12 reasons why Costa Rica is one of the best vacation destinations

Adobe’s Top reasons to visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica is no longer one of those foreign countries few people know about. Today, the small Central American Nation is making big headlines as one of the world’s premier vacation destinations.

But why?

We at Adobe Rent a Car pride ourselves as being Costa Rica’s oldest and largest Costa Rican owned rental car agencies.

And we know Costa Rica.

 

12 reasons why Costa Rica is one of the best vacation destinations 

The world is literally packed with unique and beautiful vacation destinations. From Vietnam to New Zealand, and everything in between. Choosing the most authentic and memorable holiday destination takes time and consideration. So why has Costa Rica continually gained popularity over recent years?

The reasons are many. In fact, there are far more than 5 reasons why you should visit Costa Rica. Come and see for yourself. We’re confident that the following list of top 12 reasons to visit Costa Rica – and more – will make your decision easier.

 

Number 1: Biodiverse wildlife and nature 

Perhaps Costa Rica’s biggest draw is its unparalleled dedication to the conservation of nature. The government founded its National Park System in 1970 after realizing that the preservation of its natural resources was more beneficial than their exploitation. 

Today, Costa Rica’s natural wealth of protected areas cover more than 25% of the country’s land and marine territory. There are over 160 official protected areas comprising national parks, wildlife refuges, and reserves. 

If nature and its wonders are on your list of interests, Costa Rica is the place to go.

Costa Rica is different than other destinations because of its unique geographical positioning between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, combined with a string of volcanic mountain ranges that span its interior. The result of such stark combinations of terrain in one small geographic area is the development of several diverse life zones and microclimates. 

These unique geographical areas have evolved over thousands of years to harbor distinct species of plants and animals unlike anywhere else on earth.

Because of the country’s interest in sharing its natural wealth with the world the tourism industry has flourished. Visitors from around the globe have the opportunity to see Costa Rica’s rare and fascinating flora and fauna first-hand.

 

Number 2: A climate for everyone

Due to its location only 10 degrees north of the equator, Costa Rica’s climate is pleasing year round. The average annual temperature is between 70° and 81° Fahrenheit (12° and 27° Celsius). 

There are two seasons in Costa Rica, the rainy season (aka green season) and the dry season (aka summer). When the Pacific Coast is rainiest between September and November the Caribbean side of Costa Rica is its driest. So whenever you decide to visit there’s a place in Costa Rica with perfect weather.

It never snows in Costa Rica.  However, it is a tropical country and rain should be expected, even during the dry season. But thanks to that life giving rain, Costa Rica is green and lush, teeming with wildlife. 

  

Number 3: Ecotourism perfected

It’s not only the government of Costa Rica that’s into environmental conservation, the people are too. Costa Ricans love their country and its bountiful nature and work hard to preserve it. 

The Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT) is the government agency for promoting sustainability in Costa Rica. ICT recognizes businesses that do their part to protect the environment, lower the carbon footprint, and support local communities.

Visitors have hundreds of ecologically oriented hotels, lodges, and resorts to choose from. From remote jungle lodges hidden deep in the rainforest to world-class resorts overlooking stunning white-sand beaches.

 

Number 4: Adventure tourism perfected

 Combine beautiful beaches, rainforests, volcanoes, rushing rivers, hot springs, mountains, cloud forests, wetlands, and grassy savannas all together, and what you have is a mecca of outdoor opportunities.

Costa Rica has it all – literally. Rarely can you find so much to do in such a small place. And because the government is on board to ensure visitors stay safe, people can rest assured that Costa Rica’s tour providers will look out for their well being.

Costa Rica adventure activities include: Horseback riding, canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, sport fishing, surfing, sailing, SUPing, ATV adventures, swimming, climbing, tubing, birding, canoeing, kayaking, canopy tours, scuba diving, snorkeling, zip lining, nature tours, and more. 

 

Number 5: National Parks

Costa Rica’s national park system is huge and includes marine territories brimming with marine life. Visitors are welcome to explore the country’s natural wealth when they visit the parks. Expert trail systems and licensed naturalist guides are available at most destinations year round.

There is a small entrance fee to enter most of Costa Rica’s protected areas. The funds go to maintaining the trails and protecting the abundant flora and fauna. 

Despite the country’s small size, Costa Rica’s national parks protect close to five percent of the world’s biodiversity. And several plant and animal species can only be found here. See for yourself why the country is the hummingbird capital of the world.

 

Number 6: Costa Rica road trips

We at Adobe Rent a Car want visitors to Costa Rica to experience as much as possible in safety and comfort. That’s why our fleet of impeccably maintained vehicles are all less than two-years old.

Road tripping in Costa Rica is the best way to really see and enjoy the country. Our clients love the freedom they get from renting a car. They can custom tailor their trip to their specifications, and see off-the-beaten-track destinations only accessible by car. 

 

Number 7: Yoga and wellness retreats

Costa Rica is home to world-class yoga retreats and wellness resorts. Over the years, more and more travelers from around the globe come to rejuvenate their bodies and souls on Costa Rican soil.

The combination of great weather, beautiful natural surroundings, and healthy farm to table cuisine make it the perfect Costa Rica vacation destination for getting back in touch with what’s important – health and wellbeing.

 

Number 8:  Sea turtles and whales

Costa Rica’s warm, nutrient-rich waters and protected beaches are the seasonal migration destinations of several marine animals. In particular, whales and sea turtles.

Some of the most prolific whale species to visit the coastline are humpback whales. They travel from the north and southern climates to escape the cold waters of winter to breed and raise their young. These amazing creatures arrive at both Central America coasts but their numbers are higher along the Pacific. 

Several species of sea turtles also visit Costa Rica’s beaches throughout the year. They come to the warm sands to lay their eggs. Among the different types are Olive and Kemp Ridleys, Hawksbills, Pacific Greens, Loggerheads, and giant Leatherbacks.  

Because several of the species are endangered, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Environment and Energy takes great measures to ensure their protection. 

 

Number 9: the happiest country in the world

Costa Ricans are renowned for their warm and welcoming ways. According to the Happy Planet Index, despite the country’s small size and relatively low per capita income, Costa Ricans live longer and have a higher level of wellbeing than several more developed nations, including the USA.

Why? The study attributes much of the country’s success to quality of life and close relationships with family and friends. Other reasons why Costa Rica ranked as one of the Happiest Countries in the World three times are listed below.

 

Number 10: No army

Costa Rica’s army was abolished in 1948 following a bloody civil war. The government, under President José Figueres Ferrer, then dedicated the finances from military spending to strengthen education, social security and healthcare for the country’s citizens.

This bold and courageous move has made Costa Rica one of the region’s strongest democracies and defenders of human rights. 

 

Number 11: Blue Zone

Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is heralded as one of the five Blue Zones in the world. A blue zone is a region whose people live significantly longer than anywhere else. Many residents live to be over 100 years of age.

The reasoning behind their longevity is attributed to certain factors, including a healthy diet, good water rich in minerals, physical activity, a sense of community, and strong relationships with friends and family. 

 

Number 12: Pura Vida

Clearly, there are far more than the top 5 reasons why do people visit Costa Rica. And we could add more.

Our last and biggest reason to visit Costa Rica is our Number 12: Pura Vida. Meaning Pure Life, Pura Vida is Costa Rica’s trademark slogan. No matter where you go, the saying is sure to be heard. 

Pura Vida’s meaning is broad and all-encompassing. But mostly, what Pura Vida means is that everything is going to be ok – no matter what. 

Come to Costa Rica and discover for yourself what Pura Vida means. But beware, once you’re here, you may never want to leave.