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Holidays to Costa Rica
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Create everlasting memories in captivating Costa Rica
Costa Rica in Central America offers exciting landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a warm ‘pura vida’ (pure life) culture. Journey into the depths of the rainforest to marvel at the native wildlife or experience an ecosystem like no other at the Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Trek the lava fields and relax in the hot springs and thermal pools of the Arenal Volcano. Get your adrenaline fix with white-water rafting, zipline through the rainforest, snorkel in the crystal-clear seas, or tee-off from one of the world-class golf courses.
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Costa Rica holiday highlights
The Costa Rican balance of breathtaking natural landscapes, diverse wildlife and thrilling outdoor adventures offers a unique variety of not-to-be-missed experiences.
1. Roam the national parks and reserves
Hike, explore and get up close with the native wildlife in Costa Rica’s stunning conservation areas such as Corcovado National Park or Manuel Antonio National Park.
Costa Rica overview
Before colonisation in 1502, Costa Rica was inhabited by the Huetar, Chorotega and Bribri people who farmed, hunted and fished the land and seas. During his final voyage, Christopher Columbus discovered the area, taking it as part of the Spanish colonial empire.
Costa Rica became independent from Spain in 1821, later joining the United Provinces of Central America, and in 1838 declared its sovereignty to become a fully independent nation.
In 1948, after a brief civil war, the country decided to abolish its army and focus on education, social programmes and healthcare, resulting in it becoming one of the most peaceful and politically stable countries in South America.
Today, Costa Rica continues to develop economically while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental conservation and social well-being, especially education and quality of life.
Costa Rica has a tropical climate and the country is separated into different climate zones. Between December and April, the Pacific coast area experiences a dry season with sunny days and lower humidity. The wet season sees heavier rainfall, especially in September and October.
The Caribbean coast gets more consistent rainfall throughout the year, with heavier rain during October and November. A slightly drier period is from March to September.
The Central Valley, including the capital city San José, enjoys more moderate weather with less extreme temperature variations and a dry season from December to April.
The country also sees many microclimates with rainforests, cloud forests, beaches and mountains all having their own unique weather patterns.
The most popular time to visit Costa Rica is during December to April, the dry season, as the lower rainfall and sunny weather are perfect for enjoying beaches and outdoor activities. Wildlife viewing at this time can be easier as animals will gather at water sources to drink. However, it will be more crowded in popular tourist spots, with travel and accommodation rates at a premium.
The wet season between May and November is perfect for those who don’t mind the increased risk of rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings. As well as lush, vibrant landscapes and fewer crowds, you will also get lower hotel rates and tour prices. Water sports such as white-water rafting and surfing may also be better at this time due to the higher water levels.
What to eat
Food in Costa Rica is a flavourful fusion of tastes influenced by its Spanish, African and Caribbean heritage. One must-try dish is olla de carne, a delicious, hearty Costa Rican beef stew made with corn, yuca, plantains and potatoes. For a snack, you have to try chifrijo, an appetiser consisting of rice, beans, pork and pico de gallo with tortilla chips – perfect with a cold beer! To drink, it has to be one of Costa Rica’s infamous coffees grown and harvested in this magical country.
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