Why Costa Rica?
Costa Rica


Costa Rica in Central America is the place to go for wildlife and beaches. A vast area has been protected in National Parks and biological reserves. It also has one of the most diverse eco-systems in the world with an overwhelming abundance of flora and fauna. The special micro-climate has created “cloud forests” which are home to many unique species only found in Costa Rica as well as hummingbirds, toucans and monkeys galore. You can explore on foot, on horseback, by jeep or kayak or the very popular canopy tours. There are also volcanoes including the still active Arenal volcano which is a sight not to be missed especially at night time when you can really see the red lava clearly.

Costa Rica is also rightly famous for its spectacular coastline with some truly beautiful beaches. You can surf or scuba-dive or swim or just sit back and relax on the soft white sand with the warm turquoise waters of the Pacific lapping at your feet. Costa Rica is also home to a wide variety of accommodation from the eco-lodges in the cloud forest to some extremely luxurious beach resorts. No wonder they call this place Paradise!
Where to go?
Guanacaste – this region is less forested and more temperate and is home to the main farming country with its own strong sense of cultural identity.

Tortuguero NP – this national park is in the north on the Caribbean side and is home to many nesting turtles. It is a wetland forest with travel by boat in many places where you can explore the mangrove swamps and spot river otters and toucans.

Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Hot Springs – Costa Rica’s most famous active volcano usually does not disappoint with its daily eruptions. These are best seen at night from a hotel in the area for a spectacular natural firework display. The local hot springs are just another of the perks to having an active volcano on your doorstep!

San Jose – the capital city is where you will first arrive and is worth a couple of days if you have the time as it is a lively and friendly place.

Tamarindo – a great resort for surfing and sport fishing with lovely beaches.

Monteverde Cloud Forest – this is Costa Rica’s most visited reserve and rightly so with its huge number of birds and animals including the rare quetzal and beautiful hummingbirds. This was one of the first reserves and has led the way in the world of conservation.
When to go?
The climate is warm and wet pretty much all year round but the best months in general are December – March. The Pacific coast is drier than the Atlantic/Caribbean coast. The Pacific coast has its wet season from May – November whereas the Atlantic Coast can be pretty wet most of the time with showers on a daily basis. But do remember the rain is what makes this place such a haven of wildlife!