Vacation Ideas in Costa Rica

• What is San Jose, Costa Rica?
  • San Jose is the capital city of Costa Rica, located in the heart of the country. It is known for being one of the most varied provinces due to its mix of urban and traditional influences.
• What makes San Jose unique?
  • San Jose is both a cosmopolitan urban center and a traditional Central American city, rich with culture and history.
• What kind of attractions can visitors experience in San Jose?
  • The city offers a mix of historical architecture, energetic nightlife, and a wide array of attractions and activities. Visitors will find:
    • Art galleries and museums
    • Parks and public squares
    • Eateries serving delicious local and international cuisine
• What are some must-visit places in San Jose?
  • Premier attractions in the city include:
    • Spanish Park
    • Democracy Plaza
    • Central Park
    • Jade Museum – home to the world’s largest American jade collection, organized by cultural regions, as well as exhibits featuring ceramics, gold pieces, and stonework.

• What is Tortuguero National Park?
  • Tortuguero National Park is a unique and expansive park in Costa Rica, covering approximately 47,000 acres of land and an additional 129,000 maritime acres.
• How is Tortuguero National Park different from other parks?
  • Unlike most national parks, it is best explored by boat, canoe, or kayak instead of on foot, due to its extensive network of canals, beaches, wetlands, and lagoons.
• Are there any walking trails in Tortuguero National Park?
  • Yes! There are marked trails along the beach for visitors who wish to observe turtles nesting.
• What kind of wildlife can be seen in Tortuguero National Park?
  • The park is a safe haven for various turtle species, including:
    • Green sea turtles
    • Hawksbill turtles
    • Leatherback turtles
• What is the highlight of visiting Tortuguero National Park?
  • The park’s highlight is the opportunity to witness turtles laying eggs or new hatchlings making their way to the sea. This experience requires an evening guided tour.

Activities for Couples

• What is Cocos Island?
  • Cocos Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most in-demand scuba diving destinations in the world.
• Where is Cocos Island located?
  • The island is located off the coast of Costa Rica in the Pacific Ocean and is famous for its remote and pristine environment.
• Is Cocos Island inhabited?
  • No, the island is uninhabited, except for a permanent ranger’s station.
• Why is Cocos Island popular among scuba divers?
  • The island is home to the largest schools of hammerhead sharks in the world, along with various species of rays, including giant manta rays, several species of whales, numerous dolphins, and over 300 types of brilliantly colored fish.
• Who would enjoy visiting Cocos Island?
  • The island is a dream destination for filmmakers, scientists, photographers, and scuba divers who wish to explore its underwater wonders.
• What other activities can visitors enjoy on Cocos Island?
  • In addition to diving, visitors can enjoy wildlife watching, hiking, and sport fishing.
• What did Jacques Cousteau say about Cocos Island?
  • The legendary explorer and oceanographer Jacques Cousteau called Cocos Island "the most beautiful island in the world."

• What is Alajuela?
  • Alajuela is Costa Rica’s second-largest city and is well known for its rich history and cultural significance.
• What role did Alajuela play in Costa Rica’s independence?
  • The city was an active player in gaining independence from Spain and holds deep historical roots in Costa Rican heritage.
• Who was Juan Santamaría?
  • Juan Santamaría was a national hero and drummer boy from Alajuela. He sacrificed his life during the Battle of Hacienda Santa Rosa to save Costa Rica from the forces of William Walker.
• What is the Juan Santamaría Cultural Historical Museum?
  • This museum showcases portraits, artifacts, and historical maps related to the Battle of Hacienda Santa Rosa, preserving the legacy of Juan Santamaría.
• What is Central Park in Alajuela?
  • Located near the museum, Central Park is a prominent gathering spot where visitors can mingle with locals and experience the city’s vibrant culture.
• What other attractions should visitors see in Alajuela?
  • Visitors should make time to:
    • Explore the butterfly farm
    • Tour Zoo Ave, a renowned wildlife rescue center
    • Visit the Poás Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes

Recommended Activities for Families

• What is Arenal Volcano National Park?
  • Arenal Volcano National Park is a protected area located on the edge of the Talamanca Mountains. It was originally established as a safety zone around the active Arenal Volcano.
• Was Arenal Volcano always active?
  • Yes! There was a time when visitors to La Fortuna, the closest town to the park, could watch fiery nighttime displays of the volcano’s eruptions from their hotels.
• What wildlife can be found in Arenal Volcano National Park?
  • The park protects 131 species of mammals, including:
    • Howler monkeys
    • Sloths
    • Spider monkeys
    • Coatis
    • And many more!
    It is also home to 135 species of reptiles, including the deadly fer-de-lance viper.
• What kind of habitats does the park protect?
  • The park safeguards rainforest and river habitats, preserving the diverse ecosystem for its wildlife.
• Are there hiking trails in Arenal Volcano National Park?
  • Yes! The park features numerous hiking trails for visitors to explore, along with opportunities for guided tours.
• What other attractions should visitors see near the park?
  • Visitors won’t want to miss the La Fortuna Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction near the park.

