There are lots of misconceptions about Costa Rica; I think this is because there's just so much to know. Even though it's a small country size-wise it has multiple ecosystems, a wide variety of activities, weather that changes from area to area, and amazing cultural experiences. From the US we may only hear about certain aspects of any given country or culture - but there is so much to learn. Here are 5 things to know before you travel - based on the most common misconceptions I hear from clients.
Yes, you're going to have to move around.
You're going to have to change locations at least once in order to get the experience you want. Costa Rica is an incredible destination with rainforests, cloud forests, terrific beaches, and cultural experiences. The most common misconception I hear about Costa Rica is that people think they can choose one place to stay, and see everything they're interested in. If you want to traverse the iconic hanging bridges, view a volcano, see red eyed tree frogs in the rainforest, surf and see monkeys playing on a beach? You’re going to have to do some traveling.
Private transfers and shuttles are the way to go.
If you look at a map of Costa Rica the areas are going to seem close to each other - because the country itself isn't that big. However, the infrastructure is such that you need to plan for a LOT more time than you might think to get from place to place. In addition, roads are windy, bumpy, and at times only have room for for one car to pass. Just like anywhere you travel, if you don't know the area, it's best to not try to make your way through the mountain roads on your own. In addition - Uber is illegal in Costa Rica. There used to be some grey area here, but not anymore. The police do stop drivers they suspect of being ride share operators which could leave you stranded, and the ride share drivers have been known to charge an outrageous amount. (If you do need a taxi be aware that the legal taxis are orange with a green triangle on the door at the airport and red with a yellow triangle everywhere else). The best way for most people to experience Costa Rica is to have private transfers set up in advance for tours and excursions, and to utilize resort shuttles when it makes sense to do so.
You can be adventurous - or not - and still have an amazing vacation.
You don’t have to be an adrenaline junky to love and experience Costa Rica. For everyone who wants to rappel down a canyon or ride the white water rapids, I have someone who wants to float on a raft down the Peñas Blancas, luxuriate in natural hot springs, and learn about the culture through coffee and chocolate tours. You CAN experience Costa Rica without being super adventurous - and it’s still a wonderful experience well worth having!
Costa Rican weather changes as you move around the country.
Costa Rica has micro climates. This means that if you're going to the cloud forest and colder areas such as Poas or Monteverde it could get down to 50 degrees at night - while still staying around 80 to 90 degrees during the day on the coasts. This means packing and wearing layers for your vacation - as well as comfortable sandals and sneakers!
Sloths are not everywhere!
We talk a lot about animals when we talk about Costa Rica, and sloths are often mentioned. You need to know that the animals you may want to see are NOT just hanging around every corner in every area of the country. So if sloths are on your must-see list - you're going to want a rainforest tour or an animal sanctuary to visit, etc. If you're a birder and Quetzal's are a can't miss - tell me so I can get you to the Cloud Forest, and if capuchin monkeys on the beach are what you're dreaming of - then we'd better get you to Manuel Antonio. These are things we can and will plan for!
Looking to make Costa Rica your next vacation? Schedule a consultation with us today!
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