Costa Rica best beach resorts. Beaches of Costa Rica: description of resorts, photos, reviews of tourists. Cuisine and restaurants of Costa Rica
IN last years has gained fame as one of the most attractive tourist destinations west of the Atlantic Ocean. Beautiful beaches, lush nature and socio-economic stability make it a desirable holiday destination especially during the cold winter months. Even though it is still not very popular in the country, the few who have had the pleasure of visiting it have been left amazed by its beauty. The beaches of Costa Rica are wild, clean, pristine and almost empty. They are different from anything you have seen or will see, unlike the beaches in the rest of the world or even those in the Caribbean. Some are white, others are golden, and others are beige. There are even almost black or cinnamon-colored beaches. However, what they have in common is the indescribable feeling that is created in a person when he stays on one of them. A holiday on one of the beaches of Costa Rica is a pleasure for all the senses - a combination of colors, sounds, aromas and atmosphere. An important feature of public beaches in Costa Rica is that they are unguarded. For many Bulgarians, it is difficult to get used to Costa Rican beaches because they are very different from Bulgarian ones, but one thing is for sure - they are much cleaner and more exotic.
- 1. Bahia Culebra – province of Guanacaste. In the most northwestern parts of Costa Rica, on the Pacific coast, there is a vast bay called Golfo de Papagayo. In its innermost part there is a small bay called Baia Culebra.
A characteristic feature of Bahia Culebra is that the sea waters are almost always calm. There are several small but beautiful beaches with beige sand and really clear waters. The bay is surrounded by sparse subequatorial forests. Here many plants shed their leaves during the dry season. - 2.Playa Hermosa – province of Guanacaste. In close proximity to Bahia Culebra is Playa Hermosa. The beach is about 1.3 kilometers long and is located between two hills of the peninsula. The sand is beige with a slight ash nuance. Bahia Hermosa is among the busier Costa Rican beaches. The reason is that it is a fairly developed tourist region with many villas and small hotels.
- 3.Playa del Coco – province of Guanacaste. Playa del Coco is located near Playa Hermosa in the northwestern part of Costa Rica. The sand is dark beige with hints of cinnamon, like any other place on the Costa Rican coast, Playa del Coco is also clean and looks quite wild, despite being in a busy tourist area. In addition to numerous hotels and villas that accommodate tourists, this place is also an attractive center in the real estate sector. It's no secret that the shores of the Pacific Ocean have always been a desirable place to live and Playa del Coco is no exception.
4.Playa Matapalo – province of Puntarenas. Cinnamon-colored sand, waves that seem to create endless stripes of sea foam and a forest of trees growing right next to the sand attract lovers of tranquility and pure nature from all over the world. The beach is located on the Pacific Ocean and there are no large populated areas in the vicinity. The truth is that Playa Matapalo sometimes feels like such a secluded place, it's as if you're the first person to ever set foot on this beach.- 5.Playa la Penca – province of Guanacaste. Playa La Penca is a beautiful beach, whose beige sand with light golden nuances looks extremely tempting against the backdrop of the smiling sun. Located in the northwestern part of Costa Rica, the beach and its beautiful surroundings are a great place to relax. Despite this, there is a small chance of finding yourself there alone - just you and the blue endless sea.
- 6.Playa Santa Teresa – province of Puntarenas. Playa Santa Teresa is located in the most southwestern part of the
Nicoya Peninsula. It has a long and wide beach strip with light and fine beige sand, which in places has a golden hue. The ocean is sometimes calm as a mirror, but the next time the waves are huge - it all depends on the weather. With larger waves, the place becomes a gathering point for surf lovers. Lush tropical forest approaches the beach itself, and the village of Malpais is nearby. - 7.Playa Negra – province of Guanacaste. Playa Negra is a beautiful beach that can be found in the northwestern part of Costa Rica. Situated on the Pacific coast, Playa Negra is a place whose name is a big let down. The sands are not dark, but exactly the opposite - they are quite light with golden nuances. The place is excellent for surf lovers because huge waves sometimes form here. The area is home to lush subequatorial vegetation, which, however, is far behind the rainforests of the Caribbean coast.
- 8.Playa Blanca/Flamingo – province of Guanacaste. Playa Blanca, also called Playa Flamingo, is located in the north
western part of Costa Rica. The area has one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The beauty of the place will leave you speechless. White sands gradually merge with the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. Here the sea is often calm and this makes it too tempting to enjoy the year-round high temperatures in Costa Rica. Similar to most places in this part of the country, the area around the beach has dense subequatorial vegetation that turns green during the rainy season, turning into a veritable jungle. - 9.Playa Tortuguero – province. Tortuguero Beach is one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. It is located in the northeastern part of the country on the Caribbean Sea. Here the humid equatorial jungle of Tortuguero National Park meets the wild and charming beaches of the Caribbean. The color of the sand varies from light beige to cinnamon. This beach strip is among the most important places in Costa Rica because it is where they lay their eggs. sea turtles.
- 10.Playa Punta Uva (Playa-Gandoca) – province of Limon. Located on the Caribbean coast of southeastern Costa Rica, Punta Uva is considered the most beautiful beach within this exotic tropical country. Around,
The peninsula covered with tropical rain forest has fabulously beautiful wild beaches with golden sand. This is also one of best places in Costa Rica offering diving opportunities amidst the luxury of the Caribbean. - 11.Playa Gandoca – province of Limon. This beach is located in the very southeastern part of Costa Rica, just before the border with Panama. It is located on the Caribbean Sea and has dark color, which looks like ash. The area is almost deserted, with the exception of a few small villages. The surrounding area of Playa Gandocha is covered with dense equatorial jungle.
- 12.Playa Manzanillo – province of Limon. Manzanillo Beach is located on the Caribbean Sea and is located in the north of Playa Gandochi. It has a much more typical Caribbean look. The sand is light with delicate beige-golden nuances. The rain forest reaches all the way to the beach, and coconut palms overhang the fine sand. Like other Costa Rican beaches, this one is wild and unguarded, and branches thrown on the shore by tropical storms remain there until the next storm returns them back to the sea.
13. Bahia Junquillal - province of Guanacaste. Baia Juncuilal is a small and exceptionally beautiful bay on the Pacific Ocean. It is located in the northwestern part of the country, about ten kilometers from the border with Nicaragua. The bay is quite attractive with its light beige sandy beaches. The surrounding area is a great place for camping enthusiasts. The bay is surrounded by subequatorial forests. Many trees shed their leaves during the dry season, making the place unrecognizable in different times of the year.- 14.Playa Conchal is a province of Guanacaste. Located in the northwestern part of the Nikaya Peninsula, Playa Conchal is one of the most beautiful beaches a person can find on the continent's Pacific coast. The sand is white, ivory-colored, and the sea waters are clean and clear. Lush subequatorial vegetation grows near the beach, the leaves of which fall off during the dry season. According to the authorities, this is one of the cleanest places in the coastal areas in Costa Rica.
- 15.Playa Carrillo – province of Guanacaste. Playa Carrillo is considered one of the best places in Costa Rica where a person...
can spend alone good vacation. This paradise located in the western part of the Nicoya Peninsula, on the Pacific Ocean in northwestern Costa Rica. The abundance of sunshine combined with the ideal temperature is a great addition to the breathtaking white sandy beach. The sea waters are very calm and offer excellent swimming conditions. And that’s not all - according to the Costa Rican authorities, Playa Carrillo is one of the cleanest beaches in the country (and therefore in the world)!
