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Costa Rica holidays: Discover an unforgettable destination
Costa Rica is all about lush jungles, wildlife and breathtaking beaches. Whether you're ziplining through the treetops, surfing the Pacific waves or soaking in natural hot springs, this Central American gem offers adventures for everyone. Plus, with Costa Rica's all-inclusive holidays, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday where everything is taken care of. From luxurious resorts to delicious local cuisine and guided tours, all-inclusive Costa Rica holidays guarantee a luxurious experience.
Whether you want to relax at the beach or enjoy thrilling adventures, this destination is an exciting getaway. We've rounded up Costa Rica travel deals and cheap flights to Costa Rica to save you money.
Costa Rica at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 11 hours 40 minutes
Main airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)
Population: 5.2 million
Language: Spanish
Currency: Costa Rican Colones
Time zone: Central Standard Time
Getting to Costa Rica from the UK
Travelling to Costa Rica is easier than ever. You can catch direct flights from London Gatwick (LGW) to San Jose (SJO) with British Airways, getting you to paradise in around 11 hours. If you're looking for budget-friendly options, airlines like Iberia, Air France and KLM offer one-stop flights via Madrid, Paris or Amsterdam.
International flights mostly land at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) near San Jose, the capital. If you want to surf and enjoy the sunsets, you can also fly into Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. It is a popular entry point for travellers heading to Costa Rica for all-inclusive holidays in places like Tamarindo, Papagayo and Playa Flamingo.
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Are you chasing winter encounters or sun-soaked beaches? Costa Rica is a year-round holiday destination. The dry season in Costa Rica starts from December to April, and it's the peak holiday season. With the endless sunshine, you can explore the Pacific Coast, go surfing or swim at the beach. Make sure you book early to get the best deals on all-inclusive Costa Rica holidays.
May to November, the green season, is the rainy season in Costa Rica. If you love waterfalls, fewer crowds and budget-friendly travel, this is the time to go. The Caribbean side, including Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero, sees sunnier days, making it ideal for spotting sea turtles. Since it is the low season, you can enjoy luxury for less with deals on hotels and flights to Costa Rica.
Things to do in Costa Rica
Go surfing in Tamarindo
Are you ready to ride the waves in Tamarindo? This surfing haven on the Pacific Coast is where both beginners and pros come to catch the perfect wave. Tamarindo offers warm waters, consistent swells and a laid-back vibe. There are plenty of surf schools for newbies, so you can grab a board and hit the waves with expert guidance. After a day of surfing, kick back on Tamarindo's golden beach, grab a fresh coconut and watch the sunset.
Visit Tortuguero National Park
Get ready for a wild adventure at Tortuguero National Park. This rainforest paradise is located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, the ideal spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Hop on a boat tour through the park's winding canals, where you can spot sloths, monkeys and colourful toucans. Tortuguero is famous for being a turtle nesting site. If you visit between July and October, you might catch the sight of sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach at night. Don't forget to explore the park's hiking trails and take in the lush scenery.
Zipline through the rainforests
Are you ready to soar through the treetops like a true jungle explorer? Ziplining in Costa Rica is an absolute must-do, and there's no better way to experience the country's lush rainforests than by flying high above them. Places like Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal offer some of the best zipline courses. You can feel the rush of adrenaline as you zoom past towering trees, waterfalls and exotic wildlife.
Hike Arenal Volcano
Get ready for a hiking adventure as you hike the Arenal Volcano. The cone-shaped volcano is located in Arenal Volcano National Park, which is surrounded by lush rainforests, beautiful landscapes and lava fields. The trails here are amazing, leading you through old lava flows from past eruptions and offering stunning panoramic views of the volcano and Lake Arenal. One of the best hikes is the Lava Flow 1968 Trail, where you'll walk on hardened lava from Arenal's famous eruption. Keep an eye out for toucans, sloths and howler monkeys as you explore. After your hike, unwind in the Arenal hot springs.
FAQs about Costa Rica holidays
Q: Is Costa Rica a luxury vacation?
A: Costa Rica can be a luxury vacation paradise if you want it to be. With high-end beachfront resorts, private jungle villas and exclusive eco-lodges, you can enjoy world-class service, spa treatments and private tours. Indulge in luxury all-inclusive Costa Rica holidays with gourmet dining, infinity pools and VIP wildlife experiences.
Q: Do people speak English in Costa Rica?
A: Yes, English is widely spoken in Costa Rica, especially in tourist areas, hotels and major cities like San Jose, Tamarindo and Jaco. While Spanish is the main language, locals working in tourism, such as hotel staff, tour guides and restaurant servers, speak basic to fluent English. In remote areas, however, you might encounter less English proficiency, so learning a few Spanish phrases can be helpful.
Q: What is the best time to go to Costa Rica?
A: The ideal time to visit Costa Rica is in the dry season, when you'll have sunny skies, warm beaches and perfect conditions for exploring rainforests. If you prefer fewer crowds, the green season (May to November) brings lush landscapes and amazing wildlife spotting.
Q: Where is the best place to go in Costa Rica for the first time?
A: If you are a first-time visitor to Costa Rica, you must visit La Fortuna and Arenal. You'll get a mix of adventure, relaxation and stunning nature. Hike Arenal Volcano, soak in natural hot springs and explore waterfalls. If you love beaches, head to Tamarindo for surfing, nightlife and breathtaking sunsets. For wildlife lovers, Manuel Antonio National Park is a must.
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