Costa Rica literally means ‘rich coast’ and is one of the most stable and prosperous nations in Latin America. The richness of its coasts refers to the unfathomable biodiversity that is aplenty, from the depths of the oceans, to the pristine shores, through the thick tropical forests and the imposing volcanic mountains. Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is more captivating than its Caribbean counterpart, and here are the reasons and you need to discover this mysterious side, and book your Costa Rica holiday just in time for a tropical Christmas.

Costa Rica beach
Perfect, warm stable weather in December:
With a tropical climate all year round, the official summer or dry season is between December to April. The rest of the months can get a bit temperamental during ‘green’ or wet season when the skies drench the Central Americas in nature’s most powerful fuel: rain. The North Pacific side can enjoy an even longer than usual dry season, for up to 6 months between December and May, with loads of sunshine to warm your heart’s cockles and why not, your Christmas holidays! Leave the cold climates behind and indulge in the warm temperatures while working on your tan, or take advantage of the ambient climate and begin to explore all the biodiversity that makes Costa Rica one of the wealthiest nations in the world.

Purple sunset
Observe visuals worth a thousand documentaries:
Feast your eyes on splendid, atmospheric landscapes that ooze mystery and charm, alluring your senses in a way that you’ll have to pinch yourself to make sure you are not dreaming. Phenomenal purple and golden sunsets that have you looking westward, where the last of the sun’s rays fade into a dramatic oceanic backdrop of peaceful, mysterious waters. Rugged and striking shorelines, rainforests shrouded in clouds, low tropical woodlands that meet sandy beaches, and jungle clad mountains that are home to a thousand different creatures and critters. Personal encounters with the indigenous wildlife is an attraction in itself…

Wildlife
A cradle of wildlife biodiversity
Costa Rica is brimming with a living-breathing heritage that is worth experiencing, in person. Although it covers only 0.3% of the Earth’s surface, 5% of the world’s plants and animals call it a home. Apart from the thousands of different kinds of flowering plants, Costa Rica’s terrestrial territory nurtures 200 species of mammals, nearly 400 species of reptiles and amphibians and around 2000 species of butterflies, making it a wildlife watching paradise (literally).

Bird sighting
Bird watching is very popular, with nearly 900 species to look out for, while monkey and frog watching is also beginning to become popular. The Pacific side of Costa Rica’s marine territory hides an entire cosmos of underwater life, rich in variety and numbers. Turtles and stingrays, spinner dolphins, sharks and whales are the most high profile animal sightings and there are specific tours designed for enthusiasts to become acquainted with or observe the animal of their choice, in its natural habitat.

Dolphin sighting
Ecotourism in all its glory
A true paragon for Ecotourism, Costa Rica’s natural biodiversity has created a responsibility to protect areas by way of a National Conservation system which includes around 20 National Parks. Ranging from parks of natural attraction, such as the La Fortuna waterfall and the Celeste River Tenorio Volcanic Park, to wildlife reserves such as the Curu National Wildlife Refuge, and some that combine it all, such as Manuel Antonio Quepos National Park and the Corcovados beach National Park, visitors who want to experience ecotourism at its best, should plan the day itineraries of their trip in advance, to ensure you’ll get a taste of everything!

La Fortuna waterfall

Rio Celeste
The off-coast isla Tortuga is the best place to start as it is considered a wildlife and natural beauty playground. It is a peaceful island with sandy beaches and emerald waters, dedicated to getting in touch with nature. Packed with loads of recreational activities too, isla Tortuga offers relaxation in a scenic environment, with the option to be …educated in nature’s endowment.

Tortuga island
Something for everyone
Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity has created diversity in travel experiences as well; it lends itself for family holidays as there are a myriad of things that will enthuse both children and adults alike; for romantic getaways and honeymoons, as the couple can share incredible moments while enveloped in phenomenal vistas; for adventure seekers, who want to quench their thirst by discovering new horizons everyday; for completely relaxing luxurious resort type holidays, without having to lift a finger (if that’s what you want). Can’t decide? We don’t blame you as there is so much going on in Costa Rica. For those who what to experience it all, with maximum comfort and minimum effort, a boutique cruiser like Variety Cruises, takes you on a sailing journey to unravel all the treasures of the Pacific Ocean coastline, from Costa Rica to Panama in 10 experience-packed days.

Golden sunset