Zimbabwe Costa Rica

Costa Rica is bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. The capital, San José, is the country’s cultural and economic centre.

The population is around 5 million, and it operates on Central Standard Time (GMT-6) and does not observe daylight saving time. With about 25% of its land protected as national parks and reserves, Costa Rica is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and eco-conscious travellers alike.

Costa Rican food is simple, fresh, and flavorful. Gallo pinto, a dish of rice and beans, is a staple breakfast. Other favourites include casado, a meal with rice, beans, salad, plantains, and meat and ceviche, made with fresh seafood marinated in citrus.

While Costa Rica is not known for wine production, its coffee is world-famous. The high-altitude farms produce rich, smooth coffee, best enjoyed at traditional cafés. Locally made guaro, a sugarcane-based liquor, is a popular drink.

Costa Rica is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Surfing is popular on both coasts, with Tamarindo and Santa Teresa being the top spots. Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park offers breathtaking views, while zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest provides a unique way to experience nature.

Water lovers can go snorkelling or scuba diving in Cahuita National Park, home to colourful coral reefs. Wildlife safaris in Tortuguero National Park allow visitors to see sea turtles, monkeys, and exotic birds.

Costa Rica is home to incredible biodiversity. Over a quarter of the country is protected in national parks and reserves. Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula is one of the most biologically intense places on Earth, hosting jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws.

The country’s cloud forests, dry forests, and mangroves provide habitats for thousands of species, including sloths, toucans, and poison dart frogs. The Rio Celeste, famous for its bright blue waters, is a must-see natural wonder.

Costa Ricans love to celebrate their traditions. Fiestas de Palmares, held in January, features concerts, bull riding, and street parades. Día de los Boyeros in March honours ox-cart drivers with colourful processions.

Independence Day, celebrated on September 15, includes parades, music, and fireworks. The Caribbean coast hosts lively carnivals, blending Afro-Caribbean rhythms and culture.

Costa Rica has excellent healthcare, and no special vaccinations are required. However, it is advisable to have routine vaccines such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus.

Mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya are present, so using insect repellent is recommended. Tap water is generally safe in cities, but bottled water is advised in remote areas.

The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted.

Costa Rica uses plug types A and B, with a standard voltage of 120V and a frequency of 60Hz.

Costa Rica has a reliable bus network that connects cities and towns. Rental cars are popular for exploring remote areas, but roads in some regions, especially the mountainous ones, can be rough and require a 4WD vehicle. Domestic flights offer quick access to distant locations, but it is advisable to check with the airline service provider before booking.

Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber operate in urban areas, while boats are essential for reaching some coastal and jungle destinations.

Spanish is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas and along the Caribbean coast.

Ticos are warm and friendly. Greetings often involve a handshake or a light hug. Respect for nature is deeply valued, and visitors are encouraged to follow eco-friendly practices. Attitude to time is very relaxed compared to its northern counterpart, but this does not transcend to the business space. While you can find locals who speak English, attempting to speak Spanish is a rewarding idea.

• The dry (Verano) season (December to April): The dry season is characterised by days of little or no rainfall. It is ideal for beach holidays and outdoor activities, 

• The wet (Invierno) season (May to November): It is usually sunny in the morning, with downpours in the afternoon. This season comes with lush vegetation and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore the rainforests and national parks. September and October tend to be the rainiest time of this season.

Costa Rica caters to all budgets, though it has been described as more expensive than all other Latin American destinations. Budget travellers can expect to spend $50–80 daily, covering hostels, local meals, and public transport. Mid-range travellers may budget $100–200 daily for boutique hotels and guided tours. Luxury travellers can expect costs exceeding $300 daily, especially in high-end resorts and private experiences.

Yellow fever vaccination is required for nationals and residents of yellow fever-risk countries on entry.

• Make sure you have a GPS with you. This allows you to get directions to streets whose names are not well known to locals.

• Tour a coffee plantation and enjoy some of the world’s finest brews.

• Respect the natural environment as much as the locals do, and avoid littering and plant

• Whichever month of the year you travel to Costa Rica, there will always be something to celebrate. Participate in any of these festivals to experience the vibrant Caribbean culture.