Overview of Costa Rica
To the northeast of the Central Valley, the Limon Province stretches down the Caribbean Coast forming the North Caribbean and South Caribbean Regions. World-class fishing, eco-tourism and diving in crystal clear waters are top attractions while other activities present the opportunity to explore lush rain forests, wildlife refuges, beautiful beaches and a number of National Parks. The endangered green turtle nests in this area of Costa Rica allowing guides to take you to secluded beaches to view these amazing creatures. Cahuita's reef is also found off of the coast of this natural paradise hosting such a variety of coral rarely found in such proximity throughout the world. These are just a few perfect examples of the exotic natural wonders for which Costa Rica is famous. Nature enthusiasts are bound to find a small piece of heaven when visiting Limon Province.
Directly northwest of San Jose, Costa Rica displays a different face of diversity. The Northern Plains, North Pacific and Cloud Forest regions contain volcanos, lakes, rare tropical dry forest, a savanna, and some of Costa Rica's most popular beaches. Lake Arenal, the largest lake in the country is considered by many as the world's best wind surfing location. Steady sustained winds from November through April draw windsurfers to the western shore making it a favorite among enthusiasts. Within sight of the lake lies Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica's most active volcano and a sight you will not want to miss. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve will quietly steal your breath away as you gaze through the enormous trees swathed in the creators life sustaining mist. Exotic wildlife, thousands of plant species, hundreds of bird species, reptiles, amphibians and kingdoms of insect life grace this magnificent region of Costa Rica not to mention the species of flora you will enjoy. The Northern Plains present visitors with rolling hills, cattle farms and outstanding river tours. It is the perfect location to see the landscape by horseback or take an adventure tour by river.
Travel due west from the Central Valley and find the Central Pacific and Nicoya Peninsula Region with some of the best vacation areas in Costa Rica. Beaches of white sand and clear blue ocean are framed by vibrant green jungle. Offering fantastic amenities throughout the region, the area is famous for its surfing and exhilarating night life. Watch monkeys playing through the jungle moments before swimming next to dolphins in the sea. At the end of the day, the exciting local population will show you how to enjoy the evening in towns like Samara, Nosara, Jaco or Manuel Antonio. These regions tend to cater to the energetic visitor, ready for a taste of variety.
Making your way south towards the Osa Penninsula and the South Pacific Region, take in a region specially known for its biological diversity in a land that exemplifies the term. According to National Geographic magazine it is "the most biologically intense place on earth." Characterized by its soaring mountains, which look upon verdant rain forests lined by pristine beaches, one can find eight unique habitats in this masterpiece of nature. Surrounded on three sides by water, the Osa Peninsula is a paradise within a region already famous for it's beauty. The over 300,000 acres of land spreads across nine national parks and half of Costa Rica's nature reserves. These are host to rare, endangered animals and plants including jaguars, four species of monkeys, and Scarlet Macaws. Discover the wonders of this region from horseback before taking advantage of the perfect waves rolling towards the untouched beaches, and the warm sun upon your face.
Our website features over 300 hotels located in every corner of Costa Rica. Go to our accommodation page for complete a complete listing.
Costa Rica will steal your heart. Visit one of the most beautiful and exciting places on earth, and you will never want to leave. As you travel home, you will be planning your return trip. Take advantage of "the most biologically intense place on earth" during the day and continue your adventure with the thrilling nightlife Costa Rica offers. See you soon!
Watch the video "Costa Rica - no artificial Ingredients" here.