These are 27 of the best reasons to go to Costa Rica for your next holiday that you should keep in mind when planning your itinerary.
The adventure capital of the world, Costa Rica, is a place like no other.
With coastlines on both the Pacific coast and Atlantic ocean, mountains, jungles, and rainforests to explore as well as an abundance of natural hot springs and waterfalls Costa Rica is the perfect holiday destination for anyone looking for an active holiday, beach holiday, or to relax.
In this article, I will present to you the best reasons why visit Costa Rica and why this country is considered among the most beautiful in the whole world.
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Why go to Costa Rica
1. The beaches
Costa Rica’s white sandy beaches are some of the best in the world with miles and miles of unspoiled coastline to explore and relax on and many miles of white sand, pink beaches, and black strips of sand.
From surf spots like Tamarindo to luxury hideaways like Papagayo Resort and Spa and the ever-popular Manuel Antonio and Jaco.
2. The abundance of wildlife
Costa Rica has over 200 species of mammals, 400 different kinds of fish (including coral reef fish), 1300 species of butterflies, and more than 10,000 plant varieties.
With many animals and plants still waiting to be discovered, you’re guaranteed a once-in-a-lifetime experience as well as top sightings in each area you visit.
Sea Turtle Turtoise Costa Rica Animals
3. The Mountains
On your travels, through Costa Rica, you’ll see some well-known landmarks such as Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Poas Volcano National Park, Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Delavega Bird Park.
Arenal Observatory Lodge and Spa Volcano View
But there are also many volcanic peaks that are perfect for hiking and great for seeing wildlife like a mountain lion, quetzal (a bright-colored bird also known as the national bird), puma, monkeys, and more.
4. The National Parks, best reasons to go to Costa Rica
Costa Rica boasts eight National Parks, 13 Wildlife Refuges, and five Biological Reserves – these areas are a haven for nature lovers with unique ecosystems just waiting to be explored.
5. San Jose – Capital of Culture
San Jose is a buzzing metropolis full of museums, galleries, and art within walking hot springs are found at their base or nearby where you can spend hours bathing in water pumped out of the earth while enjoying stunning views of mountains and rainforests below.
6. The People
Costa Rica is known as a “must do it yourself” country, where you’re given the freedom to explore and choose your own adventure.
This has created a very friendly atmosphere with Costa Ricans who are more than willing to show you their beautiful country including their homes which often come complete with fresh fruits and vegetables for breakfast.
They are also passionate about education and volunteer tourism with half of the country’s population holding a university degree.
7. Hanging Bridges
This is a Costa Rican attraction that’s become world-famous and it’s easy to see why – they are spectacular, with natural beauty all around.
Bridge in Monteverde rainforest in Costa Rica
The most visited hanging bridge is located in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, but there are many others across the country that vary in difficulty from an easy hour-long stroll to a more challenging full-day hike with a guide.
DOWNLOAD THE BEST TRAVEL GUIDE FOR COSTA RICA!
8. The Beaches – Part two
The Pacific coastline of Costa Rica is well known for having some of the best surfing spots in the world, but there’s so much more to see which you can discover on an adventure boat trip or kayak excursion.
Remote Beach at Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge
Playa Samara Beach Nicoya Best swimming beach
Some popular activities include snorkeling, fishing, and swimming, or even scuba diving in the crystal clear waters around the mainland.
9. Hiking
Another great reason to go to Costa Rica especially if you are an outdoor activity lover is the great number of hiking trails available all across the country.
Costa Rica has some of the most beautiful hiking trails around with magnificent views at every turn and plenty of chances to spot wildlife along the way.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Los Angeles cloud forest
La Paz Waterfall Gardens Cloud Forest
Its varied terrain has something for everyone including steep mountain climbs, lush rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls – just put on your walking shoes and you’re ready to go.
10. Sun, Sand, and Surf
Costa Rica is known as one of the best surfing spots in the world with more than 60 beaches along its Pacific coastline which are perfect for beginner surfers to experienced wave riders.
11. The Coffee boom town – ManuEl Antonio and Monteverde Area
This region is most popular for coffee production, but many people don’t realize it’s also home to some spectacular waterfalls and hiking trails.
monteverde lodge and gardens aerial drone view
12. The Hot Springs
Whether you’re looking for an active adventure or just a way to relax, Costa Rica has numerous hot springs which are scattered all around the country.
You’ll find that each one has its own ecosystem and is unique in its offerings so if you have the time set aside some days for a hot spring marathon.
Arenal Manoa and Hot Springs Aerial View
13. The Beaches – Part Three
The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is dotted with more than 30 beaches where you can soak up the sun, do some snorkeling, go fishing, and much more.
Caribbean beaches are among the best reasons to go to Costa Rica in September and October, as the area has plenty of sunny and warm days when the rest of the country confronts with floods and heavy rain.
Hotel Banana Azul Beach Cocktail
Sea Turtle Tracks on the Beach
14. The Resorts and Unique Boutique Hotels
There are several resorts in Costa Rica that lie directly on the beach offering a wide range of activities for hotel guests and complete relaxation if that’s what you’re looking for.
If you prefer to be a little off the beaten path there are many unique boutique hotels throughout Costa Rica including a treehouse hotel in Manuel Antonio and Hotel Punta Islita which sits directly on a private beach protected by two rocky outcrops.
