Lush
jungle, colossal waves and the thrill of adventure will draw you to this
rugged, rainforested Central American country
LIZ
CONNOR
The
variety of landscapes and microclimates that can be enjoyed in one day makes
Costa Rica the ultimate destination for keen explorers.
For
beach lovers, there are white, tan, dark brown and black sand beaches to
complement the rocky points, volcanoes, river mouths, reefs and offshore
islands which create a playground of surf spots that line both the Pacific
Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
There’s
plenty here for wildlife lovers to see too - roughly a quarter of the country
is made up of protected jungle, rich with wildlife including spider monkeys and
quetzal birds.
Here are
ten reasons why you’ll want to travel to this tiny Central American oasis this
year.
1. The
beautiful beaches
Costa
Rica has nearly 300 different beaches along its stunning Pacific and Caribbean
coastlines, each with a unique draw and distinct setting. Well over 99 per cent
of the coastal land of Costa Rica is protected by maritime zones, which
prohibits construction within 200 meters of the high tide mark. Beachside
hotels and boardwalks you will not find here; Instead expect to spot wildlife
such as monkeys, sloths, parrots and toucans in the jungle that lines the
fluffy, fine sands.
2. The
incredible surfing spots
Costa
Rica is famous for its waves - the water is warm all year round and surfers
flock here to stake out breaks. The quiet fishing hamlet of Tamarindo is famous
with local surfers, as is Playa Avellana which is referred to by locals as
"little Hawaii”. Here you’ll find extraordinary offshore waves that can
reach up to 18 feet, making it an ideal destination for experienced surfers
from around the world. Elsewhere, Playa Negra is a beautiful dark-sand beach
famous for its right-hand barrel waves.
3. The
cuisine
Costa
Rican cuisine is hearty, savoury and always satisfying. No visit is complete
without trying Gallo Pinto, the country’s national dish. Made by stir-frying
rice and beans stir-fried together in a pan, it is usually served for breakfast
along with scrambled or fried eggs and sour cream or cheese. Generous portions,
fresh-brewed coffee and fruit in every shape, size and color fill the tables of
homes here, and ceviche remains one of the country’s most popular dishes.
4.
Spectacular rainforests
Home to
some of the most colourful and exotic flora and fauna on earth, this tiny
Central American country is the habitat of some 10,000 species of plants and
trees. Its tropical rainforests are often referred to as “jewels of the earth”,
as they are home to two-thirds of all living animal and plant species on the
planet. There are numerous areas that have rainforest walking trails, waterfall
climbs and canopy tours to discover the magnificence within. Some of the best
national parks to hike or walk in the rainforest include Manuel Antonio,
Corcovado, Miravalles,Tenorio and Carara.
5.
Boutique hotels & hip hideaways
Charming
rustic cabins, hilltop cottages and quirky self-catering eco-houses set in the
jungle are just a few of the alternative stays to be found in Costa Rica. The
Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge is set on a beautiful, sustainable black
pepper farm with epic views of of the stunning Osa Peninsula. In tropical
gardens elevated abouve the Pacific you can choose between cabins offering
simple comforts or villas fully equipped for self-catering. Sprawl out on a
hammock with a book and a glass of wine or paddle in the warm waters. There are
plenty of trails through the lodge’s own reserve to explore the primary and
secondary rainforest or reach the beach and the resident biologist Philip
Davison gives a fascinating tour. Don’t expect luxury; do expect a fantastic
laid-back adventure.
6. The
wildlife
Nowhere
else in the world are so many types of habitats squeezed into such a tiny area.
Animal-lovers will be spoilt for choice with everything from sloths to caiman
and capuchins to dolphins calling the conservationist's dream their home. Keep
your eyes peeled for Strawberry Poison Dart frogs, crocodiles, ocelots and
colourful toucans.
7. The
weather
With
warm temperatures year round and plenty of sun, alongside the odd refreshing
rain shower, Costa Rica is the ultimate summer destination for those looking
for tropical conditions guaranteed. From December to May, the dry season
attracts more visitors as it is ideally sunny and hot with little to no
showers. From May to November is the rainy season, with thundering showers that
happen sporadically throughout the day. If you don’t mind the rain, you might
prefer to visit Costa Rica during this time as prices are lower and the rain
allows the hot temperatures to cool off during the night.
8. It's
quicker and easier to get there than ever before
In the
last 12 months alone, there has been an increase of 12.9 per cent of tourists
from the United Kingdom visiting Costa Rica. So it should come as no surprise
that, starting in May this year, British Airways will be offering non-stop
flights from Gatwick to San Jose, the Costa Rican capital. These direct flights
will take place twice a week during summer, increasing to three a week for
those craving a winter adventure. In short, it’s never been easier to jet off
to paradise.
9. The
volcanoes
Costa
Rica is scattered with 14 active and non-active volcanoes that form the
grouping known as the ring of fire. For some of the most stunning and panoramic
views visit the Irazu Volcano which last erupted when US President John F.
Kennedy visited Costa Rica. On a clear day from the volcano’s summit you can
see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
10. The
people
The
people in Costa Rica are often referred to as “Ticos" for men, and “
Ticas" for women. They are known as some of the happiest people in the
world, probably due to their relaxed and “pura vida" (pure life)
lifestyle. Bump into a local and they will generally greet you with a warm
smile and an open ear. The country has been ranked as one of the happiest
countries in the world, based on its high quality of life, good life expectancy
rate and small ecological footprint. Its army-free citizens have a life
expectancy of 79.3, and they’re surrounded by a beautiful setting that’s sure
to keep a smile on anyone’s face. Visit for just one week and you'll find
yourself never wanting to return to reality.
