Tour Costa Rica: The Ultimate Guide

1. Characteristics Costa Rica

In this article you will find all the information you need for a trip through Costa Rica. We have gathered everything you need to know before you go on holiday in Costa Rica. Which vaccinations are recommended, do you need a visa, what is the best time to travel and what is not to miss in this special country? Read on and you will discover it all.

2. Useful to know for your round trip Costa Rica

You do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica for stays of up to 90 days. However, your passport must be valid for another 6 months upon arrival in the country. At customs in Costa Rica, travellers with Dutch nationality must be able to show a return or onward ticket upon request. You may also be asked for proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of your trip. And if you are entering the country from a fait accompli area, you must be able to show a vaccination certificate.

• Don't get confused with the different colors of coins. Older coins are silver colored and new coins are gold colored.
• You may have heard or read about an exit fee that you have to pay at the airport when you leave the country. However, this is outdated information and in 99% of cases this is no longer necessary. This fee is almost always included with your flight ticket.
• In most places you can just drink the tap water. To be sure, you can ask for it in your accommodation.
• There is a strict smoking policy in Costa Rica. So look carefully where you can and can't smoke in order to avoid a fine.
• You won't find any malaria mosquitoes in Costa Rica, but a mosquito sting is just as annoying of course. That's why you should rub yourself well with a protective agent.
• Costa Rica has another power grid. Make sure you have an adapter or world plug to use / charge your electrical devices.

2.1. Preparations: Vaccinations

If you come from a country at risk for yellow fever, a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. By the way, this is not compulsory if you enter the country from Panama or Argentina. Inoculations against DTP (diphtheria, tetanus and polio) and Hepatitis A are also recommended. Personalized vaccinations may also be recommended, depending on your situation.

Make an appointment with a vaccination agency in your area 4 to 6 weeks before your tour of Costa Rica. During an intake interview you can discuss your itinerary and your situation. Based on this, the vaccinations you need will be determined. The most common vaccinations can often be equalized. The costs for the consultation and vaccinations vary per location. You can ask your vaccination agency for the exact costs. In general an amount of approximately €24 applies for the consultation including the vaccination booklet. Vaccinations against DTP cost an average of €29 and Hepatitis A is around €55. Also check your insurance policy, because in many cases these costs are covered by your health insurance.

3. Travel advice Costa Rica

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, security risks for the whole of Costa Rica are reported. These are mainly robberies and robberies committed throughout the country. Sometimes brutal violence is used. The number of murders in the country is also high and increasing. Drug trafficking and a large number of firearms in the country are the reason for this. Before you want to make a tour through Costa Rica, check the latest travel advice.

We would like to list a number of precautions to take into account.

• If you travel with a car, you have to be alert in case of a flat tire. It happens that criminals puncture tires and then pretend to be helpful road users.
• Use only official taxis. You can recognize them by their red color with yellow triangle. At the international airport you can take the orange taxis.
• Travel during the day as much as possible.
• Are you traveling alone? Then check with your accommodation which places are safe to visit on your own.

4. Best travel time for Costa Rica

Simply put, the best travel time for Costa Rica is between December and April. This is the dry season. The rainy season runs from April/May to November. During the rainy months tropical storms and cyclones can occur in Costa Rica. The heavy rainfall causes landslides and mud avalanches. Roads are regularly blocked because of this. If you want to travel through the country during these months, it is advisable to follow the news and be informed about the situation on the spot. There are also earthquakes.

There are temperature differences within Costa Rica. This is due to the many differences in altitude and the influences of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. You will therefore find a wide variety of microclimates within the same country. There are still a number of active volcanoes in the country that are located in the National Parks. Access to the parks is closed when a volcano has increased activity. Avoid this environment, do not take advantage of offers to enter the volcano and follow the news.

It is rather good to know that there are dangerous currents on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. And there are actually no lifeguards on the beaches. In Costa Rica many people drown every year by swimming in the sea. Ask the locals beforehand where it can be dangerous in the sea and where the current is very strong.

