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Costa Rica is not just a destination, it is a state of mind. It's waking up to the sound of howler monkeys and toucans, feeling the fog of the cloud forest on your skin and the warmth of the sun on a virgin beach. This small country is a giant of nature, a wildlife sanctuary that is home to almost 6% of the world's biodiversity. Here, adventure is found around every corner: from ziplining over the treetops to walking along the slopes of an active volcano. More than its landscapes, it is its people and its 'Pura Vida' philosophy that captivates. Get ready for a trip that will energize you, reconnect you with nature, and teach you the true meaning of living a simple and happy life.
Capital
San José
Population
5.094.118
Langue
Español
Sites du patrimoine de l'UNESCO
0
Scores basés sur des données réelles de 0 à 100
One of the most emblematic experiences of Monteverde or the Arenal region. Walking across a series of bridges suspended in the canopy of the cloud forest or rainforest gives you a unique perspective on the life that lives in the treetops, from exotic birds to monkeys and sloths.
Witnessing hundreds of green sea turtles arrive on the beaches of Tortuguero to lay their eggs is a moving and powerful natural spectacle. Taking a guided night walk between July and October allows you to view this ancient cycle of life in a respectful way.
In the La Fortuna area, the geothermal waters heated by the Arenal Volcano feed numerous spas. Soaking in these mineral pools, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, is the perfect way to relax your muscles after a day of hiking and adventure.
The coasts of Costa Rica are a paradise for surfers of all levels. Towns like Tamarindo, Jacó or Santa Teresa offer consistent waves and a multitude of surf schools where you can take your first lesson and experience the thrill of standing on a board.
Costa Rican coffee is world renowned. Visiting a coffee farm in the fertile highlands allows you to learn about the entire process, from harvesting the ripe bean to roasting. The experience culminates with a tasting to appreciate the different nuances and aromas.
Costa Rican cuisine, known as 'Tico' cuisine, is a reflection of its land: fresh, natural and comforting. It is not spicy or excessively seasoned cuisine; Its wealth lies in the quality of its ingredients. It is based on rice and beans, accompanied by an abundance of tropical fruits, fresh vegetables, and meats or fish.
Sodas are the heart of Costa Rican gastronomy. They are small family restaurants, often outdoors, where authentic, homemade food is served at very affordable prices. Eating at a soda is the best way to experience local flavors.
More than a dish, it is a concept. A 'casado' is the typical and balanced lunch, a combined dish that "marries" different elements: rice, beans, salad, fried ripe plantain and a portion of protein (meat in sauce, chicken, fish, chop or egg).
The national breakfast par excellence. It is a mixture of rice and black or red beans, sautéed with onion, sweet pepper and cilantro. It is usually served with eggs, fried ripe plantains, tortillas and sometimes custard (sour cream).
A hearty and nutritious weekend soup. It is a beef stew with large pieces of vegetables and tubers such as yuca, chayote, elote (corn), tiquisque, ñampí and green plantain.
The Costa Rican version of ceviche. It is prepared with fresh fish (usually sea bass) marinated in lemon juice, with finely chopped onion, sweet pepper and lots of cilantro. It is often served with crackers or patacones.
The most popular bar 'boca' (tapa). It is served in a bowl and consists of layers of rice, beans, chicharrones (fried pork rinds), and a 'pico de gallo' (chopped tomato, onion, cilantro). It is served with tortilla chips.
Green plantain pieces smashed and fried twice until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are a very common side dish or appetizer, perfect for dipping into ground beans or guacamole.
A simple and tasty black bean soup, often blended to a creamy consistency. It is traditionally served with a chopped hard-boiled egg and white rice.
The pride of Costa Rica. The country produces some of the best Arabica coffee beans in the world. The traditional way to prepare it is with a 'chorreador', a cloth filter that allows a slow drip, extracting all the flavor.
Ubiquitous drinks made with fresh fruit, water or milk, and a little sugar. Popular flavors include pineapple, mango, passion fruit, blackberry and cas (a local sour guava).
The national liquor, a sugar cane distillate with a neutral flavor. The most famous is the Cacique brand. It is taken in shots or in the 'Guaro Sour' cocktail, mixed with lemon and soda.
Costa Rica's most popular and emblematic beer, recognizable by its eagle logo. It is a clear and refreshing lager, perfect for the tropical climate. Pilsen is the other big local brand.
A dessert loved throughout Latin America and very popular in Costa Rica. It is a spongy cake soaked in a mixture of three milks (evaporated, condensed and cream) and usually covered with meringue.
A homemade and comforting dessert. Rice cooked slowly in milk with sugar, cinnamon sticks and sometimes raisins and lemon zest. It can be enjoyed both hot and cold.
Originally from Puntarenas, it is more than a slushie. It is shaved ice dipped in kola syrup, powdered milk, condensed milk and sometimes ice cream and pieces of fruit. A sweet and refreshing flavor bomb.
Traditional sweets made of grated coconut cooked with milk, sugar or 'tapa de dulce' (panela), until forming a type of chewy candy or tablet.
Costa Rica is a destination that satisfies all types of travelers, from the adrenaline seeker to the nature lover and those seeking peace and well-being.
If you are looking for strong emotions, this is your place. Zip down the longest canopy lines in Latin America in Monteverde, go canyoneering down waterfalls near Arenal, or paddle the world-class whitewater of the Pacuare or Reventazón rivers.
For animal lovers, Costa Rica is a paradise. Corcovado National Park is called 'the most intense place on the planet, biologically speaking'. Tortuguero is the kingdom of turtles, and in Manuel Antonio monkeys and sloths are easy to spot. It is a premier destination for bird watching.
The Pacific Ring of Fire has provided Costa Rica with numerous volcanoes. You can walk along the trails of the Arenal Volcano National Park, look into the impressive crater of the Poás Volcano or see the acidic lagoon of the Irazú Volcano, all surrounded by lush vegetation.
Costa Rica is bathed by two very different oceans. The Pacific coast is ideal for surfing, with developed destinations like Tamarindo and bohemian paradises like Santa Teresa. The Caribbean coast, centered in Puerto Viejo, offers a vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, unique cuisine and a jungle that reaches right to the beach.
The Nicoya Peninsula is one of the five 'Blue Zones' in the world, places where people live longer and healthier. It is the epicenter of yoga, wellness retreats and organic food. A perfect place to disconnect and adopt the 'Pura Vida' philosophy.
The official currency is the Colón (CRC). However, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. It is useful to bring colones for small expenses at 'sodas' or local markets. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants.
Renting a 4x4 car is the best option for flexibility and access to remote areas, as the condition of some roads can be a challenge. Shared shuttles are a comfortable and popular alternative to get from one tourist destination to another.
In restaurants, the bill almost always includes 10% service and 13% tax. Therefore, an additional tip is not expected, although it is always welcome as a thank you for exceptional service. It is customary to tip tour guides.
Pack light, quick-drying clothing. Don't forget a raincoat or windproof jacket, even in the dry season. A good insect repellent and high-factor sunscreen are essential. If you plan to visit mountain areas, bring something warm for the nights.
This guide offers you a glimpse of the wealth that Costa Rica holds. It is a country to be experienced with the five senses, to walk without haste and to open yourself to the wonder of nature. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or a deep connection with the planet, here you will find your own 'Pura Vida'. Enjoy the trip!
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