Planning a Costa Rica expedition is a must if you don’t want to freak out. Things may get a bit harder to “organize” once you get here… That being said, the country is friendly, affordable, stable, and filled with beautiful vistas, diverse national parks, hundreds of miles of coastline, and exciting activities. There are lovely, wide expanses of beach, acres of preserved tropical rain forest, an active volcano, canals and reefs alike with coral and fish, and cosmopolitan San Jose, filled with excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Your Costa Rica expedition is limited only by your imagination.
Airfare
Getting to Costa Rica is easy and affordable. Located in the heart of Central America, it’s just a two or three hour non-stop flight from Miami, Atlanta, or Houston to the international airport in San Jose. Connecting service is available from hundreds of other U.S. and Canadian cities. Once in Costa Rica, commuter service connects San Jose with the Pacific coast. Currently, U.S. and Canadian citizens require only proof of citizenship accompanied by a photo ID for entry into Costa Rica, but there is legislation proposed to change that. A passport is always the best travel documentation.
Accommodation
Costa Rica offers visitors a wide array of accommodations. There are large beachfront hotels, such as the new Four Seasons and the Marriott Los Suenos. Mid-priced lodging is more the norm in Costa Rica, with many of these hostelries locally owned. Bed and breakfast inns are common here, especially in the San Jose area. Also popular in Costa Rica are ecolodges. These self-sufficient resorts offer an excellent opportunity to view wildlife and learn about the tropical forests. Fishing lodges abound along the canals of the Caribbean coast. These charming cabin-style lodges frequently include meals and the services of a fishing guide. No matter how you plan to spend your Costa Rica expedition, there’s an accommodation that’s just right for you.
Transportation
Buses are plentiful and an economical way to get around San Jose. In-town busses cost around 25 to 30 cents one-way. Inter-city busses cost only a few dollars. Car rentals are available, but the driving is rough. Many of Costa Rica’s roads are unpaved and those that are often sport large potholes. Seriously consider purchasing the collision insurance when you rent a car in Costa Rica. It is also a good idea to make your rental car reservation before arriving in Costa Rica. The best rates are usually available only to those who book in advance.
Activities
No Costa Rica expedition would be complete without at least a sampling of the many unique activities offered here. World-class fishing abounds on both coasts as well as the inland Avenel Lake. The country’s many national parks treat visitors to a wealth of wildlife, birds, and flora, including the elusive and beautiful quetzal bird. Hiking trails snake through the lush forests and mountain highlands, and six scenic courses, including the beautiful Cariari course, challenge golf enthusiasts. There’s also the unique canopy tours, which let visitors view the wildlife that lives above the trees. In short, there’s a Costa Rica expedition that’s just right for every interest.