Costa Rica – The pure joy of life
Pura vida – the pure joy of living, that’s the lesson I took with my heart from Costa Rica! In this beautiful and distant destination for us, I spent 12 full days in which I adventured, learned and recharged all my understandings of beauty, tranquility and coexistence with nature. In this article I will try to tell you about the places I visited and give useful tips to prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Table of Contents
Brief information about Costa Rica
Costa Rica, translated as “The Rich Bay“, is a beautiful Central American country that boasts an abundance of natural beauty. It is home to stunning beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, offering opportunities for a host of experiences. The country’s interior is dotted with tropical jungles and wildlife, with volcanoes and jungles guiding travelers to incredible adventures.
Costa Rica is also known for its wealth of exotic biodiversity, with this small country being home to around 5% of all animal and plant species in the world. Costa Rica’s beauty is perfect for ecotourism – the destination is known for its parks and protected areas that offer opportunities for educational excursions and nature adventures. The culture here is a mix of influences from Spain and local traditions expressed through cuisine, music and traditional festivals.
Why should you visit Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in Central America. Here’s why I would recommend visiting it:
A wealth of natural beauty: From the stunning beaches of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, to the abundance of exotic vegetation and wildlife in the national parks, Costa Rica offers an incredible variety of natural attractions.
Environmental focus: Costa Rica is a pioneer in the field of ecotourism. Your visit will give you the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the country.
Active vacations: From surfing and rafting, to mountain biking and jungle trekking, Costa Rica offers many exciting sports and adventure opportunities.
Rich in culture and history: Costa Rica has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its cuisine, art and traditions. You will easily immerse yourself in the local culture and learn more about the history and customs of the country.
Hospitality of the locals: Costa Ricans, also called “Ticos“, are extremely hospitable and pleasant people. Your visit will prove this to you by introducing you to their way of life and enjoying their warm hospitality.
Tips for your preparation for Costa Rica
Traveling to a faraway destination always requires a bit more serious preparation, on this occasion I share with you some tips to get your adventure off to a good start here.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases: Although many of the locals speak English, knowing basic Spanish phrases can help you get by, especially if you’re visiting more remote locations. And in this way you show respect for the locals and their culture.
- Comfortable walking shoes: The mountains and jungle of Costa Rica offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures. Wear comfortable walking shoes that can handle different terrains.
- Insect Protection: Don’t forget to carry insect repellent, especially if you plan to visit Costa Rica during the rainy season. It is recommended to wear clothes with long sleeves and legs to protect yourself as much as possible from bites.
- Plan the season: Costa Rica has two main seasons – dry and rainy. Plan your trip according to your preferences and interests. For example, the rainy season may be cheaper and less crowded, but also carry greater risks of rain and flooding.
- Rent a car: Public transportation in Costa Rica is well developed, but with a rental car the adventure would be even more authentic. And you will have complete freedom to go where you want, when you want. The only serious recommendation is to always pay extra for full car insurance as there can be ridiculous damage like a coconut falling on the car.
- Try the local cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the authentic Costa Rican cuisine, such as “galo pinto” (mixture of rice and black beans), “tacos“, “guarabito” (tropical fruit) and other local specialties.
- Travel Insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when visiting abroad to protect you in the event of an accident or illness.
- Mobile Internet: The range in the country is at a very good level, on this occasion you can get a preliminary e-SIM card (this option is a bit more expensive) or get a SIM card from the airport/operator shop. Prices range from $20-$30, depending on the plan you want.
- Currency and exchange: The national currency of Costa Rica is the colon (CRC), with 10,000 colones being approximately BGN 3.66. To exchange money in Costa Rica, you can use exchange offices or ATMs. Of course, it’s a good idea to check the exchange rates before your trip, and keep in mind that some areas accept dollars for payment.
- Be environmentally aware: Help preserve the beauty of Costa Rica by following environmental rules and limiting your waste. There are serious laws and fines for illegal littering, as well as designated smoking areas.
- Excursions and additional services: Costa Rica is full of natural sights and attractions. Take advantage of local excursions to visit national parks, hike around volcanoes, ride tarzan trams through jungles, and more.
- Safety: Costa Rica is generally a safe destination, but still be careful with your personal belongings and avoid remote or dangerous areas at night.
