Costa Rica |
Is a peaceful society and one of most highly valued tourist destinations. This small piece of land includes all of the necessary components to satisfy the taste of thousands of travelers visiting the country each year.
Costa Rica is a country plenty of nature treasures, impressive scenic beauty and the most friendly people. It is recognized for its social and political stability, tradition of peace (No army since 1948), high educational levels and for having developed efficient infrastructure and services.
"pura vida" is Costa Ricans most common phrase, It means "pure life" and it is inspired by the exotic animal life and sceneries that abound in this beautiful country.
The democracy and peace tradition in Costa Rica have been promoted throughout its history, so the country naturally developed a series of activities and places with specialized programs for family recreation: walks, guided visits, group games, interaction with diverse communities and cultural groups, tasting the variety Costa Rican gastronomy, beach sports, among others.
No matter where you come from, you will find a great variety of attractions, activities and facilities, besides unforgettable pleased experiences.
Location:
Located in the Middle America, in the heart of the western hemisphere and bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama.
Geography and environment:
Rugged highlands are found throughout most of the country, ranging from approximately 1000 to 2000 meters (3000 to 6000 feet above sea level). The Guanacaste Mountain Range, Central Mountain Range and Talamanca Mountain Range are the main mountain ranges extending the entire length of the country. There are several active volcanoes (Arenal Volcano, Irazu Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcanos and Turrialba Volcano); the country has a relatively long coastline in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans as well as a number of rivers and streams that attract specialist kayakers and rafters from all over the world.
The Caribbean coast is 132 miles long while the Pacific coast is 635 miles long. This incredible country features up to 6% of the World's biodiversity and has 14 microclimate zones; over 25% of its territory is designated as National Parks and protected areas
The country's biodiversity attracts nature lovers from all over the world; its tropical forests contain 1500 tree species. National parks cover almost 12% of the country, and forest reserves and indigenous reservations boost the protected land area to 27%.
Costa Rica's jungles provide a variety of habitats for the country's fauna including four types of monkey, sloth, armadillos, jaguars and tapirs. The primary attraction for many visitors is the 850 recorded bird species, which include the resplendent quetzal, indigo-capped hummingbirds, macaws and toucans. There are also a number of dazzling butterflies.
Climate:
Costa Rica year round climate is pleasant with naturally occurring breezes, cooling down most of the coastal areas. Temperatures in the highlands and mountains are not so cold, especially during day, producing an eternal spring feeling.
Average annual temperatures range from 31.7ºC (89ºF) on the coast to 16.7ºC (62ºF) inland. The rainy or green season lasts from May to December with noticeably dries days during the rest of the year.
Dry season lasts from December to April, although it may be isolated rains.
Facts:
Costa Rica is 31,620 sq. mi
Population of almost 4,000,000 with over 50% living in the Central Valley
Costa Rican culture is like no other. “Ticos” (TEE-coes) as they are called are dynamic, educated friendly people
Living standards are with a literacy rate of 94% and per capita incomes double that of the regional average.
Costa Rica is one of the oldest and most stable democracies in the Americas with a democratic, free and independent Republic.
Costa Rica has no army. Their love for democracy has given them the peace and social harmony that makes Costa Rica such a pleasant country to explore.
History:
Costa Rican people are predominant influenced by Europeans, easily observed on the official language: Spanish. Despite this situation, original indigenous culture is also part of their life, for example the tortillas of the typical meals and the beautiful hand made ceramic and other similar articles.
The army was abolished in 1948, and the money the country saves by not expending in military issues is invested in improving the Costa Ricans’ standard of living, which has fostered a culture of social peace that makes it such a pleasant place to visit.
The Ticos, as Costa Ricans are commonly known, are famous for their smiling attitude and hospitality.
Infrastructure Communications:
One of the most advanced telecommunications systems in Latin America
Telephones and fax machines all over the country
An increasing number of businesses online
Newspapers and magazines from North America and several European nations are sold in many shops and hotels in and around the capital.
Juan Santamaría´s International Airport
Transportation:
Public transportation is very inexpensive and just about every town and city within the country.
There are also plenty of inexpensive taxis
Several domestic airlines offer daily flights to most of the popular tourist destinations.
There are plenty of car rental agencies, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.
Health and Education:
Healthy and educated populace, Costa Rica has an average life expectancy that is much closer to those of Western European nations than most Latin American countries. Costa Rica has had a socialized medical system for nearly half a century, and while schools and clinics are found throughout the country, the Central Valley has several public universities and dozens of private universities.
Tap water is safe to drink almost everywhere in the country, but bottled beverages are recommended in rural areas.
There are hospitals and private clinics in San Jose providing a level of care comparable to that found in the United States, and for considerably less money.
