Costa Rica
Costa Rica is located in the Central American isthmus, between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Its varied landscapes and mild climate make this small country the perfect getaway. Land of peace, Costa Rica is the oldest democracy in Latin America with more than 100 years of political stability.
Rugged highlands are found throughout most of the country, ranging from approximately 1,000 to 2,000 meters (3,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level). The Guanacaste Mountain Range, Central Mountain Range, and Talamanca Mountain Range are the main mountain ranges extending the entire length of the country. There are several active volcanoes (Arenal Volcano, Irazu Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano and Turrialba Volcano) and the country's highest mountain (Chirripo Hill) with a height of 3,819 m/12,530 ft. The country has a relatively long coastline in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Costa Rica really is mother nature at its best.
Costa Rica has a tropical climate with an average temperature of 22 degrees C (72 degrees F) that increases considerably on the coastal areas. The changes in temperature are considerable and due to the short distances in this relatively small country, they can all be experienced in just one day. Due to factors such as the geographical location, the weather conditions, the formation of mountain chains, mountains, and valleys, this country experiences different microclimates that give a home to different types of vegetation.
Located near the Caribbean coast is Tortugero National Park. This is one of the few Costa Rican national parks where walking isn't necessarily the best way to see things. The marked trail along the beach is used mostly for observing turtle nesting, but the best way to see most of the park is from a boat. That doesn't mean you can't get a workout while nature watching; there are plenty of places to rent canoes and kayaks (cayucas or botes).
The area protected by Tortuguero (turtle catcher) National Park was an archipelago of volcanic islands until alluvial sediments from the interior mountains, filled in the spaces and formed a network of marshy islands. Sand piled up where the river deposited land met the sea, and the turtle nesting beaches of Tortuguero formed. The exceptionally high rainfall, and rich environment where the freshwater meets the sea makes the beaches, canals, lagoons and wetlands of Tortuguero areas of exceptional biodiversity, and opportunity for nature lovers.
Price Information:
Continental Airlines
www.continental.com
Dublin to Costa Rica
Return fares from €1160 including taxes and charges.
Beacon South America
www.beaconsouthamerica.com
0818 300 123
10 night package deal to Costa Rica including:
Return flights
2 nights San Jose 4* Hotel B&B
2 nights Tortuguero Lodge (full board)
3 nights Arenal Volcano Lodge 4* B&B
3 nights Manuel Antonio Beach-Boutique and Spa Hotel 4* B&B
Tours, transfers
From €1663 including taxes and charges.
Visit Costa Rica
www.visitcostarica.com
Other tour operators offering this destination:
Ebookers
www.ebookers.ie