Costa Rica Overview

Costa Rica Travel Insights: Seasonal Weather Highlights

Embark on a journey through Costa Rica and immerse yourself in a mosaic of climates that vary with the seasons. In San Jose, situated amidst diverse landscapes, the season offers a unique weather experience.

Spring (September to November):

Daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 62°F to 70°F (17°C to 21°C).

Nighttime lows typically hover around 7°C to 10°C.

Summer (December to February):

Enjoy mild daytime highs between 61°F to 69°F (16°C and 19°C)

Nights remain cool, with temperatures ranging from 41°F to 44°F (5°C to 8°C)

Autumn (March to May):

Experience daytime temperatures ranging from 57°F to 62°F (14°C to 17°C)

Nighttime lows rarely dip below 39°F (4°C)

Winter (June to August):

Daytime highs range from 57°F to 60°F (14°C to 16°C)

Crisp nights with temperatures dropping to around 57°F to 60°F (3°C to 5°C)

Packing List

• Day clothes focusing on light clothing for warm weather:
  • Short-Sleeved Shirts
  • Shorts
  • Sun dress
  • Beach cover up
  • Light waterproof jacket - April can be the start of the tropical rain season.
  • Lightweight long pants
• Sandals/beach shoes
• Comfortable hiking attire - for exploring Manuel Antonio National Park.
• Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes.
• Day or Hiking Bag/Pack - If you want to carry your water bottle or a snack on your adventures.
• Bathing suits - Igloo Beach Lodge is only steps away from the ocean!
• Personal toiletries
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Sun Hat
• Camera - You won't want to forget all the incredible adventures we will share!
• Portable battery pack
• Mosquito Repellent - mosquito population in Costa Rica is known to be quite high so having a repellent can be quite handy. Remember if you are flying - sprays in aerosol form are not permitted so lotions, wipes, or non-aerosol spray would be the best choice.
• PASSPORT
• Currency - The Colon is the official currency of Costa Rica, although many places accept the US Dollar. There is no need to exchange currency before departure, a location for currency exchange will be provided upon arrival.

Costa Rica Travel Essentials: Language and Local Phrases

In Peru, Spanish is the primary language spoken, but a significant number of locals are fluent in English as a second language. Enhance your travel experience by familiarizing yourself with some essential phrases:

• Hello: ¡Hola! (O-la)
• Goodbye: ¡Adiós! (AH-dee-ohs)
• Thank you: Gracias (GRA-see-as)
• Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés? (Ab-la in-GLAYS)
• I (don’t) understand: Yo (no) entiendo (yo no en-tee-EN-doh)
• How are you?: ¿Cómo está? (KOH-moh eh-STAH)
• I’m fine, thank you: Bien, gracias (bee-EN, GRA-see-as)
• What’s your name?: ¿Cómo te llamas? (KOH-moh te ya-mas?)
• My name is…: Me llamo… (May ya-moh…)

For specific locations:

• Where is...:
• The bathroom: ¿Dónde está el baño? (DON-day es-tah el BAH-nyo)
• An ATM: ¿Dónde está un cajero? (DON-day es-tah un kah-HEH-roh)

Mastering these phrases will not only enrich your cultural experience but also make your interactions with locals more enjoyable. ¡Buen viaje! (Safe travels!)

Costa Rica Travel Insights: Fascinating Discoveries

Embark on a journey to Costa Rica, a land rich in wonders and cultural treasures:

Arenal Volcano Majesty: Costa Rica is home to the majestic Arenal Volcano, an iconic natural landmark surrounded by lush rainforests. This active volcano provides awe-inspiring views and a glimpse into the country's geological marvels.

Biodiversity Haven: Despite its diverse landscapes, from the dense rainforests to the pristine beaches, Costa Rica is a biodiversity hotspot. Encounter exotic wildlife, explore vibrant ecosystems, and marvel at the stunning variety of plant and animal species that thrive in Costa Rica.

Gastronomic Pleasures: Costa Rica is a culinary haven, celebrated for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like gallo pinto, casado, and tropical fruit delights. Explore local markets for a delightful journey through Costa Rica's culinary offerings.

Indigenous Roots: Immerse yourself in the rich indigenous heritage that permeates Costa Rica. Explore cultural sites and learn about the traditions of native communities, gaining insight into the history and customs that shape the country.

Colorful Artisan Markets: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of artisan markets, where local communities showcase their crafts, textiles, and traditional products. Engage with local artisans and take home unique, handcrafted souvenirs that reflect the cultural richness of Costa Rica.

Discover the enchanting tapestry of Costa Rica, where natural wonders, indigenous heritage,and vibrant cuisine come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Tipping Etiquette in Costa Rica: Show Your Appreciation

When it comes to tipping in Peru, expressing gratitude for exceptional service is a welcomed tradition. While not obligatory, tips are a meaningful way to acknowledge the dedication of guides, drivers, and restaurant staff. Here are suggested tipping amounts:

Guides: Consider offering USD $5-10 per person, per day, to your knowledgeable guides who enhance your exploration with their expertise.

Drivers: Show appreciation to your skilled drivers with a tip of USD $15-10 per person, per day, recognizing their contribution to a smooth and safe journey.

Restaurants (Full Service): For a delightful dining experience, consider leaving a tip equivalent to 10% of the total bill at full-service restaurants.

Your gestures of appreciation contribute to the well-deserved income of the local teams who enhance your travel experience.

FAQs for Your Costa Rica Adventure

Connecting with Local Communities in Costa Rica

Seek Permission:

Always request permission before capturing images of Costa Rican people, their village, or cultural practices. Be sensitive to privacy concerns, and obtain consent, acknowledging that not everyone may be comfortable with photography.

Follow Cultural Protocols:

Familiarize yourself with Costa Rican customs, including greetings, dress codes, and rules about specific areas in the village. Adhering to these cultural protocols demonstrates your genuine appreciation for their heritage.

Engage Respectfully:

Approach interactions with Costa Rican people respectfully and with a sincere interest in their culture. Be mindful of your behavior and language, avoiding actions or words that could be perceived as disrespectful. Engage in meaningful conversations to learn about their way of life.

Support Local Artisans:

The community takes pride in their traditional arts and craftsmanship. If you plan to purchase souvenirs, consider buying directly from local artisans. This supports their livelihoods and contributes to the preservation of their cultural heritage.

If you have any further questions or inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to Farwest Travels at travelers@farwesttravels.com. We are here to help in any way we can. We genuinely appreciate your decision to be a part of Holly's Costa Rica Adventure! It's going to be a fantastic experience, and we can't wait to share it with you.