Matthew Houde's Blog, page 12

What It’s Like to Live in Costa Rica in Rainy Season

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

If you’re thinking of moving to Costa Rica, you probably picture your new life filled with endless sunshine and clear blue skies. Costa Rica definitely has that for a good part of the year; however, let’s not forget about the rainy season. In this post, we’ll give you a sense of what it’s like to live in Costa Rica during rainy season. We’ll share some of the perks as well as some of the less desirable, though realistic, aspects.

Background – Rainy Season in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has two distinct seasons: dry season, which runs from about December to the end of April, and rainy season, from about May to the end of November. Different regions have varying weather patterns, but that is generally what to expect.

Early on in rainy season typically isn’t too intense. May through August usually has good weather, with sunny mornings and an hour or two of rain in the afternoon or evening. Some days, it can rain more, of course. This varies by year, but most days are pleasant.

For lots more detail on what to expect month by month for weather, read our post, Rainy Season in Costa Rica: How Wet Is It? 

By September, there’s more rain, but usually still plenty of nice days too.

A sunny day in Guanacaste in September

Then in October and early November, the rain can get intense.

Tropical waves (called ondas) pass through the country. These can bring intense rainfall for a few hours and last more than a day. Costa Rica rarely gets hit by hurricanes, but in recent years, has been affected when they pass through neighboring countries to the north. The hurricane bands bring lots of rain and occasionally wind.

Too Much Rain

This year (2022) has been especially wet. Meteorologists blame it on the weather phenomenon La Niña. Many people attribute it to climate change as well.

We have had several big storm events with torrential rain lasting several hours. Recently this past October, areas of the central Pacific coast got 90-120 mm (3.5-5 inches) of rain in only two hours!

Rainfall map after a big storm in October. Photo Credit: Instituto Meteorológico Nacional CR

Although the landscape is adept at handling large amounts of water (it is the tropics, of course), sometimes there can be too much. That brings us to some of the negatives of living in Costa Rica during the rainy season.

Difficulties of Living in Costa Rica During the Rainy SeasonLandslides

When there is too much rain in a short period of time, we can have a lot of problems.

One is that the ground gets too saturated, making trees and plants uproot. This can cause landslides, fallen trees, and lots of other issues.

Where we live on the central Pacific coast, this October and early November, the highway closed a few times because of landslides. The problem was that we had been getting so much rain and not enough sun so the ground was already really wet. When another big storm came along, the soil couldn’t absorb it and several landslides occurred. This happened mostly on steep slopes. Highway 34 between Tarcoles and Herradura now has several new “waterfalls” due to recent slides.

A waterfall on Highway 34 that formed because of a landslide

Side roads can be affected too, and these ones tend to take longer to fix. Here’s a picture of a dirt road near us that is getting narrower by the day.

A road washing out

Although road crews are quick to remove debris, especially on major highways, we’ve seen full closures lasting several hours. Traffic just stops and waits while loaders and dump trucks busily clean up. A couple of times in October/November, it took us more than two hours to go somewhere that normally takes 15 minutes!

A big landslide on Highway 34

Sometimes the government will preventatively close a road for public safety reasons as well. They do this in places that are already having problems and more rain is expected. We have seen this happen on Highway 27 to San Jose, Highway 34 around Tarcoles, and Highway 32 to the Caribbean coast. This isn’t a regular occurrence but can happen during peak rainy season months.

Rivers Flooding

Another major problem is rivers flooding. In Jaco this past October, so much rain fell in just a few hours that all the rivers in town breached their banks. Most of the main strip was inundated with water, causing cars to flood, people to lose their homes, and great loses for businesses. This happens in the southern Pacific coast as well during big storms.

Jaco completed flooded after a big rainstorm in mid October 2022Power Outages

With down trees comes another problem, power outages. This is more of an issue in remote areas, but all parts of Costa Rica experience outages to some extent.

We have lived in several different areas of Costa Rica and had many more power outages when we lived in the thick jungle near Dominical (southern Pacific coast) than where we live now near Jaco. Usually the power would be out for just a couple of hours, but sometimes outages lasted an entire day if many communities were affected.

