Although it’s smaller than West Virginia, Costa Rica is chock-full of national parks, active volcanoes, and natural, protected zones, the perfect setting for a thrill-seeking vacation. This tropical, Central American country, positioned between Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the southeast, has become the most prosperous, stable, and progressive nation in Latin America. With the Pacific Ocean to the west and Caribbean Sea to the east, its two coasts offer world-class sport fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling just a short distance off its white and black sand beaches. From surf camps to five-star hotels, there are a variety of properties to sample, accessible from the country’s two international airports, San Jose and Liberia.

Costa Rica, known for its rich biodiversity, was one of the first countries to focus on ecotourism and sustainability, with most high-end hotels utilizing innovative green technologies on property. Planning a one-week stay? Focusing on either the northern or southern region would be an option.

Please check out my guest blog on Four Seasons website to read all about our adventures on Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica’s northwestern Guanacaste region.

The boys spent hours snorkeling off of Playa Vilador

Looking for a day trip? Some “don’t miss” sites include: Palo Verde National Park, Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, and Monteverde Cloud Forest.

A boat trip down the Tempisque River puts you up close with the wildlife

Costa Rica’s natural beauty does not disappoint

On our excursion to the Tempisque River, we learned that cashews grow outside their companion fruit

Learning to scuba in Blanca Pool

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Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.