Warm waters throughout the year, a well-developed tourist infrastructure and many attractions make the Costa Rican coast one of the best in the world. About two-thirds of Costa Rica's borders are coastline, which is a continuous chain of beaches that you need to visit. So let's begin...
Nicoya Peninsula. Of course, Nicoya is not all beaches, but Costa Rica's largest peninsula has so many sandy stretches of coastline that Nicoya can create its own ranking of the best beaches. In addition to the busiest areas, located in the coastal cities of Montezuma, Tamarindo and Mal Pais, the peninsula has many more remote and quiet beaches on the Pacific coast - Playas Hermosa, Samara, Flamingo, Conchal and Playa Grande.
In the north-west of the peninsula, hills covered with lush vegetation rise directly to the ocean, so the most picturesque beaches of the peninsula, stretching for many miles, are located here. In the southeastern part of the peninsula is the Gulf of Nicoya, dotted with small islands. It is an ideal place for the breeding of marine life, therefore both the bay and part of the coast of the peninsula are protected by the state.
In the north of the bay, the waters of the Nicoya mix with the slow flow of the Tempisque River. Shallow depths, murky, still waters and large amounts of algae create an ideal breeding ground for mussels, crabs, shrimp and other small marine life that attract a huge number of birds. Dense forests cover the shores in the southern part of the bay, hiding stunning bays from the eyes of travelers. These forests are home to various species of monkeys, armadillos, anteaters, jaguars, pumas and giant tortoises.
Manuel Antonio It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches not only in Costa Rica, but throughout the world. Imagine horseshoe-shaped bays with white sandy shores, blue-green waters and jungle-covered hills. Here you can snorkel, scuba dive, surf, kayak, hike and zip-line over the treetops, but don't forget to relax and admire the beauty around you from time to time.
Manuel Antonio National Park is the most beautiful and most visited wildlife park in Costa Rica. Foreigners and Costa Ricans come here not only to sunbathe and swim, but also to hike along trails cut through the dense forests that lead to hidden sandy coves with unrivaled ocean views. During the hike, you may see howler monkeys, white-faced and squirrel monkeys, sloths and coatis, and if you're lucky, the secretive red macaws.
Not far from the park is the town of Quepos, well known among fishing enthusiasts. Both professional fishermen and those who have never held a fishing rod in their hands come here to fish. International fishing tournaments are regularly held in the blue waters of Quepos, during which new world records are often set.
Playa Dominical Located 48 km from Manuel Antonio National Park, it is considered the best surfing beach in Costa Rica. Now there are a lot of camps and shops for surfers, but Playa Dominical is a must-visit even if you don’t know how to stand on a board, because the main thing is lush forests, relatively deserted beaches, turquoise waters and fiery sunsets. The city is located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. In the north it borders with Rio Baru, in the east with mountains 1000 meters high, in the south with picturesque beaches and bays. The town is located so that while swimming in Playa Dominical you will not see it. All that will surround you is the beach, green hills and mangrove forests.
Thanks to its suitable waves for surfing, Playa Dominical has remained the best place to practice this sport for many years. This beach property was discovered by a group of surfers in the 70s of the last century, and since then all surfers in the world have been trying to get to Playa Dominical. The peculiarity of the local waves is that to the north of the beach the Rio Baru River flows into the sea, forming sandbanks. Thanks to these shallows, the waves always split into two and form vortices that diverge in different directions.
Montezuma. The village of Montezuma can be called one of the most colorful in Costa Rica, if only because it is here that the most original guests of the country and local residents gather - informal people completely covered with tattoos and piercings, Rastafarians with dreadlocks, tanned surfers, etc. They are attracted here by the high tide, forest waterfalls and wild animals living in the forests surrounding the beach - monkeys and even crocodiles.
For several decades, Montezuma was popular among informal people, artists and those who wanted to get away from the tourist routes. As a result, both the village and the beach have earned a reputation as the most countercultural place in all of Costa Rica. Nowadays, representatives of various subcultures, as well as those who love ecotourism, still relax here. The small beach is surrounded by forested rocks, along which waterfalls flow, forming small pools. The village itself charms guests with its old wooden houses. All hotels and restaurants are located close to the beach.
Tortuguero the most fantastic ecotourism destination located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Here, tourists can take a canoe tour along the canals deep into the national park, or explore the many forest trails on a walking safari. The national park is home to 16 endangered species, including tapirs, ocelots, manatees and large green turtles. And, of course, the beaches of Tortuguero.
Tortuguero National Park is both the most isolated and visited place on the Caribbean coast. Thousands of tourists come here to see the nesting sites of green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles, which lay their eggs on the park's beaches every summer. Tortuguero National Park protects land bordering beaches, 195 km² of forests, canals and lagoons. Hundreds of species of animals and birds live here, which are threatened by pastures, fruit plantations and logging companies approaching the reserve.
Playa Tamarindo. Playa Tamarindo now has world-class shopping, dining and hotels, so the prices are quite high, but it's still worth spending a little more money to see the stunning beaches where sea turtles come to lay their eggs every year. Next to the beach there is a coral reef, home to dolphins and many tropical fish that attract divers from all over the world.
This part of Costa Rica is radically different in its weather conditions from the Atlantic coast. Hurricanes often rage here during the rainy season, but in the dry season the air temperature stays between +30-35°C. This weather creates ideal conditions for surfing, deep-sea fishing and simply lying on the beach. Near Tamarindo Beach there are numerous shops where you can buy whatever you want, as well as surf camps, diving schools, offices of tour operators offering safaris in the nearby jungle and sailing trips.
Corcovado can be called the pearl of the Osa Peninsula. Its windswept, dark sand beaches are fringed by jungle protected by the Corcovado National Park. No trip to Corcovado is complete without a boat excursion to the nearby island of Isla del Caño, where unforgettable diving awaits you.
Corcovado National Park was founded in 1975, thanks to which it has managed to preserve the wildest forests in Latin America. A strip of forest stretching from the Pacific Ocean all the way to the Panama border, it offers tourists a unique opportunity to experience Costa Rican wildlife on foot. Here, on an area of 680 km², there are 140 species of mammals, 367 species of birds, 117 reptiles, 40 freshwater fish and about 6,000 species of insects. The park is home to the country's largest population of red macaws, as well as tapirs, giant anteaters, and five of Costa Rica's six big cat species - pumas, jaguars, ocelots, leopards and Brenner's lions. On the shores of the beach in Llorona you can see four species of sea turtles, and directly on the coast of Corcovado you can watch dolphins, bull sharks and three species of whales.
Mal Pais and its coastal neighbor Santa Teresa are well known among surfers. If you are not going to conquer the waves, here you can hire a boat and, when you sail out to sea, see dolphins, manta rays and other marine life. Tourists love to hike to Montezuma Falls and the 4-hour trek through the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, and return to relax in a hammock right on the beach.
