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Nature lovers can rejoice with wildlife sightings and many outdoors activities, even in non-coastal locations.

There’s plenty of reasons why Costa Rica’s high-season for tourism tends to start after mid November all the way to April and early May. Most tend to focus on the fact that those in the Northern hemisphere look to flock out of frigid temperatures into the warm and cozy vibes of tropical paradise, but there’s more to it than that physiological response. Costa Rica’s upcoming dry season also offers unparalleled natural phenomena within the country’s blessed ecosystem.

From the transition time of late November until the full-blown dry season and summer times of January, the lush, rain-drenched landscapes of the previous months transform into a sunlit paradise. While some might yearn for the vibrant verdant of rainy days, this season unveils very unique manifestations that attracts nature lovers, photographers, and birdwatchers from around the globe.

The shift in climate creates striking changes, especially on the Pacific coast, where rivers and streams diminish, leaving behind temporary ponds and mud puddles. These shrinking water sources become bustling hubs of activity, drawing an incredible variety of waterfowl. The phenomenon, often called the “puddle frenzy,” is a captivating display of nature’s resilience and adaptability. Flocks of wood storks are among the first to arrive and as water levels continue to drop, other species such as jabirus, white ibises, and herons of all kinds take over.

This natural spectacle is a feast for the eyes and lenses of wildlife enthusiasts. Photographers can capture remarkable interactions between species, from the graceful movements of egrets to the strategic maneuvers of night-herons as they take their nocturnal shifts.  Beyond birdwatching, the dry season is ideal for exploring Costa Rica’s diverse microclimates. The consistent sunny weather is perfect for hiking, visiting volcanic landscapes, or venturing into the coastal dry forests unique to the region. For those seeking adventure, activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, and waterfall rappelling thrive under clear skies.

Costa Rica’s dry season offers a chance to witness the delicate balance of its ecosystems, a reminder of nature’s cyclical beauty. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a traveler seeking unique experiences, this season promises unforgettable encounters with the wild beyond the traditional beach destinations and summer parties.

Costa Rica’s tourism industry has become the core tenet of its economy for the last couple of decades, being the main engine that powers national development. Ever since its name came into the forefront and its paradisiacal sights were highlighted on the cover of international magazines, the small Central American nation has seen an important increase in visitation and infrastructure around it. However, unlike many booming destinations, Costa Rica has remained committed to a sustainable tourism model.

No matter the government at hand, the country has built a structure that at least promotes responsible travel practices that benefit both visitors and local communities. This approach has been at the heart of the country’s tourism strategy, ensuring that natural resources, local livelihoods, and environmental health are mostly prioritized by all sanctioned participants.  During the recent World Tourism Day celebrations, many countries took the opportunity to reflect on the impact of mass tourism and the growing need for sustainable alternatives. Costa Rica was a highlight due to its still-standing avoidance of mass, uncontrolled tourism.

The Tico tourist model implements tools over time to accommodate increased visitation,  but it’s still centered around sustainability on multiple fronts: environmental, economic, and social. Companies in the tourism sector are trained and certified to ensure that Costa Rica’s natural wonders are preserved, as they are well understood to be the reason most people come to this lush natural oasis. The National Tourism Plan is built on three key pillars: sustainability, innovation, and inclusion, with a strong focus on maintaining long-term environmental and social health.

Challenges will always emerge as nations readjust, be it in rising costs, pollution, or overcrowding. So far, Costa Rica’s policies have managed to at least safeguard the country’s tourist success, in its continued expectation of growing as a global destination, while also preserving its national ethos in the process. 

Costa Rica’s rich traditions and costumes can be experienced throughout the year in its myriad of different settings, from the vibrant Caribbean, going through the timeless mountain villages, all the way to the iconic and sprawling Guanacaste outback. In September, however, they all get the spotlight during the celebration of the national Independence Day.

Showcases of band ensembles, lantern parades, and folk dance and music all fill the cultural agenda of ticos during the month, bursting into the streets and public spaces with a palpable sense of national pride through the banners of red, white and blue.

A particularly cherished tradition during this time is the aforementioned desfile de faroles, where children and their families take to the streets with homemade lanterns, a symbolic tribute to a lantern-lit rally supporting independence in Guatemala during 1821. These colorful and school-crafted lanterns are accompanied by traditional music and the beating drums of school bands.The night of September 14 also marks the arrival of the torch of independence, a symbol of the journey the news of independence took across Central America. Passed in relay fashion by students, the torch travels from Guatemala to Costa Rica, concluding its journey in Cartago, the former capital, where it lights a cauldron to mark the end of the night’s festivities.

Beyond the celebrations specifically around Independence Day, this time of the year in Costa Rica marks a great example of the many layers that compose the country’s pura vida ethos. It’s not only about the scenic natural beauty and the laid back tropical vibe, but also the ways diverse cultural and popular expressions bring families and communities together through shared heritage. Be it as an expat looking to delve deeper into the local way of life, or a tico urbanite looking to revisit their immediate context, there’s no better time than this to do so.

Beyond its beautiful backdrop, Costa Rica’s coastline has established itself as a thriving hub for tourism and investment ever since the first adventurous backpackers reached the shores in the late 1970s. With different degrees of surfing and vacation amenities, eventually marinas became a strategic development. The marinas that stretch along the Pacific coast have become important pillars for each of this community’s economic and tourism sector, ranging from luxurious yacht docks to vibrant commercial areas, condominiums, and high-end residences. Costa Rica’s marinas are transforming the coastal landscape by welcoming the most demanding of anglers, and also creating hubs for local visitation. 