Business and Economy:
Official currency of Costa Rica is the COLON
Ample selection of state owned and privately held banks are located in San Jose.
US dollars are widely accepted.
US dollars and traveler's checks can be changed in banks and hotels.
Most major credit cards are widely accepted, and cash advances can be obtained at banks around the country and a variety of places throughout San Jose. If you want to check the official rate for $, visit Central Bank of Costa Rica
Economy
First tourism and second agriculture are the basis of Costa Rica economy.
Coffee has historically been the country's most important crop, and Costa Rica continues to produce some of the finest coffee in the world.
Less traditional crops have increased their economic role: Bananas pineapples, sugar, oranges, rice, hardwoods and ornamental plants, as well as raising cattle for beef and dairy products.
Tourism industry continues to grow providing new employment opportunities, and stimulating the conservation of our complex biodiversity.
Cuisine:
Costa Rica has an extraordinary variety of condiments, fruits, vegetables and the best export meats which makes of Costa Rican Cuisine another memorable experience that you can not miss. Most of cities offers various restaurant options of national & international cuisine including Italian, Chinese and fast food.
Airlines:
Costa Rica has several international and domestic carriers which serve the country daily. At the present time, two airports are scheduling international arrivals, the larger Juan Santamaría Airport, and a second in Guanacaste, Daniel Oduber.
United Airlines |
www.ual.com |
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American Airlines |
www.aa.com |
Continental Airlines |
www.continental.com |
Delta Airlines |
www.delta-air.com |
Mexicana de Aviación |
www.mexicana.com.mx |
Copa Airlines |
www.copaair.com |
Aviateca |
www.iberia.es |
Martinair |
www.martinair.com |
LTU |
www.ltu.com |
LACSA |
www.grupotaca.com |
Avianca |
www.avianca.com.co |
TACA |
www.grupotaca.com |
Costa Rica’s territorial division includes 7 provinces: San José, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste, Puntarenas and Limón. Together they offer an attractive destination, with limitless possibilities, that include beautiful and unique rainforests, volcanoes, rivers, mountains, beaches and natural resources safeguarded by an important organization of national parks and forest reserves. Do not forget the excellent personalized assistance and high quality in accommodation & ground services.
San José & Metropolitan Area |
Area: |
4.959 Km2 |
|---|---|
Altitude: |
1.160 meters above sea level |
Mean Annual Temperature: |
20ºC |
Mean Reference: |
Capital of the Republic. |
Population: |
36.30% |
In San José province is located the Capital of Costa Rica, and is home to the main historical museums and cultural gathering places. We recommend spending first and last night here to begin your amazing nature discovery experience of this beautiful country.
Nestled in the heart of the gorgeous and fertile Central Valley or Meseta Central, the Metropolitan area includes some of the main cities in Costa Rica like Downtown San Jose, Alauela, Cartago, Heredia, including the famous active Poas Volcano and Irazu Volcano.
Other important destinations are, Barva, Escazu, the Braulio Carrillo National Park, Coronado and nearby attractions.
Some attractions are:
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Cartago Province |
Area: |
3.124 Km2 |
|---|---|
Altitude: |
1.429 meters above sea level |
Mean Annual Temperature: |
17ºC |
Mean Reference: |
Virgin of the Angeles city |
Population: |
11.24% |
Cartago was the Capital of Costa Rica until 1823 and in present days still is the religious center of the country. Worth to visit are the Basilica de Nuestra Señora and the ruins of the old church as well as the downtown market. Cartago is only 45 min. away from San José.
Some attractions are:
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Sarapiqui - Northern Region |
| Area: | 2.656 Km2 |
|---|---|
| Altitude: | 1.150 metros sobre el nivel del mar |
| Mean Annual Temperature: | 20ºC |
| Mean Reference: | Combina las provincias de Alajuela y Heredia |
| Population: | 11.22% |
The Northern Region stands out internationally for the Arenal Volcano, its Mountain Range of Tilarán, the Monteverde Cloud Forests and Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. From January to the end of April the temperature in the lowlands of this region reaches 30ºC. The Northern Zone has rainfall levels between 100 mm and 400 mm during the driest months of March and April. The maximum temperature in some parts is 32ºC and the minimum temperature in the highlands goes down to 12ºC. The humidity ranges between 82 and 89%. January, February, March and April show the sunniest days in this region.
