Costa Rica
March 15 - 20, 2022, November 8-13, 2024
​
Costa Rica is in the rugged rainforest of Central America which is known for its beaches, volcanoes, and biodiversity. Roughly a quarter of its area is made up of protected jungle with lots of wildlife including spider monkeys, and quetzal birds. Costa Rica is part of the Pacific Ring Fire Circle and has over 200 volcanic formations that have been traced back over 65 million years. There are around 100 of these that show any signs of activity and only 5 are classified as still active. This creates amazing hot springs that you can relax in all over the north of the country.
Island time is a real thing in Costa Rica, efficiency is not something they seem to care about. While you should still be on time for things be prepared to spend some time waiting, almost everything from tours, meetings, etc starts late. This country has the sloth as their national symbol for a reason!
​
Water safety- Tap water is safe to drink in Costa Rica brining a reusable bottle is a better resource than one-use plastic bottles.
​
For deals on tours check out https://www.viator.com/partner-shop/in-a-flash for some of my recomendations and favorite past tours!
Spanish and English
Hi- Hola
Thank you- Gracias
Bathroom- Bano
How to pack
Pack comfortably if you plan to be hiking and out in the rainforest you want breathable clothing and relaxing. They do have stores in town to get things if you forget anything.
Essentials
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals- we walk a lot while traveling good supportive sandals and comfy flip-flops are a must! It rains in the rainforest even during the dry seasons.
-
Foldable backpack- that you can easily pack away or take out when wanted.
-
Safari bag- things you need/ want throughout the day to keep with you or in the car. (or in the backpack)
-
Refillable water bottle- Bringing a water bottle that was insulated really helped keep our water cold!
​​​
Safety Tips​
Dont carry things with you that are valuable, especially at night. When taking out cash try to only take out what you need at that time so no one sees how much you have at once.
​
Helpful tips​
No matter how safe it is where you are traveling it is always good to be aware of your surroundings and never leave your valuables unattended. Be careful of areas with lots of tourists they tend to draw pickpockets.
​
Air tags are always a good idea, lots of travelers are dealing with lost or damaged luggage. It also helps if anything is taken when you are not expecting it, have air tags in your purse etc when going around town.
Driving etiquette
Costa Rica's roads are not maintained very well, what should take you an hour takes you three due to "man-eating" potholes. A law was passed that required all cars to carry orange reflective triangles in case of danger. But if you see a pile of sticks slow down! This is Tico's version of a road flare, which can be a large pothole hole or a missing bridge.
Traffic lights are treated more like stop signs in Costa Rica, if it's safe to go no one waits for a green light and when you do you get honked at! In 2015 the transit law was modified to make it official that after 10 pm to 5 am, the red lights are considered stop signs. From our experience they do this after dark and if no one is around.
​
When oncoming traffic flashes its hazards it means there is something up ahead, could be an accident, landslide, or speed trap.
When flashing their headlights the car two cars ahead of you is turning and they are alerting you to slow down.
​