|
Click here to Enlarge the Map
Travel
to Costa Rica
There is a certain atmosphere that permeates
the mid Pacific region. It wraps itself around you and
frees you from stress and troubles. The Costa Rican
salutation of 'pura vida', pure life, describes the
area perfectly.
The Pacific Coast ranges over 500 miles
from its northernmost tip to its border with neighboring
Panama. This vast extension holds countless beaches
and picturesque towns and villages. There are also several
protected areas and national parks to visit in the region
so prepare yourself for a full itinerary of sights to
see.
The peak season for the mid Pacific region
is from December to April. Puntarenas is the largest
town on the coast and served for years as one of the
country's main ports. Today Puerto Caldera is the primary
location for both cargo vessels and cruise lines. While
containers are being loaded with exportation goods,
cruise line patrons can take a few hours or days for
shore leave.
The seafood found in area restaurants is
varied and as fresh as it gets. Locals make their living
from the big blue and fish for tuna, wahoo, shrimp and
lobster Seafood is available at most restaurants and
is offered in several tasty dishes typical to Costa
Rican fare.
Activities abound and even the most discriminating
traveler will find an adventure to participate in. Surfing,
kayaking, rafting and hiking are just a few of the activities
visitors will find.
Coastal Towns
Traveling along the coastal road will take
you through many seaside towns. They have a lot more
to offer other than beaches. You can tour through mangroves
and estuaries, horse back ride to tucked away waterfalls
and hike through the world of the tropical forest.
Every traveler can enjoy taking in a small
town. Not only can you visit the local church or town
half, but you can take in the market and pick up a few
supplies. With water and a few ripe mangoes, you'll
be ready to hit the streets. The market is always a
good place to visit when in search of typical items
such as colorful woven bags or hand-dipped candles.
Have a blended fruit juice with either water or milk
at a local "soda". Bear in mind that it's a good way
to practice your Spanish.
You'll pass over the Tarcoles River. The
bridge is renowned as a spot for watching crocodiles.
From the safety of the bridge's span, you'll be able
to see several good-sized ones warming up in the sun
on the sandy beach along the river. A number of cows
also share the water source and are quite comfortable
slacking their thirst with rather large reptiles in
plain view. The spot is ideal for both videos and cameras.
Jaco will soon come into view. This small
seaside town is casual and laid-back. Activities at
Jaco include horseback riding, fishing and kayaking.
An added natural benefit? The waves. Surfers enjoy the
town for its surfer friendly atmosphere as well as the
accessibility of several surf spots just minutes away.
Further down south, you'll pass Esterillos Oeste, Esterillos
Este and Parrita.
Carara Biological Reserve
Made up of 4,700 hectares, Carara has been
under protection since 1978, This reserve works much
the same as others in Costa Rica and was created specifically
to protect prime forest environment, In this case, Carara
is made up of dry forest and wet tropical forest. The
park lies straddling two life zones thereby possessing
an enormous diversity of wildlife. There are two main
trails through the park and both afford you a pleasurable
hike. The trails are easy and safe providing a great
experience for visitors traveling with children.
Manuel Antonio & Quepos
Everyone who travels through the mid Pacific
zone, must visit Manuel Antonio. Not only is it easily
accessible, but it is truly one of the most beautiful
parks in Costa Rica. It sits along the Pacific Coast
and boasts an estuary, mangroves, a lagoon, beaches
and winding paths. All this on 638 hectares of land
and 55.000 hectares of protected marine environment.
Take a walk through the tropical forest and find mosses,
ferns, flowers and epiphytes growing thickly on every
tree. One trail leads you to an observation tower with
a breathtaking 360° view.
Throughout the park, you will find the famous
wildlife Costa Rica is known for. By following logical
eco-sensitive advice, you can enjoy the park to the
fullest. Ensure you don't scare away the furry residents
by keeping voices low and stepping quietly. Although
the capuchin monkeys are quite comfortable in coming
close and gazing at you quite inquisitively, refrain
from feeding them.
Take along a small pack and make a day of
it! There are fresh water showers and bathroom facilities
along the trail as well as picnic areas. You can hike
for a while and stop for a refreshing swim at Third
Beach or Gemelas Beach.
Even when walking or driving along the road,
keep your eyes open because chances are you'll spot
either capuchin monkeys or sloths in the surrounding
trees.
|