Rancho Pacifico Boutique Hotel for Adults Swimming Pool
El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel and Steakhouse Pool
Hotel Boutique la Casona del Cafetal Costa Rica
Hotel Cala Luna Boutique Hotel Tamarindo Room Costa Rica
15. The Incredible wildlife of Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a country where the wildlife has been allowed to flourish undisturbed for centuries, giving rise to many unique animals you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
It is one of the most important nesting places for 5 species of sea turtles and home to more than 5% of the world biodiversity.
Female Jaguar Wildcats Animals
Animals Colourful Frog
16. The Rainforests
There are 3 types of rainforest found in Costa Rica – lowland, middle and highland with abundant wildlife and some of the most unique plants on the planet including orchids, heliconias, and bromeliads.
17. The Volcanoes
Volcanoes are an important part of Costa Rica’s heritage and history, with some active areas still not quite explored.
This is a country where you can hike to the peak of an active volcano or take scenic flights above the clouds to conserve these beautiful natural features.
Volcano Arenal
Turrialba Volcano
18. The Waterfalls
Costa Rica boasts more than 400 waterfalls all around its mountainous regions, with many of them accessible by hiking, so this is one of the best reasons to go to Costa Rica.
Waterfall hikes can be challenging and require a guide so it is important to research this activity in advance to make sure you’re prepared.
Upper Nauyaca Waterfalls
Montezuma Waterfall
19. The Spectacular Scenery
The scenery is often breathtaking from the moment you land at Costa Rica’s airports where you’ll notice lush rainforests and stunning mountains.
Step outside your hotel room and you’ll find a plethora of activities, beaches, wildlife, and scenery that will take your breath away.
Nauyaca waterfall
20. The Golf Courses
Costa Rica has some incredible golf courses throughout the country including many designed by well-known players which are sure to challenge even the most experienced player.
21. The Cool climate
Costa Rica’s year-round cool climate makes it a popular destination for people suffering from heat exhaustion and allergies.
Weather in Jaco
22. The Culinary delights
If you’re looking to sample some delicious local dishes, you’ve come to the right place.
Costa Rica has an amazing array of food as well as an agricultural economy so you’ll be sure to satisfy your taste buds as well as your hunger.
23. The Fresh Fruit and Juices
You’ll find that when you eat in Costa Rica the menu is often accompanied by a list of local fresh fruits and juices, this is because many dishes are created with these ingredients so it’s worth ordering some if they’re on the menu.
24. The Local Beers
Costa Rica is home to several local beer brands and you’ll find that they are generally cheaper than their imported counterparts, helping to make a night out on the town even more affordable.
Liberia nightlife beer
25. The Rainy Day Past Time
When you visit Costa Rica you’re bound to encounter some rain as it does tend to follow a rainy season but when this happens there’s no need to worry.
Instead of hiding inside your hotel room or drinking at the bar, you can always play a game at the pool or table football or take advantage of all these rainy day activities.
Best time to visit in Rainy Season
26. Outdoors types will love Costa Rica
If you’re an outdoors type of person then the outdoors in Costa Rica are calling and you’ll find countless activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, rafting, and much more.
27. The People of Costa Rica
Whether you’re traveling on your own or with family and friends; the people of Costa Rica are always friendly, courteous, and helpful towards their visitors so you’ll find yourself making new friends and lasting memories during your time in this beautiful country.
Conclusion
Costa Rica is a wonderful land filled with natural beauty, countless activities every traveler can enjoy, an abundance of wildlife, and a people who are proud to show off their country and want you to return again so make sure you go chasing waterfalls after reading 27 Reasons Your Next Trip Should be to Costa Rica.
I hope you like my 27 Reasons Your Next Trip Should be to Costa Rica as it is the perfect place to visit in 2021.
It’s a very special place, full of adventure and excitement waiting for your discovery, an extremely popular destination for United States citizens and Europeans!
As for the safety side, you don’t have to worry about as the country is ranked among the safest countries in the whole world and the safest in Central America.
Feel free to share which was your favorite out of the 27 reasons to visit Costa Rica and what is the number 1 reason why you would visit Costa Rica!
Put a big smile on your face and prepare for the adventure of your life as Costa Ricans are among the happiest people in the world!
Pura Vida or pure life is more than a phrase, it is a way of living and you should learn something from their lifestyle concept while traveling abroad.
Oh, there is one more thing I want to ask you: if you have any tips for other tourists for Costa Rica vacation, please leave a comment below 🙂
Book your accommodation
We always use Booking.com as they have the best price-quality ratio and they offer a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and villas to choose from.
You will find here all types of accommodations, from the cheapest ones to the most luxurious.
Don't forget travel insurance
We never leave home without HeyMondo Insurance or Safety Wings Insurance as they offer the best services and a good value for money.
When we go for longer trips around the world we get Globelink Insurance as it offers a good cover for an affordable price.
Travel insurance will always protect you against unexpected costs caused by medical events like illness, injury, theft, or travel cancellation.
We never go on any trip without travel insurance and there were many cases when we had to use it.
Renting a car
We like to explore a country on our own and a car gives us the mobility and freedom to do that.
We always rent our car from Discovercars as they have free cancellation 48 hours prior to starting date and a wide range of car rental companies and options to choose from all over the world.
Tours and attractions
When we are looking for some adventure or we simply want to break up the monotony and discover new places, we always use GetYourGuide.
We love it because we always find the most amazing experiences, with free cancellation and a large variety of activities and tours to choose from.
Airplane tickets and holiday packages
Expedia is our ally when searching for the best price for airplane tickets as it works as an aggregator for a huge number of airlines and we always find the best price for our flights.
Travel tip: use Expedia when you are searching for holiday packages as they have many last-minute offers and great discounts for hotels, flights, and even the whole holiday packages.