Colón Stronger as U.S. Dollar, 2011

The U.S. dollar is hurting, and the once atrophied colón is starting to get a little bit of muscle.

As of Thursday April, 28,2011, the value of a U.S. dollar was ₡493, the strongest the colón has been since 2008 and about the same value it had in 2006, when Costa Rica’s Central Bank (BCCR) implemented a fluctuating band system and scrapped fixed daily mini-devaluations.

The dollar has steadily declined in 2011. According to the Wall Street Journal’s U.S. Dollar Index, created in 1971, the dollar is currently only 5 percent shy of its lowest ever-recorded value, which was in March 2008. On March 1, 2008, the dollar was also valued at ₡493 before hitting its lowest mark of ₡491 by the end of the month.

The Costa Rican exchange rate, like the international economic landscape, is cyclical. If the low-point of the U.S. dollar in 2008 was an indication of what is to come, greenbacks should start to make a comeback in coming months.

In his first-ever press conference Wednesday, Ben Bernanke, chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve, said the Federal Open Market Committee found that the U.S. economy is recovering at a “moderate pace” from the 2008-2009 financial crisis.

Costa Rica White Water Rafting and Kayaking

White Water Rafting and Kayaking in allows you to enjoy the beauty and abundant white water of the rivers of Costa Rica. Rafting and Kayaking Guides in Costa Rica are committed to high quality, safety and personable service have helped Costa Rica become one of the largest white water rafting countries in Latin America. The Costa Rica White Water Rafting and Kayaking guides have not only explored and developed rivers in Costa Rica, but also around the world.

Pacaure River 

The most beautiful river canyon in the tropics will bewitch the adventuresome beginner and the experienced rafter alike. 

Pejibaye River
A tributary of the Reventazon, the Pejibaye is ideal for families with small children. Palms and Kapok trees line the riverbank

Tenorio River White-Water Rafting Tour

Paddle down the exciting rapids of the Tenorio River and enjoy the area's lush scenery while on this adventurous rafting tour.

Rafting on the Savegre River

The Savegre River, one of the most pristine rivers in the country and surrounded by lush vegetation and meandering waters, features class II and III rapids that are perfect for 

beginner rafters.

Rafting on the Naranjo River

Costa Rica offers some of the world's best white water rafting. Wild and untamed, these big, brash rivers plunge through spectacularly beautiful, largely unexplored tropical wilderness.

Balsa River Half Day Rafting

People of all ages will enjoy the excitement and thrill of white water rafting on this half day adventure to the Balsa/San Carlos River. Rapids along the Balsa River are graded class 2-3 and is a great option for families and beginners.

Rafting Toro River Class III-IV

Set deep in the Costa Rican rain forest and fed by waters from the Poas volcano, the Toro River winds 12 km (8 miles) through a canyon, filled with dramatic scenery and heart thumping excitement.

Reventazon River Rafting Class I-II

The Carmen section of the Reventazon River is a fun trip for all ages and begins with an early morning pick at your hotel. Before reaching the riverbank where the rafting journey begins, the group will stop for delicious typical breakfast. Upon arrival, the guides will brief guests on all safety instructions and procedures.

Pacuare River Rafting 4 Day Trip

Beyond an outstanding multi day rafting excursion this 4 day journey allows visitors to partake in a variety of nature and adventure activities within the Pacuare River Valley including rafting, canopy tour, hiking as well as education about community conservation efforts.

Pacuare River Two Day Trip

This multi day Rafting excursion allows visitors to get in more rafting and spend more time relaxing and to enjoy the Pacuare River Valley including either 1 nights at the Rios Tropicales Lodge.

 

Pacuare River Rafting Class III-IV

Why not experience one of the most gorgeous river rafting trips in the world on the Pacuare River. It lives in the lush valley of Turrialba in the Central Valley of Costa Rica known for its exuberant beauty, wildlife and great rapids. This trip is excellent for those 14 years and up and for the adventurous beginner to the experienced rafter.

