COSTA RICA WILDLIFE GUIDE

Costa Rica is a Central American country that has a long and complex history, shaped by a variety of cultural and political influences. Here is an overview of the major events and eras in Costa Rican history:

Before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, Costa Rica was inhabited by several indigenous groups, including the Huetares, Chorotegas, and Bribris. These groups were mostly hunter-gatherers or agriculturalists, and they developed a rich culture and tradition that included music, dance, and art.

In 1502, the Spanish navigator Christopher Columbus arrived in Costa Rica, but it was not until the 1560s that the Spanish established a permanent settlement. The Spanish colonizers brought with them a new language, religion, and political system, and they enslaved many of the indigenous people to work in gold mines and on plantations.

Costa Rica gained independence from Spain in 1821, along with the other Central American nations. Initially, Costa Rica joined the Federal Republic of Central America, but in 1838 it became a sovereign nation. In the early years of independence, Costa Rica struggled with political instability and economic hardship, but it also established a democratic tradition and abolished slavery.

In the 20th century, Costa Rica underwent a series of political and social transformations. In the 1940s, the country experienced a brief but intense civil war, which led to the establishment of a social democratic government under President Jose Figueres Ferrer. During this time, Costa Rica abolished its army and began investing heavily in education and social programs. In the following decades, Costa Rica continued to develop as a stable democracy and a leader in environmental conservation.

Today, Costa Rica is known for its high standard of living, strong environmental policies, and commitment to human rights. The country has a diverse and growing economy, based on tourism, agriculture, and technology. Costa Rica is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with festivals, music, and art celebrated throughout the year.

Overall, the history of Costa Rica is one of resilience, creativity, and transformation, as the country has navigated a complex set of challenges and emerged as a unique and dynamic nation in the heart of Central America.

Country Code: +506.

Crime: Costa Rica is generally considered one of the safest countries in Central America, with lower crime rates than some of its neighbors. However, like any country, it still has its share of crime, particularly in urban areas.

Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is a common occurrence in tourist areas and other crowded places. Tourists should take precautions to protect their valuables, such as keeping their bags close and not leaving them unattended.

Burglary and theft are also common in Costa Rica, particularly in residential areas. Homeowners can take steps to secure their properties, such as installing security systems and keeping their homes well-lit.

Costa Rica is also a major transit point for drug trafficking, particularly cocaine. As a result, drug-related crime, such as gang violence, can occur in some parts of the country.

Violent crime: While violent crime is relatively rare in Costa Rica, there have been instances of armed robberies and assaults, particularly in urban areas. Tourists should exercise caution when traveling in unfamiliar areas, particularly at night.

Corruption is also a concern in Costa Rica, particularly in the government and law enforcement sectors. However, the country has made efforts to address this issue in recent years, with the establishment of anti-corruption initiatives and increased transparency in government.

Overall, while crime exists in Costa Rica, visitors and residents can take steps to protect themselves and reduce their risk of becoming victims. It’s also important to note that crime rates can vary depending on the region and the time of year, so it’s a good idea to stay informed and aware of local conditions. Cities like San Jose, Limon, Santa Ritade Alajuela, and Liberia can very dangeorus compared to the rest of Costa Rica. It’s best to completely avoid Santa Ritade Alajuela.

Currency: Costa Rica Colon (CRC).

Electricity: Type A (2-pin flat), Type B )2-pin flat, ground pin).

Language: Spanish.

Latitude and Longitude: 9.7489° N, 83.7534 ° W.

LGBT: In recent years, Costa Rica has made significant progress in terms of LGBT rights. Same-sex marriage: In May 2020, Costa Rica became the first country in Central America to legalize same-sex marriage, following a landmark ruling by the country’s Constitutional Court. The ruling was seen as a major step forward for LGBT rights in the region.

Anti-discrimination laws: In 2013, Costa Rica passed a comprehensive anti-discrimination law that includes protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The law prohibits discrimination in areas such as employment, education, housing, and healthcare.

Transgender rights: In 2018, Costa Rica’s Supreme Court issued a ruling that allows transgender people to legally change their name and gender on official documents, without requiring them to undergo surgery or other medical procedures.