My itinerary in Costa Rica
In total, my entire trip was 14 days, 2 of which I spent on the planes on the route Sofia – Paris – San Jose. Thus, I spent 12 full days in Costa Rica, and I can say that if I had the chance, I would have added another 2 or 4 days to visit the few remaining places that I wanted to. But this is just an excuse to return one day back to this paradise!
In the following lines, I will share my itinerary as well the highlights of each day of our Costa Rican adventure:
Day 1 – Arrival in the capital of Costa Rica, San Jose
The beginning of our journey started in the capital San Jose, but since we arrived in the late afternoon, we just went to collect our pre-booked rental car and checked into the hotel where we only stayed for one night. We left exploring the capital for the last day (where I will tell more) of our stay in Costa Rica.
Day 2 – Depart for La Fortuna, the happy place in Costa Rica
La Fortuna was our first stop and it’s a wonderful vacation spot in Costa Rica! Here you can enjoy impressive forest landscapes and hot springs. The town is known for its impressive views of the Arenal Volcano, a place for hiking and wildlife watching. There are also many opportunities for kayaking, sailing and waterfall tours in the region. If you love adventure and beautiful nature, La Fortuna is definitely the place for you!
Highlights of the day:
Poas Volcano National Park.
The Poas Volcano National Park in Costa Rica is one of the most impressive natural sites in the country. The park is home to several active volcanoes, including Poas Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Poas is crowned with three craters, two of which are dormant. One crater is likened to a dark, steaming cauldron of boiling water. It is the lowest and still active crater that resembles a desert moonscape. It has a diameter of 1.6 km. and a depth of 300 m., which makes it one of the largest active volcanoes in the world.
The park is also a suitable spot for trekking, from which visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the volcano, forests and exotic flora and fauna of the region. A visit to Poas Volcano National Park is an unforgettable journey for any nature lover.
The Gardens of La Paz.
“Gardens of La Paz” is an extremely beautiful and exciting place in Costa Rica. These gardens boast an incredible variety of Central American tropical flora and fauna.
The gardens of La Paz are home to a wealth of exotic flowers, plants and trees, as well as different types of birds – toucans, hummingbirds, etc., reptiles – local snakes and lizards, predators – jaguars, pumas and other intriguing animals (such as most of them are saved). It is also a center of attraction for photography lovers and connoisseurs of authentic nature.
Day 3 – Arenal, the most beautiful volcano in Costa Rica
Arenal is one of the most iconic places in Costa Rica. It is a volcano that is active and attracts many tourists from all over the world. It is located in the northern part of the country and is one of the youngest volcanoes in Costa Rica.
The region around Arenal is unsurpassed in terms of natural beauty, including forests, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs and rich flora and fauna.
Highlights of the day:
La Fortuna Waterfall.
La Fortuna Falls in Costa Rica is one of the country’s most impressive natural wonders. It is located near the town of Arenal. The waterfall offers an impressive spectacle where the fall flows from a height of 76 meters into the crystal clear pool below. This naturally beautiful waterfall is accessible by taking a short 15-minute walk through the jungle, and the reward is that bathing around the falls is allowed.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is a hotel and nature reserve in Costa Rica, also located near Arenal. The reserve is known for its impressive views of the volcano and extensive networks of walking routes.
This was definitely one of my favorite places in Costa Rica where, in addition to the rich plant diversity, I saw for the first time the little-known rainbow eucalyptus that you can see in the photo. And the place itself is wonderful for tourists looking for an adventure in nature, as well as for those who seek to relax and enjoy the tranquility of one of the most outstanding nature reserves in Costa Rica.
Laguna del Arenal.
Laguna del Arenal is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Costa Rica. This beautiful natural lagoon is again located near the volcano. The lagoon is surrounded by mountains, a great place for outdoor activities – kayaking, swimming, fishing or just enjoying the amazing views and/or the tranquility that surrounds. It is an ideal place for tourists who love outdoor adventures and want to experience the beauty of wild nature.
Day 4 – River safari and relaxation in Costa Rican style
Highlights of the day:
Sarapiki River Safari.