Waterfall Rapelling and Rafting Tour

Combining two of the country’s most adrenalin-packed activities, this tour will have you repelling down waterfalls and surging over white-water rapids! Set in Costa Rica’s Northern Lowlands near the base of the Arenal Volcano, the scenery for this tour couldn’t be any more beautiful.

All-Inclusive Resorts Costa Rica

Hotel Riu Guanacaste 

Guanacaste, Costa Rica`s northern Pacific region is popular because of its amazing weather, exuberant natural surroundings and it is readily accessible through 2 major airports. Liberia (LIR) is only 30 minutes away from the Riu and San Jose (SJO) is only a scenic 4 hour drive from Riu Guanacaste. Located beachfront in beautiful Matapalo beach in Guanacaste, this amazing All Inclusive Resort just opened in the Fall of 2009 and is the best new resort in Costa Rica.

  

Hilton Papagayo Resort and Spa

Hilton Papagayo Resort and Spa is a first class resort located in a private bay in the Gulf of Papagayo, Costa Rica. An ideal place to restore your peace of mind, health and spirit, as well as, a place to live unforgettable moments of joy and sporting activities, located 17 Km. [11mi] from Liberia Airport - only a 20 minute drive.
TIP: Children rates are not included on the price quoted. When traveling with children 4-12 years old a rate of 49 USD per child per night will be charged at check in for those staying in the same room as their parents. Those 13 and over pay full adult rates, children under 4 years old stay and eat complimentary.

Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort

illas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort is located in Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste; in the northeast of the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. The Resort is nestled on a hill overlooking the gorgeous Pacific Ocean and surrounded by lush tropical gardens At Villas Sol, everyone is a VIP. Treat yourself to a vacation without having to worry about cooking, activities for your kids, or things to do while you’re out on vacation. Let us cater to your every need!

Occidentalntal Allegro Papagayo

The Allegro Resort Papagayo is located in the region of Guanacaste on the Northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. The resort is set on Manzanillo Beach, an area of great natural beauty, just 18 miles from the Liberia (LIR) Airport. Nestled on the Guanacaste Coast in northwest Costa Rica, this resort offers astounding, tropical landscaping and open-air terraces.

  

Los Suenos Marriott Ocean and Golf Resort 

Located only one hour from San Jose airport with the new highway, it is your perfect getaway spot and a great way to experience what Costa Rica has to offer. Luxury Hotel and Golf in Beautiful Herradura Beach!

Occidental Grand Papagayo - All-Inclusive 

The upscale Occidental Grand Papagayo offers a complete all inclusive system in the beautiful Papagayo Gulf of Guanacaste. Only 35 minutes from Liberia (LIR) airport, experience this upscale beachfront resort as part of an amazing vacation to Costa Rica. Couples, family and friends will experience premium service, discover gourmet dining and choose from a wide variety of activities and sports at the Grand Papagayo, all part of an upscale all inclusive vacation experience.

Arenal - ATV 4x4 Rentals

There are ATV tours for beginners, intermediate and advanced riders, it is a great activity for a group of friends, family and couples. One of the biggest advantages of the ATV tours is that you get to cover a lot in just a few hours of enjoyable ride. We offer trips going out of Arenal, Monteverde, Tamarindo, Jaco and Manuel Antonio.

Duration:
3 hours
Available:
Daily
Departure times and location:
At your hotel, 7:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m.,2:30 p.m.
Return time and location:

Price includes:
Four-Wheelers full equipped, Bilingual guide with knowledge of the area, snacks, transportation to and from hotels.
Not included:
Tips.
Recommendations: Light clothing, swimming trunks, sneakers, camera, and binoculars.

Call – 1888-365-0904 

Paraise Adventures ATV 4x4 Tours, Jaco

Paradise Adventures ATV Tours was founded in 2002, to provide exciting mountain ATV and Dirtbike tours in Costa Rica.

Our clients enjoy a wide vareity of ATV and Dirtbike mountain trails. We have mapped out jungle trails from beginners to extreme, from 2 hour trails to extended overnight tours.

Paradise Adventures is the longest running Motor sport booking agency of Costa Rica specialist in ATV 4x4 and Motor and Dirtbike tours. We are known as the best mountain and Jungle tour operators in Costa Rica.

