Pura Vida – Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s progressive attitude on preservation has ensured that lush rainforests are home to numerous species of monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, lizards, poison-dart frogs and an astounding collection of exotic birds, insects and butterflies. Turtle-watchers should visit Parque Nacional Tortuguero, where they can visit nesting sites and watch the turtles lay their eggs. Don’t be surprised to find kinkajous wandering along the road, or to hear the eerie screams of howler monkeys completely surrounding you!
This progressive attitude has also made Costa Rica an ecotourism hot spot. Ecolodge options range from tent camps with no electricity, cold-water showers, and shared buffet-style meals to some of the most lavish accommodations in the country. There are also numerous adventure opportunities to experience all of the beauty that nature has to offer here.
La Selva Biological Station: This no frills lodge is geared more toward research than tourism, but that (along with the surrounding rainforest and extensive trail system) is what makes this appealing to those very devoted to a minimal impact vacation.
Arenal Observatory Lodge: This was my first choice of accommodations for our trip, unfortunately it books up well ahead, so reserve early! Originally a research facility, this lodge now features relaxed rooms with inspiring views of the Arenal Volcano. There are also exceptional trails to nearby lava flows and a nice waterfall.
Corcovado Lodge Tent Camp: Located right on the border of Corcovado National Park, these accommodations are for those who love the truly remote and the truly beautiful. Expect ten foot square tents and a short walk to the bathroom, but this a very affordable option situated right next to the pounding surf.
Tortuga Lodge: Situated on fifty acres of private lands on Costa Rica’s northeast coast, the essence of slow moving rivers snake through a labyrinth of lowland jungle. The highlight of this area is the major sea-turtle nesting sites. This is an example of one of the more luxurious in ecolodging.
Selva Bananito Lodge: Though there is no electricity here, this is definitely not a Spartan setting. The rooms are gorgeous and as much a part of the rainforest as the surrounding trees and waterfalls. The lodge is family owned and their commitment to the environment is pure and dedicated. There’s amazing bird watching here, and the Caribbean beaches are nearby.
Osa Peninsula: This is Costa Rica’s most isolated and biologically diverse region, jungle cats, crocodiles, and scarlet macaws all can be found here. Most of the peninsula is occupied by Corcovado National Park, the largest remaining territory of virgin lowland tropical rainforest in Central America. Whether you stay in a posh nature lodge in Drake Bay, or camp in the park itself, you will experience some of the most intense jungle this country has to offer.
Sights to See and Things to Do
Rinc�¡n de la Vieja National Park: This is an area of rugged splendor and high volcanic activity. You can hire a guide and a horse for a day of rugged exploration. Imagine riding through forests and pastures to a spot where volcanic mud is boiling out of the ground. The guide collects it in a stone bucket and once it is cool enough to apply, spread it all over for a truly natural mudbath then sit in a steam bath built over a volcanic fumerole. Afterward rinse off in a natural spring. It is an experience not to miss!
Arenal Volcano and TabacÃ?¡n Hot Springs: When the skies are clear and the lava is flowing, Arenal Volcano provides a thrilling light show accompanied by an earthshaking thunder that defies depiction. You can watch nature’s fireworks show while soaking in numerous hot lagoons and waterfalls. It is the ultimate in relaxation – like a hot hydro-massage.
Tortuguero Village & Jungle Canals: Tortuguero Village is a small collection of rustic wooden shacks on a narrow strip of land between the Caribbean Sea and an intense network of jungle canals. You can take a boat tour along the canals and see a wide variety of herons and other water birds, different kinds of monkeys, and huge American crocodiles. You may even see a few cute baby ones sunning themselves along the shore.
If getting up close and personal with a crocodile doesn’t quench your thirst for excitement, then maybe you can get your adrenaline fix flying through forests on zip lines. As you venture to the top of the canopy, you connect yourself to a cable and fly from treetop to treetop, this is for those on a “ThrillQuest”! You can also surf oversized waves, go river rafting, and dive with dolphins and whales – all in an average day.
Costa Rica is gorgeous, lush, and full of adventure. This country has a commitment to conservation that makes this an ideal destination for ecotourists who don’t want to sacrifice comfort for their principles. You can honor the environment in all of its glory, while experiencing more than at most average tourist destinations. Whether you want the rustic, most basic of accommodations, or luxurious and elegant surroundings, Costa Rica has it all. Pura Vida – enjoy your stay!
