ways of the surf life. Although the camp is in multiple spots around the country, it truly shines in Nosara, its original location. Campers can personalize their own surf schedules, and you also have the option to add pilates, yoga, and even Spanish lessons to your stay. Originally known as the Costa Rica Surfing Chicas, Del Mar was the first surf camp in the country to be run by a Costa Rican woman—and it continues to employ locals to support the surrounding community.

FOR A LUXURY (BUT STILL LOCAL!) FARM STAY: Cala Luna Boutique Hotel Location: Tamarindo

Like Nosara, Tamarindo is also in Guanacaste and is also one of Costa Rica’s most classic low-key surf towns. But while most hotels in Tamarindo proper tend to ooze those chilled-out surf vibes, Cala Luna Boutique Hotel also offers lush jungle surroundings to boot, with an array of wildlife for an otherwise dry area (think howler monkeys, iguanas, birds, and raccoons). The hotel is part of a 74-acre farm, Finca La Senda, where the owners have practiced regenerative agriculture—a system of farming principles that seeks to restore land rather than simply doing less harm to it—since they moved from Belgium in 1997. Go for the organic meals and jungly atmosphere, all the while knowing that the sunny beach and Tamarindo’s laid-back surf shacks are just minutes outside your door.

FOR A SOOTHING, HEALING HOT SPRINGS DIP: Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort Location: San Carlos

Raise your hand if you missed getting pampered during quarantine. Oh yes, everyone? Same. Tabacón will help you make up for lost time. Tucked in the middle of the country, the resort is surrounded by the healing volcanic waters of nearby Arenal Volcano, with all sorts of natural hot springs and swimming pools for a rejuvenating dip. Make sure to book one (or, you know, five) of their luxury spa treatments, too. It was quite a year, and your mind, body, and soul deserve the attention.

FOR AN EPIC VOLCANIC WATERFALL TOUR: Land of Senses Tour with Sensoria Location: Alajuela

Instead of (or in addition to) pampering yourself with healing volcanic treatments at Tabacón, you can also hike to multiple natural volcanic pools scattered around the region—when in Costa Rica, right? Sensoria’s Land of Senses Tour takes you on a hike to five different thermal pools and waterfalls around Arenal—Pilon Thermal Pool, Danta Pool and Waterfall, Jicara Pool and Waterfall, Aguilar Pool and Waterfall, and Buenos Aires Waterfall—followed by a local lunch and a walk to the rainforest observatory platform, where you will see the canopy of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. If it’s a clear day, you may even be able to see all the way to Lake Nicaragua.

FOR A SCENIC AND EDUCATIONAL STAY ON A COFFEE FARM: Finca Rosa Blanca Location: just outside San José, in the Central Valley’s Heredia mountains

Costa Rica is known for its incredible coffee, so why not take advantage of the freshness by actually staying on a coffee farm? Finca Rosa Blanca, a coffee farm and inn located in the Central Valley’s Heredia mountains just outside of San José, makes it possible to have a truly farm-to-mug cup of coffee each morning. Bonus: As one of the original eco hotels in Costa Rica, they have been practicing regenerative tourism for more than 30 years, planting more than 5,000+ native trees and more than two dozen acres of coffee fields.

FOR A PEACEFUL, LOW-KEY, RESTORATIVE TROPICAL BEACH ESCAPE: Harmony Hotel Location: Nosara

There are tropical beach hideaways, and then there is the Harmony Hotel, with an easy, breezy, “barefoot luxury” vibe that takes the entire surf bungalow category up a notch. Surrounded by secluded garden paths and laid-back private villas, the hotel also boasts a zen yoga studio and meditation shala, a saltwater pool, a lovely open-air restaurant, and an award-winning spa, the Harmony Healing Centre. Whether you choose to chill on the property all day long, stroll the beach, enjoy yoga under the trees, or go on an adventure in town, one thing is clear: The hotel has you covered. What’s more, you can also feel good about where their money is going. The hotel’s non-profit organization, The Harmony Fund, supports the production of a series of videos that teaches people about regenerative agriculture. Plus, the on-site restaurant favors fresh ingredients from local, eco-conscious providers, so the food feels as good as it tastes.

FOR THE TREEHOUSE STAY OF YOUR DREAMS: Tree House Lodge Location: Puerto Viejo

Did you even stay in the rainforest if you didn’t sleep in a treehouse? The Tree House Lodge is everything you have ever wanted from a treehouse vacation, and then some. Located in Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast, the Tree House Lodge is built on 10 acres of land on the edge of the Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge, with just six open-air houses nestled within the trees. All sorts of activities are on offer, like surfing, white water rafting, canopy tours, beach massages, and daily workout classes on their open-air fitness deck. Bonus: Because most tourists tend to head to the Pacific side, not the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo has a less-crowded appeal for those who prefer to travel off the beaten path.

FOR A ZIPLINE THROUGH A CLOUD FOREST: Sky Adventures Location: Monteverde

No trip to Costa Rica is complete without a visit to Monteverde, known as the “cloud forest” for the constant layer of mist that gives it its name. But ziplining through the cloud forest—which is also the largest tree canopy in Costa Rica—will truly make your adventure soar. Prepare to feel all the feelings as you watch the trees whiz by below you—it’s one of the most freeing experiences ever.

