Overview: Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful countries in

Central America. Home to protected national parks and reserves, rainforests, tropical beaches, diverse wildlife, and active volcanoes, this country is captivating to any visitor looking for a great eco-adventure tourism experience. Costa Rica is a great example of sustainable tourism and the money that tourism brings into the country goes back into preserving its forests and wildlife. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC8t0xDArfM

History: Costa Rica abolished its armed forces in 1949 and is therefore free to spend about 20% of its budget on education. This gives the country the highest literacy rate in Latin America. Young people of this country are attracted to studying biology. The many wildlife reserves have a great impact on this by starting education programs that allow the students to work on ecological projects and visit the wildlife reserves.

Activities and Attractions:

Monteverde & Santa Elena: The village of Santa Elena and the settlement of Monteverde are located between two cloud-forest reserves. The cloud forest reserves are the main attractions in this area and a great place to photograph exotic birds. Cloud forests are able to give visitors a great view of the forest from above the canopy of trees. If you are looking for a thrill, you can also zip-line through the trees.

Arenal Volcano National Park: This National Park is a great place to hike the trails around the great Arenal Volcano. Along with the great view of the volcano, tourists have a chance to see the biodiversity of this area including birds, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians. When you are done exploring and ready to relax head over to the hot springs, just a short drive away.

Manuel Antonio National Park: One of Costa Rica’s smallest and most beautiful national parks with crystal clear blue waters and swaying palm trees. You can hike the trails with amazing views of the tropical beach or find a spot on the sugar white sands and relax for the day.

Corcovado National Park: Labelled by the National Geographic as ‘the most biologically intense place on Earth,’ this national park is one of the last original regions of the tropical rainforest left in Central America. Home to a list of endangered species including the scarlet macaw, Baird’s tapir (giant anteater) and the harpy eagle. The amazing biodiversity of this region attracts many visitors, but be sure to book a tour in advance as space is limited in certain times of the year.

Montezuma: A beach town with a boho-vibe right on the ocean. This is the perfect place to relax, swim in the ocean or even surf. There are some cafes and vegetarian friendly restaurants in the area, or you can try a yoga class on the beach.

Pavones: This is a legendary destination for surfers all over the world. It is located at the southern most point of Costa Rica, and fairly off the beaten path, with palm-lined dirt roads and a slow and peaceful atmosphere.

Playa Sámara: An easy to navigate beach town that is popular with tourists and locals alike. The tranquility of the town and beach make it a perfect place to spend a relaxing day. A little further north is the hidden beach Playa Barrigona, which is famous for it’s celebrity resident, Mel Gibson.

Finca Cristina: An organic coffee farm that provides 90 minute tours of their grounds and plant. It will show visitors the processes of organic coffee growing, harvesting and roasting.

Festivals: There are endless amounts of festivals throughout the year in Costa Rica, ranging from small to large. The Fiestas Zapote is held in January every year, and is one of the biggest festivals of San Jose with a rodeo, rollercoasters, fair rides and booths. Límon Carnival, on the Caribbean coast, is like Brazil’s Carnival. With elaborate costumes and floats, showcasing Costa Rica’s fun-loving vibe. Fiestas Palmares is one of the longest festivals held in Costa Rica, lasting for two weeks. With musical performances, carnival rides, rodeos, horse parades, and plenty of food and beer, people from all over Costa Rica come to enjoy this festival.

Bars and Restaurants: Check out this great article on Forbes.com for a guide to the best places to eat in Costa Rica. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestravelguide/2013/11/15/a-foodies-guide-to-costa-rica/#2715e4857a0b7bbbb2a744ab

Documentation: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/costa-rica

Passport: Passport required for Canadian travelers. Passport must be valid for at least three months past the expected departure date.

Tourist Visa: A tourist visa is not required for stays up to 90 days.

Other documentation: Must show proof of a valid return ticket and sufficient funds while in the country. There is also a departure tax of $29 USD payable by cash or credit card.

Health and Safety:

Health: Health facilities are readily available in larger cities. Do not expect the same standard of health care as in Canada. Have your vaccinations up to date and protect yourself against mosquito bites.

Crime Rate: Crime and theft can be a problem in Costa Rica. Always keep valuables out of a sight and passports in a safe place.

Weather: The hurricane season occurs from June to November and the rainy season is from May to November. The best time to visit Costa Rica is November to April, which is North Americas winter season. During this time, it is dry with sunshine and warm temperatures. Costa Rica is also in an active seismic zone with many volcanoes in the area. Be sure to pay attention to any warnings issued for national parks.