5. Transport for a Costa Rica round trip

If you go to Costa Rica on holiday, you can fly to different cities. San Jose is most common from Amsterdam. The flight time is then 14 hours, including a stopover. A direct flight will take around 11 hours. You can also choose to fly to Liberia, which will take about 17 hours. For transport within the country to get from A to B, you can choose from several means of transport. Domestic flights are fast and can be a godsend especially in the rainy season. For example, you can avoid having to wait for the bus because the road has been washed away. The country has a reasonably good road network between most cities. However, the roads are not equally good everywhere - some roads have holes in the road surface. And the highway is a two-lane road.

The bus is a common means of transport in Costa Rica. It is cheap, you get everywhere and the buses run regularly. However, they are often overcrowded. Also pay attention to your hand luggage as well as the luggage in the cargo hold. You can choose between two types of tickets: directo and collectivo. The first option has to be faster, but in practice this does not seem to be the case. A large bus junction is the capital San Jose with many bus stations scattered throughout the city.

Another means of transportation you can use is the taxi. In the capital they have to use a meter. If you want to take a taxi for a longer distance, you can also agree on a price in advance. Negotiation is certainly recommended. You can easily rent a taxi for half a day or a whole day at a pre-arranged price.

Do you want to drive a car around Costa Rica yourself? A European driving license is sufficient to rent a car. It is possible that a rental company itself has additional rules, such as a minimum age. Compare prices in advance, because these can differ greatly between the various providers. Also keep in mind that road users do not abide by the traffic rules. There is a lot of aggressiveness in traffic. For renting a moped you also need a driver's license.

6. Sights of Costa Rica

During a Costa Rica tour you want to see as much of the country as possible. What are sights you really shouldn't miss? We would like to list no less than 18 tips for you.

6.1. Guanacaste

In the far northwest corner of Costa Rica lies the province of Guanacaste. This is one of the most popular provinces to visit. This is partly due to the unspoilt coastline, the beautiful mountain ranges and some volcanoes that you will find here. There are countless opportunities for recreation, so don't skip Guanacaste. What are some of the highlights for this province? You'll find beautiful beaches in this area. Tamarindo offers year-round sunshine at low humidity. Playa Hermosa is also a must if you are looking for a place away from the hustle and bustle. A beautiful extensive quiet beach to get a breath of fresh air. Another must is the Vieja National Park. Here you will find active volcanoes, deep black earth and unreal waterfalls. On the way to the volcanoes you will come across rainforest and various ecosystems.

Liberia is the capital of this province and the urban center. This city has retained the native Tico atmosphere, while there are all kinds of amenities for travelers. This city is also known as the white city because of the whitewashed walls and colonial architecture that you can see throughout the city.

6.2. Rio Celeste

In the north of Costa Rica in the mountains you will find the Rio Celeste. A beautiful blue river. It is located in the Tenorio Volcano National Park and is known for its striking turquoise color. This colour is due to a physical phenomenon called the Mie scattering. In this case it comes from the confluence of two rivers. The mineral from one river is covered with substances such as aluminium from the other river, creating the special blue tint.

The river also contains a large waterfall and borders several hot springs. From the entrance of the park you can walk to the waterfall in about an hour. This is easy to do on an asphalted path and a staircase that will take you up to the waterfall. The sequel can be a bit more difficult. Before you get to El Teñidor, the point where the blue color is visible, you will also pass a viewpoint, a lagoon and thermal springs. The whole route is about 6 kilometers. And by the way, you walk the same route back, because the total trip is about 12 kilometers.

6.3. Arenal Volcano

In the northwest of Costa Rica lies the Arenal Volcano. This volcano is large and impressive and its reputation speaks for itself. Arenal has a perfect symmetrical shape. It is not only very suitable for tourists to take pictures with, you can also do plenty of outdoor activities. This is a sight that you should definitely not skip during your tour of Costa Rica. The volcano is located in the National Park which is for the most part covered with rainforest. This makes the area rich in trees, plants, animals, rivers and waterfalls. You can follow the marked trails that will take you to the viewpoints. Also enjoy the lakes for fishing and rivers. Since 2010 Arenal has been in a resting phase for an indefinite period of time.

