In a world full of exciting vacation options… Why Visit Costa Rica?
From the mountains to the rainforests to the sparkling blue water, there are countless answers to the question “Why visit Costa Rica?” When searching for a vacation to appease all senses and tastes, look no further. Located in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica is a peaceful country that packs a rich abundance of natural beauty. Wildlife, adventure and relaxation are all packed in this vibrant, small space. In fact, Costa Rica is roughly the size of the state of West Virginia.
Your Ideal Vacation
Costa Rica is the ideal place for both those who simply wish to relax, as well as those who seek new thrills. Costa Rica is known for its beaches, mountains, rainforests, cloud forests, hot springs, volcanoes and wildlife. Have you had a friend, co-worker or relative tell you about how great the things to see in Costa Rica are? Well we’re going to tell you what makes the “Switzerland of Central America” the perfect destination for any vacation.
While there are innumerable reasons to visit the alluring Costa Rica, we would like to share 8 of the top reasons to soak up some sunshine and fun in the land of Pura Vida.
Climate
The climate in Costa Rica is incredible. For those who have to deal with several months of winter every year, the climate in Costa Rica will make you not want to return home. Costa Rica only has 2 seasons, dry and rainy. Locals sometimes refer to the dry season as summer and the rainy season as winter, but it’s certainly not the same as the winter that many people know. The average low temperatures year-round fall into the 60-70 degree Fahrenheit range (17-18 C). Average year-round highs in the 70-80 degree range (26-28 C).
While all of Costa Rica is considered to have a tropical climate due to its proximity to the equator, the country is home to several microclimates depending on factors like elevation, rainfall, topography, and the geography of each particular region. Wherever you choose to travel in Costa Rica, you are certain to find a favorable climate.
Landscape
When it comes to landscape and scenery, Costa Rica is truly second to none. From lush rainforests to verdant mountains to pristine beaches and so much more, Costa Rica is a photographer’s and nature lover’s dream. Vibrant colors abound in this gorgeous country full of a diverse flora of unparalleled beauty. Stunning national parks can be found in all regions of Costa Rica, and protected lands make up roughly a quarter of the landmass of Costa Rica.
Mother Nature’s Finest
Coffee plants dot the rolling mountainsides while the seductive beaches feature sands of white, gold, black and pink. Costa Rica is home to nearly 300 beaches, each with its own captivating appeal. The best beaches of Costa Rica comprise many of the world’s best and largely untouched beaches. Due to maritime laws, there are few hotels and little development directly on the beaches. Visitors can enjoy Mother Nature at her finest. Words do not do the Costa Rican beach sunsets justice, and they are truly something you must see to believe.
Dozens of volcanoes, both active and dormant, provide a rare opportunity for sightseeing and exploration of neighboring lagoons. Hot springs stemming from the various volcanoes allow for ultimate relaxation. Cloud forests afford the unique chance to look down on the clouds in a mystical setting that feels like something out of a fairytale. Rivers meander throughout the country, providing an excellent setting for activities like whitewater rafting. Dense, exotic rainforests aid in Costa Rica’s distinction as one of the most biologically diverse nations in the world.
Ecotourism in Costa Rica
Thanks to Costa Rica’s biological diversity and tourism industry, the country has been the epitome of ecotourism. Decades ago, many visitors were traveling in Costa Rica to study biology and became many of the country’s first eco-tourists. Between the publications of these biologists, the expansive amount of protected land, and a new campaign from the Costa Rican Tourism Board, Costa Rica quickly received on a world stage for its efforts in ecotourism.
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute provides a Certification in Sustainable Tourism. It aims to differentiate tourism businesses based on the degree to which they comply with a sustainable model of natural, cultural and social resource management.
Going Carbon Neutral
Costa Rica is on the road to becoming the first carbon-neutral country by 2021. In the last year, For almost 300 days, Costa Rica has run on a combination of hydropower, geothermal, wind, & solar energy. The government did not burn any fossil fuels to generate power. No other country this size has come close to a feat like this.
Wildlife
Considering Costa Rica’s biodiversity, it comes as no surprise that this small nation houses a wealth of various animal species. Bird watchers adore Costa Rica. Over 800 spectacular species that have been documented there! There is certainly no shortage of monkeys, either. Home to four species of monkey, Costa Rica is the perfect place to interact with this adorable yet bold animals. Just be careful when monkeys are nearby…they are known to steal your food and other belongings.
