Costa Rica…

Although small in size, Costa Rica is definitely big on culture, excitement and adventure. Filled with beautiful beaches, lush forests and so much more, its no surprise more and more people are choosing Costa Rica as their next holiday destination. Here are 5 reasons why your next holiday should be in Costa Rica…

Beaches

Situated between the pacific and Caribbean coasts, Costa Rica has an impeccable location. Dense green forests surround Costa Rica’s white sand beaches creating spectacular scenery for a relaxing day by the sea. Due to construction regulations to protect the land, you won’t find hotels on the beach or boardwalks; instead expect to be on the lookout for wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, parrots and toucans in the jungle that lines the sand. Top beach spots on the Caribbean coast include Puerto Viejo and Cahuita.  Additionally, on the opposite side of the country lies the Papagayo Peninsula; this peninsula is filled with stunning beaches and luxurious resorts. Enjoy a wide range of water activities including, fishing, snorkelling as well as diving, surfing and plenty more.

Rainforests

Costa Rica’s rainforests are home to some of the world’s most exotic flora and fauna. Small in size but overwhelmingly large in biodiversity; Costa Rica features roughly 10,000 species of flora. Costa Rica’s rainforests are situated southwest of the country as well as in the Atlantic lowlands. The towering trees and twisting vines create a magical vibrant environment. These lush forests are characterised by their plethora of plant as well as animal life.

Cloud Forests

Positioned at a high altitude on the continental divide of Costa Rica, covering the highest peaks of volcanoes and mountains with their cloudy mist, Costa Rica’s cloud forests are a marvel to witness. As the warm moist air from over the Pacific or Caribbean is pushed up the sides of the mountains, it cools, and the moisture begins to condense forming clouds, thus creating the fog that gives cloud forests their name. Perhaps one of the world’s most famous cloud forests; the Monteverde Cloud Forest is an oasis of biodiversity, featuring several monkey species, the exotic Quetzal bird and so much more.

Food

Being rich in fertile land and one of the world’s most sustainable countries, its no surprise the local produce of Costa Rica is delicious. From pineapples and mangoes to papayas and avocados, Costa Rica is bursting with fresh fruits and vegetables.

Costa Rica’s cuisine is hearty and flavourful, and you can’t go past the country’s national dish: Gallo Pinto; a fusion of stir fried rice, beans and usually served for breakfast with scrambled or fried eggs, sour cream and cheese.

Sustainable Eco Lodges

Being one of the world’s most sustainable holiday destinations, its only fitting that Costa Rica has a multitude of Eco lodges and sustainable hotels for you to choose from. Eco lodges in Costa Rica aim to protect natural resources and have a minimal impact on the environment.

One of our favourite eco lodges is the Nayara Arenal Resort & Spa. Secluded on a hill encircled by lush green forests and tropical gardens, Nayara Arenal overlooks the striking Arenal Volcano. The resort is ideal for adventure junkies, with soaring canopies, suspended bridges, waterfalls as well as caves; you’ll never be short of something to do with mountain biking, hiking, white-water rafting, fishing, zip lines, and nature safaris all at your fingertips. For those looking for something more relaxed, there’s re-energising hot springs, bird watching and nature walks.

So, Costa Rica truly is a paradise waiting to be explored. Offering something for everyone, Costa Rica outdoes itself with its sustainability and dedication to protecting its natural resources. Costa Rica’s environmental awareness paired with its impeccable landscape provides the perfect location for your next holiday.

References:  Thank you  Costa Rica Guide, Telegraph, Standard.co.uk, Explore Worldwide