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.
Once the most important river port of Costa Rica, this quaint market town lies on the confluence of the Rio Sarapiqui and Rio Puerto Viejo in the northeastern part of the country. Visitors are drawn to the area for its natural beauty - awe-inspiring tropical rainforests beckon to be explored. Enjoy sublime hiking, excellent birdwatching, and riverboat tours that give visitors the chance to see toucans, monkeys, sloths, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Alternatively, visitors can take in the abundant scenery and wildlife on horseback, while thrill-seekers can experience the adrenaline-fuelled activities of kayaking, white water rafting, and zip-line forest canopy tours. Gain insight into local ancient traditions with a visit to the fascinating Museum of Indigenous Cultures, filled with musical instruments, masks, and shamanic healing tools.
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.
Located on Costa Rica’s upper western coast, Puerto Carrillo is a charming fishing village known for its inviting beaches, excellent and diverse fishing opportunities, and laid-back atmosphere. The delightful white-sand beaches have small waves, warm turquoise waters and a collection of lovely tidal pools. Playa Carrillo is generally quiet and provides wonderful picnic areas right on the beach, as well as a scenic paved boulevard, and a fantastic lookout spot a short walk up the shore. Fishing is the primary drawcard of the area, with a variety of options for sport fishing and angling. Visitors can take yoga and surf tours, go hiking and camping, and explore the landscape by ATV or on horseback. Puerto Carrillo is a prime whale-watching spot, and its waters are home to humpback whales, spinner dolphins, and stripe marlins.
