Costa Rica, a Central American country renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, is establishing itself as a prime destination for families seeking adventure and relaxation. In 2023, the country welcomed a record 2.47 million visitors by air, surpassing even pre-pandemic levels of 2019. This growing popularity is not surprising, given the many attractions of this tropical destination.
Contrary to popular belief, traveling to Costa Rica in summer is not a bad idea. While rain periods are to be expected, they are generally short, intense, and occur mainly at night. It’s advisable not to rely blindly on weather forecasts, which tend to overestimate precipitation. Often, they predict rain every day, all day, but this is rarely the case.
Safety is another major asset for families. Despite some rumors about car thefts, the summer, considered low season, seems particularly quiet. To explore the country freely, renting a car is essential.
A popular itinerary begins in San José, the capital, before heading to the Pacific coast. Uvita, with its “magical” Airbnb accommodations, offers an ideal base for discovering gems like Dominical, Quepos, and Jaco. Matapalo Beach, just minutes from Dominical, stands out for its pristine sand and enchanting calm, with hardly anyone on either side.
Costa Rica is famous for its national parks, including Manuel Antonio. A guided tour proves essential: guides, equipped with binoculars and benefiting from a shared information network, allow visitors to observe wildlife often invisible to unaccompanied visitors. There’s a chemistry between guides, sharing information to help visitors see more animals during their visit.
For families wishing to try surfing, Quepos beach offers ideal conditions with gentler waves than other beaches in the region, making it a better option for children to learn surfing.
Costa Rica is also renowned for its beautiful waterfalls, offering varied experiences to visitors. Among the most impressive, Nauyaca Falls stands out for its exceptional height and width. To access it, a hike of about an hour and a half is necessary. Although the trail is relatively easy, the tropical heat can make the walk demanding. A paid entry is required, including parking. Despite its spectacular beauty, swimming is not advised due to the strong water flow.
For a more accessible and refreshing experience, Uvita Waterfall offers an interesting alternative. Located just a five-minute walk from the road, this more modest waterfall allows visitors to swim, jump, and even slide in its waters. Moreover, its more affordable entrance fee makes it an attractive option for families looking to enjoy a refreshing break without straying too far.
These two waterfalls perfectly illustrate the diversity of natural experiences that Costa Rica offers, adapting to the preferences and abilities of each traveler.
One point to consider is the high cost of food, particularly for imported products. It’s recommended to favor local products and plan meals wisely to control the budget. Everything imported comes at a premium, so shopping for local meat at supermarkets and planning meals smartly is advisable.
In conclusion, despite some challenges, Costa Rica stands out as a prime summer destination for families, combining preserved nature, varied activities, and safety. The record tourist influx of 2023 testifies to the growing appeal of this small Central American country, which knows how to combine adventure and unforgettable moments of relaxation.