ACTIVITIES
ECOTOURISM
Costa Rica has a greater percentage of protected land than any other country in the world. Over 20 percent of its landmass is designated as some type of parkland, biological reserve or wildlife refuge. Known internationally as the ultimate destination for ecotourism, Costa Rica has jungle trails, pristine deserted beaches, vibrant forests and soaring volcanoes.
Hikers who venture along Costa Rica’s hillside paths are struck by some of the most breathtaking panoramic views on earth. Looking out through its lush vegetation, visitors marvel at its constantly changing vistas. From its sparkling oceans to its cloud-ringed mountains to its lush green valleys, the beauty of Costa Rica provides what can perhaps best be described as an inspirational lift to the senses.
RECREATION
Hiking
With 32 national parks,51 wildlife refuges, 13 forest reserves and eight biological reserves, you can explore the wonders of Costa Rica’s rainforest and view magnificent wildlife along trails throughout the country. You can also climb a trail along the edge of a live volcanic crater in Poás Volcano National Park to see hot geysers shooting up from the lake below, or hike along a ridge in Irazú Volcano National Park to view, on a clear day, both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
Fishing
Costa Rica’s Atlantic and Pacific oceans offer some of the best deep-sea sport fishing in the world. Given that the country has restricted commercial fishing to 200 kilometres off-shore, it’s also likely to stay that way. Multiple charters are available to take you fishing for blue marlin, dorado, wahoo, tuna, tarpon and snook. Spectacular freshwater flyfishing is also possible in its many inland lakes and rivers. You may even catch a trout, since rainbow and cutthroat hybrid trout were introduced to Costa Rica years ago.
Bird Watching
Costa Rica has over 850 recorded-species of birds, making bird watching a national pass time. Expect to see colorful giant-billed toucans, white-crested coquettes, purple-throated mountain gems, delightful tiny hummingbirds and 15 amazing different species of parrots, including exotic scarlet macaws.
Canopy Tours
View the magical wonders of the rainforest as you skim through the treetops strapped into a safety harness. Using a technique originally developed by scientists to study the tree canopy, these tours provide an exhilarating opportunity to soar above the jungle and view flora and fauna as never before.
Golfing
Many new golf courses designed by world famous architects have recently opened in Costa Rica. Government regulations ensure they’ve been developed with sensitivity to the environment. The result is spectacular, uncrowded courses amid breathtakingly beautiful scenery.
Boating
From ocean sailing to river or sea kayaking, Costa Rica is a boater’s paradise. Residents wishing to moor a boat can choose between many existing marinas or one of the new marina developments that have begun to appear along its Pacific coast.
Horseback Riding
Imagine cantering along a deserted beach at the edge of the ocean at sunset. Costa Rica is one of the few places on earth where such an experience is still possible. Equestrian facilities throughout the country provide both seaside and forested trail tours.
Mountain Biking
Costa Rica provides all kinds of trails for biking enthusiasts from flat gravel roads to rocky paths through the forest to open farmland. Both single- and multiple-day escorted mountain biking tours are also available.
Snorkeling/Scuba Diving
Costa Rica is known for its incredible variety of tropical marine life. Known as a world leader in terms of dive sites, its warm coastal waters are home to schools of colorful fish, eels, turtles, dolphins, seahorses, hammerhead sharks and huge manta rays. Many local dive shops provide both diving equipment and tours.
White Water Rafting
Costa Rica’s rushing rivers provide the perfect setting for exhilarating white water rafting adventures. Tour operators take you coursing down rapids and meandering along peaceful stretches of water as you explore Costa Rica’s lush inland wilderness.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
For many people, looking forward to retirement means looking forward to being able to take on some more meaningful pursuits. In Costa Rica there are no shortage of opportunities. You may choose to become involved with any number of volunteer or community-based organizations.
Conservation projects are always in need of volunteers to take on such work as forest restoration, trail maintenance and the research and protection of sea turtles and other wildlife. Other possible projects include volunteering to help Habitat for Humanity to build houses for low-income families and offering to teach English as a second language.
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