Costa Rica
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Costa Rica
There are few countries that can rival Costa Rica’s incredible efforts to preserve and protect its environment. It has always been a trailblazer for conservation and ecotourism and, as a result, the country is carpeted in some of the world’s most pristine tropical forests.
Costa Rica has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2021 (the only developing country to do so). With a passion for conservation so ingrained in the culture, it seems that they are more likely than any other nation to do so.
Stylish lodges are carefully placed in exquisite locations with minimum impact. In just one visit, experiences can range from peering into azure lakes from the rim of a volcanic crater; hiking along ancient Indian trails deep in a tropical reserve; surfing the arched waves of the Pacific or snorkelling in the peaceful waters of the Caribbean.
This is a wonderful destination for nature-lovers as well as families with children who are looking for a holiday that provides adventure, wildlife and time to rest on the beach.
Quick Facts
Capital
San Jose
Population
4.8 million
Area
51,100 sq km (19,730 sq miles)
Major Languages
Spanish
Major religion
Christianity
Monetary Unit
Costa Rican colon
When to go
Costa Rica’s dry season runs between December and April on the Pacific and March and early September on the Caribbean.
The ‘green season’ starts in May and runs until August. During this time days are punctuated by spells of clear skies as well as showers.
The only time we do not recommend travelling to Costa Rica is in September and early November when the heavy rains set in.
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
- High Season
- Mid Season
- Shoulder Season
Highlights
The Central Valley
The Central Valley harbours a wealth of extraordinary landscapes from volcanic craters to ancient pre-Colombian ruins and swathes of tropical rainforest. Some of the best white water rafting in the world takes place on the turbulent waters of the Pacuare River as it dashes through canyons and forests.
Plonked in the middle is Costa Rica’s capital city, San Jose. Perhaps not the jewel in the crown of this immaculate country but it is a necessary entry and exit point for most visitors. Exceptional Travel can recommend some excellent properties just outside the city to whisk our guests into the hills with distant views of volcanoes, coffee plantations, rainforests or the twinkling lights of the city below.
The Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula is carpeted in beautiful jungle bursting with wildlife and hidden waterfalls plummeting to crystal-clear lakes. The Corcovado National Park is the largest park in Costa Rica, encompassing over 400sq km of protected land. Within its boundaries is a breathtaking variety of wildlife and it is widely considered to be one of the most biologically diverse reserves in the world.
Along the wild and rugged coast are miles of sandy beaches and waves that will suit most levels of surfers. Marine life thrives in the region with regular sightings of dolphin and (in the season) whales and leatherback turtles. Deep sea fishing excursions can be arranged with expert fishing guides as well as deep sea diving.
Guanacuaste and Nicoya
Famed for its excellent surf, sandy beaches and vast nature reserves, the Nicoya Peninsula is a fantastic spot for guests seeking time on the beach with plenty of inland adventure to keep busy at the same time. The peninsula juts 140km into the Pacific and is separated from the mainland by the Gulf of Nicoya. Its interior is draped in tropical reserves that preserve and protect a fascinating diversity of wildlife.
Some of our favourite beach properties are tucked between ocean and rainforest on this peninsula providing an almost perfect balance of coastal relaxation and inland adventure.
The Central Valley
The Central Valley harbours a wealth of extraordinary landscapes from volcanic craters to ancient pre-Colombian ruins and swathes of tropical rainforest. Some of the best white water rafting in the world takes place on the turbulent waters of the Pacuare River as it dashes through canyons and forests.
Plonked in the middle is Costa Rica’s capital city, San Jose. Perhaps not the jewel in the crown of this immaculate country but it is a necessary entry and exit point for most visitors. Exceptional Travel can recommend some excellent properties just outside the city to whisk our guests into the hills with distant views of volcanoes, coffee plantations, rainforests or the twinkling lights of the city below.
The Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula is carpeted in beautiful jungle bursting with wildlife and hidden waterfalls plummeting to crystal-clear lakes. The Corcovado National Park is the largest park in Costa Rica, encompassing over 400sq km of protected land. Within its boundaries is a breathtaking variety of wildlife and it is widely considered to be one of the most biologically diverse reserves in the world.
Along the wild and rugged coast are miles of sandy beaches and waves that will suit most levels of surfers. Marine life thrives in the region with regular sightings of dolphin and (in the season) whales and leatherback turtles. Deep sea fishing excursions can be arranged with expert fishing guides as well as deep sea diving.
Guanacuaste and Nicoya
Famed for its excellent surf, sandy beaches and vast nature reserves, the Nicoya Peninsula is a fantastic spot for guests seeking time on the beach with plenty of inland adventure to keep busy at the same time. The peninsula juts 140km into the Pacific and is separated from the mainland by the Gulf of Nicoya. Its interior is draped in tropical reserves that preserve and protect a fascinating diversity of wildlife.
Some of our favourite beach properties are tucked between ocean and rainforest on this peninsula providing an almost perfect balance of coastal relaxation and inland adventure.
Where to stay
These are just a selection of the properties we can personally recommend. Please get in touch to hear more about our full portfolio.
Pacuare Lodge
Tucked away in the middle of 840 acres of private reserve, Pacuare Lodge sits peacefully on the banks of the mighty Pacuare River. This remote lodge is best accessed (at least one way) via a half-day white water rafting ride passing stunning rainforests, narrow canyons, and waterfalls on every side.
Lapa Rios Lodge
Lapa Rios sits within 1,000 acres of private tropical lowland rainforest. The lodge is perched on a cliff edge deep in the Osa Peninsula overlooking the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by swathes of lush rainforest.
Flor Blanca
Flor Blanca is flanked by unspoiled tropical jungle and seven acres of world famous surf that rolls onto the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. The property is well known for its yoga and pilates lessons that are delivered by internationally trained instructors in a studio overlooking the jungle.
Get in touch with us now to start planning your journey
+44 (0) 1608 638777
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