Costa Rica Must-Know1. Pura Vida Lifestyle

• “Pura Vida” means “pure life” and is more than a phrase — it’s a relaxed, positive way of living and greeting people.

• Despite its small size, Costa Rica houses around 5% of the world’s biodiversity.

• National parks and reserves cover over 25% of the land.

• Dry season (December – April): Best time for beach visits, hiking, and outdoor activities.

• Green (rainy) season (May – November): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, but expect daily afternoon showers.

• Official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Costa Rican Colón (CRC).

• US dollars are often accepted in tourist zones, but it’s good to have local currency.

• Renting a 4x4 vehicle is popular for exploring remote areas.

• Public buses are cheap but can be slow and less frequent.

• Domestic flights save time between distant regions.

• Generally safe for travelers, but watch out for petty theft in crowded places.

• Use common sense with valuables and avoid isolated areas at night.

• Don’t feed or touch wild animals.

• Stay on marked trails in parks to protect habitats.

• Arenal Volcano (hot springs and hiking)

• Monteverde Cloud Forest (birdwatching and ziplining)

• Manuel Antonio National Park (beaches and wildlife)

• Tortuguero (sea turtles and canals)

• Puerto Viejo & Cahuita (Caribbean vibe, beaches, and snorkeling)

Green Macaw in Costa RicaDescription

• One of the largest parrots in the Americas, measuring about 85 cm (33 inches) long.

• Mainly bright green plumage with blue on the wings and a red patch on the forehead.

• Known for its loud, raucous calls.

• Prefers tropical rainforests, especially lowland wet forests and foothill areas.

• Often found in the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica, including areas like the Tortuguero National Park and the Sarapiquí region.

• Classified as Endangered due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade.

• Costa Rica has active conservation programs to protect their habitat and promote breeding.

• Nest boxes and reforestation efforts help increase their population.

• They are seed dispersers, playing an important ecological role in forest regeneration.

• Usually seen in pairs or small groups.

• They nest in large tree cavities, often in almendro trees (Dipteryx oleifera), which are crucial for their survival.

HabitatConservation StatusInteresting Facts

Cahuita Nationalpark – Costa RicaLage

• An der Karibikküste Costa Ricas, nahe der Kleinstadt Cahuita in der Provinz Limón.

• Der Cahuita Nationalpark ist bekannt für seine wunderschönen weißen Sandstrände, Korallenriffe und den üppigen tropischen Regenwald.

• Der Park schützt sowohl marine als auch terrestrische Ökosysteme und ist ein Paradies für Naturliebhaber.

• Schnorcheln: Erkunde die farbenprächtigen Korallenriffe direkt vor der Küste mit bunten Fischen, Meeresschildkröten und manchmal auch Rochen oder kleinen Haien.

• Wandern: Ein leichter, gut ausgeschilderter Wanderweg (ca. 8 km lang) führt entlang der Küste durch den Park und bietet viele Möglichkeiten, Tiere zu beobachten.

• Tierbeobachtung: Im Park kann man Brüllaffen, Faultiere, Leguane, Nasenbären (Coatis) und zahlreiche Vogelarten sehen.

• Strand entspannen: Die Strände im Park sind unberührt und weniger überlaufen als viele andere Touristengebiete.

• Das Korallenriff ist Teil des Cahuita Meeresreservats, eines der am besten erhaltenen Riffe in Costa Rica.

• Der Park ist ein Schutzgebiet, deshalb gilt: kein Fischen, keinen Müll hinterlassen und die Natur respektieren.

• Es gibt geführte Touren, die bei der Tierbeobachtung helfen und spannende Informationen zur Artenvielfalt bieten.

• Eintritt: Eine kleine Gebühr wird erhoben.

• Öffnungszeiten: Meist tagsüber geöffnet.

• Anreise: Der Park ist vom Ort Cahuita aus gut zu Fuß oder mit dem Auto erreichbar.

• Beste Besuchszeit: Die Trockenzeit von Dezember bis April eignet sich am besten zum Schnorcheln und Wandern.

ÜberblickAktivitätenHighlightsPraktische Infos

Cahuita National Park – Costa RicaLocation

• Situated on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, near the town of Cahuita in the Limón province.

• Cahuita National Park is famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and lush tropical rainforest.

• The park protects marine and terrestrial ecosystems, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

• Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs just off the shore, home to colorful fish, sea turtles, and sometimes rays or small sharks.