FOR AN ATV ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME: ATV Tour with Jacamar Naturalist Tours Location: Jaco

You could go on a hike through some of Costa Rica’s most rustic towns and rainforests. Or you could hop on an ATV and cruise right through them, with the wind whipping at your face and mud splattering everywhere, all the while thinking: Best. Vacation. Ever. If you prefer the latter, the ATV Tour with Jacamar Naturalist Tours is for you. An experienced ATV guide will bring you through a series of unpaved roads, cattle ranches, rainforest patches, and more—and you don’t even have to have prior ATV experience to operate this one. Just be prepared to get dirty!

URL Trips to Discover: 
www.tripstodiscover.com/heres-how-you-can-finally-take-that-dream-trip-to-costa-rica/

Because it is simply magical. Bahía Drake is a district of the Osa canton of Puntarenas. According to history, the origin of its name comes from the corsair (pirate or one who has authority for wars at sea) Sir Francis Drake, who supposedly arrived in this area of ​​the country.

The truth of the matter is that in addition to being a place that hides a lot of history, it also hides many natural beauties worth knowing, so we are looking for answers to all these questions that perhaps you have asked yourself at some time.

We hope that your next vacation has the Drake seal and that you live this experience.

How can I get there?

We almost always ask ourselves this question for any trip so that we are prepared for what we are going to find. If adventure is your thing, you can take a boat or launch from Sierpe to get to the town of Drake. You can also do it by land, however the road has difficulties such as rivers, streets not in optimal condition and on several occasions there are road closures due to flooding. In addition, the average hours on the road are 7 to 8. Another option you can take is internal flights to this area and they only last 40 minutes from San José. Here we give you an option to fly:

Which beaches to visit?

San Josecito Beach

This is a beach with golden sand, crystal-clear water and a true paradise. It is close to Drake Bay, approximately 13 km, and 7.5 km from Corcovado National Park. It is a little-visited beach and surrounded by pure nature. You have to cross 4 rivers to get to this beach and some of them tend to fill up, so take this into account and go with a 4x4 vehicle. When you arrive, you will find a parking lot and you will have to walk along a path of about 500 m. You can also choose to take the boat tour.

Cocalito Beach

If you want a private beach to see a sunset show, you can visit Cocalito. It is a 30-minute walk from Drake Bay, it is a small beach with golden sand. You can cross the tropical forest and a suspension bridge over the Agujitas River to get to it.

Any islands nearby?

Just 20 km from the coast of Drake Bay, you can visit the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve. It consists of 320 hectares of land and 5,800 hectares of marine land. It has one of the largest and best-preserved coral formations on the country's Pacific Coast. At this site, you can find remains of stone spheres created by pre-Columbian civilizations. Another of its major attractions is the visit of humpback whales between the months of July and October; they migrate from the Southern Hemisphere (Patagonia), traveling more than 8,000 km. They all come to our warm waters to mate or to give birth to their young. During the tour, you can see dolphins, turtles and a variety of fish.

Can I get to Corcovado National Park?

Through Bahia Drake you have access to this incredible national park, which has 2.5% of the world's biodiversity. This is an experience you need to live. Here it is common to come across a tapir, a herd of peccaries, howler monkeys, spider monkeys and white-faced monkeys. In addition to different species of birds. If you are lucky enough you will be able to see species such as: the jaguar, puma, ocelot, jaguarundi, caucel, tepezcuintle, agouti, among others.

What other tours can I enjoy?

When we plan to go somewhere, we definitely want to “get the most out of it,” as we popularly say. So if you have already decided to visit the south of the country, you know that in Bahia Drake you can also do these activities: diving, kayaking, horseback riding, sport fishing, bird watching, hiking, among others.

Remember to visit our offers section on our page to learn about the tour and lodging options we offer. On the other hand, if you prefer to do it directly from the place, there you will find information centers for all activities.

Ready to pack your bags?

This park is nestled inside Tamarindo Bay, in the canton of Santa Cruz and districts of Cabo Velas and Tamarindo. 

Its main attractions include the nesting season of the leatherback turtles (called tortuga baula in Spanish, which is where the park gets its name), as well as its beautiful beaches, its mangrove forests and the ability to spot flora and fauna. 

Around 117 species of trees and bushes have been identified in the area. Its 139 bird species include 55 with latitudinal migration patterns and 8 with migratory patterns within the country. Of these species, 34% need mangrove forests while 52% need forested areas.

Its area in comprised of a land section of 7.7 km2 and a marine section of 171.36 km2 that extends 12 nautical miles from the shore.

Some 95% of the area’s precipitation falls between the months of May and November, with just 4.2% falling between December and April.

The protected area was created in order to protect the leatherback turtle populations that nest at Playa Grande, Playa Ventanas and Playa Langostas. It is also an important site globally because of the mangrove forest of the Tamarindo Estuary, as well as other mangroves that are smaller but just as beautiful, including the San Francisco and Ventanas Estuaries.

Recommendations of what to see:

Turtle nesting season begins on October 20 and ends on February 15.
We recommend that visitors use light clothing that is suitable for a hot climate, along with sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent during the day and long pants to ward off mosquitoes at night, and plenty of water.