6.4. Tabacon hot springs

At the foot of the Arenal volcano are the Tabacon hot springs. This wellness spa concept is located in the tropical reserve and includes the largest network of naturally flowing hot springs in Costa Rica. You can buy a day pass to visit the Tabacon hot springs. Another option is to stay at the Tabacon hotel, which gives you free access to the hot springs.

The hot springs are heated underground by the magma of the Arenal volcano. The thermal water flows through the resort to reach the Tabacon River. Enjoy dozens of waterfalls and warm pools with different temperatures along the riverbed. While relaxing in a spring, you can hear the sounds of the jungle around you. And do you want to take a refreshing dip? Then you will also find a cold water swimming pool in the dense rainforest.

6.5. Butterfly Conservatory

Enjoy an educational tour in the Butterfly Conservatory. More than 30 species of butterflies, frogs, insects, tropical plants, herbs and trees live here. Butterfly Conservatory is located in El Castillo and is a nature regeneration project. The project focuses on the conservation and growth of the tropical jungle and its inhabitants, in this case butterflies in particular. During a visit to the conservatories you will discover Costa Rica's largest butterfly exhibition.

6.6. Proyecto Asis

Proyecto Asis is located in the tropical rainforest of the Arenal volcano area in Costa Rica. It is a rescue centre for wild animals and sloth people who want to make a difference in the lives of the animals they save. And in the lives of the visitors and volunteers. If you want to volunteer during your holiday, you have come to the right place. You have to book your visit to Proyecto Asis in advance. Here you can choose from several packs, where you will learn everything about the life of the animals and the work that the rescue centre does. For example, you can choose to go on a guided tour and feed the animals. This centre is highly recommended for families to visit with children.

6.7. Venado Caves

In the Arenal area are also the Venado caves. These caves are over 6 million years old. And you can admire the beauty of the waterfalls, stalactites and stalagmites with your own eyes. You can also see exotic fauna in the Venado Caves, such as fish, spiders and bats. Several caves have been mapped since the Venado Caves were discovered. People can stand in each cave, some of them reaching a height of up to 35 meters. Take a guided tour of the Venado Caves and experience for yourself the underground mystical adventures that the caves offer. It is recommended to bring a dry set of clothing, a towel and kneepads. On site you will be given a helmet and, for example, a flashlight, which you will need during the tour.

6.8. Curi Cancha Reserve

The Natural Park Curi Cancha is a true paradise for bird lovers. Here you can encounter the Quetzal, three-Wattled Bellbird, Blue-Crowned Motmot and orange-bellied Trogon. In total, more than 200 bird species can be spotted in the park. Several mammals also live in Curi Cancha. Sloths, monkeys and armadillos are often seen. The lower part of the reserve is drier, the upper part is cloud forest. Because the forest is not so pristine in comparison with, for example, the Monteverde National Park, birds are easier to see. Join a guide and discover all the special inhabitants of this reserve. Evening tours are also possible.

6.9. Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is a cloud forest. This is a specific type of rainforest, it is located against a mountain slope. That's not the only thing special about this nature park. Did you know that 50% of the flora and fauna of Costa Rica can be found here? The extremely rich flora of the rainforest contributes to the total number of animal species found in the Monteverde region. This park aims to make the link between nature and sustainable tourism in a unique reserve dedicated to conservation, research and education.

6.10. Nicoya Peninsula

Ostional Wildlife Refuge is a special place on the island. This is where turtles come to lay their eggs. From the mainland at Puntarenas you can take the boat to the peninsula.

 

6.11. La Paz Waterfall gardens

With 5 waterfalls, hiking trails through the rainforest and a huge amount of birds, La Paz Waterfall Gardens is the most visited privately managed ecological attraction in Costa Rica. In the park you can enjoy feeding toucans, an insect exhibition and for example a butterfly greenhouse. Furthermore, there is an animal shelter with more than 100 different species of animals. The combination of so many different animals in one park, makes La Paz Waterfall Gardens one of the best nature parks in the country. You can walk along a footpath of about 3.5 kilometers or go with a guide. To see all that the park has to offer, you can take a whole day off to visit it.