We strive to offer a country that visitors can actively be a part of and learn from, and guide each of our clients through our distinctive culture and nature, in a way that protect local communities and the environment.

We encourage sustainable-tourism standards, through donations to various organizations, and form strategic partnerships with environmentally conscious tour operators.

Manuel Antonio - ATV 4x4, Rentales

Experience the thrill of traveling on your own ATV into the mountains outside of Quepos. Where you will enjoy the spectacular mountain views, and the tropical rainforest as your bilingual guide leads you through rustic unpaved roads, giant African Palm Plantations, cattle farms, and typical towns such as Naranjito an Londres. We will then take you to a breathtaking waterfall where you will have a chance to cool off in the refreshing crystal- clear water, then continue riding up and down the winding mountain roads, all the while surrounded by the lush and beautiful tropical foliage. Come and enjoy this unbelievable adventure with us. It will prove to be unlike anything you have ever experienced before. 

uration:
3 hours
Available:
Daily
Departure times and location:
7:00 a.m.,10:30 a.m.,2:30 p.m.
Return time and location:

Price includes:
Four-Wheelers full equipped, helmets, Bilingual guide with knowledge of the area, meal, transportation to and from hotels.
Not included:
Meals & Drinks
What to bring
Light clothing, swimming trunks, sneakers, camera, and binoculars.
Children under parental supervision
Reservation in advance suggested


Paulino Ruiz  1-888-365- 0904

Veragua Rainforest Full Day Tour

The Veragua Rainforest is a nature reserve, adventure park and research station for the Costa Rican National Biodiversity Institute (INBio).  With 1300 hectare (3200 acres) of protected forest the   Veragua Rainforest offers visitors an exciting and educational opportunity to experience the majestic Caribbean Rainforest.  Located 1 hour from Limon and 3 hours from San Jose the Veragua Rainforest provides a buffer to Central Americas largest conservation area the La Amistad National Park Costa-Rica Panama.  For as much as we know about tropical rainforests there is much we are still learning, in fact the INBio lab on average discovers a new species every day!

Veragua allows visitors to learn from their world class exhibits and naturalist guides but it also enables people to experience the beauty of the rainforest both from the canopy level as well as throughout the extensive trail system. The Veragua Tram is a silent Gondola that transports visitors to the Trail of the Giants path where there are very large old growth trees, some over 300 years old. Visitors also have the opportunity to have a full day Veragua experience and do a zip line canopy tour, the most thrilling way to enjoy the tropical rainforests.

Full Day Tour Includes:
Naturalist Guide, Rainforest Tram, Trail of the Giants, Puma Waterfall trail, visit to the INBio research station, Hummingbird Garden, Frog Habitat, Butterfly Habitat, Reptile exhibit, and lunch.

Borinquen Adventure Day

The tour begins with a horseback ride up mountains and through plains. As you ascend you’ll enjoy fantastic views of Guanacaste’s Pacific coastline and the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. Following this portion, you’ll get geared up and prepare for your canopy tour. Accompanied by professional guides, this tour will have you flying high through the treetops and zipping across canyons. There are ten cables to ride, and at one point you’ll even cross paths with a large and impressive waterfall. This is an excellent location to take pictures or cool down along the pool’s crystal-clear waters.


Next, you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch at Borinquen’s restaurant. Their carefully selected menu, drawing off both local and international traditions, will satiate your hunger and help you regather your energy following the canopy tour.

The final activity is undoubtedly the most relaxing – you’ll finish off your journey with a soak in Borinquen’s geothermal hot springs. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of Costa Rica’s wilderness, any tension that may have developed while traveling will easily melt away while soaking in the springs.

What to Bring: swimming suit, warm clothing, hiking/running shoes, sandals, change of clothing, binoculars, camera, sunscreen, money, and hat.

Tour Includes: horseback riding, canopy tour, lunch, hot springs, water, guide, transportation, and entrance fees.

Pacific Rainforest Tranopy Tour

Originally created to educate visitors of the importance of tropical forests and habitats, the Aerial Trams allow guests to view the 222 acres (90 ha) of tropical rain forest from an entirely different perspective. The safe, open-air gondolas have seating, roofs and are great for spotting elusive bird species. Expect to get sneak-peeks of a 40 foot waterfall and views of the Pacific coastline.