Mal Pais is a quiet village that merges with Santa Teresa to the north, where you will find shops and other tourist attractions, and borders the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve to the south. Santa Teresa has seen a boom in tourism in recent years, but Mal Pais still retains a quiet, relaxed atmosphere, thanks in no small part to the wildlife surrounding the town. On the coast of Mal Pais there are many rocks of volcanic origin, thanks to which the landscape takes on an amazing appearance. The old virgin forest approaches the water directly. Rocky areas alternate with pockets of small beaches covered with shells. At the southern tip of the town you will find a small fishing port. Here you can book a tour or rent a boat and sail around the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. The Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve protects not only the land, but also a large part of the coastal waters, where you can find stingrays, dolphins and whales.
If your vacation has ceased to inspire, and all the beaches seem the same, it’s time to go on vacation to a nature reserve. The best beaches and parks in Costa Rica are just waiting for you!
Stunningly beautiful, with a wealth of flora and fauna, Costa Rica's landscape is incredibly diverse. There are mist-shrouded rainforests, steaming volcanoes, rushing rivers and sandy beaches. Travelers in this country have endless opportunities to observe the life of wildlife - after all, Costa Rica has 26 (!) national parks and protected areas. The forests are home to monkeys, tapirs and caimans; Colorful butterflies and birds flutter through the dense foliage of tropical gardens. There is even a very real chance to see turtles during their breeding season. In addition to these natural wonders, you can enjoy one of the many active recreational activities: morning walks along suspended walkways accompanied by the screeching of monkeys and the singing of awakened birds. Adventure lovers can cover hundreds of meters in this way, in addition, you can walk on a tightrope or raft on rivers. And those who prefer relaxation to extreme relaxation will enjoy swimming in hot springs or a day of bliss on an idyllic beach. Costa Rica is a very small country, but nevertheless there is always something to see and do. Traveling independently in Costa Rica is a very popular way to travel around the country. The freedom to travel and the choice between visiting the Central Mountains and national parks will appeal to those who prefer greater independence. As in many Central American countries, most road sections are unpaved and road signs can be found quite rarely. Conditions traffic outside of large cities, they are quite good, and since many Costa Ricans speak English, if you have any difficulties, you can always ask the locals for help.
6 reasons to go on a solo trip to Costa Rica
TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
An oasis of wilderness surrounded by a network of canals, marshes and waterways. Between July and September, turtles come here to lay their eggs.
ARENAL
In the heart of the country, surrounded by stunning conical volcanoes, travelers have plenty of opportunities for active recreation.
MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK
Costa Rica's most beautiful national park with stunning beaches, tropical rain forests rich in flora and fauna.
PROVINCE OF GUANA CASTE
Travelers adore this place for its stunning coastline, framed by idyllic beaches.
OSA PENINSULA
One of the country's unique areas is excellent for wildlife viewing. Much of the peninsula has been protected since 1975 as part of the Corcovado National Park.
WILDLIFE AND TROPICAL FORESTS
The richness of flora and fauna in Costa Rica can be seen everywhere. 26 national parks serve as a cozy home for a myriad of animal populations. The rainforests of Costa Rica are a must-see destination for every bird watcher and adventure lover.
When to go. Best time to go to Costa Rica
The seasons in Costa Rica can be clearly divided into two types: the dry season and the rainy season. Rain season continues here from May to November throughout the territory, except along the Caribbean coast where it may rain all year round.
Fluctuations in air temperature here are more related to the level of altitude than to the change of seasons; the higher you are, the lower the thermometer drops. Lower areas of the coast tend to be hotter; The air temperature on the Caribbean coast during the day can reach + 30C. More may be observed on the south coast high temperatures, sometimes reaching +40C. In high altitude areas the nights are quite cold. In the Central Valley, the weather is more stable, and any temperature fluctuations are quite rare there.
It is best to plan a trip to Costa Rica during the dry season - from mid-December to mid-April. But on the Caribbean coast, you can expect any “surprises” from the weather, so be prepared to witness at least one downpour with gale force winds during your trip (and this is not at sea!).
How to get to Costa Rica
By plane. There are no direct flights from Russia to Costa Rica. You can get to the country from Moscow with one transfer through Madrid or New York, or with two transfers - in New York and Atlanta. Juan Santamaria International Airport in Costa Rica is the country's leading transportation hub, located 17 kilometers from the city of San Jose in the city of Alajuela.
To quickly get to the nation's capital and beyond, head to the airport exit and to the bus stop in front of the airport building. Take a bus into the city and then take a taxi or ride to your destination. Easy Ride Shuttle, which will deliver directly to the hotel. To pay for the bus, you will have to exchange a few dollars at the official exchange office at the airport; the only currency in use in the country is the colon (1 ruble = 17.86 CRC).
Taxis are expensive here, but this is compensated by the convenience of travel. Look for orange cars with an emblem "Taxi Aeropuerto"— they operate legally and have a license for passenger transportation.
Another way to get to Costa Rica is through the Daniel Oduler Quiros International Airport in the province of Guanacaste in Liberia. Buses from this airport serve the center of the capital from 6 am and provide regular passenger services throughout the day.
By car. Costa Rica is connected to neighboring countries Nicaragua and Panama by the Interamerica Highway. Those coming here from Nicaragua cross through Penas Blanca, while visitors from Panama enter the country through the Paso Canoas border post.
If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica with a rental car from neighboring countries or are planning to rent a car to travel around the country, remember that the country's traffic rules are quite strict. Always use seat belts and do not talk on mobile phone- Failure to comply with these rules may result in a fine a large sum. Traffic signs are quite difficult to understand if you don't speak Spanish, so it's best to have a map handy as well. Don't expect to get through the highway as quickly as possible, as there are speed limits and gravel sections; so the speed may even be slightly below the prescribed limits.
If driving is not part of your plans, buses are an excellent alternative for traveling to Costa Rica. Carriers El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico And Panama There are regular bus services throughout Costa Rica, and there will be a chance to enjoy beautiful views along the way.
On a ferryboat. At least twice a day from the port of San Carlos to Nicaragua ships departing for Los Chiles in Costa Rica. Luxury cruise ships are available from Panama, giving you the opportunity to visit Costa Rica's secluded beaches and admire their beauty. Popular ports of arrival for cruise ships are Puntarenas and Puerto Limon.
Visa to Costa Rica
To visit Costa Rica, Russian citizens must first obtain a visa. The visa is issued at the consular department of the Costa Rican Embassy in Moscow and gives the right to stay in the country for a period of 30 to 60 days. The visa processing time is 1-3 business days from the date of submission of documents.
IMPORTANT. Since April 2014, tourists from Russia can enter Costa Rica without a visa for up to 30 days, with the possibility of extending their stay in the country up to 90 days.
DOCUMENTS FOR VISA TO COSTA RICA
1. international passport, the validity of which is at least six months at the time of intended entry into the country;
2. a copy of the first page of the passport with the applicant’s personal data;
3. visa application completed in Spanish or English language and signed personally by the applicant;
4. 2 photographs measuring 3.5 x 4.5 cm;
5. confirmation of hotel reservation (original, fax or printout of confirmation of paid hotel reservation);
6. Certificate from the place of employment indicating the position and salary.
— for pensioners: copy of pension certificate
— for students and schoolchildren: certificate from the place of study;
7. a bank account statement with enough funds for the trip (at least $700 for a week), or a credit card and a current account statement with a bank stamp;
8. round-trip air tickets or confirmation of paid air ticket reservation.
