Local Knowledge

Overflowing with wondrous experiences to be had and sights to be seen, Costa Rica is a destination unlike any other. Offering it all including, lush rainforests and dramatic cloud forests, active volcanoes, vast stretches of sand and two equally impressive coastlines, abundant wildlife, energetic cities and languorous beach towns… this is a place that needs to be experienced to be believed. Add to that – its impressive infrastructure, beautiful resorts and boutique hotels, upscale restaurants, challenging golf courses and some of the world's most renowned spas; and you've got yourself a full-service, multi-sensory vacation destination. While Costa Rica can certainly provide the beach vacation you crave, you would be missing out if you didn't explore this country's many wonders.

Things to Know

• Accepted Currency: The Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
• Capital: San José
• Airports: In San José: Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO) In Liberia: Daniel Oduber Airport (LIR)
• Language(s) in Use: Spanish is the official language; though English is spoken in many urban areas throughout the country
• Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST)
• Dialing (Country Code): +506
• Climate in General: The country obtains a hot and tropical climate year round, though the temperatures can wildly fluctuate depending on where you are or what elevation you find yourself (say, in the mountains). The average annual temperature on the coastal regions range around 27°C - 30°C, yet in the central areas temperatures can dip as low as 20°C. In mountainous regions, temperatures are known to plunge as low as 10°C, so plan accordingly
• Driving: Your valid, domestic license is adequate documentation, along with your passport

What We Recommend

Turtle Watching

The months of April through October are ideal times to spot a variety of turtle species nesting along the Pacific Coast near Liberia in Tamarindo Bay. As well as along the Caribbean in either Parque Nacional Tortuguero, Refugio de Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo, or Barra del Rio Pacuare, among others. On the Pacific side you'll find species such as the Olive Ridley and the Leatherback, while the Caribbean hosts both the Green and Hawksbill turtles.

Zip-Lining

It is said Costa Rica is the birthplace of zip-lining, and as such there are many terrific sites located throughout the country. One noteworthy spot is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve which is popularly known to adrenaline seekers – novice or advanced – as being one the best expeditions. The tree-top courses can vary depending on your comfort level, though the thrilling surroundings will leave everyone in awe. If zipping through the canopy in this wildlife sanctuary isn't for you, then taking a stroll along the treetop walkways may be just the ticket. You can also opt to stay on the ground to take in the butterfly gardens, reptile exhibitions and more rainforest wonders.

Dining & Nightlife

There are plenty of options for delectable five-star dining experiences when passing through San José. Creative chefs in the capital's top eateries serve up interesting twists on seafood and desserts starring the abundant fresh fruit and vegetables of the area. In fact, many eminent restaurants can be found in most areas up and down the coasts; be sure not to miss an opportunity to dine at a "mirador," a restaurant or diner that features floor to ceiling windows showcasing the area's breathtaking panoramic views… and there are plenty of these in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica has a healthy nightlife in most tourist areas. Dancing is practically a national pastime here, so finding a fun lounge or salsa club is a cinch, along the coasts, in Tamarindo, Liberia and throughout San José.

Activities & Attractions

You're aware of the numerous opportunities to explore the unique landscape in the rainforests, jungles, volcanoes and mountains, so allow us to inform you that scuba diving and snorkeling along the Caribbean coastline is also incredible. Costa Rica maintains their coral reefs with as much care as they do their rainforests, so ready yourself for some beautiful underwater exploration.

On land, Guanacaste offers numerous highly picturesque golf courses to tee off at. While for truly invigorating spa treatments, look no further than the Papagayo Peninsula, which offers numerous acclaimed facilities or Tabacón which also invites you to bathe their rejuvenating natural hot springs.

For rainforest touring, even if you're with a guide, it is best to bring a comprehensive map and/or trail directions with you before embarking on your adventure through any of Costa Rica's impressive primordial rainforests or jungles (a nearby tour office would be a great place to receive information).

Renowned For

This Central American gem is for the truly adventurous at heart. There is no other place that can offer such diverse experiences to take on. Zip-line for hundreds of metres at a time through a cloud forest, or take an exhilarating hike around a volcano one day and snorkel and swim off the Pacific Coast the next. Play with monkeys and rest by a nearby mountain lake, or head over to a white sandy Caribbean beach and lay in the sand. The options here are endless.