Park regulations:

The maximum group size is 15 people and groups must be accompanied by a tourism operator or local guide.
The beach has two official entrances: Caseta #1, at the MINAE offices, and Caseta #2 at the edge of the Tamarindo Estuary. The total capacity of both of theses structures is 120 (60 each).
You are not allowed to photograph or touch the turtles, you can only observe from a distance and in silence, following the instructions.
Only the guide may use a flashlight, which has to be fitted with a red filter in order to avoid interfering with egg laying by the turtles.

Hours of operation:

The park is open to the public year-round and seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except for the turtle nesting season (October-February) when the beaches are only open until 5:00 p.m.

Accessibility

You can reach the park from San José by two main routes:
San José-Liberia-Filadelfia-Belén-Huacas-Matapalo-Playa Grande/Tamarindo.
San José-Las Juntas de Abangares-Puente La Amistad-Santa Cruz-Villa Real.
Your preferred GPS app will be able to show you the best route.

Rates

Costa Ricans: ₡1600 per person
Foreigners: $12 per person

THERE’S A TROUBLING FACT you might not be aware of: Americans leave 500 million perfectly good vacation days unused every year. Do your part to help end this plight — don’t waste even a single one of your precious days off sitting at home or (gasp) at work, when you could be spending it in a place like Costa Rica.

But when you come, you don’t have to hit the same spots as everyone else. Here are some roads less traveled in Costa Rica that deserve more attention.

1. Montezuma

Montezuma used to be nothing more than a tiny fishing village, but those days are long gone. Its beaches now play host to a hippie/boho scene, made up of both locals and foreigners.

The town’s location on the southeastern cusp of the Nicoya Peninsula means finding your way here is half the fun. You can get to Jacó by bus, and from there it’s an hour-long water taxi ride straight to Montezuma beach (the boat actually leaves from Herradura, just north of Jacó). You can also make the two-hour drive from San José to Puntarenas and its ferry terminal, from where you catch the ferry to Paquera. Once in Paquera, drive another hour through Tambor beach, Cobano, and then finally on a gravel road to Montezuma. (Yes, there’s also a pretty cheap 25-minute flight from San Jose to Tambor, but that’s copping out on adventure.)

Montezuma is bordered by several miles of rugged coastline and puts on some pretty epic nightlife — the fun certainly doesn’t end after you stow your surfboard for the day. Just outside of town there’s a gorgeous 80ft waterfall with excellent swimming holes, and natural hot springs are also nearby. The only problem with Montezuma is coming down from the high long enough to see what else Costa Rica has to offer.

2. San Gerardo de Dota

With nearly 1,000 miles of coastline touching two oceans, Costa Rica understandably draws a lot of people looking to take advantage of its beaches and waves. But not everyone heads to Costa Rica to surf. San Gerardo de Dota, for instance, situated in the Savegre River Valley of the Talamanca Cordillera, is all about birdwatching. While its south-central location provides easy access to Los Quetzales National Park, heavy tourism hasn’t quite caught up.

Almost 200 bird species have been identified in the misty forests of this region — including a variety of hummingbirds, woodpeckers, and tanagers — but the indisputable star of the place is the resplendent quetzal, which hangs out in the San Gerardo de Dota area year round.

From luxury villas to simple mountain lodges, most accommodations here offer some pretty Instagram-worthy views of green rolling hills and fruit plantations. And if you wind up in San Gerardo de Dota and aren’t into birds, there’s always trout fishing on the Rio Savegre, tours of the nearby coffee plantation, or trips to Naranjo waterfalls.

3. Chirripó National Park

Home to Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica’s highest peak (12,533ft), this national park was pretty much made for hikers and climbers. On a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and the Caribbean from the summit.

Besides the challenge of ascending Chirripó, there are numerous trail systems that wind through more ecological zones than you’ll find in the entirety of most countries. Climb from pastures near San Gerardo de Rivas (don’t miss the hot springs there, just a 15-minute walk north of the ranger station) to rainforest, to forests of ancient oaks that tower over 150 feet, to the tundra ecosystem near the peak… All of this rich diversity keeps armies of biologists busy for a lifetime.

The summit climb is 11 miles with nearly 10,000 feet of elevation gain, but there’s a refugio a half kilometer from the top where you can spend the night and start your descent the next morning. Camping is not allowed, and you’ll need to make a reservation at the refugio through the park system. While Easter and certain weekends in the dry season can get crowded, at any other time of year you shouldn’t see many other tourists.

4. Turrialba and the Pacuare

There’s no better way to take in the grandeur of the mountains, canyons, and waterfalls of the Rio Pacuare than by raft. The river is ranked by National Geographic as one of the top 10 for whitewater rafting in the world, and there are tour operators and sections of the river to accommodate every ability level. While you may be a little busy managing the rapids, you’ll likely catch glimpses of numerous birds and monkeys along the way.

If rafting isn’t your thing, the nearby town of Turrialba is still a great spot to post up for a while. It’s also the place to arrange a tour of the ruins at Guayabo. This is one of Costa Rica’s only pre-Columbian site that’s open to the public, and can give you an impression of what life must have been like here circa 1000 BC to 1400 AD.

Note: Volcán Turrialba erupted in October, 2014, so for the moment Turrialba Volcano National Park is closed. Its Jurassic Park-like slopes can still be admired from a safe distance, though.