• What is Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve?
  • Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is located on the southern end of the Nicoya Peninsula and holds the distinction of being Costa Rica’s first protected national park.
• Why is Cabo Blanco popular among bird watchers?
  • The reserve is known as White Cape due to its guano-covered rocks (seabird dung), making it a prime location for seabirds and home to a dedicated seabird sanctuary.
• What bird species can be found in Cabo Blanco?
  • The reserve is home to a large number of seabirds, including:
    • Ospreys
    • Brown boobies
    • Frigate birds
    • Laughing gulls
    • Brown pelicans
    • Terns
    In total, over 240 bird species have been recorded in the reserve.
• What other wildlife can be found in Cabo Blanco?
  • The reserve also serves as a refuge for various animal species, including:
    • Wild cats
    • Capuchin monkeys
    • Pacas
    • And many more!
• Who would enjoy visiting Cabo Blanco?
  • The reserve is a paradise for naturalists, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a rich variety of flora and fauna to explore.

• What is Cahuita?
  • Cahuita is a laidback village in Limón Province with a long Afro-Caribbean heritage. It is known for its bohemian atmosphere and attracts visitors looking for a unique cultural experience.
• Why is Cahuita popular with travelers?
  • The village is considered a Shangri-La for hippies, both young and old, offering a relaxed and vibrant community with a mix of culture, nature, and adventure.
• What beaches can visitors enjoy in Cahuita?
  • Cahuita features two stunning beaches:
    • Playa Negra – a beautiful black sand beach perfect for relaxation.
    • Cahuita National Park Beach – a white sand beach surrounded by lush nature.
• Is there good snorkeling and diving in Cahuita?
  • Yes! Separating the two beaches is Costa Rica’s best coral reef, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
• What kind of food is available in Cahuita?
  • The eastern coast is known for its savory and spicy dishes, including:
    • Jerk chicken
    • Curried goat
    • Spicy seafood dishes
• Are there guided tours available?
  • Yes! Visitors can book guided tours for both Cahuita National Park and offshore open water activities, such as snorkeling and diving excursions.

• What is Cartago?
  • Cartago is a historic city located in the foothills of the Irazú Volcano in Costa Rica’s Central Valley.
• What historical sites can visitors explore in Cartago?
  • Visitors can explore the ruins of past volcanic eruptions, including:
    • Las Ruinas de la Parroquia – the outer walls of an unfinished church.
    • Las Ruinas of Cartago – located at the town’s square, showcasing remnants of the city's past.
• What modern attractions does Cartago offer?
  • One of the city’s most technologically advanced attractions is the Museo Municipal de Cartago, featuring contemporary exhibits and historical displays.
• Why is Cartago an important agricultural center?
  • Due to its history of volcanic eruptions, the surrounding land is exceptionally fertile, making Cartago a thriving hub for agriculture.
• What is the Lankester Botanical Garden?
  • The Lankester Botanical Garden is a must-visit spot for nature lovers, featuring a wide variety of flora, with a special focus on orchids.
• What is the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles?
  • The Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles is a significant pilgrimage destination. Every August, thousands of visitors come to honor sightings of the famous Black Virgin.

For Photographers

• What is Chirripó National Park?
  • Chirripó National Park is home to Costa Rica’s highest peak and offers the ultimate adventure climb for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
• What makes hiking in Chirripó National Park challenging?
  • The trek to the top is a strenuous, 9-mile climb with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet. Due to the high altitude, hikers should be prepared for altitude sickness.
• What is the reward for reaching the summit?
  • At the top, hikers are rewarded with a 360-degree panoramic view, where they can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
• Is there accommodation near the summit?
  • Yes! Near the summit, hikers can stay at Centro Ambientalista El Paraíso, a rustic 40-bed shelter with rock walls and a tin roof. Electricity is limited to one hour after dark.
• What other points of interest are near Chirripó National Park?
  • Nearby attractions include:
    • Talamanca Reserve
    • Cloudbridge Reserve
    • Thermal springs near the San Gerardo de Rivas ranger station

• What is Corcovado National Park?
  • Corcovado National Park is the perfect eco-tourism destination located on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. Originally a remote conservation research station, it is now a highly sought-after eco-travel destination.
• How can visitors access Corcovado National Park?
  • The nearest towns providing access to the park are:
    • Drake Bay
    • Carate
    • Puerto Jiménez
    • La Palma
• What types of expeditions are available?
  • Visitors can choose from one-day, two-day, and multi-day expeditions, which depart from the surrounding towns.
• How do travelers choose the right trail?
  • The park features six trails. Travelers should first decide what they want to see and then choose an expedition that matches their preferred trail.
• Are park permits required?
  • Yes! Park permits are required and can only be issued 31 days or fewer before a visit.
• Do visitors need a guide?
  • Yes, all visitors must be accompanied by certified professional guides for safety and conservation purposes.