You can also see many other animals, like iguanas, butterflies, geckoes, and sloths. Yes, you read that correctly. Both two-toed and three-toed sloths call Costa Rica their home! There are even rescue centers that will allow you to visit sloths and other animals that are in rehabilitation with hopes of being re-introduced to the wild.
Food
Every country has its unique cuisine, and Costa Rica’s tempting dishes will leave you with cravings long after your trip has ended. Fresh tropical fruits make for a delicious breakfast and also for healthy natural juices, or “batidos”. Costa Rica is also famous for its Gallo Pinto, a traditional mix of rice, beans, cilantro, red pepper, onion, celery and Lizano sauce.
Not as famous but equally delicious is rice and beans, which is a traditional dish on the Caribbean side of the country. Rice and beans is cooked in coconut milk and a savory Caribbean sauce. It’s typically accompanied by chicken, fish, or another meat. Another tempting Costa Rican dish is Chifrijo, which includes crispy fried pork, beans, rice, pico de gallo and tortilla chips.
Plantains are also a staple in Costa Rica and can be served in many presentations, including the sweet maduros or patacones, which are flattened and fried. Costa Rica is not only home to its own dishes, but also a wide variety of international cuisine. No matter what you choose to eat in Costa Rica, your palate will leave satisfied.
Adventure
When it comes to Costa Rica, thrill seekers find themselves in an adrenaline-junkie utopia. Credited as the home of the original zipline/canopy tour, this small nation is packed full of adrenaline rushes, extreme tours and a plethora of exciting adventures. Tarzan swings, canyoneering, snorkeling, boating, bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, hiking and flyboarding are guaranteed to get your blood pumping.
Other options for adventure include ATV tours, parasailing, kayaking, waterfall jumping, mountain biking, paddle boarding, surfing and much more. Many beaches are known for their phenomenal surfing conditions. Costa Rica is often the host of international surf competitions. One thing is for certain; if you are an adrenaline junkie, Costa Rica definitely has you covered!
Relaxation
If extreme tours are not your cup of tea, Costa Rica is also a relaxation nirvana. Sometimes when taking a break from the daily grind, all you need is some sunshine, a beach and a stress-free existence. If tranquility is what you yearn for, Costa Rica has the vacation for you.
With around 300 breathtaking beaches and stunning mountain views, Costa Rica is a great escape from a fast-paced lifestyle. The soothing sounds of Mother Nature will relax you and lull you to sleep like a baby. You will wake up refreshed and peaceful. There is no therapy like nature! Even a leisurely, scenic walk can calm anxieties. Costa Rica is also full of hammocks! So, put your feet up and take it easy for a while.
Another great way to find your zen and inner peace is with yoga. Costa Rica has no shortage of yoga classes and workshops. Many people even come from around the world to work on their certification to become a yoga instructor. Even if you are not a fan of organized classes, there are thousands of prime locations to practice yoga on your own.
Additionally, Costa Rica has many hot springs which are rejuvenating and highly enjoyable. Found in several areas of the country, a trip to the hot springs is guaranteed to de-stress both your body and mind.
Pura Vida
Both a commonplace expression and a way of life, “Pura Vida” essentially serves as the motto of Costa Rican people, or Ticos. While no one knows the precise history of how Ticos began using this phrase, many scholars believe that people began using Pura Vida after hearing it used frequently in the 1956 Mexican film, “Pura Vida”.
Pura Vida literally translates into “pure life.” It can be used as a greeting or a farewell, as an answer expressing that things are going well, as a way of giving thanks, or showing appreciation. Ticos are often thought of as the “happiest people on earth.” There’s no doubt that the adoption of the Pura Vida mentality has a huge influence on this ranking.
Costa Rica has long taken a stance of peace in regards to international issues. It has its own Ministry of Peace and is home to the main University for Peace campus. In fact, Costa Rica abolished its military in 1949. They then decided to utilize former defense funds to increase funding for education, healthcare, and culture. The nation’s belief in peace and avoidance of conflict is the perfect example of the Pura Vida lifestyle.
This way of life is all about eternal optimism and not sweating the small stuff. It serves as a reminder that no matter how difficult life can be at times, there are always others less fortunate. It promotes gratitude and positivity, and Ticos incorporate these ideals into their everyday life. What a better way to spend a vacation than adopting the Pura Vida way of life?