One of the standout examples is Marina Papagayo. This marina opened in 2009 and quickly became a cornerstone of the Peninsula Papagayo resort community. Its prime location in a naturally protected harbor at Bahia Culebra makes it an ideal spot for both luxury yachts and sport-fishing vessels. With its proximity to the Guanacaste International Airport, it offers unparalleled convenience for visitors, enhancing its appeal as a premier destination. The marina’s robust infrastructure, including 180 slips and plans for expansion, underscores its role as a key player in the region.

Moving down the coast, Marina Flamingo is another beacon of development, officially reopening in 2023 after years of dormancy. Originally the first marina in Costa Rica, its revival has breathed new life into the booming Flamingo area. The marina now features 90 slips, with plans for significant expansion, and offers a comprehensive range of amenities, including villas, restaurants, and even a medical clinic.

Los Sueños Resort and Marina in Herradura Bay stands out as one of the most lavish,  world-class destinations for anglers and tourists alike. Since its completion in 2003, Los Sueños has drawn visitors with its exceptional fishing opportunities, especially during the annual Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown tournament series. This marina has played a crucial role in solidifying Costa Rica’s reputation as a top sport-fishing destination, contributing to the local economy and offering a high standard of living for residents and visitors.

Marina Pez Vela, located in the charming seaside town of Quepos near Manuel Antonio National Park, is perhaps the premier destination of its kind.  With 195 slips, state-of-the-art facilities, and a unique cofferdam system to tame the Pacific’s swells, it stands as one of the top sport-fishing marinas in Central America. From the essential resources of polished fuel, in-slip pump-out services, to the charming amenities of a wide array of international restaurants, and retail options within its vibrant marina village, this has become a regional highlight. It’s also renowned for hosting prestigious fishing tournaments like the Offshore World Championship and Pelagic Rockstar, cementing its name as a dynamic center of tourism and communal activity.

In the southern part of the country, Marina Bahia Golfito offers a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic importance. Surrounded by lush rainforest and national parks, this marina provides a safe haven for vessels and serves as a gateway to Panama

Costa Rica’s marinas are more than just docking points for yachts, they are epicenters for tourism and community development, driving economic growth, attracting international visitors, and creating opportunities for sustainable development along the country’s stunning coastline. As these projects continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly play an even greater role in shaping the future of Costa Rica’s coastal regions.

Known worldwide as one of the best grains in the whole world, the Central American nation has once again received prestigious accolades.

The immersive forest landscapes of Santa Maria de Dota are a magical place where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. Fully established as one of the coffee production hubs of the country, it’s no surprise one of its world-class offerings that recently won first place in the prestigious international Cup of Excellence Coffee 2024 contest. This year, Finca Santa Teresa and the Café Don Cayito grain have put Santa Maria de Dota on the global spotlight once again.

The recognition from the Cup of Excellence is another landmark moment for the small rural village, which is mainly known as a tranquil mountain setting, beyond the coffee production. The story of Café Don Cayito specifically began  in 1974 when 300 Arabica coffee plants were established in the La Granadilla farm. Today, their award-winning Geisha varieties are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a significant draw for tourists seeking unique coffee experiences.

On the other side of town, Finca Santa Teresa showcased innovation with its methods. With over 45 years in coffee cultivation, this farm has transformed an old dairy into a vibrant micro-mill that processes the entire harvest, and even hosts its own coffee shop in the Amarinta Cafeteria & Coffee Sho, where one can savor award-winning brews.

The achievements of these coffee producers not only reward decades of hard work but also underscore a renewed commitment to quality and sustainability amidst agricultural changes. Their success also reminds coffee enthusiasts of the Dota community’s storied tradition. 

These awards serve as testament to the exceptional quality of Santa Maria de Dota’s coffee, and will certainly draw a renewed interest in the country’s iconic and traditional produce, one of the freshest in the world due to its very favorable climate conditions and fertile volcanic soils. Experience for yourself the magic of a country with some of the best coffee in the world, and be part of a setting and culture that celebrates excellence in every cup.

Despite its continued growth in terms of international investment and tourist development, one of Costa Rica’s main building blocks in terms of its global branding comes from its commitment to ecology and preservation. From renewable energy projects to conservation efforts, the country is constantly at the forefront when it comes to environmental consciousness.

One of the latest examples comes from a landmark moment in the country’s wildlife conservation project, as in May 2024 Costa Rica finally closed its two state-run zoos. The move involves relocating approximately 250 animals from the Simón Bolívar Zoo in San José and the Santa Ana Conservation Center to a rescue center in Alajuela. 

Spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), this initiative underscores Costa Rica’s goal of preserving wildlife in their natural habitats, moving away from confinement and exhibition to a more organic involvement with the animal’s endemic environments. The fauna, including jaguars, ocelots, caimans, crocodiles, spider monkeys, and sloths, underwent preliminary health checks before being transported. The relocation was a carefully coordinated effort, with animals placed in portable cages and escorted by police to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, known as Zoo Ave. This center will now serve as their new home, offering a more natural and suitable setting for their rehabilitation. 

This decision aligns with both national regulations and international conservation agreements. The government made the resolution to close the state zoos two years ago, aiming to ensure a better quality of life for the animals. The closure of these zoos, some of which had been in operation for over a century, has been met with widespread celebration among animal rights activists. They believe that Costa Rica’s decision sets a precedent as it becomes the first country to eliminate its state-run zoos, a move seen as a significant victory for wildlife preservation worldwide. 

The country’s new focus on sanctuaries and rescue centers marks a shift in how Costa Rica approaches wildlife protection and conservation and also emphasizes cultural consciousness about how animals should be safeguarded in a country bursting with exotic fauna throughout. 

Originally, the zoos were supposed to close in 2014 following a law passed in 2013. However, legal challenges delayed the process. This event marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new, hopeful chapter for animal lovers and conservation in Costa Rica. One of the country’s many foundations when it comes to its “green” aura.