Costa Rica is synonymous with incredibly beautiful nature, many interesting animals and insects and, of course, amazing beaches, of which there are a lot. On the one hand, Costa Rica is washed by the Pacific Ocean, and on the other – by the Caribbean Sea. This is a kind of country, which, with a relatively small area, is the focus of a large number of nature reserves, historical sights, and cultural complexes. Costa Rica landmarks are countless and surely everyone will find something interesting for themselves.
The capital of the country is the city of San Jose, which attracts travelers with its mild climate and unique atmosphere. At first glance, the city may seem like an old Spanish settlement, as there are quite a few medieval buildings preserved here. But very close to them you can see high-rise buildings made in the best traditions of modern architecture. The city center is the Plaza de la Cultura, around which the buildings of the Gold Museum, the National Theater and the newest Information Center are located.
The National Museum and Parque España are also nearby. If you are here on the weekend, you will see the work of local artists. In addition, vacationers are invited to visit excursions to the Cathedral of San Jose, get acquainted with the expositions of the Museum of Insects, the Museum of Forensic Science, and the Museum of Press History. Agree that such a choice of cultural institutions is simply amazing, and their proximity to each other gives an opportunity for choice and leaves no obstacles in the path of a curious traveler.
Shopping lovers will be interested in visiting the largest and most colorful markets. The largest is the Mercado Central market, and the second most popular is the Mercado Borbon market.
Alajuela
The second-largest city in the country is Alajuela, the main attraction of which is a butterfly farm. This is what will definitely surprise tourists because a huge number of different types of butterflies are concentrated in Costa Rica. If you are in Costa Rica, you should definitely visit at least one of the local volcanoes. For example, in the same city, you can go on a trip to the foot of the Poas volcano, as well as visit the trade shops of artisans and buy souvenirs.
Arenal volcano
The main natural attraction of these places is the Arenal volcano, its last major eruption that occurred in 2000. The height of this volcano is 1,657 meters, it is located on the territory of the national park of the same name. Here, on fertile soils, rare plants and flowers grow, and here you can also see a lot of rare birds and insects. Currently, the volcano does not pose any threat to local residents, despite the fact that sometimes small lava eruptions do occur. For tourists, watching them remains a favorite pastime, because it is so unusual!
Coconut island
Among the natural attractions, one should definitely highlight Cocos Island, a trip which will also give a lot of impressions. It is the largest uninhabited island in the Pacific Ocean, with an area of about 24 square meters. km. The entire territory of the island is covered with lush tropical vegetation, the highest point of the island is Mount Rounddel Cohn. It is not easy to get to this island, but the most patient and motivated tourists will be able to see this amazing natural corner, untouched by human hands.
Guayabo Park
Archaeological Park Guayabo also continues to be in the attention of tourists. Its area is about 220 hectares, once a fairly large and developed city was located on the territory of the park. Three thousand years ago, about 10,000 people lived on its territory; the city was completely deserted in the 14th century. Now active research is underway on the territory of the park, archaeologists have managed to find here the ruins of ancient streets and houses, as well as aqueducts that were built at the dawn of the city’s existence.
Tortuga Island
Fans of beach recreation and entertainment will have the opportunity to spend a day on the charming island of Tortuga. Many interesting legends about pirates and untold treasures, which they hid in the most hidden corners of the island, are also associated with it. Now tourists are attracted here by quiet beaches with white sand, close to which are dense thickets of palm trees.
Cartago
You can admire interesting architectural sights in the town of Cartago. Here is the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, which miraculously managed to survive during the last earthquake. This basilica houses a valuable religious artifact – a statue of the “black Madonna”, no less valuable are the elements of the ancient design preserved in the basilica.
Enjoy your trip and unforgettable impressions!