Ways to get around Costa Rica
Costa Rica's transit port is the Port of San Jose, with an extensive transport network that facilitates passenger transportation throughout the country at very reasonable prices. Travelers have a choice between international tourist bus routes and domestic bus services; You can also rent a car and explore on your own the beautiful scenery of this tourist paradise and its rich biological diversity of animal and bird species.
- BOOK A CAR FOR A TRAVEL IN COSTA RICA
Bus routes cover most of the country's attractions, and bus tickets are cheap. A bus ride will only cost about $10. However, they are usually crowded, since this is perhaps the most popular form of transport, both among tourists and local residents. If traveling in crowds is not your thing, buy a ticket for a minibus, which is much more convenient.
A large fleet of red cabs is also always at the disposal of travelers. But before you board one of these comfortable taxis, ask the driver to turn on “la maria,” or the meter, or you'll end up paying a lot more than usual. On popular routes, taxi drivers may set a fixed fee, so it is better to first consult with local residents to obtain reliable information. 
If you don't like wasting time on the road, use the services of domestic air carriers, such as Nature Air and Sansa. These companies offer high-speed flights to the deserted beaches and remote areas of Costa Rica, which contain many wonderful scenic spots.
Best beaches and resorts in Costa Rica
CARIBBEAN COAST OF COSTA RICA
Caribbean coastline stretching from Puerto Limon to the border with Panama there is an amazing diversity of cultural traditions. Here, unlike the rest of the country, you feel as if you have traveled back in time in a time machine. Immigrants from Jamaica, Italy and China have created a region filled with tropical rhythms and a vibrant, distinctive culture that reflects everyday life local residents, mainly employed on banana plantations. The coastline is strikingly beautiful with its sandy beaches, tropical palm trees and dense rainforests where toucans, sloths and monkeys can often be spotted. The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is a relatively quiet region and is best visited from July to October, when the rainy season here comes to an end; In the southern part of the country it rains at this time, so this is an excellent alternative for a summer holiday.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS ON THE CARIBBEAN COAST 
One of the best hotels in the region - hotel Le Caméléon offers travelers 22 air-conditioned rooms and one suite; each of them has a balcony or terrace, and the interiors of the rooms are made in modern style. The hotel is a few steps from the sandy beach Cocles beach– very popular among fans of swimming and surfing. It features a pond bordered by lush tropical vegetation and an Italian restaurant and bar Numu– a great opportunity to spend the evening with a cocktail.
OSA PENINSULA
Tucked away in the southeast of Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula is less accessible than other areas of the country, which only adds to its charm. Travelers will be rewarded with windswept beaches, excellent wildlife viewing, and beautiful secluded lodges.
Osa is an excellent place to observe rare species of tropical forest mammals, especially long-tailed cats, ocelots, tapirs, anteaters and four species of monkeys. There are also excellent bird watching opportunities here, as the peninsula is home to hundreds of various types birds: from hummingbirds, flycatchers and parrots to hawks and falcons. This area is also one of the few places where the red macaw survives. 
The Osa Peninsula attracts not only wildlife lovers, Isla del Cano- a real surprise for lovers of snorkeling and scuba diving in this corner of our planet, about water and marine species a sport in which quite a bit is known. There are magnificent coral reefs here, among which schools of tropical fish scurry, as well as turtles, sharks and stingrays. To the east of the peninsula is Dulce Bay, which is home to three species of dolphins (common, bottlenose and spotted) as well as several species of whales that pass through the area throughout the year.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN OSA PENINSULA
Along the coast of the peninsula there are many cozy mini-hotels with good service and comfort; The peninsula can be reached by air from San Jose or Arenal airports to the local airstrip. When you find yourself at the lodge, you will feel like you are on a small, secluded tropical island. There is amazing silence here and the only sounds that can be heard are the cries of parrots or the squealing of monkeys. We recommend spending at least three days in this wonderful corner of Costa Rica. This is a wonderful way to relax and one of the most beautiful places to visit while traveling around the country.
The hotel is one of the most modest lodges on the Osa Peninsula. Located 45 minutes from Puerto Jimenez Airport. The hotel consists of only 12 rooms and cabins and is built on a steep hill on the Pacific coast. Each room is very cozy and spacious. There is a restaurant with wonderful views and a small swimming pool. The hotel is located in a private reserve, 800 meters from the coast. The hotel is owned by a Spanish couple; they have a very caring attitude towards environment. The hotel offers all types of excursions - from early morning birdwatching to forest discovery tours at dusk; You can also watch whales and dolphins in Dulce Bay. Adventure seekers may also enjoy horseback riding and cable car rides. 
Near the Corcovado National Park, in a private reserve there is a beautiful hotel Casa Corcovado. After landing at Palmar Sur Airport, travelers who choose to stay at this hotel will travel to the lodge by boat along the Sierpe River - a 90-minute adventure amid the mangroves of the Pacific coast. The boat, helmed by an experienced navigator, moored on a deserted wild beach during low tide, it feels like you’ve been assigned to play Robinson Crusoe, and everyone is trying to cope with their role perfectly. The hotel has 14 luxury bungalows surrounded by gardens of pristine beauty; Each bungalow has fans and a terrace with a hammock. The bar and restaurant offer stunning views of the jungle - a truly unforgettable experience. The pool is a great place to unwind after an exciting day, with opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving in the area Isla del Cano, kayaking, or walk through the forests and watch bird life in the National Park 
At the southernmost point of the Osa Peninsula, at an altitude of about 100 meters from the point where the waters of Dulce Bay merge with the waters of the Pacific Ocean, the hotel is located. The main lodge and 16 bungalows are arranged in three rows, connected by paths and stairs. The spacious bungalows are considered the most luxurious in the region, each with a spacious terrace overlooking the ocean. The main building, restaurant and pool offer wonderful views of the forest; In addition, there is an 18 meter high observation tower with excellent bird watching opportunities.
The hotel offers several types of tours to local natural attractions. Morning bird watching tours offer the chance to see some of the 319 bird species found here. An optional tour takes place at sunset when red macaws are most active. There are walking routes through the forest, during which you can observe the life of wildlife and see waterfalls of pristine beauty. For adventure lovers, recreational flights are offered over the peninsula with the possibility of landing on a small airstrip, where guests can walk, accompanied by a guide, through the territory of the national park, which cannot be reached by other means of transport.
- DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN HOTELS OF THE OSA PENINSULA
CENTRAL PACIFIC COAST
Costa Rican Central Pacific Coast is dotted with stunning beaches and protected areas where you can enjoy a mix of nature, adventure and plenty of opportunities for a great beach holiday. Within two hours' drive or a short flight from San Jose, National parks Carara and Manuel Antonio is a true paradise for nature lovers with its endless diversity, including brightly colored fin-billed toucans, sloths, armadillos, poisonous tree frogs and monkeys. 
Karara– a favorite place for ornithologists, as here you can observe birds living in both dry and tropical rainforests. The more famous Manuel Antonio National Park has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, backed by rainforest with excellent hiking trails. 
