Costa Rica
Incredible wildlife, verdant nature and hidden culture of one of the world's most biodiverse countries, Costa Rica
Intro
National Geographic called it one of the happiest places in the world and it’s not hard to see why. Standing apart from its turbulent neighbours, diminutive Costa Rica is regarded as Central America’s peaceful oasis. Without a national army since 1948, its people, or ‘Ticos’, only live by one rule – 'pura vida'. Simply translated to “pure life”, it is most commonly heard as a greeting, but serves as the foundation for a relaxed way of life, and is followed across the country, from the bustling streets of San José to the remote, biologically intense Osa Peninsula.
Despite its small size, Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity, a fact which will delight many nature and wildlife lovers. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Caribbean Sea to the north, it boasts an ecological treasure trove of humpback whales, green sea turtles, manta rays, hummingbirds, sloths and howler monkeys, amongst others. Immerse yourself in its tropical rainforests and mystical cloud forests that teem with rare bird populations, or relax on its pristine palm-fringed coastlines amidst swooping scarlet macaws and playful white-faced capuchin monkeys. There's no doubt that Costa Rica is one of Central America’s most popular tourist destinations, with eco-resorts, trendy yoga houses and surf schools opening all the time. However, you only need to dig a little beneath the surface to find fascinating cultures and traditional ways of life. From the indigenous Bri-Bri community of Talamanca to the proud sabanero culture in Liberia and coffee country of Naranjo, there is an authentic side to Costa Rica just waiting to be discovered.
Why travel with us ?
There's no doubt that Costa Rica is a well-known destination for wildlife- and nature-lovers, but at Travel The Unknown we want to share another side of the country with you. Costa Rica has a fascinating and varied culture, from the production of beautiful hand-painted ox carts in the Central Valley town of Sarchí to the indigenous Bri-Bri community in the eastern province of Talamanca and authentic cookery classes in which you can create tasty Costa Rican delicacies with your own two hands. Of course, our tours include some of Costa Rica's most spectacular scenery and wildlife, but you will also have the opportunity to learn about the often overlooked history and culture of the country.While we have made our group tours of Costa Rica as varied and far-reaching as possible, there is so much to see and do in this incredible destination that if you would like to spend longer exploring or would prefer a tailor-made tour, we would be more than happy to help. There are adventure activities aplenty in Arenal, including zip-lining and white-water rafting, and for those keen to get off the beaten track in nature, there is nowhere better than the Osa Peninsula - the most 'biologically intense place on Earth', according to National Geographic. If beach time is more your style, Costa Rica offers some paradisaical white-sand beaches and luxury resorts for a spot of R 'n' R after an action-packed itinerary. The options are endless, so get in touch with our friendly Travel Specialists and start planning your trip-of-a-lifetime. As the Costa Ricans say, pura vida!
Quick Facts
Capital: San José
Population: Around 4.9 million
Languages: Spanish
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