Costa Rica, a small Central American country, is known for its natural beauty all around. You will notice waterfalls, rainforests, beaches, volcanoes, and animals everywhere. Besides, it’s a safe country for both families and solo tourists.
Despite being a small country, it has many destinations to offer for tourists. With a proper plan, you can experience the best of Costa Rica. Starting from San Jose, the capital is generally recommended. Also, don’t forget about activities like zip-lining and surfing.
The country also offers places like national parks and hot springs. Plus, the rich culture, biodiversity, and delicious local cuisine are bonuses for a memorable experience.
General Information about Costa Rick
For convenient and relaxing Costa Rica tours, it’s important to have some basic knowledge about the country. This helps you prepare for the tour and take the necessary precautions.
- Capital: San José
- Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
- Language: Spanish, but English is understood in tourist areas
- Climate: Tropical; a short dry season and a long rainy season.
- Transportation: Public buses, taxis, rental cars. You have to drive on the right side.
- Visa: Not required for American tourists
As a tourist, you also need to know some basic etiquette of the country. For example, keeping eye contact is considered sincere, but overdoing it may come off as aggressive. Natives may often try to avoid communication; don’t push for it. The best time to visit the country is between December and April.
Places to Visit in Costa Rica
When it comes to what to visit, Costa Rica has a long list of places. Here is a list of places you don’t want to miss.
1. Museums
If you want to have some indoor experience, visit the museums. The country has dozens of them. The national museum- The Museo Nacional de Costa Rica, is located in San Jose. Visiting the place will give you an overview of the history and culture of Costa Rica.
Museo Nacional De Costa Rica
Other museums you might want to see are:
- Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
- Jade Museum
- Museco de Arte Costarricense
- Museco de los Ninos
- Galeria Namu
- Tico Pod Art House & Gifts
- Sea Turtle Conservancy
- Wood and Art Gallery
2. Beaches
Of course, you do not want to miss these places. They are often surrounded by lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. They offer a mix of white, black, and even pink sands. The Pacific coast has strong waves that are ideal for surfing, while the Caribbean coast is more relaxed with water.
Playa Manuel Antonio
Beaches you can visit are:
- Playa Manuel Antonio
- Tamarindo Beach
- Playa Conchal
- Samara Beach
- Playa Hermosa
- Playa Santa Teresa
- Jaco Beach
- Playa Biesanz
3. Volcanos
Costa Rica has over 200 volcanic formations. Of these, five are active: Arenal, Poás, Irazú, Rincón de la Vieja, and Turrialba. The volcanoes are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. They offer stunning landscapes with craters, hot springs, and lava fields.
You can hike, enjoy geothermal pools, and witness breathtaking views. These volcanoes are a major draw for tourists. Thankfully, the active volcanoes are not very dangerous. They don’t expel toxic gasses or throw rocks and lava. However, please don’t go too far into the areas where it is marked as dangerous.
4. National Parks
Costa Rica’s national parks are rich in biodiversity. They protect rainforests, volcanoes, and coastlines. You can see a range of wildlife. It includes monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. The sloths of the country are popular worldwide.
Veragua Rainforest
The 10 best national parks are:
- Veragua Rainforest
- Cahuita National Park
- Tortuguero National Park
- Arenal Volcano
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Corcovado National Park
- Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja
- Parque Nacional Marino Ballena
- Irazu Volcano National Park
5. Historical Sites in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a rich history reflected in its historical sites. The National Theater in San José, built in 1897, is an architectural gem. The Guayabo National Monument is the country’s most important archaeological site. It features ancient petroglyphs and stone structures.
National Theater in San José
These sites are rich in the country’s ancient civilizations, colonial history, and cultural evolution. You can learn about indigenous practices, Spanish influence, and the development of art and architecture. These sites reveal stories, traditions, and heritage. They have shaped Costa Rica’s identity over centuries.
6. Wildlife Reserves
There are multiple wildlife reserves to protect diverse ecosystems and habitats. They feature rich biodiversity, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects. They focus on conservation and provide vital spaces for endangered species and natural ecosystems. It would help if you visited these wildlife:
- Veragua Rainforest
- Curu Wildlife Refuge
- The Catalinas Islands
- Tarcoles Bridge
- Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Dominical and Uvita, etc.
Things to Do in Costa Rica
You can do a lot of things in Costa Rica. This will make your tour adventurous and more enjoyable. This will also add sweet memories to remember. Here are the things you should do:
1. Hiking
This will be invigorating and peaceful. Trains range from easy walks to challenging climbs and leading through lush forests. You will get a stunning view and experience close encounters with nature.
2. Hot Springs
Tired of all the traveling and hiking? Then take a bath in hot springs. You can soak in warm, mineral-rich water surrounded by lush scenery. It’s a calming experience and ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure.
3. Surfing
Surfing in Costa Rica is exhilarating and fun. The warm, consistent waves are great for all skill levels. Surf lessons are available for beginners. It’s a thrilling way to experience the ocean and enjoy the beach.
4. Zip-Lining
It’s an exciting adventure for gliding high above the treetops on a cable. It offers stunning views of forests and mountains. The ride is fast and thrilling, giving a unique perspective of the landscape.
5. Coffee Tours
You cannot skip coffee tours in Costa Rica. It will be both an educational and an enjoyable experience. Tours often include tasting fresh coffee. You will get a hands-on experience that reveals the rich tradition behind Costa Rican coffee.
What to Avoid in Costa Rica
Though Costa Rica is a safe and enjoyable country for tourists, avoiding a few things is advisable. A list of things you need to avoid are:
Be aware of these beasts
- Swimming in rivers must be avoided as they are often rich in crocodiles. You should not swim in the rivers or not feed the crocodiles.
- Touching or feeding the wildlife is not advisable either. Let the animals be on their own. Avoid bribing or feeding them. It’s not safe for their health or habits.
- You must apply sunscreen when going out. Use a long-sleeved rash guard if you are going for an extended swimming session.
- Don’t swim at night in the ocean. Though it may appear unique, it’s scary.
- Maintain a safe speed if you are driving on the road. Most speed limits are around 80 KPH.
- 10% tips are automatically added to service charges in restaurants. You don’t necessarily have to tip them. But leaving small tips is okay.
Final Words
Costa Rica is a great place for tourists from every part of the world. Make a proper plan of the places you are going to visit. This will help with the budget and maintain time schedules. You should visit waterfalls, beaches, wildlife forests, museums, and national parks, and do hiking and other activities. This will be a great experience you will always cherish.