Hate crime legislation: While Costa Rica does not have specific hate crime laws that include sexual orientation or gender identity, the country’s criminal code does provide for enhanced penalties for crimes committed with discriminatory motives.

Adoption and parenting: Same-sex couples in Costa Rica are legally allowed to adopt children, although the process can still be challenging. In addition, LGBT parents are recognized under Costa Rican law, although some legal challenges and societal prejudices remain.

Population: 5.154 million (2021).

President: Rodrigo Chaves Robles.

Costa Rica is a country with an incredibly rich and diverse biodiversity. Despite its relatively small size, Costa Rica contains about 5% of the world’s biodiversity, making it one of the most biologically diverse countries on Earth.

Here are some of the highlights of Costa Rica. Costa Rica is home to approximately 10,000 plant species, including orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. The country is also known for its coffee plantations, which produce some of the world’s finest coffee.

Costa Rica is home to a wide variety of animal species, including 250 species of mammals, 850 species of birds, 205 species of reptiles, and 1,300 species of butterflies. Some of the most famous animals found in Costa Rica include sloths, monkeys, jaguars, and toucans.

Costa Rica is also known for its rich marine life, with over 6,000 identified species of fish, sharks, and other marine creatures. The country is also a popular destination for whale watching and scuba diving.

Costa Rica contains a variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, cloud forests, mangrove swamps, coral reefs, and wetlands. These ecosystems provide habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species.

Costa Rica has a long history of environmental conservation and has protected over 25% of its land in national parks and reserves. The country has also implemented policies to promote sustainable tourism and has become a leader in ecotourism.

Selina Hostels

Selina is a chain of hostels throughout Costa Rica, offering comfortable accommodations, great amenities, and a social atmosphere. They have locations in popular destinations such as Tamarindo, Monteverde, La Fortuna, and San Jose.

Hostel Pangea

Located in San Jose, Hostel Pangea is a popular hostel among backpackers. It features a bar and restaurant, free Wi-Fi, a pool table, and a movie room.

Kaya’s Place

Kaya’s Place is a beachfront hostel in Puerto Viejo, offering private rooms and dorms. It has a bar and restaurant, a communal kitchen, a lounge area, and free Wi-Fi.

Costa Rica Backpackers

Located in San Jose, Costa Rica Backpackers offers budget-friendly accommodations in dorms and private rooms. It features a bar and restaurant, a communal kitchen, and a pool.

Casa del Parque Hostel & Rooftop

This hostel is located in Manuel Antonio, near the Manuel Antonio National Park. It offers private rooms and dorms, a communal kitchen, a rooftop terrace with ocean views, and free Wi-Fi.

Blue Trailz Hostel & Surf Camp

This hostel is located in Tamarindo and caters to surfers and beach lovers. It offers private rooms and dorms, a swimming pool, a communal kitchen, and surf lessons and rentals.

Hostel La Candelaria

This hostel is located in Cartago, near the Irazu Volcano. It offers private rooms and dorms, a communal kitchen, a lounge area, and free Wi-Fi.

Hostel Vista Serena

This hostel is located in Monteverde and offers private rooms and dorms. It features a communal kitchen, a lounge area with fireplace, a garden, and free Wi-Fi.

Corcovado National Park

Located in the southwestern part of Costa Rica, Corcovado National Park is one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet. It covers an area of approximately 425 square kilometers and contains a variety of habitats, including rainforest, cloud forest, and coastal ecosystems.

The park is home to a large number of rare and endangered species, including the Baird’s tapir, the jaguar, and the Harpy eagle. Visitors to the park can hike through the rainforest, take guided tours, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Manuel Antonio National Park

This small park is located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, near the town of Quepos. Despite its small size, it is one of the most visited national parks in the country.

The park covers an area of approximately 6.83 square kilometers and contains a variety of habitats, including rainforest, mangrove swamps, and beaches. Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing.

Some of the species that can be seen in the park include the two-toed sloth, the white-faced capuchin monkey, and the toucan.

Arenal Volcano National Park

Located in the northwestern part of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano National Park is known for its namesake, the Arenal Volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The park covers an area of approximately 12,080 hectares and contains a variety of habitats, including rainforest, cloud forest, and hot springs.