5. Manzanillo

For those really looking to get off the beaten track, the village of Manzanillo will definitely suffice. The small town marks the end of the road that runs south along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, and that road was only paved for the first time in 2003.

But who needs to stop there? There’s a solid 10 miles of unspoiled coastline between the end of the road and the border with Panama. For a real adventure, hire a local guide to take you beyond the village and along the shore into Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. A half-day round-trip hike will get you to lovely Punta Mona.

Further southeast and deep in the reserve, you can also check out the village of Gandoca, which is reached from the main inland highway via 4×4 or boat. This little town holds tightly to its Afro-Caribbean culture. While you won’t come across any fancy boutique hotels, you will find friendly Costa Ricans throwing the occasional party at the local bar, and new friends who may invite you to snorkel or kayak. It’s the kind of under-the-radar trip that will give you a new understanding of the Tico spirit and its pura vida.

Source: https://matadornetwork.com/trips/5-incredible-radar-places-costa-rica

By: Cathy Brown

A COUPLE OF MILLENNIA AGO, Roman philosopher Seneca said, “Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.” He got it partially right. Travel boosts, restores, and expands not just the mind, but also our bodies, our senses — all of us. For those on a quest to restore work-life balance, Costa Rica is the ultimate destination. Here’s why.

1. It’s the birthplace of modern zipline tours.

As in soaring through treetops, through jungle canopy and cloud forest, protected ecosystems showcasing some of the best biodiversity in the world. Ziplining may now be popular all over the world, but come here and you’ll understand why Costa Rica is where it all started.

Whether exploring Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or zipping over a waterfall near the coast, you’ll be eye-level with toucans and parrots. The vibrant colors blur by as you begin to focus on all the life around you; the phrase pura vida (“pure life”) takes on new dimensions from the perspective of the zipline.

2. There’s 1,100 miles of incredible coastline.

Looking for a beach? Pick your color: miles of sugar white to launch your surfing adventures, unspoiled stretches of volcanic black waiting for your footprints, even coral pink, inviting horseback riding or just your blanket and a favorite book. There are miles of these beaches touching two oceans, and the most incredible part is that the Caribbean and Pacific shores are just a few hours’ drive from each other. Playa Conchal, Playa Tamarindo, Islas Tortugas, Punta Uva — come find your go-to beach.

3. It’s impossible to be bored here.

On a quest for coffee? Come, meet the grower, feel the mist, taste the terroir of the beans. Volcanic terrain with tropical sun and rain — it doesn’t get much better for coffee cultivation than in the Costa Rican highlands.

Seeking surf? Nosara, Jacó, Pavones, Dominical, Tamarindo — legendary syllables in the surfing world, these beach locales. With perfect breaks and endless waves, every session will leave you stoked for more.

Want to ride the rapids? The country’s inland rivers offer some of the best whitewater rafting in Central America. And oh yeah, there’s all the kayaking and ziplining…

No matter the season — wet tropical summer or refreshing winter — there’s always something to keep you busy in Costa Rica.

4. It’s one of the world’s best and most affordable places to take Spanish classes.

Brush up on your high school Spanish, or pick up the language from the beginning — Costa Rica is one of the best countries to learn the world’s second-most-spoken language (only Mandarin has more native speakers). One-on-one tutoring, whether in a classroom in a hip urban neighborhood, or in the shade of palms with the sound of surf as a backdrop, is widely available.

Try out your nascent language skills in a gastropub in San José’s Barrio Amon or near the Paseo Colón, or get to know a sabanero — a Costa Rican cowboy — in Guanacaste province. Go beyond uno más, por favor, and you’ll really be speaking the language of pura vida.

5. Over a quarter of the country is protected by national parks and nature preserves. And it’s full of amazing creatures.

Costa Ricans have set aside over a quarter of their country as national parks and protected nature preserves, and visitors as well as locals get to reap the benefits. In addition to beautiful, unadulterated landscapes, you’ll see squirrel, capuchin, and spider monkeys; two- and three-toed sloths; exotic birds like the resplendent quetzal; and a whole host of other animals, both endemic and widespread, who make their home in all that green space.

6. The weather’s always fine.

You know, not too hot, not too cold. For so much of the year, so many of us have to put up with freezing or baking temperatures. The eternal spring of Costa Rica’s Central Highlands mean that whenever you need to get away, you have access to a place with ideal conditions. Temperatures in San José, the nation’s capital, range from the 60s to 80s all year long.

7. For North American vacationers, there’s no jet lag.

No matter where you’re flying down from — Calgary or Miami, Los Angeles or Toronto — you won’t have to adjust your watch more than a couple hours when you land in San José. In addition to occupying a time zone amenable to North Americans, the flight time is mercifully short: less than three hours from Florida, and only about five from Chicago or New York. Less time recovering from travel fatigue means more time relaxing and reinvigorating.

Pura vida — nearer than you might think, easier than you might realize.

Source: https://matadornetwork.com/trips/7-reasons-costa-rica-ultimate-vacation-spot/

By: Joseph Cyr

IN JUST 19,729 SQUARE MILES, Costa Rica harbors a wealth of biodiversity, a stunning variety of landscapes and ecosystems(from tropical rainforest to mountains to offshore reefs) and some of the friendliest — and happiest — people on the planet. Uniquely Costa Rican experiences are clearly pretty easy to come by; here are just a few to get you started.

