Ask yourself: where else can I see three-toed sloths hanging from one tree while three varieties of monkeys cavort in the leafy tree canopies overhead? And, where else will I find 850 species of enchanting birds awaiting discovery while hundreds of assorted butterflies flit in the lush rainforest's sunlight?


Photo: Small group at Arenal Botanical Garden.
For nature lovers, Costa Rica has become the world's most popular destination. Lying just north of the Panamanian equator and south of Nicaragua and Belize, it is bordered on the east by the Caribbean Ocean, on the West by the Pacific, and is transected by mountains running north to south. Dozens of different microclimates bursting with an amazing profusion of life exist within this varied geography. National Geographic Magazine calls Corcorvado on the West Coast, "the most biologically diverse place on the earth."

Traveling in Costa Rica is a joyful, safe experience, compounded by warm, friendly people and a stable democracy. Accommodations are comfortable and meals colorfully delicious with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables.

So, the question becomes ... why not Costa Rica?

Where is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a small country connecting North and South America, just north of the Panama Canal and south of Nicaragua and Belize. The Atlantic/Caribbean Ocean is on the east and the Pacific Ocean is on the west coast.

Why is there so much interest in this little country?

Most people go to Costa Rica to enjoy nature and the country's great bio-diversity. The unique location, just north of the equator with oceans on both sides, supports a huge variety of life forms and the mountain range that runs north to south creates a myriad of different ecosystems.

Photo: Fun at Topacon Hot Springs

Is it safe to travel here?

Yes, there is a very low crime rate in Costa Rica and this peace-loving democracy has no army.

Tell us about the weather.

December to May is the dry season. There is a slight chance of a late afternoon shower in this season . Temperatures are in the 70's in the San Jose central valley region, and low 80's and more humid at the coasts. The mountain areas are quite cool and temperatures go down to the 50's and 60's at night. From May to late Nov. it rains everyday, making everything green and lush. The busiest time of the year for travel is the dry season. Some people take advantage of off season for lower rates.

What are the entry requirements for travel?

U. S. citizens must have a valid passport. This is presented at Customs upon entry to the country at the international airport.

Snakes & Insects

I get bitten more in 15 minutes in my own backyard than in three weeks in C. R. (We do recommend you bring insect repellent, just in case, to apply when walking in the rain forest). On average, we see one snake in a two-week trip. Some of the snakes are poisonous and it is good to have a healthy respect for them. Our guide is always there to identify everything and use such sightings as another "educational experience".

Tell us about the food.

Rice and beans, fresh fruits and vegetables are the basis for all meals. At lunch and dinner fish, chicken and beef are commonly served. Food is lightly seasoned, but not spicy. Soft drinks, bottled water and fruit drinks are served with all meals. Alcoholic beverages, local beer and Chilean wines are widely available. The coffee is justly famous. Our lodges serve home cooked meals using local fresh produce and regional specialties.

My husband has a sensitive stomach and hesitates going to developing countries for fear of getting sick. Is that a problem to consider?

We stay in first class places that have immaculately clean kitchens. The food they serve is fresh and very well prepared. No one on any of our trips has ever got sick or had a "stomach bug". Some people choose not to eat lettuce or other produce that doesnât have skin on it. I suggest not eating food from food vendors. Those are common-sense rules for traveling in any foreign country.

How is the water quality?

Yes, it is safe to drink the water. Water quality is strictly controlled and monitored by the government. Bottled water is readily available for worried visitors.

What language is spoken in Costa Rica?

Spanish is the national language, but English is widely spoken, especially by people serving tourists.

Photo: Breakfast and postcards home.

Tell us about the accommodations on your guided trip.

We have traveled extensively in Costa Rica to find the best eco-lodges, small hotels and interesting inns. Every place we stay (and the ones I recommend for custom trips) is clean, comfortable, charming, and with attentive staffs. Everyone is assured of a private room and private bath with hot running water. As good eco-tourists, we select places that have a great regard for the environment, conservation and sustainable development.

What vaccines & shots are required?

There are no required vaccines, shots or immunizations, but we recommend you consult your doctor. Many people receive a hepatitis A shot a couple of months before traveling. For up-to-date health information call the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, GA at 404-332-4555. Because of the level of activity and the remoteness of some of our lodges, we require people be in good health and be covered by health insurance.

Do you have a private guide?

Yes. For the entire trip we have our own bilingual professional naturalist guide, and then at each destination we meet local guides who specialize in the flora and fauna and cultural history of that place. In addition, we have a van driver. Peggy Connors, landscape designer and tour conductor, is with the trip from beginning to end; husband, Don, who offers his expertise on conservation and environmental issues also accompanies the February trip.

What currency is used in Costa Rica?

Colones, which can be obtained at hotels or banks. American dollars and Traveler's Checks are welcomed everywhere, as is Visa card. MasterCard and American Express are accepted at some places, but not as popular as Visa. ATM machines are not common or easily accessible.

Photo: Folk art workshop in Sarchi.

Are there shopping opportunities?

The hotels and towns we visit have gift shops where the local folk art and handicrafts are sold for reasonable prices. In San Jose there is an outdoor market where one can buy Latin and Central American crafts, as well as reproductions of pre-Columbian jewelry.

What makes Costa Rica Naturally! unique?

Our small size of guests allows us to offer personalized service.

The cost covers just about everything.

We use the country's most exceptional and knowledgeable guides.

Staying in each place for 2-3 nights allows us to experience a wide variety of adventures.

We specialize in Costa Rica, design our own trip from the best places we have personally selected.

We design our trips to appeal to the all around naturalist---sit back, relax, you are in for a carefree vacation. Each day you will experience new and unexpected wonders!