Some attractions are:
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Arenal Volcano Region |
Arenal has been a dormant strato-volcano. Young deposits were of the slopes of the volcano but it had not erupted in historic time. Arenal's status changed dramatically in July of 1968. An explosive eruption produced hot avalanches and ejected blocks that devastated the west flank of the volcano and killed 78 people. Arenal has been continuously active since 1968. It rises 1,633 meters above sea level and casts an almost flawless silhouette on the land below it. Arenal's last explosion was in 1969 but this volcano is far from dormant. Its constant rumblings are Arenal's most popular characteristics. Often spewing ash and smoke, the volcano provides a striking backdrop for photographs and video. There are several excellent look out points along the highway and several resorts and spas that have developed in the area. Starting point for all excursions is the picturesque town of La Fortuna, located about 8 km east of the volcano. Most of the hotels and Lodges are situated along the road between La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano National Park.
Some attractions are:
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Guanacaste Province / North Pacific Coast |
Area: |
10.140 Km2 |
|---|---|
Altitude: |
25 meters Above Sea level |
Mean Annual Temperaturel: |
27ºC |
Mean Reference: |
Warm climate & Amazing Beaches |
Population: |
7.93% |
Guanacaste is undoubtedly a privileged land. Possessing a mixture of forests dry and rainy, warm beaches, extense plains and an impressive volcanic range; a natural world expecting to be explored. This territory certainly has a very important natural and cultural richness, for Costa Rica’s economy. Some of the best beach hotels in the world are found on the beaches of Guanacaste.
Nicoya Peninsula, home to many of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches can be reached on the Interamericana via Liberia or the car-ferry across the Tempisque River as well as by ferryboat from Puntarenas.Some attractions are:
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Puntarenas / Central Pacific Region |
| Area: | 11.276 Km2 |
|---|---|
| Altitude: | Sea level |
| Mean Annual Temperature: | 27ºC |
| Mean Reference: | Mean Ports and beautiful beaches around |
| Population: | 8.02% |
Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific”, Puntarenas is the largest province of Costa Rica, with an area of 11.276 Km2. Its main attraction is its Pacific coastline, extending over more than 500 miles down to the Panamanian boarder. Puntarenas´ people has worked to develop new ways to make living protecting this rich nature area, at the same time. South of Puntarenas down to Quepos / Manuel Antonio National Park, the Central Pacific Region stretches along the Pacific coast line, forming the transitional zone between tropical dry forest and evergreen humid and rain forest.
Some attractions are:
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Monteverde Cloud Forest Region |
Quaker families immigrating to Costa Rica from the United States in 1951 have founded the town of Sta. Elena. They came to Costa Rica because of the fact that the country does not have a standing army and, in many ways, supported their ideals. A dairy farm and associated cheese factory now produce over a ton of cheese a day, and much of the 1,500 hectares they purchased forty years ago is part of the famous Monteverde Cloud forest reserve.
Starting point to all attractions of the region is the small town of Sta. Elena, located between the most important nature reserves, Santa Elena and Monteverde. Most of the hotels and lodges are situated between the village of Sta. Elena and along the connecting roads between both preserves.
Some attractions are:
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South Pacific Region |
The South Pacific Region stretches between Quepos in the North down to the Osa Peninsula and border to Panama, bordered by the Talamanca Mountain Range with its highest Peak in Costa Rica, the Cerro Chirripó. Main parts of this region are hardly explored for tourism and visitors mainly are focusing on Drake Bay and the Corcovado National Park. Coastal Vegetation is dominated by lowland rain forests reaching close to the vast and wild beaches, often interrupted by huge oil palm, banana and pineapple plantations. The average yearly precipitation in this area is about 5000 mm.
To visit the South Pacific Region, a domestic flight to Palmar Norte, Golfito or Puerto Jimenez should be taken into consideration or, interrupting the exhausting drive from San José, one or two overnights at the beautiful Valle de Dota, home of the largest Quetzal populations in Central America.
Some attractions are:
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Limón Province / Atlantic Region / Caribbean |
| Área: | 9.188 Km2 |
|---|---|
| Altitude: | Sea level |
| Mean Annual Temperature | 27ºC |
| Mean Reference: | Afro Caribbean culture and great nature bio-diversity |
| Population: | 7.45% |
The city of Limón is the point of arrival for visitors. It is a port, which is essential in Costa Rica’s economic life, and the greatest living example of the multicultural meeting experienced in this region throughout history.
The Caribbean province is a natural paradise, formed by a combination of dense jungles, imposing mountains, and paradisiacal beaches. Limón has the highest percentage of protected land in Costa Rica, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna. Its vegetation is exuberant, as are the cultures meeting throughout the province. This region is different than the others because of its people and culture particular characteristic of the Caribbean Islands. The principal access to this zone is through the city of Limón (consisting mainly of afro Caribbean people since 1870) where the plantation of banana and portray activities are of great importance for Costa Rica's national economy. The Caribbean Zone is the most humid region of Costa Rica, because of the wind influence coming from the Caribbean Sea. The rainfall in the lowlands of this region reaches 3000 mm per year and up in the highlands increases to 4500 mm.
Some attractions are:
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