Further south is Dominical, a beautiful, little-explored region of jungle-covered hills located in the Talamanca mountain region. These forests are home to many birds and are flanked by sandy beaches popular with surfers. However, the main reason for visiting this area may be to see whales and dolphins. Humpback whales are found in the Marino Ballena National Park between August and October.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST CENTRAL COAST HOTELS
The hotel is located high in the mountains; It offers stunning views of the Pacific coast. There are 129 rooms furnished in an elegant Mediterranean style; prices range from the expensive Garden View rooms to the more affordable Pacific View rooms. The atmosphere in the hotel is quite pleasant; The range of services provided includes two swimming pools, a tennis court, a SPA salon, a fitness center and walking trails - plus a swimming pool for adults, which children are not allowed into. The lush gardens and surrounding jungle create an idyllic atmosphere; there is a variety of flora and fauna here, and Biezans beach– ideal place for swimming – located just 10 minutes walk 
The hotel offers travelers a choice of comfortable villas surrounded by tropical gardens, each with enchanting views of the Pacific coast. The hotel offers a wide range of services, such as a swimming pool and a SPA; There is also a wide range of walking tours in the region. Designed exclusively for adults, children are not allowed in the hotel, which helps maintain a calm atmosphere. 
The hotel is a small stylish beach hotel located in a private reserve near Manuel Antonio National Park, and the only hotel in the region located in close proximity to the beach. There are 38 comfortable rooms in total with views of the rainforest and the Pacific coast. The hotel has two swimming pools, a small SPA salon and a gourmet restaurant; To prepare dishes of national and international cuisine, fresh ingredients with a national Costa Rican flavor are used here. Hotel guests can also enjoy exclusive access to hiking trails to view the diversity of local wildlife.
NORTH PACIFIC COAST
Further north on the Pacific coast are Nicoya Peninsula And coast of Guanacasta province, fringed by some of the most wonderful beaches in the country. The region's center is the town of Tamarindo, where there is a wide choice of restaurants and a spacious west-facing beach where you can watch stunning sunsets along the Pacific coast. When choosing a hotel, it is worth considering the fact that on the northern side, in Playa Potrero, there are few hotels and there is practically no choice, while in the south there are many wonderful places where you can stay, close to Nicoya Peninsula, Tambora And Malpaisa. It offers pristine coastline and excellent surfing conditions; life here is quite peaceful; this is a great place where you can spend a few days on vacation.
As one of the most amazing excursions from this area, we recommend a trip to one of the most impressive and active volcanoes in Costa Rica, located in the national park of the same name, Rincon de la Vieja. The park offers a variety of landscapes, from extinct volcanic craters and lakes to green hills, tropical forests and meadows. One of the most impressive places is Las Pailas("Cookstoves") is an area where hot springs, bubbling mud lakes, sulfur lakes and geysers color the nearby rocks red, yellow and green. Morning walk or horseback riding excursion along the route in the park – The best way become familiar with most of these ecosystems. Along the route there are observation platforms where, on a fine day, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Nicaragua.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS ON THE NORTH COAST
Hotel Bahia del Sol one of the few tropical holiday destinations Playa Potrero beach. It has only 13 rooms and 14 apartments. This is an excellent place to stay while traveling through the province of Guanacaste. All rooms are rather modestly furnished, but they are spacious and there are quite spacious terraces on which to relax. The hotel is surrounded by a wonderful tropical forest, and the tan in the shade of huge palm trees is even and beautiful, and there is no chance of getting sunburned. There is also a lovely swimming pool with a bar and a separate small area for massages. Hotel Captain Suizo- an ideal place for those who would like to relax close to restaurants and bars. Situated on the edge of beautiful Tamarindo Beach, the hotel has 22 rooms and 8 thatched bungalows with access to tropical gardens. Birds, howler monkeys, raccoons, geckos and armadillos are just a few of the animals that live here and can be seen on the property almost every day. IN Captain Suizo there is a large swimming pool with an adjacent outdoor restaurant and bar. 
Situated on a secluded hill, the hotel Punta Islita is located two hours south of Tamarindo. It has 50 rooms, each with a terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There are also small bungalows and private villas with private pools. All rooms blend well with the surrounding landscape and are centered around the main building, which houses a bar, restaurant, infinity pool and gym. The separate beach complex includes a golf cart, an additional restaurant and a swimming pool. 
Not far from Tambora located on the territory of a private reserve and beach Tango Mar Beach Spa And Golf Resort– a paradise island of privacy and comfort with excellent service. The hotel has a choice of any room category: from suites to private villas - all located in the midst of tropical gardens, which creates a very calm, intimate atmosphere of relaxation. There is a golf course, tennis court, excellent swimming pool and bar very close to the beach.
- DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN PUNTARENAS HOTELS
Cities and reserves in Costa Rica that everyone should see
SAN JOSE AND THE CENTRAL VALLEY
The capital of Costa Rica, the large city of San Jose, is located in the heart of the Central Valley, surrounded by mountain peaks and volcanoes. Since earthquakes occurred quite often here in the past, most of The city consists of colonial-era buildings, lost against the backdrop of modern high-rise buildings. The city has many museums that will appeal to everyone who wants to plunge into the history of the city. However, most visitors to the city are drawn to the stunning countryside around the Central Valley: coffee plantations and rainforests, home to many birds, butterflies and orchids. You can climb to impressive volcanic craters, for example, climb the Irazu and Poas volcanoes; In addition, the Central Valley has many wonderful rivers where you can go rafting.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST SAN JOSE HOTELS
San Jose and the Central Valley have a large selection of hotels to suit every taste and budget. Directly in the city, the hotel, consisting of 33 rooms, is family-owned by local residents, and whose prices are simply excellent, is worthy of attention. If you want a more luxurious option, then choose the hotel, the best of the city's boutiques. Many people prefer to stay in the suburbs of San Jose, since it is relatively easy to get to the airport from here, and hotels in rural areas, surrounded by flowering gardens, are more to their liking; 
Pay attention to the hotel The Trapp Family Country Inn and the hotel - very good hotels due to their convenient location, comfort and reasonable prices. The Trapp Family Country Inn Conveniently located near the international airport. The hotel is built in a colonial style with only 8 rooms; each of them has a balcony. It has a lovely swimming pool, wonderful gardens and a good restaurant. The prices are great and the location is perfect for spending your first or last day of your trip around the country. If you prefer something more luxurious, then Xandari Resort & Spa- great choice.
- DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN SAN JOSE HOTELS
VALLEY TURRIALBA
The Turrialba Valley is located opposite the Caribbean slopes of the Central Mountains, 60 kilometers east of San Jose. The rains that fall here regularly feed the tropical forests and rushing waters of the rivers Reventazon And Pecuare, irrigating the valleys where sugar cane, coffee and macadamia ripen. IN Turrialba Valley You can go bird watching or go on a tour of the coffee plantations, but the most attractive activity here is considered to be rafting down the Pacuare River. Turrialba is one of the quietest spots in the country, easily accessible from San José. You can also visit the valley while traveling along the route from the Caribbean coast to Tortuguero National Park
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST TURRIALBA HOTELS
One of the best ecological eco-lodges in Costa Rica, lost among the steep mountain gorges, deep in the mountains covered with tropical forests on the banks of the Pacuare River. The hotel's design blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, and the 13 bungalows and 10 rooms offer sophisticated luxury to discerning travelers. In a cozy hotel where you won’t be sorry to spend Honeymoon, there is a shallow natural pond and its own suspension bridge leading to a viewing platform. Guests can enjoy horseback riding and bird watching, or simply sit and enjoy the scenery and perhaps enjoy a relaxing massage. You can get here either along a bumpy road, or take advantage of the unique opportunity to get to the hotel by raft.
TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Tortuguero National Park can only be reached by plane or boat. Visiting it is a great opportunity to experience the diversity of wildlife in Costa Rica. Emerging from an archipelago of volcanic islands, Tortuguero today is a network of marshy islands and a protected wetland area. Visitors are invited to take a guided boat tour through the hot tropical terrain and spot wildlife such as river turtles, caimans and otters, spider monkeys, howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys. Bird lovers can spot some of the thousands of species found here, including the critically endangered green macao, Amazonian kingfishers, blue herons, toucans and sun herons, among many others. From July to October, green leatherback, hawksbill and loggerhead sea turtles lay their eggs along the 35 kilometer protected coastline. The park has the opportunity to organize night observation of animals so as not to disturb them during the day during the breeding season. By the way, within the national park you can spend several days in one of the lodges on the banks of the canal in the village of Tortuguero.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN TORTUGUERO 
Evergreen Lodge located near the village of Tortuguero, less than 10 minutes by boat from the national park. It offers 65 rooms with private facilities, and the hotel building is carefully constructed from local wood. It has a large swimming pool, restaurant/bar area and a cable car - this is the only hotel in the area that can offer all this. The prices are great and the location also offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Undeniably one of the best hotels in Costa Rica, the hotel offers travelers 14 tastefully furnished, air-conditioned rooms. The hotel also features a small swimming pool, games room and massage services. At the end of a day filled with adventure and exploring the canals and waterways, it's time to relax in the a la carte restaurant or hotel bar
SARAPIKI
Two hours north of San Jose, the area surrounding Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui is a nature lover's paradise. But less visited by tourists than Tortuguero. Located in the heart of Sarapiqui biological station La Selva, where they take a scientific approach to the life of tropical forests. As you explore 50 km of rainforest with a guide, you can see some of the 400 bird species found here, such as umbrella birds, songbirds, flycatchers, toucans and trogons.
Mammals commonly seen here include howler and white-faced capuchin monkeys, white-nosed coatis, raccoons and peccaries. Fans of active recreation will enjoy cable cars, cable cars, canal travel, as well as river rafting and horseback riding accompanied by experienced guides.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN SARAPIQI 
Around Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui There are a number of modest lodges, an ideal base from which to explore the region. The lodge hotel stands out Hacienda La Isla, consisting of 15 rooms. A very comfortable and original hotel, surrounded by wonderful gardens.
ARENAL AND LA FORTUNA
Located at an altitude of 1633 meters above sea level, the Arenal volcano was until recently considered one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Although there are currently no spontaneous eruptions or lava flows, the peak of the volcano looks stunning and there is always something to do in the area.
Surrounded by transitional forests (a combination of rain forest and tropical rainforest), the area is home to most of the animals found here, and the lava-filled areas that can be seen while walking in Arenal National Park are an incredibly stunning sight. Activities offered here include cable car rides, horseback riding to beautiful waterfalls, rafting on the Sarapiqui River, and hot spring bathing.
The closest town to the volcano is the town of La Fortuna - a good place with a choice of shops and restaurants. Many of the proposed hotels are located along the road north of the city on the way to the volcano and Lake Arenal.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN LA FORTUNA 
In a hotel Arenal Springs Hotel offers the perfect combination of relaxation, comfort and beautiful scenery. 87 rooms in a colonial style, reasonable prices, surrounded by tropical gardens. The hotel has a complex of four thermal pools, access to which is open only to hotel guests. There are many noteworthy attractions and the restaurant offers a wide range of national and international dishes.
In a hotel Arenal Nayara only 33 rooms. It is designed to remain comfortable while maintaining a connection with surrounding nature. Individual bungalows are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, each with a small private garden and outdoor shower. The balconies offer views of the volcano, there is also a jacuzzi and a swimming pool with a bar where you can relax and admire the amazing views.
If you want to observe the most best views to the magnificent Arenal Volcano, it's worth booking a hotel room Arenal Koiro. The hotel has 53 spacious rooms with modern design, huge windows and a Jacuzzi overlooking the conical peak of the volcano. The list of services includes a SPA, an outdoor pool and thermal springs owned by the hotel, which hotel visitors can use privately.
TENORIO NATIONAL PARK
Tenorio National Park is a little-known gem on the northern shore of Lake Arenal, two hours from the town of La Fortuna. There is rich flora and fauna, many rivers and thermal springs, lakes and waterfalls. The park is covered with tropical forests, and there are two volcanoes on its territory - Tenorio And Montezuma. The park is best known for its waterfall Rio Celeste– a 65-foot cascade that cascades into a natural pool colored bright blue by sulfur and calcium carbonate. Tenorio is a quieter area than nearby Arenal. While there are fewer adrenaline-pumping activities on offer than its neighbors, the area is much more beautiful, with excellent walking trails, ponds, and plenty of wildlife spotting.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN TENORIO 
Boutique hotel Rio Celeste Hideaway, located 5 minutes walk from the national Tenorio Park, the center of peace and tranquility. The hotel has 26 beautifully furnished villas that provide a feeling of complete privacy. At the restaurant Kantala a wide selection of national and international cuisine is offered; and every time after lunch, surrounded by tropical gardens, an unforgettable experience remains
CANO NEGRO RESERVE
The outer boundaries of this reserve, located close to the borders of Nicaragua, include low-lying swamps and tropical rainforests around Lake Cano Negro and the canals of the Frio River. Traveling by motorboat or canoe, visitors find themselves in one of Costa Rica's most stunning environments, home to a variety of birds such as roseate spoonbills, white ibises, beaked whales, yaribu and Egyptian herons. The reserve is home to the only remaining population of Nicaraguan starlings. During the trip, you can also see many mammals, such as tapirs, sloths, monkeys, and caimans.
The outer territory of the reserve can be visited either as part of a small group of tourists, or individually, accompanied by a private guide; The reserve is one day's journey from the Arenal and Tenorio national parks.
MONTEVERDE RESERVE
The most famous tropical rainforest reserve in Costa Rica, Monteverde, is located in the central mountainous part of the country. It is popular due to its proximity to the Arenal volcano - you can get there by crossing the Arenal Lake bridge and then driving a few minutes in a jeep along the road. There are two nature reserves here - the original Monteverde Nature Reserve and the later Santa Elena Nature Reserve.
Monteverde is a vast area of tropical forest in Central America and supports six major ecosystems. More than 2,500 plant species grow within its borders, about 500 of which are orchids. There are also about 490 species of butterflies and over 400 species of birds. This is a great place for a walk, especially in the mornings when the rainforest is shrouded in fog and the birds are most active.
