San JoséCosta Rica

Costa Rica

San José

Waves, mountains and volcanoes

Costa Rica is hard to match in diversity. Set between two oceans, this surfers’ paradise is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. A mountain chain with several three-thousanders cuts across the country.

The capital San José is situated at over 1100 metres above sea level. It is an ideal starting point to get to the beaches, mountains and natural parks. In Costa Rica you can find absolute dream beaches on the Pacific as well as on the Caribbean coast. Variety from the beach life is offered by the numerous national parks with their variety of plants and animals, such as the Chirripò National Park. Here is the highest mountain of Costa Rica with 3'820 meters, the Cerro Chirripò. In the south, tropical national parks, such as Piedras Blancas, with springs, rivers, sandy beaches and cliffs, attract visitors.

Facts & figures

Flight time
12:00 h
Distance
10000 km
Country Code
+506
Airport
SJO
Language
Spanish
Currency
CRC

Edelweiss tips for San José (Costa Rica)

Surfers and sun worshippers are likely to head straight to the many beaches along Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Some of the nicest are on the Nicoya Peninsula, including Playa Santa Teresa where consistent winds offer some of the best surf conditions in Central America. View in maps
Over a quarter of the Central American state consists of national parks and protected areas, and there are over a hundred volcanoes. In the popular Poás Volcano National Park you can admire one of these. View in maps
Many travellers also stop at the Arenal volcano. It is probably one of the most famous landmarks of Costa Rica. The National Park and Lake Arenal, the largest in Costa Rica, offer a wide range of outdoor activities. View in maps
Costa Rica is home to over six hundred species of animals. You can meet them in the numerous national parks. Sea turtles can be observed at the bay of Tamarindo. View in maps
Those who travel to Costa Rica will certainly spend a few days on one of the many dream beaches. On the Caribbean coast, the two beaches Punta Uva and Manzanillo are a highlight. For beach-hopping on the Pacific coast these beaches are worthwhile: Herradura, Matapolo and Uvita. View in maps
Adventure holidays are pre-programmed in Costa Rica. If you are looking for adrenaline, this is the place to be. From surfing, climbing, rafting to ziplining over Costa Rica's jungle landscape - everything is possible. Costa Rica Extreme Sports
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is the starting point of every trip. Most travellers move on quickly, but a short stroll through the lively city with its parks, museums and restaurants is worthwhile. View in maps