This was our first organized tourist service – a safari along the Sarapiki River. It is located in the province of Limon, in the eastern part of the country. The river runs through amazing jungles and one of the most popular things to do is rafting, but we decided not to overdo it from the start and so we settled on a kayaking safari where we had the opportunity to explore and observe the wildlife around the river, with our desired pace.
Sarapiki also offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. The river and surrounding jungles are home to a variety of animal species including toucans, crocodiles, monkeys and many more. It was on this occasion that we were very pleased to have taken advantage of an organized service, as we had a local guide with us who shared with us all interesting facts about the animals, as well as helping us find and observe them.
The “Relax Termalitas Hot Springs” complex.
The “Relax Termalitas Hot Springs” complex offers warm mineral springs and relaxing procedures in a natural setting. This unique resort is an ideal place for rest and recovery in the heart of nature. It has over 10 mineral pools of different sizes and temperatures. For me personally, the place was the cherry on top of the cake for the day, as after a full day of paddling we needed to indulge in complete relaxation under the setting sky over Costa Rica.
Day 5 – Departure to the city of Coco, one of the most popular resorts in Costa Rica
The city of Coco, located on the Pacific Ocean, is one of the most popular resort locations in the country. Coco’s beach atmosphere is lively and energetic – here you can enjoy beach sports such as surfing, diving and kayaking. The city also offers a rich nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs.
For the adventurous, near Coco are some of Costa Rica’s best national parks, such as Rincon de la Vieja National Park and Rincon de la Osa National Park – more opportunities to spot tropical plants and animals
The freshness of the green jungles, the crystal and warm waters of the Pacific Ocean and the unique culture make Costa Rica and Coco an unforgettable vacation spot.
Highlights of the day:
Tenorio Volcano National Park.
Tenorio Volcano National Park in Costa Rica is home to incredible natural wonders. In the park itself is the Tenorio volcano, which is one of the most famous in the country. In addition to the volcano, the park also has the incredibly beautiful Laguna Serena lake, which attracts many visitors with its turquoise waters.
Here you can find different types of tropical plants and animals, such as birds, butterflies, monkeys and many others. One of the most famous attractions in the park is the “Rio Celeste“, or “Celestial River“, which is distinguished by its unusual light blue color, which is due to minerals. I can definitely say that seeing the river and waterfall live is simply awe-inspiring!
Whether you’re going hiking, birdwatching, or just want to relax, don’t miss out on visiting Tenorio Park!
Day 6 – Relax along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica
The country’s Pacific coastal region is particularly exciting, offering crystal clear beaches, plenty of relaxation as well as a host of water sports.
On this occasion, we decided that day to indulge in full-on fun and relaxed at several beaches (Playa Hermosa, Playa Del Coco and Playa Blanca), and finally we also took advantage of a yacht at sunset.
Day 7 – Departure to Monteverde, the green paradise of Costa Rica
Monteverde is the most charming place in the country, known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful forest landscapes.
It is a small village located in the mountains, about 1440 meters above sea level, which makes it perfect for mountain tourism in the tropics. Monteverde is known for its colorful rainforest and rich biodiversity, including some of the continent’s rarest and most endangered animals, such as tapirs, anteaters, jaguars, and more.
In addition to the exotic nature, Monteverde also offers many opportunities for outdoor adventures, such as Tarzan trams (roping over the rainforest), mountain biking and countless hiking trails.
Highlight of the day:
“The Falls of Llano de Cortes”.
Llanos del Cortes Falls in Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in the country. It is located near the city of Liberia and is accessible to tourists. The waterfall, which you will hear from afar, impresses with its water falls of 28 m high and 12 m wide. It descends into a quiet pond with a white sandy beach suitable for swimming and sunbathing. It is an excellent place to relax and enjoy nature in its full beauty.
Day 8 – Fun and learning in the Costa Rican jungles
Speaking of Monteverde and the possibility of many interesting activities in the mountain jungles, we knew that we had to dedicate one day to only such activities, and I can only say that it was great!
Highlights of the day:
Selvatura Park.
Selvatura Park is the most exciting destination for young and old thrill seekers in Costa Rica. Such as the Tarzan tram, crossing beautiful and jungle-surrounded bridges, studying the environment, touring the science and information center, etc. With your visit here, you will give yourself the opportunity to enjoy Costa Rica in a different way.
Night walking safari.