Adventure lovers will enjoy “flying” through the forest on a zipline and walking on cable cars. For walking tours, there are gardens where birdsong can be heard everywhere. Visitors to the reserve are even allowed to feed the birds in order to see rare species birds closer. Butterfly, snake and frog gardens also showcase the diversity of these species in the region.
Santa Elena Preserve is quieter and slightly smaller than its older brother. It has 13 kilometers of trails, two observation decks overlooking forest expanses (you can see the Arenal volcano in broad daylight) and an observation tower. This reserve is an excellent place for those who like a more relaxing holiday, walks through the forest filled with birdsong.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN MONTEVERDE 
Family hotel Belmar, consists of two buildings with 28 rooms, built in the form of Swiss chalets. The hotel has a warm, friendly atmosphere; it has its own hiking route with beautiful views. 
Another hotel owned by a local family - El Establo Mountain. Although not typical of most hotels in Monteverde, the living rooms are quite spacious; There is also a restaurant and a solar heated swimming pool (the only one in the Monteverde area). For the convenience of hotel guests El Establo Mountain there is a jacuzzi, SPA, private tourist routes are organized and you can arrange a trip along the cableways. The hotel has 155 tastefully furnished rooms located in a house on a hill with excellent views of the peninsula Nicoya, and on clear days you can watch a stunning sunset from here. The hotel is well located, approximately equidistant from Monteverde nature reserves And Santa Elena.
SAN RAMON
San Ramon is well known in Costa Rica for its tight-knit community and as the home of three of that country's former presidents. The rolling hills are surrounded by grassland, backed by dense rainforest, home to a variety of epiphytes, mosses and more than 225 species of birds, including the colorful long-tailed quesel. This secluded patch of rainforest, coupled with its prime location an hour's drive from the international airport, is a hidden treasure for travelers eager to experience this unique ecosystem.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN SAN RAMON 
Gorgeous Villa Blanca located in a beautiful private reserve Los Angeles Cloudforest. Scattered among the picturesque gardens are 35 spacious adobe bungalows with terracotta roofs. Each room has a cozy atmosphere, a fireplace, a terrace and a bathroom. The hotel also has an excellent SPA salon, and from the restaurant windows on clear days you can see the Arenal Volcano. Here you can organize cable car rides, horseback riding and many routes accompanied by a hotel guide.
BIOS DEL TORO
Tucked away in the central region of Costa Rica, Bajos del Toro is a small and relatively little-known town about 3 hours' drive from San José. It is surrounded by a lush rainforest full of emerald waterfalls and home to hundreds of species of birds, butterflies and plants. This area is an excellent option for those who want to relax and appreciate the richness and diversity of the local nature. While bird watching and outdoor activities are limited, this scenic area offers plenty of privacy to escape the crowds, stay in a beautiful hotel, and enjoy leisurely strolls through the gardens and peace.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN BAIOS DEL TORO 
Eco-hotel El Silensio Lodge is located deep in a private reserve with babbling streams and waterfalls hidden in the thick of the rainforest. The hotel has 16 luxurious rooms, each with a jacuzzi and a balcony. Chef El Silestio Lodge prepares delicious dishes from organic products, and the wonderful SPA salon offers a number of services that will help travelers relax after a busy day of travel. The hotel's guides have developed several walking routes through the forest, during which you can watch birds. It is a very peaceful place and although the hotel is located in the rainforest, it is quite easy to get to as the hotel is close to San Jose and Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui and Arenal.
SAN GERARDO DE DOTA
The sleepy village of San Gerardo de Dota is a tiny farming community nestled in a narrow river valley Savegre, three hours south of San Jose. The place is well known among ornithologists. Be sure to include a visit to the village in your itinerary and you will be rewarded with the chance to see the Quesel, which can be found here all year round, as well as other bird species such as tanagers, woodpeckers and hummingbirds. Los Quitezales National Park, which is located here, is a quieter alternative to other Costa Rican rainforests. In addition to being a real paradise for nature and hiking lovers, the Savegre River is an excellent place for fishing.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN SAN GERARDO DE DOTA
The small hotel offers travelers eight modest bungalows, surrounded by a lovely garden. All rooms have terraces, huge windows with excellent views of the dense rainforest, jacuzzi, minibar and portable heaters if it gets chilly in the evening. Located inside a private nature reserve Los Santos Forest Reserve, with five kilometers of hiking trails, is also the only hotel closest to the national park Los Quetzales
Costa Rica, as the name suggests, is rich in everything at once: two oceans - the Pacific and the Atlantic, exotic black sand beaches, nature reserves, volcanoes and mountains. The colonial capital of San José and the picturesque province…
Many travelers who have visited Costa Rica call it the most beautiful country in the world. I must say - not without reason. In this camp there isendless mountain ranges , covered with rare “cloud” and “rain” forests,numerous national parks, reserves and volcanoes, exotic black sand beaches , noisy waterfalls- and further down the list. Isn't it a paradise for tourists?
Capital - San Jose
Visa to Costa Rica
If the passport of a tourist - a citizen of Russia says valid for at least three months at the time of entry USA, Canada, Japan visa, South Korea or Schengen visa , then he can enter Costa Rica without a visa for a period of up to 30 days. In all other cases, you will need to apply for a visa.
Customs
There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign and national currencies, and declaration is required. Duty-free import of 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or up to 500 grams of tobacco, 3 liters of spirits, perfume, clothing and shoes is allowed within the limits of personal needs.
Import prohibited fruits, vegetables, plants, cuttings and seeds, vegetable products, meat products, psychotropic and narcotic substances, weapons and ammunition, as well as pornographic publications. To import medicines, you will need a doctor's prescription or a tourist's medical card. Export prohibited archaeological treasures, antiques, rare animals and birds, their skins and stuffed animals.
Transport Costa Rica
You can move around the country by plane or bus, railway connection between cities there is practically no . True, there is tourist train from San Jose to Caldera (the entire road is about 90 km).
Public transport in cities - buses and minibuses . The fare is around 0.5 USD. Taxis are available in all major cities and can be caught right on the street. The fare is low, Almost all cars are equipped with meters.
Rent a Car
Renting a car is not difficult: you just need to be over 21 years old, have an international driving license, more than two years of driving experience and credit card. Insurance is required.
The main routes between cities are of good quality, but markings are missing almost everywhere . All signs are in Spanish.
Tourist safety
The criminal situation in the country is calm, It is only recommended to adhere to standard precautions, to avoid becoming victims of scammers or pickpockets.
There is a law in Costa Rica that requires everyone to carry identification documents. . Therefore, tourists should always have their passport (or a copy of its photo and visa pages) with them.
No special There is no need to get vaccinated before visiting the country, Malaria prevention is recommended. Tap water is relatively safe, but it’s still not worth the risk - it’s better to use bottled water.
Climate of Costa Rica
The climate in the country is subequatorial. You can select two seasons: dry - from December to April and rainy - from May to November . On the plateau, the average temperature throughout the year is about +20..+22 °C, and in mountainous areas it can reach +10 °C (with possible frosts in winter). On the Caribbean coast and in the south of the Pacific coast, temperatures range between +27..+33 °C, there is practically no difference between day and night temperatures.
The best time to visit the country is considered to be the dry season, the period from December to April.
