Costa Rica: A Tropical Paradise

Immerse yourself in the vibrant, living Eden of Costa Rica.  This tropical paradise located on the Central American isthmus is filled with extensive wildlife, lush rainforest, and stunning coastlines.

National Parks and Rainforests

• Tortuguero National Park
  • Given its rugged terrain, exploring by boat is highly recommended. While you cruise, spot some of the 350-plus species of birds and mammals, including 13 of Costa Rica’s endangered animals such as jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters and manatees. 
  • The park is home to the world’s first Green Turtle Research Station.  It’s fitting that Tortuguero means “region of turtles" in Spanish.  In fact, four of the world's eight species of green sea turtle, including Leatherback, Olive Ridley, Loggerhead, and Hawksbill, reside there.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest
  • Be amazed by the trees that grow to heights of 100 feet! Go on a nature walk in search of the endangered quetzal, celebrated for its gorgeous jewel-toned plumage. The cloud forest houses the largest population of this elusive bird.  
  • In the heart of the forest, venture to Selvatura Park to explore one of the world’s largest butterfly gardens with more than 30 species of tropical butterflies. 
  • Become even more astonished by more than 100 beautiful hummingbirds representing 14 different species.  
  • Take a “Hanging Bridges” walking tour to learn more about the cloud forest’s ecosystem.
    
     

Gastronomic History

• Coffee
  • Travel through the verdant countryside of the Central Valley to the fertile region that is world-renowned for coffee.  A tour of the Doka Coffee Estate highlights the history and cultivation of coffee and its importance to the Costa Rican economy.
• Chocolate  
  • In Sarapiquí, see firsthand the process of producing chocolate from the cacao bean at the La Tirimbina Rainforest Center.  During the tour, learn from a local guide about the harvesting, fermenting and drying process.  Treat yourself by tasting chocolate prepared the time-honored way!
• Pineapple 
  •  Visit the Corsicana Pineapple Farm or Finca Don Carlos and see firsthand the various types of this exotic fruit and why Costa Rican pineapples are among the world’s best.    

Rivers, Lakes & Volcanoes

• Arenal
  • The most well-known volcano in the country, it stands 5,437 feet high.  It used to be Costa Rica’s most active volcano, but since 2010, it has not erupted.
  • Go to Arenal Volcano Rainforest for an amazing zip-line canopy tour to gain a bird’s-eye-view of the endless primary forest, Lake Arenal, and the majestic Arenal Volcano.  Or unwind in the luxurious soothing waters of one of the region’s famous hot springs.
  • Tárcoles River 
    • Explore the natural surroundings and exotic wildlife of Tárcoles River during a sunset jungle crocodile safari and bird watching boat excursion.  See the mangrove ecosystem, one of the world's largest crocodile populations in the wild, resident and migrant waterfowl, iguanas and over 50 different kinds of birds, including the very rare scarlet macaw. 

Picturesque Towns

• Zarcero  
  • Take a break from the heat and head to this mountainous, charming town. Behold the unique and extensive display of its whimsical topiary garden that’s designed and maintained by Evangelista Blanco Brenes.
  • Grecia 
    • See the unusual metal church constructed of brick-red metal panes, walk the beautifully landscaped central park, or shop at the traditional local market.  
    • Sarchí 
      • Located near Grecia, this famous artisan town serves as an important crafts center.  Here you’ll witness local artisans as they produce colorful oxcarts. 

If you’d like to learn more about Costa Rica, contact your local travel professional or call leading tour operator Collette Vacations at 800.340.5158 and visit www.collettevacations.com. 

November 10, 2022