1. Surfing two oceans in one day

Costa Rica’s size and geographic location on the narrow Central American isthmus mean you can surf both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in the same day. With the two coasts a six-hour drive apart, it’s possible to catch your first wave of the day on the Caribbean coast and then hop over to the Pacific for a sunset session before dinner. The water is deliciously warm on both sides.

Jacó and Hermosa beaches tend to have consistently great surfing conditions and are excellent for learners. Just keep in mind that while the Pacific side has stellar surfing year-round, conditions on the Caribbean side tend to be more seasonal, with big barrel waves like Salsa Brava breaking from January to March.

2. Watching oxcarts transform into art

The word “oxcart” may not conjure a very glamorous image, but the Costa Rican carreta isn’t your typical cart; in fact, it’s the country’s most celebrated craft and a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Once a means of transporting coffee beans, Costa Rican oxcarts are now a proud symbol of the country’s cultural heritage and are often painted in colorful and intricate designs, turning them into works of art.

You can catch a whole parade of exquisitely painted oxcarts on the second Sunday of March at the spectacular annual Día del Boyero (Oxcart Driver’s Day) festival in San Antonio de Escazú, a western suburb of the capital city, San José. Year-round, check out the world’s largest oxcart in the town of Sarchí, Costa Rica’s most famous crafts center, about 30 miles northwest of the capital.

3. Exploring nature in the country with the highest density of biodiversity in the world

Home to more than half a million species — nearly 4% of the total estimated species in the world — Costa Rica is one of the best places on the planet to explore nature’s flora and fauna. One-quarter of its land area is protected in national parks and reserves, and these places contain an astounding variety of ecosystems, including tropical rainforest, tropical dry forest, cloud forest, mangrove forest, Atlantic and Pacific coastline, and miles and miles of offshore reefs.

To see the most plentiful and rarest wildlife, hit up Corcovado, Tortuguero, and Manuel Antonio National Parks. Pack those binoculars and fins; there’s nature to experience in every pocket of this compact country.

4. Soaking in hot springs at the foot of a volcano

Part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, Costa Rica contains more than a dozen volcanoes, both active and inactive. The most famous is Arenal, whose conical beauty and former status as one of the most active volcanoes in the world spawned a thriving tourism industry in its environs and, subsequently, an array of hot springs resorts of varying degrees of luxury.

Arenal stopped spewing in 2010 and has since become dormant, but it’s still amazing to look at while soaking in a hot springs pool, tropical cocktail in hand.

5. Seeing the Dance of the Little Devils

A traditional festival of the Boruca people of southern Costa Rica, the Danza de los Diablitos, also called the Juego de los Diablitos, takes place each year in two different locales: December 31 to January 2 in the community of Boruca, and the first weekend of February in the community of Rey Curré.

The festival is a fascinating reenactment of the Spanish conquest of Costa Rica. The Boruca don elaborate costumes and hand-carved devil masks, representing the indigenous people, while dancing around and eventually taking down a mock bull, symbolizing the Spanish. A celebration of Boruca identity and community, the festival involves music, traditional food, and lots of chicha — a fermented beverage made from corn.

6. Glimpsing a whale’s tail from the Whale’s Tail

The stunning and aptly named Ballena National Marine Park (ballena means “whale” in Spanish), on Costa Rica’s southwestern Pacific coast, is a well-known humpback whale hangout and home to a sandbar formation called the Tómbolo (in English referred to as the “Whale’s Tail”). At low tide, from the air, the unique formation looks like a perfect whale’s tail, and sea-gazers can walk out to the sandbar for a potential glimpse of a real humpback’s tail. The park sits between Playa Hermosa and Playa Uvita, so even without whales on-scene your views will be fantastic.

7. Going eco-lodge hopping

Costa Rica prides itself on its pioneering ecotourism and sustainability efforts, and rightly so. The country is home to a wealth of eco-lodges that allow tourists to maintain a low environmental footprint during their visit without sacrificing comfort — or, in some cases, pure luxury. From tent lodges, beach bungalows, and former farms to solar-powered hotels, an impressive selection of eco-lodges exist across Costa Rica, allowing visitors to “stay green” in virtually any part of the country.

8. Floating through virgin tropical rainforest on one of the top rafting rivers in the world

Costa Rica’s Pacuare River ranks as one of the best whitewater rafting trips in the world. Imagine barreling through Class III and IV rapids surrounded by pristine rainforest, floating through a steep canyon draped with tropical flora, or seeing waterfall after waterfall cascade into the river. Bonus: Whenever you choose to go, the water won’t be freezing.

9. Going on a pilgrimage in honor of the country’s patron saint

Every year in the days approaching August 2, millions of pilgrims from around Costa Rica, Central America, and the world travel on foot, horseback, or, for the truly devout, on their knees to the colonial capital of Cartago. They walk to attend mass at the Basílica Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles (Our Lady of the Angels Basilica) in honor of the Virgen de los Ángeles (Virgin of the Angels), Costa Rica’s patron saint. There, they pay their respects to, and make requests of, an eight-inch black stone statue of the Virgin, affectionately called La Negrita.

Many pilgrims make only the 14-mile trek from the capital city of San José to Cartago, but some walk from the farthest reaches of Costa Rica and even from neighboring countries out of devotion to the saint. That, and legend has it La Negrita can conjure miraculous healings.

