Costa Rica

Gorgeous Costa Rica is known for its spectacular natural beauty and biodiversity and contains 15 different ecosystems. All enjoy dramatic changes in landscapes, climate, and nature, with magnificent beaches stretching for miles along unspoilt coastline. Pristine cloud forests high on the mountains are alive with mysterious sounds while below splendid rainforests are packed with life.

The country is famous for its progressive approach to conservation. Indeed, it is the prime eco-tourism destination in Central America due to its wealth of protected areas. Over 25 percent of the country consists of these regions, spread between 75 different national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological reserves.

Currency. The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is divided into 100 céntimos and is the official currency, although US Dollars are also widely accepted. US Dollars can be exchanged in banks and many hotels, but currency other than US Dollars is difficult to exchange.

Electricity. Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Flat two-pin plugs and three-pin (two flat blades with round grounding pin) plugs are in use.

Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken.

Climate. Costa Rica has a typically tropical climate which means that the seasons are not distinct: little difference occurs in temperature throughout the year. There is a lot of rainfall, particularly from May to November, and it can rain at any time of the year. However, December to April gets significantly less rain.

Temperatures along the coast are hotter, averaging 89ºF (32ºC), although they are tempered down by welcome sea breezes. The highland areas are warm during the day and can be quite cool at night. The sun shines year round in Costa Rica and there is no real winter which makes it a year-round holiday destination. The coolest months of the year are November, December and January and the hottest months of the year are March, April, and May, but there is not a big difference ultimately. Peak tourist season in Costa Rica is from November to April, but the weather is good all year round, so for those looking to avoid the crowds, it is better to visit out of season.