Visitors to the park can hike through the rainforest, take guided tours, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Some of the species that can be seen in the park include the howler monkey, the toucan, and the jaguar.

Tortuguero National Park

This park is located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica and covers an area of approximately 77,032 hectares. It is known for its nesting sea turtles, which come to the beaches of the park to lay their eggs.

Visitors to the park can observe the nesting turtles, as well as a variety of other species, including manatees, crocodiles, and monkeys. The park contains a variety of habitats, including rainforest, mangroves, and beaches.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

This reserve is located in the central highlands of Costa Rica and covers an area of approximately 10,500 hectares. It is known for its unique cloud forest ecosystem, which is home to a variety of plant and animal species.

Visitors to the reserve can hike through the forest, take guided tours, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Some of the species that can be seen in the reserve include the resplendent quetzal, the golden toad, and the ocelot.

Cahuita National Park

Located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Cahuita National Park covers an area of approximately 1,067 hectares. The park contains a variety of habitats, including rainforest, mangroves, and beaches.

Visitors to the park can hike through the forest, swim in the ocean, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Some of the species that can be seen in the park include the two-toed sloth, the white-faced capuchin monkey, and the green sea turtle.

Palo Verde National Park

This park is located in the northwestern part of Costa Rica and covers an area of approximately 45,492 hectares. It is known for its wetlands, which are home to a variety of bird species, including the American white pelican.

Costa Rica is a beautiful and diverse country with many attractions for tourists. 

Arenal Volcano

The Arenal Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica, and its majestic peak dominates the skyline of the region. Visitors can hike the volcano, take a dip in the natural hot springs, or enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Arenal Volcano National Park.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a misty, enchanted forest that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve to see exotic birds, monkeys, and other wildlife, or walk across the Skywalk, a system of hanging bridges that offer breathtaking views of the forest.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a popular beach town on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica that offers a range of activities, including surfing, sport fishing, and turtle watching. The town has a laid-back atmosphere and a vibrant nightlife, making it a popular destination for backpackers and young travelers.

Poas Volcano

The Poas Volcano is a large, active volcano that is located near San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. Visitors can hike to the crater to see the steaming, sulfuric water and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

La Fortuna Waterfall

The La Fortuna Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction that drops over 200 feet into a crystal-clear pool below. Visitors can hike down to the base of the falls to swim in the refreshing waters, or enjoy the beautiful scenery from one of the nearby lookout points.

Guanacaste Beaches

The beaches of Guanacaste are some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica, with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of water sports and activities. Popular destinations in Guanacaste include Playa Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and Playa Hermosa.

San Jose

San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica and is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, or take a tour of the National Museum of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The weather can vary significantly depending on the location and elevation, with coastal areas experiencing different conditions than mountainous regions.

Here is a more detailed discussion of the weather in Costa Rica:

Dry season (December to April): The dry season is characterized by sunny days, low humidity, and warm temperatures. This is the peak tourist season in Costa Rica, as visitors flock to the beaches and national parks to enjoy the warm, dry weather.

Temperatures in coastal areas can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while temperatures in mountainous regions are typically cooler.

Rainy season (May to November): The rainy season is characterized by heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings. The rainfall helps to maintain the lush, green landscapes of the rainforests and provides ample water for agriculture.

While the rainy season can be a bit of a challenge for visitors, it is also a beautiful time to explore Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Temperatures during the rainy season are generally a bit cooler than during the dry season, with average highs around 27°C (81°F) and lows around 20°C (68°F).

Coastal areas: The coastal areas of Costa Rica have a warm, tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 35°C (81°F to 95°F) during the dry season. The ocean temperatures are warm and pleasant year-round, ranging from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F).

Mountainous areas: The mountainous regions of Costa Rica, such as the Central Valley and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, have a cooler climate due to the higher elevation. Temperatures in these regions range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) during the dry season, with cooler temperatures at night.

Overall, the weather in Costa Rica is warm and tropical year-round, making it an attractive destination for visitors seeking sunshine and outdoor activities. The rainy season can be a bit of a challenge, but it also offers a unique opportunity to experience the lush beauty of the rainforests.