1) Amazing surf - If you are a surfer, Costa Rica is paradise (although you should probably choose a locale with fewer rocks). You will see breathtaking views like this at every turn. If you don't surf, there are spots all up and down the coast where you can take lessons. And if you're not interested in learning to surf, try boogie boarding, or just sit back and enjoy this view!
2) Desolate beaches - In Costa Rica, it is not possible to own ocean front land. The beaches in essence belong to the people. This means that every beach is a public beach. As a result, there are desolate beaches everywhere in Costa Rica! Just look for the signs that say "playa" and prepare to off-road through some bumpy/muddy roads. But the reward at the end of the road will often look like this:
3) Amazing wildlife - You probably don't think crocodiles when you think of Costa Rica, but indeed, there are salt water crocodiles there. These were viewed safely from a bridge, but I've heard of people meeting them when kayaking or boating. Eeek!
4) Hiking trails to die for - Safety first of course, but try to get off the coast a little and get into the rainforest. You'll be amazed what you'll find. In my personal experience, most of the monkeys scurry off when they hear people coming. Although, you will hear their howls from a mile away!
5) Breathtaking waterfalls - There are hundreds, if not thousands of waterfalls in Costa Rica. If you're hiking on an established trail, don't be surprised if this is what's waiting for you at the end!
6) Adrenaline rushing activities - If you have the chance, go zip-lining. Just ask your hotel or look for signs on the main roads. It will probably cost you anywhere from $50-$100, but WOW is it awesome. Many of the zip lines go right through the jungle. While you're zipping you can expect to hear or see amazing creatures and see some unbelievable views.
7) Crazy bridges - Are you brave enough to cross bridges like this? Don't be surprised if you see something like this (or even less secure ones!) while you're hiking.
8) Delicious food - Costa Rica has some amazing food. They are big on chicken, rice, and vegetables. Don't be shy about going to tiny roadside restaurants. These "sodas" as they are called often have a simple rice and chicken dish for less than $5 per person. And if you're looking for something more, you are able to visit a sit-down restaurant and get a delicious meal starting at around $10 per meal. Check out this chicken and vegetable meal we recently got:
9) Unique critters - I'm not going to sugar-coat the fact that there are lots of insects in Costa Rica. I've personally dealt with some rather large spiders in inconvenient places. But I'd rather dwell on the beautiful butterflies that you run into in Costa Rica. Look how close this little guy let me get to him before scurrying away!
10) Breathtaking views -If there is one thing I love the most about Costa Rica it is the view. Words can't even describe how I feel when I see this:
11) Active Volcano: Mount Arenal is the most active volcano in Costa Rica. There are many day trip excursions you can go on that take you to see it. If you're lucky you might even be able to see steam escaping from the top! If you have a full day, look for a pontoon ride across Lake Arenal or a jungle tour from the base of the volcano. Top your day off with a visit to the nearby hot springs!
I hope you enjoy some of these things you must see in Costa Rica as much as I did! I'm happy to answer any questions you might have about living and/or traveling there. Pura vida!
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