10. Getting up close and personal with a sloth

In rural parts of Costa Rica, it’s not that uncommon to come across a sloth making its way oh-so-slowly across a road. Good Samaritans may even set up human barricades to make sure a crossing sloth isn’t hit by a car.

If you don’t have time to wait around a country road for a sloth to cross, you can make your way to the Sloth Sanctuary on the southern Caribbean coast, about 30 minutes south of Limón. (Via Interbus, take the route called Limón/Cahuita/Hone Creek/Puerto Viejo, and stop at Aviarios del Caribe/Sloth Sanctuary. There will be a yellow sloth-crossing sign at the bus stop near the sanctuary gate.) The organization is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of rescued sloths and, if you’re lucky, you might even get to see baby sloths at the sanctuary — there are few things in this world cuter than baby sloths.

Source https://matadornetwork.com/network/10-experiences-can-costa-rica/

By: Meg Yamamoto

Enjoy 16 km of trails

Cartago is a province with plenty to offer tourists: visits to volcanoes, taking in its lookouts and seeing the spots where important historical events took place. The Prusia Forest is the perfect weekend escape for families, couples or friends. So lace up your sneakers, put on comfortable clothing and come experience the nature that surrounds us.

The tour is self-guided, offering the opportunity to take your time and enjoy the experience at your own pace. The path going around the forest is about 16 km in length, the most trails of any park in the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM).

Please note that you will need to keep an eye out for arrows and the color signs that indicate the trails on which you will need to travel.

Visit the bewitched tree

One of the forest’s attractions is the famous “bewitched tree”. The forest rangers tell us that the name is due to a visitor who hung the figure of a witch from the tree, a custom that was followed by others, who placed other objects on the tree. The custom is no longer practiced, however, and the tree is now totally unadorned. However, the tree’s shape gives it a mystical appearance.

You can see the tree for yourself by taking the El Roble trail, continuing along the El Puma trail and then the Los Abuelos trail. Be sure to take a picture of the trail map at the park entrance, which will allow you to follow along during your hike.

The forest is also home to other attractions, including Cerro Retes, one of the highest points in the area, where you can observe the slopes of the Irazú Volcano. Cerro Cabeza de Vaca is another local peak, with views of the Barva Volcano. The Laguna del Reventado is another local attraction.

Keep your eyes and ears open on your hike and you just might come across local fauna, including birds, gray foxes, coatis, tayras, porcupines, and more. You’ll also become ensconced in the vegetation of dense stands of eucalyptus, pines and other tree species.

Note, however, that the popular mountain of yellow flowers you may have seen in photos is actually not in the forest. If you want to visit that mountain, you’ll need to take the road towards the Irazú Volcano, about 1 km beyond the entrance to the Durán Sanatorium. Remember that the area is private property, so you must ask permission before entering.

Ready for adventure?

Everything you need to know:

• Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Last entrance to the forest: 3:00 p.m.
• Price for citizens: ₡1,000.
• Price for children: ₡500.
• Price for foreign nationals: $5.
• Seniors enter free of charge.
• Payment can be made with card or cash.
• Parking free on weekdays.
• ₡1,000 (cash) donation to the Red Cross on weekends.
• A meeting room and auditorium are available.
• The location includes drinking water, restrooms and a picnic area.
• School groups can enter free of charge by prior arrangement; please call.
• Nearby areas you can visit: Durán Sanatorium, Irazú Volcano, Mirador de Ujarrás, Mirador de Orosi, Ruins of Ujarrás.

These diminutive birds flit through many of the forests of our country, providing us with opportunities to spot them now and then in some tourist destinations. Their colors and speed are just some of their surprising features.
If you would like to know more about this incredible bird, read on and discover the curious facts we have in store for you.

1. In Costa Rica, there are 53 species of hummingbirds, which are distributed throughout the country, mainly at medium and high elevations.
2. Their wings move around 60 times per second.
3. Hummingbirds feed on flower nectar, and must consume about three times their body weight every day. They mainly drink sugary nectar, but also obtain protein from small insects.
4. These little guys are very smart! A hummingbird has the largest brain of any bird relative to its body size.
5. A hummingbirds heart can beat up to 1,200 times per minute.
6. Hummingbirds often have a very short lifespan: most do not live longer than a single year, and those that do generally only live up to 4 years. In captivity, a hummingbird can live for 15-17 years.
7. Hummingbirds spend more than half of their time preening, chirping or at rest.
8. Hummingbirds’ muscles allow them to reach surprising speeds of 50 to 95 km/h when diving during courtship.
9. The horned sungem can beat its wings 90 times per second, the fastest of any hummingbird. Its speed record has been confirmed by the Guinness Book of Records.
10. In spite of their small size and high metabolism, it has an energy-saving mechanism that involves lowering its temperature from 37.5°C to 17°C by lowering its activity.
11. Its heart rate is 500-600 beats per minute at rest, or over 1,000 beats per minute if it is excited during disputes with other hummingbirds.
12. The hummingbird has a big heart, representing 2.5% of its total weight. ❤
13. The species is endemic to the Americas: that means that it is only found in the Americas and nowhere else.
14. The bee hummingbird is the world’s smallest bird. Living in Cuba, it measures 5 to 6 cm and weighs 1.5-1.9 grams.
15. The largest hummingbird is the giant hummingbird, which lives in South America. It is 8 inches in size.

