In Costa Rica, life consists of endless beaches, rainforests, river valleys, and biodiversity all in one place, allowing different types of adventure around every corner. Many airlines offer non-stop routes to this country, making trips easier and more accessible for Americans. “Pura Vida” is a phrase you’ll hear often there and simply translated means “pure life”. Costa Ricans (Ticos) use this term to say hello and goodbye and to say life is great!
Forest Ziplining
Whether it’s through the evergreen Monteverde Forest with the Arenal Volcano’s view or through the vibrant jungle canopy, ziplining is very common and one of the most popular tourist activities in the Costa Rican jungle.
Wildlife Encounters
Nearly 25% of the country is preserved for national parks and wildlife. It is home to 27 national parks and accounts for five percent of the world’s biodiversity. The Los Quetzales National Park allows birdwatchers to get a full aerial view of the various species of birds. Costa Rica boasts 320 species of birds! Monkeys are very apparent in the jungles as well; you will likely hear them before you see them. Sleepy sloths are harder to spot. The Corcovado National Park is another prominent place to visit for frequent whale-watching and dolphin sightings.
Surfing
Towns such as Samara, Avellanas, and Tamarindo are great places for year-round surfing on these Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The warm water and steady wind combo make Costa Rica a surfer’s paradise. Many of the beaches offer boards and lessons for beginners.
Volcano Hike
The massive Arenal Volcano is one of the most well-known attractions in Costa Rica. The surrounding area around the volcano is often used for kayaking, boating, and paddleboarding. Hot springs and waterfalls are also abundant, with zip lines and horseback riding available below the volcano summit. Rincon de la Vieja National Park’s centerpiece is another million-year-old volcano that offers views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Lago de Nicaragua.
Jungle Tranquility
The natural hot springs with a lush green background provide geothermal waters heated by the volcano. The springs have been utilized for therapeutic healing in addition to simply relaxing in the tropics.
Waterfalls
La Fortuna waterfall by Arenal is an approximately 20-minute hike presenting a massive waterfall with a jungle backdrop. Another favorite is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in the Northern Plains, offering bright blue waters. Lesser-known waterfalls include Bajos del Tori in the Alajuela province and Catarata del Toro, which plummets into an extinct volcanic crater with aerial views.
Rio Rafting
Named as a Biosphere Reserve, Rio Pacuare offers a white-water Caribbean experience through the safari-like jungle. According to National Geographic, it is one of the top spots for white-water rafting. The highlight of rafting in the Rio Savegre includes sightings of the jaguars, tapirs, and birds that pass by the riverside.
Jungle Drives
The 4×4 is recommended for the best driving experience throughout Costa Rica. The off-the-beaten paths present unique views but require vehicles that can beat their own path. Driving on the beach, however, is not permitted. Another favorite way for locals to get around is via horseback. Many resorts offer horseback riding experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to ride your horse along the beach, or even into the sea.
SCUBA Diving
The majority of shore islands on the Pacific coast are the hub spots for scuba and deep diving, offering plenty of sea diversity with various species of sharks, dolphins, and much more. A renowned spot for divers is The Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste province.
Yoga Retreats
Aside from the adventurous and bold activities offered in Costa Rica, yoga retreats are available for leisure in the peaceful surrounding. Nosara is a popular spot located in the Nicoya Peninsula, offering a beachfront area for a serene yoga session.
Whether you prefer an adventure-filled vacation or a relaxing yoga retreat, Costa Rica offers so many options for travelers. When you are ready to plan your Costa Rican adventure, schedule a complimentary travel consultation with me to get started!
Updated Travel Restrictions to Costa Rica from the U.S.:
- Travelers to Costa Rica must complete a health pass prior to travel, but do not need to be tested before their trip.
- Visitors must have proof of medical insurance that covers Covid-related bills in Costa Rica up to at least $50,000, and lodging expenses related to the pandemic up to at least $2,000. Two local companies, the National Insurance Institute, and Sagicor, offer such policies. For more options, contact us.
- Travelers must have a return ticket and should carry a copy or photo of the passport page with their entry stamp at all times.
- Temperature screenings will be done at the airport.
- Here is the U.S. State Department advisory.
Let’s get started planning your luxury vacation! Reserve your complimentary consultation call with me to begin!
Photo credit: Featured image by Koen Swiers; Frog Photo by Alejandro Orozco; sloth Photo by Jean Paul Montanaro; monkey Photo by Tomáš Malík
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