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Bienvenido!
Welcome to the land of 'Pura Vida' (Pure Life) where
life moves at a more relaxed pace, the scenery is stunning
and the people are as warm as the bright sun above.
The name 'Costa Rica' literally means 'rich coast' in
Spanish and while it may lack gold, jewels or other
material wealth, this tiny country has shown the rest
of the world that peace is the greatest treasure of
all. The only country in the Western Hemisphere without
an army, Costa Rica has been called the 'Switzerland
of the Americas' for its visionary belief that weapons
and war are not the answer.
As the meeting place of North and South America, Costa
Rica has over 6% of the entire Earth's plants and animals
on a landmass that is less than 0.01% of the planet's
surface, making it the most bio-diverse place on Earth.
Thankfully, these natural treasures are protected in
national parks, reserves and refuges accounting for
26% of Costa Rica's territory.
In addition to incredible flora and fauna, Costa Rica
has 13 different microclimates and a short drive will
take you from a misty cloud forest to hot dry plains
to lush rainforests. Mountains, volcanoes, rain forests,
cloud forests, jungles, beaches, mangroves, islands
- it's all here. Whether your passion is hiking in a
remote jungle or relaxing on the beach, Costa Rica fits
the bill perfectly.
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San
José & Central Valley
Most visitors begin and end their journey here,
at the San Jose airport. Nestled in a valley between
beautiful mountains, the San Jose and Central Valley
region have a number of interesting places to explore.
A day tour of the capital city offers up museums,
a grand theatre and the lively Central Market. Other
possibilities include waterfalls, coffee plantations,
the artisan village of Sarchi, Poas Volcano and
white water rafting. Boasts some incredible
restaurants and outstanding boutique hotel. |
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Guanacaste
(Tamarindo, Ocotal, Flamingo, Papagayo)
Having the shortest Green Season compared to the
rest of the country, the northwest Pacific area
of Guanacaste is the driest area of Costa Rica.
It also has some of the most beautiful and accessible
beaches that stretch for miles. Here you'll find
luxury resorts, golf courses, outstanding sport
fishing and sailing and some of the best surf spots
in the world. |
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Central Pacific
Soft sand in a variety of colors ridged by lush rain forests, the Central Pacific is one of the most popular tourist spots in Costa Rica. Renowned for its excellent surfing and fun atmosphere, Jaco is a popular spot while the white sand beaches and famous national park at Manuel Antonio have made it one of the most sought-after places for a world-class vacation. |
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Arenal
Located four hours from San Jose, the perfect cone-shaped Arenal Volcano is one of the most visited spots in Costa Rica. Noted as one of the four most active volcanoes in the world, the mighty Arenal regularly sets off a spectacular show, spitting fiery red lava as it rumbles like a mighty god. Thanks to the volcanic soil, the surrounding area is incredibly green and lush, with waterfalls, canyons, rivers and natural hot springs. The nearby Lake Arenal is a must for windsurfers. |
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Monteverde
Up one of the worst roads ever encountered you'll find the magical cloud forest of Monteverde, a quiet, peaceful area first settled by Quakers. The higher elevation keeps this area crisp and cool year round, the perfect environment for hiking and birdwatching - with a bit of luck, you'll spot a Resplendant Quetzal, the 'Holy Grail' of birders. |
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Nicoya Peninsula
Long stretches of white beach, amazing surf, picture-perfect
sunsets and hardly a soul around make this one of
the best-kept secrets in Costa Rica. From funky
little beach hotels to remarkably luxurious villas,
there is something for even the most discerning
traveler. If you're looking for a spot to get away
from it all, the Nicoya area is the place. |
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Osa Peninsula (Corcovado)
Often called the 'Amazon Jungle of Costa Rica', the Osa Peninsula in the deep south is one of the last great expanses of untouched jungle, an unforgettable place for those who want to commune with Nature. Hiking through lush, thick jungles, sailing on clear waters with excellent diving, snorkeling and dolphin tours combined with luxury accommodations create the perfect mix of adventure and comfort. |
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Caribbean
Lively at times, languid at others, always lush,
the Caribbean is the least Tico of Costa Rica’s
regions. Sophisticated resort development has not
reached the Caribbean but accommodation ranges from
quality boutique hotels to surf camps. The Tortuguero
canals in the north are a magnet for sports fishing
fanatics, birdwatchers and wildlife spotters. |
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