Where can we see them?

Hummingbirds can be found almost everywhere in the country, but there are certain areas where they can be seen in greater numbers, namely the highlands, the tropical dry forest and the Caribbean tropical wet forest. If you would like us to suggest some specific areas, these include: Tapantí National Park, Coto Brus, Monteverde, Palo Verde National Park, Cahuita National Park, the areas surrounding the Poás Volcano, San Gerardo de Dota, Turrialba, Sarapiquí, and others.

We will soon be able to enjoy more of these birds in our country. For now, let’s learn more while we #StayAtHome

Fall in love with its biodiversity

The refuge is located in the far south of the Nicoya Peninsula, close to Isla Tortuga. The entrance is located 30 minutes from Paquera.

The park is comprised of 1,496 ha of tropical forests, mangroves and grasslands along the coast. It offers 17 trails for hiking enthusiasts, where you can see some of the 78 mammal species identified by researchers, along with 232 bird species, 87 species of reptiles, and over 500 different plants.

White-tailed deer are frequently seen in the park, while armadillos and iguanas are not uncommon. In the treetops, you may spot capuchin, spider and howler monkeys. If you would like to experience marine life up close, this is an excellent place to do so, with kayak tours, diving, snorkeling, tours of Isla Tortuga and bioluminescence excursions.

Curú has a wide variety of attractions that will allow you to make the most of your vacation with family or friends. They include Playa Curú, Playa Poza Colorada and Playa Quesera. You can also enjoy the mangroves and incredible hiking trails.

There are a number of trails that range from short and simple to long and challenging. The Finca de los Monos Trail is one of the best options to spot birds and small mammals, especially very early in the morning or at dusk. Other trail options include the Cangrejal, Ceiba and Quesera trails.

In 1981, the Curú National Wildlife Refuge obtained its wildlife conservation status from the Costa Rican government, becoming a protected area. The name was adopted shortly thereafter, in 1983. The reserve is still managed privately and maintains an independent status.

Curú is certainly a perfect destination for spending some time amidst magical scenery surrounded by nature. Disconnect from the urban environment and begin to travel Costa Rica.

Everything you need to know:

• Address: Drive to Puntarenas (1 hour and 40 minutes from San José along Route 27), then take the ferry to Paquera (1 hour and 30 minutes) and drive 30 minutes to Curú (the entrance will be on the left).
• Road conditions: the road from Paquera is being improved, so any vehicle should be able to make the trip.
• Services: showers, restrooms, restaurant, security guard and rental cabins.
• Parking: yes
• Pets: no
• Rates: ₡2,500 for Costa Rican citizens / $13 for foreign nationals
• Hours of operation: every day. Day visitors can access the park from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., though guests in the refuge’s cabins can stay at all hours and even enjoy night tours.
• Average rates: Tours cost between $15 and $35 per person, depending on the company and the tourist season.
• Website: www.curuwildliferefuge.com
• For more information: (506) 2641-01-00 / (506) 2641-05-90 info@curuwildliferefuge.com refugiocuru@yahoo.com
• Nearby areas you can visit: Malpaís, Montezuma, Montezuma waterfall, Santa Teresa.

Our country is home to impressive waterfalls that are a preferred destination for many. It’s a common practice to get together with friends on the weekend to explore a new one. So without further ado, here’s part two of our list of waterfalls to inspire you to get out there and explore Costa Rica!

1. Catarata El Rey, Puriscal:

Zapatón de Puriscal is a community focused on rural tourism that draws visitors in with its breathtaking waterfall. The sheets of falling water seem to form a curtain that hides the rocks behind it. Don’t worry too much about bringing food, as there are plenty of options nearby. 

Distance: 8 km in total. 
Difficulty: medium to hard. 
Vehicle: high clearance recommended. 
Parking: roadside parking only. 
Pets: no. 
Camping: no. 
Admission: ₡5000. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M3Zjn2KHdS4AHYrM6

2. Catarata El Indio, Puriscal:

This gorgeous waterfall is located in the community of Mastatal de Puriscal, near La Cangreja National Park. Puriscal is known for its beautiful landscapes for hiking and for its famous Chicharrón Fair. Alongside its picturesque natural surroundings, you can also enjoy the refreshing breeze coming off the waterfall, paired with a delicious lunch and views that are perfect for snapping a photo.

Distance travelled: 7 km. 
Difficulty: moderate. 
Vehicle: high clearance, 4x4. 
Parking: yes. 
Pets: yes. 
Admission: ₡12,000 for a guided tour + lunch 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/A7xsWJTM2EqGncibA

3. La Fortuna Waterfall, San Carlos:

With a height of 70 m, this beautiful waterfall is located in the Arenal Volcano National Park and is about 16 km from the center of La Fortuna. It can be accessed by people with restricted mobility, since there is a viewpoint that looks out over the waterfall without needing to go down the stairs. As well as taking a dip at the foot of the waterfall, you can also spend the day enjoying the cold water of the pool.