The zip lines include 10 cables and 15 platforms with five of the 10 cables more than 600 feet long. This combination tour includes a visit to the heliconia garden, snake exhibit and an expert naturalist guide.

It is recommended for guests to bring a light-weight rain jacket, binoculars, and wear closed-toed shoes.

Selvatura Canopy Tour and Supension Bridges

he Canopy Tour
Selvatura's outstanding canopy tour has the longest cables in Costa Rica and is the only one truly immersed in virgin forest. The tour is made up of 15 cables and 18 viewing platforms, traversing over two miles of forest and combining the thrill of the zip line with a unique perspective of the tree top canopy.

After an initial introduction to the safety equipment, visitors are fitted with the highest quality harnesses by professional guides. Soon after, riders will begin their flight through the forest.

For the real adrenaline junkies, the Selvatura Canopy Tour includes an optional
Tarzan Swing, a high security rope swing that launches you right into the forest for the ultimate Costa Rican adventure.

Visitors are advised to wear long pants, closed-toed shoes and to bring rain gear just in case.

The tour lasts between 2 and 2.5 hours. It is suitable for anyone over the age of 4, but for safety reasons, a weight restriction of 280lbs and maximum waist width of 120cm apply.

Treetop Suspension Bridges
 The Tree Top walkway is the ideal cloud forest experience for those who wish to explore the beauty of the canopy at their own pace and appreciate the incredible array of vegetation and exotic bird life that the region has to offer.

The walkway consists of 8 suspension bridges connected by trails covering 1.9 miles (3km). The bridges vary from 150ft (50m) to 500ft (170m) in length and are suspended at heights ranging from 36ft (12m) to 180ft (60m). At almost 5ft (1.5m) wide, the bridge system is the widest and sturdiest in Costa Rica.

Visitors have the option of taking a self-guided treetop tour, or of joining a guided Natural History Tour. All guides are bilingual and professionally trained. Visitors will learn about the mammals, birds and plant life - particularly bromeliads, epiphytes and ferns – living in this unique eco-system, as well as hearing some of the fascinating cultural history of the region.

Guided tours can be arranged for large groups by prior reservation only.

The hanging bridges can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and physical conditions. Tours last up to 2 hours. Again, it is recommended that visitors bring long pants, suitable shoes and waterproof jackets.


Toll Free: 1-888-456-3212 or local 2479-8811 

Canopy Safari Manuel Antonio

The Canopy Safari tour begins with a drive through the rainforest out to the canopy site, during which frequent stops are made to observe the wonderful varieties of local flora and fauna. Once at the site, the company's professional bilingual guides will prepare and assist tour members for the zip line. The canopy tour includes 18 platforms, 10 zip lines, 2 repel lines, and one suspension bridge. To top it all off, there is the so-called "Tarzan Swing" which can be attempted"” a device that''ll have tour members swinging and flying through the air like Tarzan himself. After finishing the canopy course, guests will enjoy a tour through the butterfly garden and serpentarium.

All ages and physical levels can enjoy this tour; children can be carried, or given a "taxi ride," down the zip line by one of the guides. Canopy Safari is environmentally conscious, and has constructed the course in such as way as to create a minimal impact on the surrounding rainforest ecosystem.

This is a five hour tour. It can be done during the morning or afternoon.

What to bring: hiking shoes, camera, shorts, insect repellent, bathing suit, towel, and change of cloths (during the rainy season).
Tour includes: "typical" style breakfast or lunch, canopy tour, bilingual guides, and hotel pickup and drop off.

Toll Free: 1-888-456-3212 or local 2479-8811 

Sky Tram and Sky Trek Arenal Tour

The slow paced Sky Tram gondolas will provide a smooth ride through the rain forest, with endless views along the way, so you can appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you on your way to the top. Once at the at the observation deck, you will be able to enjoy the most magnificent views of the volcano's south face for as long as you desire.

