Overview to Costa Rica: Travel Guide and Tourist Information
It’s hard to say anything about Costa Rica that isn’t full of gushing superlatives. With natural and cultural attractions aplenty, this small Central American country basically has it all: arty and urbane cities, a pristine coastline…even inland rainforests bursting with canopy trails!
Encircled by mountains, Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose offers a charming collection of museums, galleries and cafes. It can, however, come across as an impenetrable sprawl to the newly arrived backpacker, and many move on within a couple of days to seek the thrill of nature instead.
In truth, it is the natural terrain that attracts the majority of visitors to Costa Rica. Geographically speaking, the country is blessed: long stretches of its borders are made up of coastline, while the inland areas are fertile and often covered in thick rainforest.
A host of activities are on offer in different regions for adrenaline seekers. There’s whitewater rafting in Pacuare, windsurfing around the Tilaran area and surfing along the Pacific Coast (particularly at Puntarenas, Guanacaste and Playa del Coco).
For those who want to get close to nature without the personal exertion, horseback riding in the cloud forest of Monteverde is a trip-defining experience in itself. Likewise, an expedition to Tortuguero may just result in the rather special sight of Green Sea-Turtles nesting.
Around 25 percent of Costa Rica is protected land, where a multitude of exotic animals and migrant birds can be found in abundance. The country also has a high level of biodiversity, with tropical forests providing an eclectic mix of animal and plant life.
In light of this, ecotourism is rife and Costa Rican authorities are working to guarantee the trend continues. Well-trained tour operators ensure that eco-friendly transport is used and a respectful attitude is adopted around areas such as Irazu, Turrialba and the Arenal Volcano.
But the thing that really seals the deal for Costa Rica is the friendliness of its people. Fantastic hospitality and an almost complete absence of any tension come as standard right across the length and breadth of a country that could hardly be any more inviting.