• Hiking: There’s an easy, well-marked trail (about 8 km / 5 miles long) that follows the coastline through the park, offering great wildlife spotting opportunities.

• Wildlife Watching: Expect to see howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, coatis, and lots of bird species along the trail.

• Beach Relaxation: The beaches inside the park are pristine and less crowded than many other tourist spots.

• The coral reef is part of the Cahuita Marine Reserve, one of the best-preserved reefs in Costa Rica.

• The park is a protected area, so visitors should respect rules like no fishing and no littering.

• Guides are available for tours, which can enhance wildlife spotting and explain the rich biodiversity.

• Entrance Fee: Small fee to enter the park.

• Opening Hours: Generally open during daylight hours.

• Getting There: Easily accessible from the town of Cahuita by foot or car.

• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (December to April) is ideal for snorkeling and hiking.

🌴 Culture & Community

• Afro-Caribbean Heritage: The town boasts a significant Afro-Caribbean population, with roots tracing back to Jamaican and other Caribbean immigrants. This cultural influence is evident in the local cuisine, music, and festivals.

• Indigenous Presence: The nearby Talamanca mountain range is home to the Bribri and Cabécar indigenous communities, who maintain traditional lifestyles and offer cultural experiences to visitors.articlesfactory.com

• Playa Cocles: A favorite among surfers for its consistent waves.fortourslovers.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1

• Playa Chiquita & Punta Uva: These beaches are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying the Caribbean sun.

• Salsa Brava: Recognized as one of the most powerful waves in Costa Rica, attracting experienced surfers worldwide.articlesfactory.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1

• Jaguar Rescue Center: Established in 2008, this center focuses on rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and reptiles. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about conservation efforts. es.wikipedia.org+3en.wikipedia.org+3de.wikipedia.org+3

• Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge: A protected area offering trails through rainforests and mangroves, where visitors can spot diverse wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.

• Cahuita National Park: Located just north of Puerto Viejo, this park features coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for snorkeling and hiking. puravidatraveling.com

• Rice & Beans: A staple dish made with rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, often served with fish or chicken.costaricarundreisen.de

• Rondón: A hearty seafood stew with coconut milk, sweet potatoes, and vegetables.

• Local Fruits: Tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple are commonly used in beverages and desserts.

• Snorkeling & Diving: Explore the vibrant coral reefs off the coast.

• Surfing: Take lessons or ride the waves at renowned surf spots.

• Chocolate Tours: Learn about the cacao process and sample local chocolate products.wondersandwaves.de

• Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Navigate the calm waters of nearby beaches and rivers.

• Hotel Banana Azul: A beachfront hotel offering comfortable rooms and a laid-back atmosphere.

• Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel: A stylish hotel known for its modern design and excellent service.

• Hostel Pagalú: A budget-friendly option popular among backpackers.

• From San José: Approximately a 4-5 hour drive or a 3-hour bus ride.

• From Panama: The Sixaola border crossing is about 49 km south, connecting to the Panamanian town of Guabito.

🌋 La Fortuna – Costa Rica Travel Guide📍 Location

• In northern Costa Rica, Alajuela Province

• About 3–4 hours by car from San José or Liberia

• Famous for the iconic Arenal Volcano

• Stunning views of the volcano (active but dormant since 2010)

• Trails through rainforest and old lava fields

• Popular hikes: Las Coladas Trail, Mirador Trail

• Great for wildlife spotting, photography, and nature walks

• Spectacular 70-meter waterfall deep in the jungle

• About 500 steps down (and back up!) to the base

• Swimming allowed (cold but refreshing)

• Entrance fee: around $18 USD

• Thanks to volcanic activity, the area has many natural hot springs

• Popular spots include:

  • Tabacón (luxury resort with large pools)

  • Baldi (family-friendly with many pools and slides)

  • EcoTermales (quieter, more intimate)

  • Free springs: Río Chollín near Tabacón

• Ziplining (canopy tours over the rainforest)

• Canyoning (rappelling down waterfalls)

• Whitewater rafting on the Balsa or Sarapiquí rivers

• Horseback riding to waterfalls or with volcano views

• Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Arenal

• Spot sloths, toucans, coatis, poison dart frogs

• Guided jungle tours available, day and night

• Visit Ecocentro Danaus, a small ecological reserve for animal encounters

• Wide range from budget hostels to luxury resorts with volcano views

• Romantic lodges with private hot springs for couples

• Family-friendly hotels with pools and tour services

• Plenty of restaurants in downtown La Fortuna

• Try the traditional Casado dish (rice, beans, meat or fish, salad)

