Living the Pura Vida: The Diverse Appeal of Costa Rica

The national slogan of Costa Rica is Pura Vida. It means “pure life” and speaks to how citizens of this Central American nation live their life to the full. They’re easygoing, confident, and committed to conservation and sustainability. They have a lot to be proud of, which becomes apparent the moment you visit. 

Costa Rica is a beautiful nation that is a favourite for travellers heading south in search of  lush, green vistas. Beach bums and snowbirds enjoy the year-round warm temperatures and long, sandy beaches. Nature lovers bask in the tropical environment, where rainforests and volcanoes give way to blue coastal waters. Animal lovers explore the forests in search of toucans, howler monkeys, and sleepy sloths. Those looking for a touch of luxury will find thermal hot springs to unwind in and gorgeous resorts with volcano and ocean views. 

The diversity of Costa Rica makes it special. But what’s the best way to experience this nation’s natural wonders? The honest answer: however you choose. With its varied landscape, welcoming people, and safe tourism infrastructure, Costa Rica allows you to follow your passions in exploring its 51,000 sq-km (19,729 sq-mi) for yourself. 

Costa Rica is made for wildlife lovers.

Costa Rica is one of the world's most biodiverse nations. Despite being roughly the size of West Virginia, it is home to around six percent of the world’s known animal species. That’s a staggering number for such a compact landmass, but it’s easy to understand once you visit the country. Seemingly every tree in Costa Rica houses an exotic animal. 

Costa Rica’s biodiversity is largely the result of its unique position on the isthmus of Central America. It’s the meeting point for wildlife following migratory routes from both North and South America, so it features the most colourful species from across two continents. The biodiversity is also a result of its lush and diverse landscape of volcanic mountain ranges, two oceanic coastlines, and variety of tropical rainforests. Such a wide range of landscapes attracts all kinds of animals. 

If you’re a birder, you’re in for a treat in Costa Rica. No matter where you are in the country, birdwatching tours will reveal some of the world’s most beautiful birds: scarlet macaws in the coastal forest of Manuel Antonio, hummingbirds and trogons, including the rare resplendent quetzal, in misty Monteverde; toucans and hummingbirds hiding in the woods near Sarapiquí. 

Walking tours help you spot sleepy two- and three-toed sloths in Guarumos trees and howler monkeys calling from jungle canopies, while aquatic wildlife tours bring the change to spot whales, green sea turtles, and even rare manatees in the waters offshore. If you love animals, this is the place to be in Central America. 

For a great chance to spot exotic birds, including resplendent quetzals, check out Birdwatching in Costa Rica. 

Costa Rica's rainforests and coastlines are adventure hotspots.

Costa Rica's volcanic and coastal landscape creates the ideal conditions for popular adventure activities. In the rainforest around Arenal, you’ll find many ziplines where you can soar through the air and feel the rush of life above the canopy. In Monteverde, you can hike across hanging bridges and pass through the mists that give the cloud forest its name. On the waters of the Rio Celeste, you can go tubing and ride the river through the jungle landscape. 

You also don’t have to opt for heart-pounding adventures to take advantage of Costa Rica’s landscape. There are many soft adventure opportunities here, from mountain biking along the trails surrounding Lake Arenal to peaceful kayak journeys through the mangroves of Tortuguero. You can learn to surf or simply paddleboard off the beach. Adventure awaits in Costa Rica, no matter how you define it. 

If you want to explore Costa Rica by land and sea, check out Costa Rica: Jungle & Coast. 

The nation’s lesser-known parks showcase natural wonder. 

If you really want to explore the best of Costa Rica, go off the beaten path. Don’t get me wrong: I love Arenal, Monteverde, and Manual Antonio. But they’re not the only places in the country to search for animals in lush rainforest, lounge on sandy beaches, and delight in the nation’s natural wonder. 

Take Tortuguero, for instance. Located on the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is crisscrossed with canals and lagoons that are flush with exotic wildlife, including spectacled caimans and all species of turtles. Speaking of turtles, leatherback sea turtles nest here from February through April, so plan accordingly if you want to spot tiny turtles hatching on the sands. Further south lies Corcovado National Park, which is Costa Rica for true outdoor adventurers. This is the place to go to search for the elusive jaguar, which still roams the protected parks of the nation’s far south. 

Back up north, Tenorio Volcano National Park offers untouched Costa Rica only a couple of hours from the gateway city of Liberia. In Tenorio, you’ll find Rio Celeste Waterfall, which is the most photographed waterfall in the nation, natural hot springs, and gorgeous hiking trails throughout its volcanic rainforest. Wander off the beaten path in Costa Rica to get a deeper sense of the nation’s beauty. 

To experience off-the-beaten-path highlights in Costa Rica, check out Costa Rica Complete; Tortuguero, Arenal, Tenorio & More. 

Don't forget about Costa Rica’s luxury accommodations.

If you’re looking for a rainforest hideaway for your honeymoon or want to relax with wellness treatments while enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean, go to Costa Rica. You’ll find many luxury hotels and resorts across the country that offer refined accommodation and wellness experiences, such as Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort, Andaz Peninsula Papagayo & Spa, and Hotel Punta Islita Autograph Collection. 

Near Arenal volcano, several deluxe resorts, including the aforementioned Tabacon, feature thermal hot springs on site, which let you cap off each day with a relaxing soak. Island retreats on Punta Islita offer curated beach stays where you can go horseback riding, get inspired with art classes, or soak in gorgeous infinity pools overlooking the ocean. Most of the nation’s deluxe accommodations have gorgeous spas and wellness classes that let you unwind in the midst of nature. You don’t have to look far to find a luxurious stay on a Costan Rican vacation. 

For a taste of Costa Rican luxury across the country, check out Luxury in the Jungle: Monteverde, Arenal & Islita. 

Costa Rica’s green season offers a lush, affordable experience. 

The most popular time of year to travel to Costa Rica is the dry season from end of November through to April. But the green season from May through November is a great and relatively unsung option for travellers as well. 

Even though the green season is sometimes called the rainy season, it’s by no means rainy all day. Typically, mornings are sunny before the moisture gathers and breaks in the afternoon, cutting the heat and humidity. The country is also bursting with colour during the green season, as the moisture transforms the landscape into a lush paradise. The wildlife is extremely active this time of year, meaning you have a good chance of spotting exotic birds, and the rivers and lakes are full, making it a great time to get on the water. Perhaps best of all, it’s more affordable and less busy since you’re dealing with fewer fellow travellers.  

For an affordable vacation at all times of year, including the green season, check out Costa Rica Wonders. 

There are so many ways to enjoy the wonders of Costa Rica. Experience them for yourself on a tailor-made trip with Goway. The Pura Vida life awaits.