Costa Rica is recognised as the heart of ecotourism, as it is home to more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity and lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. With more than 800 miles of coastline, 121 volcanic formations and an abundance of national parks and incredible jungles and wildlife, great service standards and hospitality, it’s a country just waiting to be explored. It makes a perfect destination for family adventures, off the beaten track experiences and tailor made trips. In short, Costa Rica has everything to offer the international traveller and you can trust Pioneer Expeditions to deliver an incredible holiday in this idyllic country.
In the early 16th century when Christopher Columbus first explored the region he named it ‘Costa Rica’ which translates to ‘Rich Coast’. This was because he hoped to find precious metals in the area; however, today Costa Rica is still regarded as a ‘rich’ place, but for a different reason: its fauna and flora. National Geographic labelled Costa Rica as “the most biologically intense place on earth” and few visitors would deny this, having witnessed all Costa Rica has to offer, from volcanic chains to almost every type of forest as well as its colourful wildlife. Costa Rica has also been referred to as the greenest country on earth, with proposed plans to be the first carbon neutral country by 2021. In addition the Happy Planet Index, in 2009 placed Costa Rica in first position on the index which is based around sustainable and fulfilling lifestyles. In tourism terms Costa Rica is the most developed of the Central American countries, so is a good option for those with younger children or who want a little luxury in the rainforest. That said, there is still plenty of places to explore off the beaten track and plenty of wild experiences to be had.
Costa Rica is situated on the Isthmus connecting North and South America has coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. To the north Costa Rica is bordered by Nicaragua and to the south by Panama. Costa Rica has a large amount of the most highly regarded fauna and flora in the world. It is home to some of the world’s most endangered bird species and other animals, many of which are endemic. Furthermore almost 10% of the plant species found in Costa Rica are also endemic to the country’s rainforests which cover almost half of the country.
Costa Rica is a republic with a single legislative body made up of its Legislative Assembly whose members are elected by popular vote. The results of the 2010 elections in Costa Rica saw the country’s first female president take victory, Laura Chinchilla. Interestingly Costa Rica constitutionally abolished its army permanently in 1949.
It is considered that Costa Rica has one of the most successful economies in Central America. A reason for the prosperity of Costa Rica’s economy is its agricultural exports which are well known for coffee production, as well as fruit, sugar, beef and a growing number of more advanced technological goods. Tourism also consists of a significant percentage of Costa Rica’s economy.
English is widely spoken but other languages include German, Oshiwambo, Rukwangari, Silozi, Otjiherero, Damara, Nama, Khisan and Satswana.
Costa Rica’s official languages are English and Creole Religion Christianity is the main religion in Costa Rica, although the state does promote religious freedom, its official religion is Roman Catholicism with over 70% of the population Roman Catholic. The rest is made up of Evangelical Protestants, small sectors of other religions such as Buddhist and Jewish and 10% who have no religion.
The best time to travel to Costa Rica is generally between December and April, during the drier season when sunny days and warm temperatures make conditions ideal for exploring rainforests, national parks and Pacific coast beaches. The Caribbean coast has a slightly different climate, with its driest months typically falling between September and October. The wet season across much of the country usually runs from May to November, when short tropical showers are more common but landscapes are lush and wildlife viewing remains excellent.
“Costa Rica is widely recognised as a world leader in responsible travel, and rightly so. What makes our approach different is that we go beyond the well-known routes to show a quieter, more authentic side of the country. We know where to step off the beaten track, visiting remote wildlife areas and welcoming communities that many travellers never reach. It’s even possible to cross the country from coast to coast without using motorised transport. For me, that’s the real magic of Costa Rica—experiencing its nature, people and landscapes in a truly low-impact, meaningful way.””
Whatever you want from your trip, our team of experts are ready to help.
These are trips which are perfectly created, organised, and lead specifically for you. If you are considering one of our wildlife, multi-activity adventures, small group trips or family holiday adventures then we would be delighted to design a tailormade itinerary, to meet your interests, travel dates and accommodation requirements. Just get in touch!
Learn MoreWe operate small group holidays for a maximum of 8-12 persons. As well as multi-activity trips we offer trekking trips, kayaking, rafting, wildlife, cycling and photography. These small group trips make ideal holidays for singles and couples, particularly for those wishing to visit Madagascar, the Galapagos islands, explore Borneo or kayak the Komodo Dragon islands, Indonesia.
Learn MoreWe are delighted to offer a number of specialist trips, depending on your interests. We organise a number of specialist holidays such as family adventure holidays that can be designed to meet the requirements for children of certain ages. We also design unique and interesting luxury holidays and honeymoon trips as well trips for celebrating special events and anniversaries.
Learn MoreBritish citizens along with most Western European countries, Canada and USA are allowed a 90 day stay in Costa Rica without a Visa. Australian, New Zealand, South African and Irish Citizens are allowed to stay for 30 days without a visa. Travellers also officially need an onward ticket
For up-to-date information please check the Costa Rican Embassy of the UK (
The currency in Costa Rica is Colones. Travellers cheques not accepted. We recommend getting your Colones at the airport. US$ are also accepted.
Cards are pretty much accepted everywhere now and some places actually prefer cards to cash. We do recommend taking some cash though. Local Currency for tips and some additional as a backup (the backup could be in US$)
Adequate travel insurance is mandatory for everyone who participates in a Pioneer expedition. We strongly recommend that you take out baggage loss and accident insurance. Please bring a copy of your insurance policy and contact numbers to give to your expedition leader in case of illness or accident.
"*" indicates required fields
Discover dream destinations, direct to your inbox.
"*" indicates required fields