Distance travelled: 530 steps to the foot of the waterfall. 
Difficulty: moderate. 
Vehicle: any vehicle. 
Parking: yes. 
Pets: no. 
Admission: $9 for adults; no charge for children under 8. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/tkZbzgkNAK2jErmc6 
Hours of operation: Every day from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

4. Catarata La Leona, Liberia, Guanacaste

The waterfall is located in the town of Curubandé, in the district of the same name and the canton of Liberia. In fact, it’s just 20 minutes from downtown Liberia, the White City. The path there travels through the forest and along the river, so a change of shoes and clothing is advisable. You’re sure to enjoy a fun, refreshing day. Another recommendation is to plan your trip so you end up staying at least two days, so that you can also fit in a trip to Rincón de la Vieja National Park and other nearby waterfalls, including La Cangreja and Oropéndola.

Total distance: 4 km. 
Difficulty: easy. 
Vehicle: any vehicle, though a high clearance is recommended. 
Admission: ₡5000 per person. 
Pets: yes. 
Parking: yes. 
Camping: yes. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/TgfnxRNGvkQJw9za6

5. Catarata La Cangreja, Liberia, Guanacaste <

This waterfall is part of Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Its refreshing water falls from a height of about 40 m, though there’s also a corner of the pool that receives hot water from a volcanic spring. It’s a must-see for those hiking along the park’s trails and enjoying its nature.

Total distance: 5 km. 
Difficulty: moderate. 
Vehicle: any vehicle, though a high clearance is recommended. 
Park admission fee: adults ₡1130/children ₡565. 
Pets: no. 
Parking: yes. 
Camping: no. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/fe5gWCNrDahbLkvT6

6. El Ángel Gabriel Waterfall, San Ramón de Alajuela

This waterfall is another perfect weekend escape. Pack your bags for San Ramón de Alajuela! To give you a better idea of the location, it’s just off the route to San Ramón, taking the turn off to Piedades Sur, and then towards San Antonio de Zapotal, traveling about an hour along an unpaved road. The waterfall is 40 m in height and its water is ideal for a refreshing, adventure-filled day.

Total distance: 3.6 km. 
Difficulty: moderate. 
Vehicle: 4x4 or a car with high clearance. 
Admission: ₡5000. 
Pets: yes. 
Parking: yes. 
Camping: no. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5vNtjZyt4RR6oDBD

7. Aquiares Waterfall, Santa Cruz, Turrialba

This waterfall is located in an area full of nature and coffee plantations. It has a pool at the bottom where you can spend all day swimming with your friends or partner. The rustic town of Aquiares will take you back in time to a different era. Bring some snacks or a picnic for an incredible weekend getaway. You won’t regret it!

Total distance: 200 m. 
Difficulty: easy. 
Vehicle: a vehicle with high clearance is recommended. 
Admission: free. 
Pets: yes. 
Parking: roadside parking only. 
Camping: no. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/VuC8RzsMS9mmLAHS6

8. Vuelta del Cañón Waterfall, Toro Amarillo, Sarchí.

This is a place for true adventurers, since the trail is somewhat challenging. It’s recommended for visitors in good shape who want to enjoy a good hike. It’s best to visit during the dry season, since the conditions can become dangerous during the rains. You should also note that a guide is required for this hike.

Total distance: 12 km 
Difficulty: moderate to hard. 
Vehicle: any vehicle. 
Admission: ₡10,000 including guide 
Pets: yes, if they’re ready for an adventure. 
Parking: yes. 
Camping: no. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/1bbQNZvnuzrmSUP47

9. Tesoro Escondido Waterfall, Toro Amarillo, Sarchí.

This impressive waterfall has a lookout and a pool that’s perfect for a dip, even though the water is quite cold. The difficulty is intermediate and the trail is about 5 km long. The area’s many attractions include camping sites and trails to discover, delicious food, natural pools for swimming, and the famous Mirador de la Gota lookout, a can’t-miss photo spot – and the waterfall, of course! Bajos del Toro has everything you need to enjoy a day trip with family or friends.

Total distance: 5 km (there and back). 
Difficulty: moderate to hard. 
Vehicle: car. 
Location: Toro Amarillo. 
Parking: yes, ₡1000. 
Pets: yes. 
Camping: yes. 
Attractions: Tesoro Escondido Waterfall, Mirador la Gota lookout, Poza Esmeralda, Poza las Gradas. 
Admission: ₡7000 per person (trails, waterfall, pools, lookout). 
Admission (with breakfast and lunch): ₡13,000 per person. 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/uqg4fmhMM5tboVK27

10. Caída del Cielo Waterfall, Toro Amarillo, Sarchí.

This waterfall’s name, meaning “fallen from heaven” is a reference to the color of the water, which looks like a ray of light from the heavens. To reach the waterfall, first drive to the parking lot, where guides can take you to the entrance of the farm where the trail begins. Do note that this trail is a bit more difficult. You’ll pass through pastures, with a few steep inclines and gullies before you reach the waterfall. Although the area is a little cool, be ready to take a dip once you reach the waterfall.

Total distance: 6 km to the waterfall and back, and 2 km more if you want to head to the lookout. 
Difficulty: moderate. 
Vehicle: car. 
Parking: yes. 
Pets: yes. 
Admission: ₡5500 (includes parking and the lookout) 
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/YuLahDwqPjXiQYdh8 

How many have you seen? How many are still on your list? Make a plan to see them all!