Palm-fringed bays and volcanoes encircled by jungle, sloths snooze in cecropia trees overhead, the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle of Ticos.
Jungle spilling out onto the ocean’s edge, and overhead troops of capuchins swing. Laid-back surfer communities line the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans, and the tranquillity of wildlife is only interrupted by the ruckus caused by scarlet macaws and distant grunts of howler monkeys. Costa Rica is the ‘Rich Coast’ between Nicaragua and Panama. Framing this dramatic tropical paradise, the northeastern borders are met by the Caribbean Ocean, and in the west lies the vast Pacific. Running down the country’s centre, two cordilleras of mountains and volcanoes journey the entire country. A pocket-sized country, Costa Rica is only 19,700 square miles, and it is nearly 5 times smaller than the UK. Yet it is one of the most biodiverse places on our planet, and it is home to 12 different ecosystems. From the animated hummingbirds flitting the cool northern cloud forest to the elusive jaguars who roam the wild south.Proud of their impressive efforts towards conservation, the Tico culture is defined by positivity and protection of their incredibly rich land. Costa Rica’s positive rhythm reverberates through towns and communities, and Tico’s wear their heritage with pride, often using the phrase ‘Pura Vida’ as a passing greeting. Costa Rica is an emblem of ‘pure life’, and in their ongoing effort to protect this wildlife haven, a quarter of the country is preserved in 28 National Parks and numerous Wildlife Reserves. Animal populations continue to thrive in the famously lush landscape. A flight into San Jose jets visitors straight into the Central Valley, where the largest city and cultural capital dwells. From here, many flock straight to the palm-fringed coastline or north of the valley towards volcanic territories. Arenal, a hotspot for adventure sports and trekking, is centred around Costa Rica’s youngest stratovolcano. A perfectly conical structure juts miles into the clouds with grooves and furrows embellishing its slopes; these are the battle wounds from the lava flow and past eruptions in the not-so-distant past. Today, visitors bathe in thermal pools heated by magma, take refreshing dips in glowing waterfalls and zipline through the treetops. A journey to the west Pacific coast, and Manuel Antonio awaits those who want to experience the most iconic wildlife without having to delve too deep into the wild. The smallest of Costa Rica’s National Parks, this beach-fronted paradise is not limited by its size. Working further down the coastline, Uvita’s whale-tail-shaped sands and converging currents are a hotspot for humpbacks, and as the forest becomes increasingly untamed, the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park are where pumas roam the lodge’s grounds by night. Paddle or jet into pristine habitats. Tortugero National Park over on the opposite Caribbean Coastline, in the Limon Province, is only accessible by plane or boat. It is a turtle heaven that attracts nature enthusiasts from around the globe. 11 different habitats rest peacefully within its boundaries.One of the world’s most renowned destinations for its epic wildlife and spectacular beaches, Costa Rica is a nature lover, and conservationist’s dream come true. A Central American perfect paradise.
Featured Costa Rica Trips
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When to go to Costa Rica
The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, following the annual rains on the Pacific Coast, the landscape is painted in vibrant green. This is also the best time of year for wildlife, as tropical resident species of sloth and monkeys are joined by migrant bird species from the north. December is an excellent time for marine life, as humpback whales give birth in warm waters and sea turtles mate at the surface. It is worth noting that December to January can get incredibly busy, so it’s worth planning and booking ahead around New Years. More preferable perhaps, February and March bring with them all the perks of the newly dry climate without the business of peak season.Because Costa Rica has multiple micro-climates, the seasons differ depending on each region. Tropical forests and beaches in the north Pacific, in Guanacaste, tend to be far drier than the dense head of the humid south. For those wishing to visit Limon and the Caribbean Coast, it may be best to tailor your journey around turtle nesting season in Tortuguero from March to October.
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Kat Macleod
Luxury Travel Specialist
01173133300 Enquire OnlineWhere to go in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a country filled with diverse landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and breathtaking vistas. The Osa Peninsula is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts as this miniature outpost packs 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, along with pristine rainforests and Costa Rica’s largest mangrove swamp. Just 165 km from San José, Manuel Antonio National Park is another haven for diverse ecosystems, and photographers will adore the park’s centrepiece, “Punta Catedral, a tombolo encircled by a rocky peninsula.
Tortuguero National Park is the place to go to see turtles, while mountainous Monteverde is a hotspot for ecotourism and adventure travellers should try the area's many intrepid treks, Tarzan-like swings, high ropes, and Costa Rica’s longest high-octane zipline course! For those looking for a picture-perfect town, Nuevo Arenal is for you, and while you’re there, explore Arenal Volcano and Arenal Botanical Gardens.
Your Luxury Accommodation Options in Costa Rica
View Wayfairer's favourite selection of accommodations in Costa Rica.
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