Costa Rica is fast becoming one of the most visited destinations in Central America, thanks to its lush rainforest, beautiful beaches and culture. The span of the Costa Rican territory, from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, is 200 miles. Although the country is small and it covers only 0.03 % of the surface...
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Contact UsCosta Rica is fast becoming one of the most visited destinations in Central America, thanks to its lush rainforest, beautiful beaches and culture. The span of the Costa Rican territory, from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, is 200 miles.
Although the country is small and it covers only 0.03 % of the surface of the globe, it proudly shelters a 5% of the existing biodiversity in the entire world. 25.58 % of the country is composed of conservation and natural protected territory.
Costa Rica is divided into seven provinces – San José, Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago, Puntarenas, Guanacaste, and Limon. Each province is subdivided into regions and these are subdivided into districts.
While its territory of 19,652 square miles touches both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the country is surprisingly accessible – one can travel from coast to coast in just three hours by car (or 45 minutes by plane).
The Caribbean region of Costa Rica stands out for its variety of aquatic ecosystems and its beautiful white and black sand beaches, providing an ideal setting for activities such as sport fishing, snorkelling, and sun bathing. The Pacific coast concentrates big tourist centres and its beaches are very popular for surfing.
British Airways fly directly from London Gatwick to San José during the winter season. Alternatively, there are a number of flights from America to José – perfect for a twin centre holiday.
Please be aware that there is a standard local departure tax* (or exit tax), payable in US dollars or Costa Rican Colones, upon departure from San José. The charge is $29 per passenger, and must be paid at any of the Bancrédito kiosks to the right as you enter the departures area of the airport.
Capital: | San José |
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Flying time: | 11 hours |
Language: | Spanish but English is widely spoken |
Country Size: | 19,730 square miles |
Time Difference from UK: | -6 hours Winter/ -7 hours Summer |
Currency: | Colon |
Voltage: | 120 volts |
Driving: | Right hand side of the road |
Airport: | There are currently two international airports in Costa Rica. The largest, Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO) in Alajuela, is located within the Central Valley region north of San Jose. The other airport, Daniel Oduber Airport (LIR) in Liberia, facilitates access to destinations in the northwestern Guanacaste region |
Entry Requirements: | British citizens do not require a visa but check at time of booking |
Drink the water: | It is advisable to drink bottled water |
Beaches: | A beach lovers haven with stretches of beaches and clear blue waters |
Health and Safety: | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. It is advisable to check with your doctor as |
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