To better understand the wildlife in Costa Rica, we decided to book a night safari with a professional, and believe me, every minute of this venture was amazing! This type of experience will allow you to immerse yourself in the mysterious world of the night jungle. The guide will tell you about the nocturnal animals and plants that are found in the region, and you will have the opportunity to see many of them live. We were very lucky, because it was here that we saw the symbol of the country – the sloth. Besides him we saw an armadillo, many different kinds of snakes, tarantulas and birds. From different species of frogs and reptiles to birds and mammals, a night walk like this will reveal an unseen side of the beautiful Costa Rican wildlife.
Day 9 – Depart for Tortuguero, the Caribbean jewel of Costa Rica
At the end of our journey, we headed to one of the most fabulous places, the Tortuguero Peninsula, home to stunning marine life ecosystems and exotic beaches.
Tortuguero, one of Costa Rica’s most special national parks, is a unique lagoon ecosystem that attracts nature lovers from around the world. This biodiverse reserve is located on the Caribbean coast of the country and is distinguished by its water channels that crisscross the complex system of lagoons, and the beaches of the Caribbean beaches are also the place where sea turtles choose to lay and breed. Unfortunately, our visit was not at the right time of the year, and we were not able to witness this process. But in the surrounding area there are many opportunities for even closer contact with wildlife.
This nature park offers not only amazing natural views, but also opportunities for educational programs and scientific research that help protect this important ecosystem resource. Thus, visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature while participating in efforts to protect and preserve it for future generations.
Day 10 – Relax on the Caribbean coast and kayak in Tortuguero
Beaching in the Caribbean Sea.
Tortuguero Beach is one of the most attractive places in Costa Rica. It is famous for its white sands, the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the unique opportunity to see sea turtles that nest on these shores. From here you can watch sunrises and sunsets over the ocean, immerse yourself in the bright colors of the coral reefs while diving or simply enjoy the sun under the shadows of palm trees on the beach.
Kayaking in the lagoon channels at Tortuguero.
Kayaking in Tortuguero is an unforgettable adventure that should not be missed, because it is through it that you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonderful nature of Costa Rica. This area is known for its rich biodiversity and one of the most important wildlife viewing spots in the country.
When kayaking in Tortuguero, you will touch the world of mangroves, which are home to many different species of birds, reptiles and mammals. Also, you can meet different types of Costa Rican animals, such as monkeys, crocodiles and even jaguars.
Day 11 – Departure to San Jose
Due to the low water levels in Tortuguero, the retreat was slow and prolonged. Because of this and the unforeseen delay, much of our day was spent getting from point A to point B, and we arrived late in the capital, which didn’t give us much opportunity to explore it (apart from a quick dinner out).
Day 12 – Around the capital of Costa Rica
San Jose is a picturesque city located in the heart of the country, being its largest city and cultural center with a population of approximately 335,000.
One of the most popular attractions in San Jose is the National Theater, which is famous for its architecture and the cultural events that take place there. La Sabana Park is a favorite place for locals and visitors alike, where you can take a walk, enjoy a picnic or simply indulge in the tranquility of nature.
For museum lovers, San Jose has several interesting museums, including the Museum of Gold, where you can learn more about the history of gold in the region, and the National Museum, which offers an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts and exhibits.
The city is also a good starting point for exploring other parts of Costa Rica such as national parks, beaches and jungle excursions. San Jose offers a variety of restaurants, cafes and local markets where you can try authentic Costa Rican dishes and buy special souvenirs.
Conclusion
My visit to Costa Rica was an amazing experience that I won’t soon forget. This beautiful country offers a variety of natural beauties, cultural attractions and adventures for every taste.
Experiencing the wealth of wildlife in the national parks was extremely exciting. From the stunning beaches of the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans to the rainforests and volcanoes, every part of the country offered unique emotions and impressions.
Meeting the locals was a real pleasure. Their spirit of hospitality and respect for nature impressed me, and the delicious Costa Rican cuisine was a real discovery for my taste buds.
Last but not least, the impact of the country’s environmental efforts was inspiring. Costa Rica is a world leader in environmental protection, contributing to the preservation of these incredible natural treasures for future generations.
My visit to Costa Rica was definitely one of my most memorable adventures, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a combination of adventure, nature and culture. I left with Pura vida!
