A mere 51 100 square kilometres of national territory harbour an incredible diversity of wildlife, landscapes and memorable experiences! Costa Rica’s privileged location between two oceans, separated by soaring mountains, promotes a great variety of climates and habitats that are often found at only a few kilometres’ distance from each other.
Having recognised its potential, Costa Rica plays a leading role in the protection of the environment. Apart from recycling projects and initiatives for sustainable tourism, Costa Rica has established and safeguards vast national parks in all parts and climate zones of the country.
Costa Rica is well suited as a destination year round. The dry season in the Pacific Ocean region and the capital San José starts in November/December and runs until May. However, the green season, which is generally referred to as the “winter”, is also well suited for travelling these parts of the country. The temperatures do not change significantly. As a rule of thumb, in the so-called “winter” a dry and sunny morning is followed by a rain shower in the course of the afternoon.
The Caribbean region is complicated. It is completely unpredictable. At any time of the year, the region can be all sunshine … or the complete opposite. In exchange, nature rewards us with lush rainforests. In September and October, when the rainfalls reach their climax in most parts of the country, the Caribbean coast, just to make its point it seems, often puts on a show of sunny weather.
Costa Rica is a challenge for those that study the weather or attempt to predict it. Occasionally, one end of a valley is flooded with torrential downpours, while the other end invites you to stroll down the street for an ice-cream. In short, there are no fast guidelines to determine the most favourable season or region for paragliding. The dry season presents itself as a logical solution. However, it is also more prone to unfavourable winds. We have all learned this lesson: Those who take to the skies without the aid of an engine learn to love and respect capricious Mother Nature, for better or worse.
In its Central American setting, Costa Rica is a highly developed country with a stable economic and political background. These are all ingredients for a carefree and uncomplicated holiday in a beautiful destination. Then again, as it so often happens, high standards go hand in hand with a corresponding price tag. Do not be surprised to find that many prices are quite similar to what you would pay back home. All major credit cards are accepted. In addition to the local currency Colones, the US dollar is widely accepted everywhere.
No special vaccinations or health issues need to cloud you mind when visiting Costa Rica. European or US citizen do not need to apply for a visa.
Costa Rica is blessed in abundance with mountains, twisting roads and construction sites. You should not underestimate driving times.
Quick Questions – Fast Answers
And finally, to raise your appetite for Costa Rica, here is a promotional clip released by the Costa Rican tourism bureau: (links to external content on Youtube)