Baxter-Neal Leland - Fodors 2012 Costa Rica

Experience Costa Rica

San Jos

The Central Valley

The Northern Plains

North Pacific

Central Pacific

South Pacific

Carribean

San Jos. Do you know the way to San Jos? You will soon enough. Almost everyone passes through on their way to the beach or the mountains. This capital city isnt much to look at, but it has great restaurants and nightlife, and fascinating museums dedicated to gold and jade.

The Central Valley. You wont want to linger long in the Central Valley, as it lacks any of the countrys big-name attractions. But there are quite a few day-trip possibilities, including exploring mountain villages, rafting through white-water rapids, and gaping into the mouths of some of the countrys most accessible active volcanoes.

The Northern Plains. The Northern Plains attract those who dont like sitting still. After zipping along cables through the misty jungle of Monteverde Cloud Forest, windsurfing on glittering Lake Arenal, or watching the nightly fireworks of Arenal Volcano, you can reward yourself with a dip in the bubbly waters of Tabacn Hot Springs.

The North Pacific. If you came for beaches, the Northern Pacific is for you. Each has a unique personality: Flamingos endless stretch of sand draws sun worshippers; Tamarindos nightlife is legendary; Avellanass strong swells challenge surfers; Ostionals nesting sea turtles bring nature lovers; and the Papagayo Peninsulas all-inclusive resorts provide every creature comfort.

The Central Pacific. The areas not just for spring breakers (although it helps in funky surf towns like Jac). Drive down the coast to the cluster of small hotels and restaurants at Manuel Antonio. The national park, on a peninsula jutting into the ocean, has the easiest wildlife viewing on the planet.

The South Pacific. Also known as the Amazon of Costa Rica, rustic lodges in the Osa Peninsula sit on the edge of the countrys wildest region. Hikes reveal toucans and scarlet macaws in the treetops, and boating trips often include swimming with whales and dolphins.

The Caribbean. Despite its name, Costa Ricas Caribbean isnt known for white-sand beaches or crystal-blue waters. Come here for the spirited music, the tasty food, and the chance to mix with the Afro-Caribbean population. The coast also attracts turtle-watchers, as four different kinds nest at Tortuguero National Park.

The sunniest, driest season in most of the country occurs from roughly mid-December through April, which is the busiest tourist season. Afternoon showers kick in by May and last through November most everywhere, with a brief dry season in June and July. Costa Rica promotes the rainy season as the green season, touting lush vegetation, smaller crowds, and lower prices. Showers interrupt your afternoon beach time, and remote roads can be washed out during the worstof the rains.

Temperatures generally range between 20C (70F) and 30C (85F). Its the humidity, not the heat, that causes you discomfort, especially in the dense forest of the Caribbean coast, the northern lowlands, and the Osa Peninsula. The arid North Pacific is Costa Ricas hottest region, with temperatures frequently exceeding 33C (90F) in the dry season.

One final point: we typically hear, I didnt realize the rain forest would be so... rainy. Well, you heard it here: it rains often and heartily in the rain forest. The dense foliage and elaborate root systems rely on there being frequent showers year-round.

San Joss Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamara is in the center of the country, so its especially convenient for destinations in the Central Valley and along the Central Pacific. The closest destinations are less than an hour away. The only other international gateway is Liberias Aeropuerto Internacional Daniel Oduber Quirs in the western part of the country. Flying here makes sense if youre planning to spend most of your time in Guanacaste or on theNicoya Peninsula.

A relatively small number of travelers arrive in Costa Rica by road, especially with the difficulties taking rental cars between countries. Long-distance buses travel directly to San Jos from the larger cities in Nicaragua and Panama, but these are arduous journeys. The ManaguatoSan Jos route takes between 8 and 10 hours.

To save time, many people take domestic flights to their ultimate destination. SANSA flies to various destinations from its hubs in San Joss Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamara and Liberias Aeropuerto Internacional Daniel Oduber Quirs. Nature Air flies out of San Joss domestic airport, tiny Aeropuerto Tobias Bolaos. Both offer flights to resort areas, especially those near the beaches. Regional airports are very small, often with a one-room terminal anda staff that arrives at about the same time as the plane.

Costa Rican towns are connected by regular bus service. Buses between major destinations have comfortable seats and air-conditioning. If you have to transfer along the way, you may get a converted school bus cooled only by the tropical breezes. If youre traveling a long distance, make sure to request a directo (express) bus. Otherwise you may stop in every small town along the way.

The countrys recently improved highway system means renting a car is a great way to get around. You can travel on your own schedule, stopping where you like. Larger airports have rental desks; at smaller airports a representative will meet you and drive you to the nearby office.