• Also international cuisine and cozy cafés available

• Dry season: December – April → best weather

• Rainy season: May – November → lush green but sometimes wet

• Weather can be changeable – bring a raincoat and sunglasses! 😉

• Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers

• Swimsuit and towel

• Rain jacket or poncho

• Insect repellent

• Sunscreen, water bottle, camera

🌋 La Fortuna – Costa Rica Reiseguide📍 Lage

• Im Norden Costa Ricas, Provinz Alajuela

• Ca. 3–4 Stunden Fahrt von San José oder Liberia entfernt

• Berühmt für den imposanten Vulkan Arenal

• Beeindruckende Aussichten auf den Vulkan (aktiv, aber seit 2010 ruhend)

• Wanderwege durch Regenwald und alte Lavafelder

• Beliebte Routen: Las Coladas Trail, Mirador Trail

• Ideal für Tierbeobachtung, Fotografie und Naturgenuss

• Spektakulärer 70 Meter hoher Wasserfall mitten im Dschungel

• Rund 500 Stufen führen hinunter (und wieder hinauf!)

• Baden möglich (kalt, aber traumhaft)

• Eintritt: ca. 18 USD

• Dank vulkanischer Aktivität gibt es viele natürliche Hot Springs

• Beliebte Optionen:

  • Tabacón (luxuriös, große Anlage)

  • Baldi (familienfreundlich, viele Pools & Rutschen)

  • EcoTermales (ruhiger, romantischer)

  • Kostenlose Quellen: Río Chollín bei Tabacón

• Ziplining (Canopy-Touren über den Regenwald)

• Canyoning (Abseilen an Wasserfällen)

• Rafting auf dem Río Balsa oder Sarapiquí

• Reiten zu Wasserfällen oder mit Vulkanblick

• Kajak oder Stand-up-Paddle am Arenal-See

• Faultiere, Tukane, Nasenbären, Pfeilgiftfrösche

• Viele geführte Touren in den Dschungel, bei Tag oder Nacht

• Ecocentro Danaus: kleiner ökologischer Park für Tierbeobachtung

• Große Auswahl: von Hostels bis Luxus-Resorts mit Vulkanblick

• Für Paare: romantische Lodges mit privaten Hot Springs

• Für Familien & Gruppen: Hotels mit Pools und Tourenservice

• Viele Restaurants im Zentrum von La Fortuna

• Probier das traditionelle Gericht Casado (Reis, Bohnen, Fleisch/Fisch, Salat)

• Coole Cafés und internationale Küche vorhanden

• Trockenzeit: Dezember – April → bestes Wetter

• Regenzeit: Mai – November → grün & ruhig, aber teils nass

• Das Wetter ist wechselhaft – Regenschirm und Sonnenbrille einpacken! 😉

• Wanderschuhe oder feste Sneakers

• Badesachen + Handtuch

• Regenjacke oder Poncho

• Insektenschutzmittel

• Sonnencreme, Trinkflasche, Kamera

🌴 Manuel Antonio National Park – Costa Rica📍 Location

• On the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica

• Near the town of Quepos, in Puntarenas Province

• About 2.5 to 3 hours by car from San José

• Costa Rica’s smallest national park – but one of the most biodiverse

• Combines lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and wildlife

• Great for families, photographers, and nature lovers alike

• Sloths (both 2- and 3-toed!)

• White-faced capuchin monkeys (often near the beach)

• Howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys

• Iguanas, raccoons, coatis, and toucans

• Colorful butterflies, frogs, and birds

• Playa Manuel Antonio: postcard-perfect, turquoise water

• Playa Espadilla Sur: quieter, often fewer people

• Playa Gemelas: small, hidden twin beaches – a great escape

• Open: Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays)

• Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM)

• Tickets:

  • Adults: ~$18–20 USD

  • Children (ages 2–11): ~$6 USD

  • Buy online only at www.sinac.go.cr

• Trails are easy and well-maintained

• Main Trail (Sendero Principal): great for spotting monkeys and sloths

• Punta Catedral Trail: offers stunning cliff and ocean views

• Mirador Trail: lookout points with photo opportunities

• Arrive early (7:00 AM) for fewer people and active animals

• Consider a licensed guide – they spot things you’d miss!

• Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for sloths and birds

• No food allowed in the park (to protect animals)

• Only reusable water bottles permitted

• Don’t feed or touch wildlife – it’s illegal and harmful

• Restrooms and showers are available near the main beaches

• Refillable water bottle

• Comfortable shoes (for walking trails)

• Swimsuit and towel

• Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent

• Camera or phone with zoom

• Many options in Quepos or Manuel Antonio:
  Boutique hotels, eco-lodges, luxury resorts, hostels, and Airbnbs

• Book early in high season (Dec–Apr) – it’s popular!

• Dry Season: December – April → sunny, best for beach & photos

• Green Season: May – November → fewer crowds, lush jungle, occasional rain

🦜 Carara Nationalpark (Parque Nacional Carara) – Costa Rica📍 Lage

• Zentralpazifik, zwischen San José und Jacó

• Direkt an der Costanera Sur (Route 34)

• Rund 1,5 Stunden Fahrt von San José oder 30 Minuten von Jacó

• Übergangszone zwischen tropischem Trocken- und Regenwald

• Einer der besten Orte zur Vogelbeobachtung in Costa Rica!

• Heimat des berühmten hellroten Ara-Papageis (Scarlet Macaw) 🦜

• Weniger überlaufen als Manuel Antonio

• Scarlet Macaws (besonders morgens & spätnachmittags!)

• Klammeraffen, Kapuzineräffchen, Faultiere, Nasenbären

• Krokodile am Río Tárcoles (direkt außerhalb des Parks!)

• Tukane, Frösche, Schmetterlinge, Leguane

• Geöffnet: Täglich von 7:00 – 16:00 Uhr

• Eintritt: ca. $11 USD (nur Online-Zahlung – sinac.go.cr)

• Führungen mit lokalen Guides möglich (lohnt sich!)

1. Universal Trail (Sendero Universal) – 1,2 km, betoniert, rollstuhlgerecht ♿

2. Laguna Meándrica Trail – ca. 4 km, durch wilden Dschungel

3. Las Aráceas Trail – ca. 600 m, kurzer Rundweg
   → Alle Wege ideal für entspanntes Tierbeobachten

• Trockenzeit: Dezember – April

• Regenzeit: Mai – November → mehr Tiere, aber feuchter Boden

• Scarlet Macaws besonders aktiv Februar – April

• Unbedingt an der Brücke über den Río Tárcoles halten (5 Min. nördlich vom Park):
  Dort sonnen sich oft riesige Krokodile – spektakulärer Spot! 🐊

• Insektenschutz

• Wasser (Trinkflasche!)

• Bequeme Schuhe (kein Flipflops)

• Kamera oder Fernglas

• Hut & Sonnencreme (teils sonnige Abschnitte)

• Gute Optionen in Jacó, Tarcoles oder Bijagual

• Empfehlenswert: kleine Eco-Lodges oder Cabinas mit Dschungelblick

🦜 Carara National Park – Costa Rica📍 Location

• On the Central Pacific Coast, between San José and Jacó

• Right off the Costanera Sur Highway (Route 34)

• About 1.5 hours from San José, or 30 minutes from Jacó

• Unique transition zone between tropical dry forest and rainforest

• One of the top birdwatching spots in the country!

• Famous for its population of scarlet macaws 🦜

• Much less crowded than Manuel Antonio

• Scarlet macaws (best seen early morning or late afternoon)

• Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, sloths, coatis

• Crocodiles in the nearby Tárcoles River

• Toucans, frogs, butterflies, iguanas

• Open daily: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Entry fee: ~$11 USD

• Tickets must be booked online via sinac.go.cr (official site)

• Local guides available and highly recommended

1. Universal Trail (Sendero Universal) – 1.2 km, paved & wheelchair-friendly ♿

2. Laguna Meándrica Trail – ~4 km loop through lush forest

3. Las Aráceas Trail – 600 m short jungle loop
   → All trails are easy, well-marked, and ideal for spotting wildlife

• Dry Season: December – April (more sun, easier hiking)

• Green Season: May – November (fewer people, more wildlife)

• Best time for macaws: February – April (nesting season)

• Just outside the park: Tárcoles River Bridge
  → Stop here to see giant crocodiles basking in the sun!

• Insect repellent

• Water (reusable bottle)

• Closed shoes (no flip-flops)

• Camera or binoculars

• Sunscreen and a hat

🌳 Why it’s special🐾 Wildlife Highlights🎟️ Opening Hours & Fees (2025)🥾 Hiking Trails🌦️ Best Time to Visit🐊 Don't Miss This Nearby!🎒 What to Bring