COSTA RICA
PURA VIDA, SURFING, & SLOTHS
Pura Vida is a phrase that you will hear and see everywhere in Costa Rica. The English translation means 'pure life' or 'simple life,' however it is more than just a phrase - it is a way of life.
DESTINATION GUIDE
BEST TIMES TO VISIT
YEAR ROUND VISITS
Costa Rica has two seasons: dry season and green season. Dry season takes place from mid-December to April. This is a great time to visit the rainforests and beaches. Green season takes place from May to November; you can expect random showers during the day. October is the heaviest rainfall month and many businesses shut down.
SURFING
WORLD-CLASS SURFING BEACHES
The odds of seeing a sign in a storefront window 'GONE SURFING'Â are pretty high in any of the beach communities. As a visitor, you can go local and hit the waves for a lesson or just have some beers while watching from the beach. The waves in Costa Rica are suitable for all age groups, from beginners to experts alike.
RAIN & CLOUD FORESTS
WALK IN THE CLOUDS
Costa Rica is home to six different types of forest with the most popular to explore being the rain and cloud forests. You can find yourself in the clouds walking across a canopy bridge or whizzing down a zipline with views of the famous Lago Arenal. Other popular activities range from waterfall rapelling to rafting to cave spelunking. One thing is for sure, you won't be lacking in things to do here.
BIODIVERSITY
"THE MOST BIOLOGICALLY INTENSE PLACE ON EARTH"
National Geographic estimates that Costa Rica is home to nearly five percent of all known plants and animal species on Earth. 25% of the country is designated for national park and protected wildlife refuges which makes it a 'green' destination as well. Costa Rica’s biodiversity can be attributed to the dramatic shifts in terrain creating numerous micro-climate zones. A popular destination to view some of this epic wildlife is the Osa Peninsula where you will find yourself surrounded by pumas, tapirs, ocelots, anteaters and howler monkeys, as well as more than 350 bird species and marine animals including manta rays, sharks, sailfish, dolphin, and whales.
