Costa Rica, again?!

There was a time when I didn’t want to travel to Costa Rica. It seemed too accessible, too common, too overdone. 

I had already backpacked across the country and been on several shorter trips there. There must be more, I thought. 

Looking back, I find it hilarious that I used to feel that way.

Now, after exploring over 30 countries, Costa Rica is the one that pulls at my heartstrings the most. 

Here’s why:

The People: 

The warmth and friendliness of the locals is one big reason I keep returning. Want to practice your Spanish? 

Costa Ricans (Ticos and Ticas) are incredibly patient and supportive. Want to strike up a conversation? Interactions always feel genuine and welcoming. 

This aspect of Costa Rica is often overlooked but deserves so much more recognition.

Volcanoes, Forests, Rivers, Beaches: 

Costa Rica may be small, but it’s brimming with diverse environments. 

In just a few days, you can hike around a volcano, explore a cloud forest, swim under turquoise waterfalls, and relax on hidden beaches.

Delicious Food: 

Who else can make rice and beans taste extraordinary? Ticos and Ticas have perfected it. 

Gallo Pinto, a dish made from rice and beans, is a breakfast staple often served with eggs, yogurt, fruit, and coffee. 

You can taste the love in the food. And it’s not just rice and beans; Costa Rica has embraced a variety of ethnic cuisines to satisfy all cravings.

Wildlife: 

I’ve witnessed turtles laying eggs on Costa Rica’s beaches, been woken by Howler monkeys, seen horses gallop along the shoreline, and watched iguanas feast on fruit. 

The country is a paradise for wildlife lovers. 

You can spot whales and dolphins along the Pacific Coast, and in Arenal, you’ll find sloths, toucans, frogs, and parrots.

The Osa Peninsula offers an even wilder experience, with scarlet macaws, ocelots, caimans, and four species of monkeys. 

Costa Rica is a place where nature surrounds you.

Endless Adventures:

Just when I think I've experienced one of Costa Rica's seven regions, I discover something new - a hike to a cave through a fruit farm, where you can sleep under a waterfall. 

If you think white-water rafting isn't for you, there are rivers calm enough for floating, or you can raft to a luxury lodge nestled among the trees. 

The Caribbean side became a whole new experience when I hiked two hours from the southernmost town to an off-grid community by the shore. 

I've supported countless groups as they ventured to remote research stations to study primates and sea turtles. Every trip to Costa Rica feels fresh and full of possibility. 

I urge you to give Costa Rica a chance (or a second chance if you didn't fall in love with it the first time). 

There's so much more to discover, especially beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.