From there, you will have two options for returning to the base. The first option is to ride back down the same way you came up, on the Sky Tram. On the ride you will be able to notice how the vegetation varies as the altitude changes once again.

The second and more exciting option is to zip your way to the bottom along  a series of zip lines.  The zip line decent the best option for those seeking a rush of adrenaline.

Please Note that children under 8 are not allowed on Sky Trek.

Cancellation Policy: Sky Trek has a strict cancellation policy. If a reservation is canceled less than 48 hours prior to the tour date, NO REFUND.

Transportation Note: If you need transportation from Lost Iguana Resort, Arenal Lodge or The Springs Resort and Spa note that it is available only for the 10:30 AM tour and then again for the 2:00 PM tour.

Toll Free: 1-888-456-3212 or local 2479-8811 

Costa Rica Zip Line and Canopy Tours

Zip-lines above the canopy are in many ways synonymous with Costa Rica. Originally introduced during the 1970s, zip-lines have developed into one of the country’s most popular and widespread activities. Composed of steel cables and platforms strung at various heights between trees, they offer travelers a unique means of accessing beautiful and remote natural areas. And although they undoubtedly boost the adrenalin of each and every participant, zip-lines also educate their riders on ecology, botany, and reforestation practices. You can find zip-lines all over Costa Rica, but some of the best are in Monteverde, Arenal, and Manuel Antonio.

Costa Rica Rain Forest

Literally meaning ‘rich coast’ in Spanish, Costa Rica has a wealth of natural diversity and wildlife, making it one of the most bio-diverse places on earth. Rainforests, mangrove swamps, cloud forests, beaches, coral reefs and a plethora of plant and animal life make this tiny Latin American country the place to be, especially if you are an avid nature lover or naturalist.

Abound with the most stunning array of wild, tropical and exotic flora & fauna, Costa Rica is home to around 5% of the world’s biodiversity. What this means is that the number of wildlife species per 10,000 sq km here is 615. This fact alone shows the spectacular natural splendor that Costa Rica has to offer. With a total of 1,077,308 hectares or 25% of the country being made protected areas, Costa Rica has 26 protected forests, 20 national parks, 9 forest reserves, 8 wildlife refuges, 7 wildlife sanctuaries and 1 national archaeological monument.

Today it is estimated that there are over 10,000 plants and trees scattered all across the Costa Rican countryside including more than 1,200 species of orchids. And with over 35,000 species of insects, 160 species of amphibians, 220 species of reptiles, 850 species of birds and 205 species of mammals, this gorgeous country covers a range of ecological habitats. It is also because of this very rich diversity that Costa Rica was made the headquarters of the world ‘Earth Council’ in 1992.

At the moment there are 12 ecosystems in the country including, tropical wetlands, primary dry forests and tidal mangrove swamps. Costa Rica is also home to a number of rare and endangered plant and animal species as well. Leatherback, hawksbill, olive ridley and green sea turtles, resplendent quetzals, fer-de-lance vipers, scarlet macaws and the West Indian manatee are just some of the many wildlife species here that are in danger of dying out.

The best way to take the in lush beauty of Costa Rica is to go on an eco-tourism vacation. Hire a good local guide especially if you enjoy hiking or kayaking so that you do not get lost amid the dense vegetation. Local guides will not only help you to identify the indigenous flora & fauna around you, but they can protect you from the many dangers that lurk in the forests such as the colorful but very poisonous dart frog or the camouflaged bushmaster snake. 

Top Beaches in Costa Rica

Nicoya Peninsula

Costa Rica Board of Tourism

Okay, obviously the Nicoya Peninsula isn't a single beach. But Costa Rica's largest peninsula is ringed by so many blissful strips of sand, it deserves a top ten list of its own. Besides livelier beach cities like Montezuma, Tamarindo, and Mal Pais, Nicoya boasts many Pacific beaches that are far more remote and relaxing: Playas Hermosa, Samara, Flamingo, Conchal (pictured at right), and Playa Grande.

Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is not only one of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches, but one of the most beautiful in the entire world. Imagine: perfect horseshoe bays bordered by soft white sands, dazzling blue-green waters, and hilltops piled with jungle and streaming waterfalls. Dive, snorkel, surf, kayak, hike, or zipline -- but don't forget to relax and enjoy the unforgettable views.

