Everyone needs a vacation from time to time. Getting out of your everyday routines and escaping to a new place can be incredibly life-giving. The difference that it makes for your mental health and your physical energy is often very substantial. All you need to figure out is where and when to take a trip and what you can afford.
If you are looking for a tropical getaway in one of the best countries to travel to in Central America, then look no further than Costa Rica. Full of lush rainforests, rich biodiversity, and plenty of beachside towns to stay in, everyone can find something to enjoy here.
Making the most of your stay in Costa Rica means participating in activities you may never get to experience back home. At the very least, some adventures are more exciting in Costa Rica than they are in the States simply because of the landscape and the culture. Here are a few of the best things to do here during your vacation.
Visit a Volcano
One geographical feature that is common in Costa Rica is volcanoes. The land features many of these dormant mountains, creating many points of high elevation across the country. Many of the areas containing volcanos have been designated as national parks, so you can visit many of them during your stay. Often, you will find hot springs that you can bathe in nearby. Poas Volcano National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Tenorio Volcano National Park are three options that interest you, each featuring stunning views of the dormant mountains and lush rainforests.
Explore the Rainforest
Costa Rica is well-known for its lush jungles. Within the canopy of the trees and on the ground resides diverse animal and plant life, including many species of monkeys and tropical birds. If you want to explore these rainforests at their most green, visit during the rainy season from May to November. Some great parks to explore the jungle include Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado National Park, and Tortuguero National Park. Many of these designated areas are protected and offer guided tours so you can have the best chances of spotting wildlife and finding the best views.
Stay in Luxurious Lodging
No vacation is complete without some comfortable lodgings to retreat to at the end of a busy day full of adventure. Since the tourism industry is bursting at the seams in this country, there are tons of luxurious accommodations to choose from. You could stay in all-inclusive Costa Rica villas that include private gourmet chefs and maids. Five-star resorts are located throughout the country with amenities like swimming pools, private beaches, on-premises restaurants, and guided tours. You can even stay in a beachside bungalow that lets you walk right out to some of the most pristine white-sand beaches in the world. Often, travelers never forget the place they stayed during their vacation.
Take Surfing Lessons
Costa Rica has a coastline on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. That means there is ample opportunity to enjoy the ocean when you vacation in this country. Maybe you want to do something a little more exciting than just relax on the beach or swim. Surfing lessons are available in many towns and beachside communities up and down both coasts. This is a great activity for couples or adventure seekers who want to try something new during their trip, and what better backdrop for your first surfing session than the coasts of Costa Rica? Also, if you enjoy writing, surfing lessons can be the topic of your very first travel blog entry.
Zipline Through the Canopy
As humans, we tend to live life on the ground. But we may be missing out on so much that would be better seen from the air, especially within the canopy of a rainforest. Out of all the adventures you can enjoy in Costa Rica, a zipline ride through the canopy may be one of the most exhilarating. Soar through the air above the green treetops, spotting wildlife along the way in a thrilling ride that you will never forget. This is the perfect activity for families as well, and many zip lines exist within parks that feature plenty of other family-friendly attractions.
Experience the Pura Vida Lifestyle
Costa Rica is known for the pura vida lifestyle, which translates to “pure life.” The locals believe that life should be lived at a leisurely pace. That sounds like such a relief from the fast pace of modern life in the States, doesn’t it?
There are many things to do in Costa Rica, and you should certainly plan to experience many of them during your trip. However, don’t forget to take some time during your trip to sit back and enjoy pura vida. Kick back in your luxury accommodation with a cup of local coffee as you look at the Pacific Ocean or a sweeping rainforest. Immerse yourself in the culture when visiting a town or city. Create lifelong memories during your vacation in Central America.
