Take a walk on the wild side in Costa Rica - HolidayLettings.co.uk

Take a walk on the wild side in Costa Rica

Despite being a relatively small country, Costa Rica has plenty to offer and it is this diversity that is perhaps the country's biggest draw. With its strikingly different landscapes within easy reach of one another, a short visit here allows for an extremely varied holiday experience.

With both a Pacific and an Atlantic coastline, there is something for every kind of beach holiday, be it a secluded retreat or a vacation in a lively resort. Costa Rica, literally translated 'Rich Coast', really lives up to its name. Volcanoes, mountains and rainforests complete the terrain, making Costa Rica the perfect place to unwind surrounded by nature at its most diverse.

Over 60% of the country is protected by natural park status, and all Ticos share great pride in their country’s natural beauty. Wildlife abounds throughout, even in the urban centres. The surprisingly loud cries of the howler monkey are a common wake up call and bird enthusiasts will be happy to hear that Costa Rica is home to more bird species than any other country in the world, a remarkable claim considering its size.

San Jose, the capital city, has a distinctly Latin feel to it, although it is not shy of Western influences. Surrounded by mountains and set in a large valley, this is a city with views to inspire from every angle.

What makes Costa Rica so easy to travel around is that you can visit most of the country in just a few hours from the capital. Climb the volcano at Arenal, spend time with the turtles at Tortuguero, wander through the Monteverde cloud forest reserve or live the laid back Caribbean life in Cahuita, hammocks, jerk chicken and all. It’s all possible without wasting too much time on a bus.

That’s not to mention the miles and miles of breathtaking coastline for a spot of sunbathing. The Nicoya Peninsula alone is home to the busy towns of Montezuma and Tamarindo as well as the more remote Playa Hermosa and Conchal. The Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve on the Pacific coast and Dominical, a few miles south, are home to some of the world’s most spectacular bays. Surfers should check out Jaco or Mal Pais, while eco-tourists can revel in the wonders of Tortuguero’s attractions – ocelots, tapirs and manatees to name a few. The list could go on almost indefinitely with white, gold and black sand beaches for every taste.

With its tropical climate, Costa Rica is warm throughout the year, although it can be noticeably cooler in the mountainous regions. Rainy season runs from May to November although this typically involves just 1 hour of heavy rain during the afternoon.

Whether you are looking for a relaxed beach holiday, a chance to spot all manner of wildlife or a week spent hiking through the jungle, Costa Rica should be top of your list.

Azzam Alkadhi

Azzam is a customer service advisor at Holiday Lettings and has been with the company since November 2009, where he has gained valuable insight into the world of holiday home letting. A travel junkie to say the least, Azzam has spent time living and working throughout Europe and South America.


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