View our Manuel Antonio Photo Gallery for some great Manuel Antonio pictures.

Playa Dominical

Mark A. Shepherd, West View Photography

Playa Dominical, about 30 miles south of Manuel Antonio National Park, is widely recognized as one of the best Costa Rica surfing beaches. A number of surf camps and surf shops have sprung up to take advantage of the lively lefts and rights. But even if you don't surf, you'll adore Playa Dominical's lush green landscape, nightlife and relatively uncrowded sands.

Montezuma

Located on the inner base of the Nicoya peninsula, Montezuma is a gathering place for Costa Rica's most idiosyncratic locals and travelers. Dreadlocked Rastafarians, tattooed bohemians, sun-kissed surfers, and other examples of exceptional beauty are the norm at this picturesque little beach, which also boasts tide pools, forested waterfalls, and wildlife (Capuchin monkeys! Crocodiles!) viewing.

Tortuguero

At the helm of Costa Rica's Caribbean side, Tortuguero is a eco-tourist's fantasy. Travelers can experience any number of exotic attractions: tours down jungle canals in dugout canoes, scenic hiking trails, guided safaris. Sixteen of Costa Rica's endangered animal species live in the Tortuguero National Park, like tapirs, ocelots,manatees, and green sea turtles, after which the region is named. To top it all off, Tortugero's beaches are perfect for sunbathing.

Playa Tamarindo

While Playa Tamarindo offers world-class shopping, dining, and coastal amusements, budget travelers might find themselves priced out (when I traveled there in college, I grocery shopped and cooked in a communal kitchen). But Tamarindo's natural perks make the splurge worth it -- on the beautiful beaches adjacent to Tamarindo, giant leatherback turtles (and other types) annually clamber ashore to lay their eggs.

Corcovado

Corcovado is the jewel of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. Its beaches are windswept beauties, with dark sands shaded by towering palms, while the mountainous inland jungles of Corcovado National Park are home to some of the country's most distinctive wildlife. No trip to Corcovado is complete without a boat excursion to the nearby Isla del Caño, which offers fantastic diving as well as the opportunity to examine the island's ancient stone spheres.

Mal Pais

Surf culture is the principle philosophy in Mal Pais and its coastal neighbor, Santa Teresa. If you're not a wave-worshiper, book a boat tour and watch dolphins, manta rays, and other creatures thriving in the area's protected waters. Travelers can also hike to the Montezuma waterfalls and take a flying leap, or conquer the 4-hour trek through the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve to its pristine, white sand beach. However, Mal Pais's own beaches are even better for stringing up a hammock and swaying in the sun.

South of Limon

South of the port city of Limon (towards the Panama border), a number of stunning beaches are the personification of the low-key Caribbean lifestyle. The Cahuita National Park is an excellent place to camp -- if you don't mind waking to the sound of monkey chatter! Travel farther down the coast and enjoy dramatic sunrises at Puerto Viejo. Or head straight to Manzanillo, a protected area with tropical rainforest, palm swamps, coral reefs, and of course, idyllic Caribbean beaches.

Jaco

Right in the center of Costa Rica's Pacific coasts lies Jaco Beach, a surfer's mecca with no shortage of attractions for travelers. Jaco is in such close proximity to San Jose (2 hours by car), it flourishes with nightlife, international dining options, and even casinos. But because of the budget surf crowd, accommodations and amenities span the entire price spectrum -- at Jaco, no one is left out.

Tambor

Northeast of Montezuma, Tambor's crescent-shaped bay (called Bahia Ballena) was once frequented by whales. Now, it's frequented by travelers -- enough to keep the gentle giants out at sea, but not enough to drive them away completely. The bay's mild waters make it one of Costa Rica's best beaches for swimming and snorkeling. Tambor's inland areas are fun to explore on horseback, while its pinkish-gray beaches are perfect for a barefoot stroll. Boats also launch from Tambor to the Tortuga Island, home to immaculate beaches and unparalleled Scuba diving.