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Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s stunning countryside unfolds in an ever-changing panorama of steaming volcanoes, forested mountains, and pastoral scenes, all against dramatic skies. Dark lowland jungles give way to rolling savannas; Pacific surf crashes against rocky headlands, tranquil palms wave above serene Caribbean beaches. Every year, thousands of visitors come to experience the peaceful beauty and natural treasures of Costa Rica — the epitome of tropical nature at its best.

This small country is renowned for its spectacular beaches and the friendly warmth of its people. The intensely vibrant colours of majestic birds and exotic flowers are always on display, while the range of activities available is immense: whitewater rafting and surfing, sport fishing and golf are only a sampling.

Costa Rica is located on the narrow Central American isthmus. It’s only a day’s drive from its northern border with Nicaragua to neighbouring Panama in the south. One could cross from ocean to ocean in only a few hours. But why hurry? There’s just too much to see and do in between. Located in the tropical latitudes, between the giant biological influences of North and South America and bordered by two oceans, mountainous Costa Rica enjoys an immense diversity of climates and environmental regions.

You can drive through the heart of a mountain jungle to the very edge of a volcanic crater, take an aerial tram ride in the rainforest canopy and soak up the sun on a deserted beach, all on the same day.

Climate

Generally, November in Guanacaste, Costa Rica will be quite hot, with an average temperature of around 32°C during the day, cooling down to around 22°C in the evenings. Guanacaste experiences little rain and consistent heat from November to April. Its hot, dry climate makes tropical dry forests the province’s natural vegetation type. 

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Cuisine

Costa Rican cuisine is simple, fresh and hearty – but not spicy. Rice, beans, cilantro, and garlic are staples, along with fruit like cas (guava), pineapples, bananas and papayas.

Every breakfast features the national dish called gallo pinto. This rice-and-beans combo with sweet peppers, celery and onions is served with eggs and tortillas.

The lunch dish called casado is delicious and ubiquitous. No two versions are alike, but it always features beans, rice, salad, meat, fried plantains and a tortilla.

Attractions

Santa Rosa National Park

Santa Rosa National Park protects a rare dry forest—the most notable one in Central America—although it’s also connected to other areas of cloud forest and rainforest. The park is home to a huge range of species: hundreds of birds, thousands of butterflies, and more than 100 kinds of mammals (including monkeys, jaguars and cougars). Thousands of olive ridley sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs at certain times of the year.

There are hiking trails, but access is along rugged roads, so a guided trip is a good idea. You can also access offshore diving and surfing on guided boat trips. At La Casona Hacienda, you can learn about the battle that took place here on March 20, 1856, when Costa Ricans defeated an invading group of American mercenaries.

Miravalles National Park

One of the country’s newest national parks, established in 2019, this park boasts hiking trails, birdwatching, thermal hot springs and the region’s highest volcano, the 6,654-foot Miravalles. There are a number of eco-regions including tropical dry forests, rainforests, and premontane forests, hosting a wide variety of flora and fauna. Tours into the area include a variety of activities including swimming, ziplining, natural mud baths, and horseback riding, often coupled with a visit to the lovely Llanos del Cortés waterfall.

Llanos del Cortés

This is one of the prettiest waterfalls you’ll see in Costa Rica, and although it can get busy with visitors, it’s very worth the price of admission. You can swim in the pool at the base of the 70-foot-high falls and there are even lifeguards!

It’s not far off the highway on a reasonable gravel road, a brief walk down some stairs from the parking area (where there are change rooms and bathrooms), and a gradual entrance into the pool at the base of the falls. You may see frogs and basilisks, which may even pose for you. Bring your own food and drink—there’s no concession stand.

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park

Rincón de la Vieja National Park, nestled in the province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a natural wonderland waiting to be explored. Spanning over 31,000 acres, this park is home to the majestic Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, boasting a landscape dotted with nine cones, a tranquil lagoon named Los Jilgueros, and enchanting waterfalls like La Cangreja and Encantado. The park offers an extensive network of trails, leading adventurers through lush forests to geothermal wonders such as fumaroles, mud pits, and hot springs. Visitors can embark on hikes to the Von Seebach craters and Las Pailas, each revealing the park's geological marvels. With facilities like picnic areas, camping grounds, and historical sites, Rincón de la Vieja National Park provides an immersive experience in Costa Rica's rich biodiversity and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and explorers alike.