Costa Rica is a small, peaceful country located at the heart of Central America squeezed between the calm seas of the Caribbean and the rolling waves of the mighty Pacific Ocean. It acts as a biological bridge between North and South America resulting in a staggering variety of flora and fauna. Combined with friendly people, stunning scenery, loads of exciting activities and wonderful beaches, Costa Rica is one of the most interesting and diverse countries in the region.
Costa Rica
Start planning your Costa Rica holiday by getting in touch with one of our travel experts.
Please call 01905 731373, email info@world-odyssey.com or enquire online.
Swim in the hot thermal Perdido River
Many places offer natural thermal pools, but to swim in a hot river is a strange and wonderful experience. The centrepiece of the 600-acre private reserve at Rio Perdido, which means ‘lost river’ is the thermo-mineral gorge that draws energy from deep magma flows. Along the river are 8 registered springs, from which over 4000 gallons of hot water emanate every minute. At these points, the water is a bit too hot for more than a dip of the foot, but as a result of the spring water mixing with the river’s flow, there are a number of soothing pools of varying temperatures that are absolutely perfect for swimming.
The river is located within a beautiful forest of Jobo, Ceibo and Espavel trees that boast canopy heights upwards of 160 feet. Inevitably this attracts a wide variety of wildlife and there is nothing better than relaxing in the warm waters and seeing so many birds and animals pass by.
Oxcart making in Sarchi
The traditional oxcart or carreta, is the product of Costa Rica’s most famous craft. Dating from the mid-nineteenth century, oxcarts were used to transport coffee beans from Costa Rica’s central valley over the mountains to the port of Punt Arenas on the Pacific coast, where they were then exported around the world.
The enchanting town of Sarchi, not far from San Jose, is famed for being the creative heart of the country and is home to a wide variety of artisans from furniture makers to artists, but the most famous are those who still make the hugely colourful oxcarts in the traditional manner. It is fascinating walking around the old factory where the saws and other machines are still powered by an old fashioned waterwheel. Once the carts have been built they are taken to the workshop where the artists paint them all by hand in a rich palette of colours and patterns and to watch these steady-handed masters at work is a real privilege.
The driest months in Costa Rica are typically from December to April, which is generally the best time to visit. May to August can see some light rain, but it is usually a lovely time to travel and less busy. September and October are the wettest months and best avoided.
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Classic Costa Rica
Classic Costa Rica is a two week trip that takes you to not only some of the key wildlife viewing locations, but also gives you time to relax on the Pacific coasts golden beaches.
- 3 nights at El Silencio Lodge
- 2 nights at Arenal Nayara Lodge
- 2 nights at El Establo Lodge
- 3 nights at Arenas del Mar
- 3 nights at Lapa Rios Lodge
Please contact us on 01905 731373 for further details and pricing.
LOCATION
COSTA RICA KEY INFO
Visa
No Visa is required for UK passport holders.
Health Requirements
No mandatory vaccinations are required.
Time Difference
GMT - 6 Hours
Flight Time
11.5 hours Direct
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