6.12. Jaco

Nestled on the Pacific coast, Jaco is surfers' paradise. This beach resort is known for its perfect waves on the 4 km long black sand beach. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, everyone can go to Jaco beach. There are several surf schools to teach you how to surf. If you're a real experienced surfer you can also go from Jaco to Hermosa Beach or Beach Break, just a few minutes drive from Jaco. Jaco itself offers many activities for a small town. It has been given the label 'party town', because of the many celebrating surfers you meet here. There are several bars, pubs and restaurants.

6.13. Playa Manuel Antonio

In the Manuel Antonio National Park you will find the beach Playa Manuel Antonio. This is often described as the most beautiful beach of Costa Rica. It is a popular beach that is very crowded from early in the morning. And that is not surprising, because it is wonderful to take a refreshing dip in the blue sea after a walk through the jungle. Playa Manuel Antonio feels a bit like you are in paradise. The beach is located in a bay, has a flat beach, green forests on the coastline and azure blue water in which you can swim. So don't forget your towel and swimming trunks when you visit this beach in the national park.

6.14. Alturas wildlife sanctuary

The Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature reserve for wounded and orphaned animals and illegal pets. Its mission is to rehabilitate animals and release them back into the wild. Animals that cannot return to the wild can find a new home in the sanctuary. You can get a guided tour of the reserve where you will learn all about the rescue work and the animals. You may encounter spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, sloths, raccoons, porcupines and toucans in the park. The proceeds of the guided tours are used for the reserve and its work. You have to book a tour in advance.

6.15. Cahuita National Park

On the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica you will find the small town of Cahuita. And here you can take a walk through the Cahuita National Park. This park does not only contain all kinds of animals that live in the jungle, you will also find several beaches. And in the sea you can enjoy all kinds of fish and coral reefs while snorkeling and diving. After a trip through the jungle you will enjoy sandy beaches, turquoise sea and a varied marine life. In the wooded surroundings you can spot raccoons, sloths, iguanas, snakes and birds. Take a walk or enjoy the sun on the beach. In this national park you can combine it wonderfully.

6.16. Tarantulas way

Do you want to discover the rainforest of the Cahuita National Park when it's dark? During the Tarantulas Way tour you will come face to face with tarantulas, frogs, bats and other animals. And of course tarantulas. You will hear the sounds in the rainforest that the animals make at night as you walk through it. It is a unique way to get acquainted with the nightlife in the jungle.

6.17. Caño Island Biological Reserve

About 20 kilometers off the south-west coast of Costa Rica lies the Caño Island Biological Reserve. This island in the Pacific Ocean is a marine biological reserve. The island is of considerable importance, both geographically and archaeologically. It is intended to protect the native cemeteries found on the island. However, the beauty of the island can not be seen on land, but in the water.

You can snorkel perfectly in the ocean around Caño Island. The pristine blue waters are home to a variety of flora and fauna, along with some beautiful coral reefs. The goal of the island is also to protect this. You may also encounter whales, sea turtles, dolphins and barracudas. This place is rated as one of the best underwater places in the world! From Drake Bay on the mainland you can take a boat trip to the Caño Island Biological Reserve.

6.18. Corcovado National Park

If you want to experience nature in all its splendor, you should definitely visit the Corcovado National Park. This park is located on the Pacific Ocean in the south west of the Osa peninsula. In the rivers they used to search for gold. A visit to this national park is almost like watching an adventure movie. You can discover animals on land as well as in the waters of the river. This national park is home to a large and diverse number of flora and fauna. The park is divided into different sectors, each of which has something unique to offer. In the section ´El Tigre´ you can find the highest point of the park. And in 'Sirena' you can spot tiger sharks and crocodiles at high tide. Keep in mind that some of the paths in this park have a certain level of difficulty.

7. Book a round trip to Costa Rica: compare providers and accommodations

Come face to face with tree frogs, birds, sloth and monkeys. Experience the fascinating nature of Costa Rica on a tour of this fascinating country.

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