Beaches of Costa Rica
Beaches on the shores of Costa Rica sandy, and the sand on them comes in a variety of shades - from white and gold to silver and even black . Almost everyone has their own peculiarity and “specialization”. Beaches in the province of Guanacaste: Playa del Coco is great for scuba diving, Playa Flamingo for sport fishing, Tamarindo for surfing, Playa Conchal has amazing white sand, and sea turtles lay eggs on Playa Grande. Also popular in Guanacaste are the beaches of Playa Nozara, Playa Carillo and Playa Hermosa.
In the south of the Pacific coast there are two resort areas - Jaco and Punta Leona. The beaches of Jaco are famous for their nightlife and are suitable for surfing. On Atlantic Ocean Portete and Bonita beaches are popular nearby Puerto Limon.
Costa Rica Hotels
The hotel base in the country is very diverse - There are also 4-5 star hotels that meet all international standards, and small hotels or bungalows. Mains voltage 110-120 V, 60 Hz. Sockets are mostly of the American type, but sometimes you can find “European standard” ones.
Banks and exchange offices
Banks are open from 8:30-9:00 to 15:00-17:00 on weekdays and from 9:00 to 14:00 on Saturdays, Sunday is a day off. Currency can be exchanged at the airport, bank, exchange office or hotel, but banks offer the most favorable rate. Preference is given to US dollars; other currencies are more difficult to exchange. In general, American currency circulates quite freely in Costa Rica and is accepted everywhere. You're right, change is most often given in local currency.
Credit cards of major payment systems and traveler's checks are accepted in large hotels and shops . ATMs are usually located in bank branches or supermarkets in large cities. It is more profitable to take travel checks to the country in US dollars.
Active holidays in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a huge number of opportunities for active pastime. For example, surfing popular on the Pacific coast in the areas of Mal Pais, Santa Teresita, Playa Grande, Playa Jaco, Playa Carillo, Playa Hermosa, Playa Dominical and Playa Pabones, as well as in calmer waters in the area of Playa Tambor, Playa Naranjo, Playa Herradura and Playa Manzanillo. There is something to do for surfers and on the Atlantic coast : Suitable locations can be found in the areas of Puerto Viejo (Salsa Brava and Cocles beaches) and Limona (Playa Bonita). The best time for a “big wave” is from July to August.
Windsurfers should head to Lake Arenal , which is considered one of the best places on the planet to practice this sport. Best time- from April to December . Scuba diving enthusiasts can splash their fins on the islands of Caco Island and Isla Coca, the coastal waters of the Pacific coast, as well as in Bahia Draca (Ballen Marine National Park) and Cahuita (Cahuita National Park).
For keen fishermen, the Pacific coast from the Gulf of Papagayo to Golfito is the place to be. And among thrill seekers, rafting on inflatable boats along the rapids of the country's mountain rivers is popular.
Shopping and shops
Most shops are open from 9:00 to 20:00, usually with a lunch break from 12:00 to 14:00. The most popular local souvenirs - all kinds of handicrafts: T-shirts, hammocks, bags, numerous figurines, as well as jewelry and products made from different types of wood and coral, wickerwork, dishes and vases.
Moreover, from the country you can bring good coffee and unusual brands with images of butterflies, flowers and birds.
Cuisine and restaurants of Costa Rica
The national cuisine of the country is hellish (in in a good way words) a mixture of Spanish and Indian cuisines . Its basis is rice, black beans, meat, vegetables and spices. There are usually not so many spices in the dishes themselves; most often they are served separately in the form of sauce.
A variety of salads made from fresh vegetables are very popular, rice with vegetables and meat, rice cooked in coconut milk, meat in banana leaves. Fried and baked bananas are often served as a side dish. as well as a mixture of rice and vegetables.
Definitely worth a try baked fish a la plancha, concha shells and pies filled with beef, cheese or chicken arreglados.
The most popular alcoholic drink in the country - rum of local varieties Centenario, Abuelo, Cacique and Platino . Also, don't ignore coffee liqueur Cafe Rica and light beers Imperial, Bavaria or Pilsen.
Costa Rican coffee is considered one of the best in the world , and they drink it here in huge quantities.
In restaurants, the bill usually includes a 13% tax and another 10% for service . It also happens that these percentages are included in the prices indicated on the menu. If service is not included in the bill, you can leave 5-10% of the order amount. It is also customary to tip porters, maids (~0.5 USD), driver and guide (1-5 USD). Tipping is not required in taxis.
National parks
Impressive fact: a third of Costa Rica's territory is occupied by various national parks and reserves . Moreover, in this small the country has 120 volcanoes, 70 of which are active . Their slopes are covered with tropical vegetation of the famous “cloud forests”, which are rapidly disappearing from the mountain flora of Central America.
The most visited parks in the country : La Amistad International Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, Itoy Serere, Corcovado, Rincon de la Vieja, Rara Eivís and Tortuguero parks, Caño Negro Forest Reserve, Carara, Kuru, Ostional, Cabo Blanco reserves , Marenco, Juan Castro Blanco and Santa Elena Forest, as well as the marine reserves of Marino Ballena and Isla del Coco, Chirripo National Park, Las Baulas National Park and Monteverde Reserve.
Entertainment, excursions and attractions of Costa Rica
Capital of Costa Rica San Jose is located in the very center of the country. City architecture - mixture different styles: There are very few modern high-rise buildings in the center, most buildings are in neoclassical or colonial style. Main attractions - National Museum, ancient cathedrals and a colorful souvenir market.
Located near San Jose Alajuela, the second largest city in the country. Local “must see”- Poas volcano, butterfly farms and a museum in a former prison building. In the neighborhood you can visit the craft center in Sarchi, the old Spanish fortress in Heredia, and the Coffee Museum in San Pedro de Barva.
Located in the southeast of the capital province of Cartago - green valleys with coffee and sugar cane plantations. The city of Cartago was once the capital of Costa Rica, but unfortunately, almost all of its historical heritage was destroyed by earthquakes in the early 20th century. Here you can admire only the beautiful cathedral and the famous Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, and also visit the local ethnographic museum.
The eastern part of the country is very distinctive , a zone of winding canals, jungles and mountain ranges. Its inhabitants speak a wild mixture of Spanish, English and Indian languages, listen to reggae and grow cocoa and rice. In the east is the most picturesque city of the country, Limon. , in the vicinity of which you can visit the Indian reservations in La Amistad Park, as well as wander through the Estrella Nature Reserve. In the city itself, there is an ethnographic museum, numerous markets and Playa Bonita beach.
The northwestern part of the country is the most interesting for tourists . Here are just some of its attractions: Whale Bay Bahia Ballena , Kuru Nature Reserve, Wilsons Botanical Garden ,
Cabo Blanco Wildlife Refuge, Corcovado Park and Caño Island, Marenco Nature Reserve, Santa Rosa National Park, "white city" Liberia ,
Guanacaste National Park with the Orosi and Cacao volcanoes, Tabacon hot springs, Catarata de la Fortuna waterfalls , Manuel Antonio National Park, the famous “turtle island” of Tortuga and, of course, the formidable Arenal volcano with the lake of the same name. Arenal was dormant for 300 years, but at the end of the 60s of the last century it woke up in such a way that it didn’t seem like much.
