San Jose, affectionately known to its residents as 'Chepe', lies in the heart of Costa Rica and is home to almost two-thirds of the country’s population. With few buildings over 100 years old, the mountainous capital is relatively modern compared to its Latin American counterparts, but still has a significant amount of culture, art and history for visitors to discover. With a number of theatres full of Costa Rican culture, museums that include the largest collection of American jade in the world, and streets full of bright murals and painted buses, San Jose is an eclectic city waiting to be experienced.
The Arenal Volcano erupted violently July 29th 1968 destroying the region west of its base with hot gases, rocks and later, lava flows. Today the volcano steams quietly and heats local rivers that have been developed into popular hot springs and spas. Forest vegetation is quickly returning and covering the massive rock fragments and lava flows, and rain forest wildlife once again flourishes in and around the park.
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is located in Guanacaste Province in northwestern Costa Rica and offers a striking mix of volcanic landscapes, rolling green hills, gushing waterfalls and lush tropical forests. Named after the park's prominent volcano, Rincon de la Vieja, the protected area is known for its bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore hiking trails, discover fascinating geothermal features, spot colourful birdlife and enjoy the surrounding scenery. The park encompasses both tropical dry forest and cloud forest, providing habitats for a variety of plants and animals. Its name means 'The Old Woman's Corner' and comes from a local legend about a woman who was said to have developed healing powers. With its dramatic landscapes and opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching, the park is a rewarding destination for nature lovers exploring Costa Rica.
Tamarindo is a lively beach town on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, in Guanacaste Province, known for its sandy beaches, excellent surf and laid-back tropical atmosphere. Set along scenic Tamarindo Bay, it is a popular destination for beach holidays, outdoor adventures and coastal nightlife. Surfers of varying abilities can enjoy the waves at Tamarindo Beach, while nearby Playa Langosta offers a generally quieter setting for relaxation and sunset views. Travellers can also join boat trips, kayak through mangrove estuaries or explore the surrounding coastline, including Las Baulas National Marine Park, an important protected nesting area for leatherback turtles. With its beachfront restaurants, lively bars, boutique shops and easy access to nature, Tamarindo combines adventure, relaxation and vibrant Costa Rican coastal culture.