The country’s electricity provider, ICE, is generally very good at getting the power up and running again. They are also good at maintenance. You will see them doing preventative tree trimming year-round, which helps.

Mold

This is a much smaller problem, but many people struggle with this when moving to Costa Rica.

In rainy season, with all the moisture around, mold is common, especially if your house doesn’t have good airflow. Clothes, fabric, leather, and even walls can get that musty smell that’s hard to get rid of.

Some people have a dry room to store anything prone to mold or that could be damaged by too much moisture (e.g., electronics). This is a well-sealed room where they run a dehumidifier to keep the moisture out. Dryers help too to make sure your clothes are getting completely dry.

Expat Exodus

It should be no surprise that many foreigners living in Costa Rica choose not to spend September through November in Costa Rica. Many people understandably come for high season when the weather is predictably nice and head to their home country for rainy season.

A common belief among expats who have been living in Costa Rica for a while is that many people who make the move to Costa Rica only last for a couple of years, then decide it wasn’t for them and go back home. It’s no coincidence that many of these moves happen in August/September, when it starts to get wet.

Why We Still Love Rainy Season

With all the bad, we still love rainy season in Costa Rica.

We have been living here full-time for almost 10 years now. That’s 10 rainy seasons. And although life isn’t always easy during this time, it wasn’t back home in New England either where we dealt with snow and ice and had a very short summer.

The intense rainy season is short (only a month or two, really), and when you think about all the good things about rainy season, and living in Costa Rica in general, the good far outweighs the bad.

Benefits of Living in Costa Rica During Rainy SeasonLess Crowded

Not everyone wants to deal with rain on their vacation so for that reason, Costa Rica is a lot less crowded during the rainy months.

Manuel Antonio, for example, is one of our favorite places in Costa Rica. But during peak vacation time around Christmas, it can be a little too busy for us.

In rainy season, it’s a wonderful place to visit. The beach and national park aren’t full, there’s little traffic, and the vibe is more chill.

Almost no one on the trail at Manuel Antonio National Park in SeptemberLower Prices

Rainy season is also a great time to travel and explore the country.

Since hotels need to attract tourists during those low season months, prices at hotels and vacation rentals are significantly lower. We always travel around in September and the price difference between then and high season is substantial.

Restaurants and tour operators sometimes do promotions this time of year as well.

Everything is Green

Probably our favorite thing about living in Costa Rica during rainy season is the green landscape. We love the vibrant tropical rainforest. After a dry season with little to no rain, it’s so refreshing to get that first big rainfall in April. The trees and plants almost immediately green up and everything becomes lush again.

Samara, in Guanacaste, looking nice and green in rainy seasonConclusion

We hope that this post gave you a more realistic perspective of what it’s like to live in Costa Rica during rainy season. Although rainy season certainly has its difficulties, we still love it and can’t imagine living anywhere else.

Have a question about living in Costa Rica during rainy season or want to share your experience? Leave a comment below.Looking for more information about living in Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

Buying a House in Costa Rica: Our experience buying a house, with a breakdown of the process.

Costa Rica’s Digital Nomad Visa: Learn about this new visa program that allows you to stay in Costa Rica for a year with the chance to renew for another year.

FAQs About Moving to Costa Rica: Covers common questions, like how to get residency, doing border runs, earning a living, etc.

Moving to Costa Rica with Kids: Special considerations when moving with the family.

The post What It’s Like to Live in Costa Rica in Rainy Season appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Playas del Coco: Costa Rica with all the Comforts

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Remote jungle wilderness is not for everyone. Many people come to Costa Rica looking for a warm, sunny location that has conveniences nearby. In a nutshell, that describes Playas del Coco. This beach town, just 30 minutes from an international airport, is a mixing pot of many North Americans, Costa Ricans, and Europeans. Coco Beach, as it is also called, has the comforts of home. There are modern condos, high-speed internet connections, and international restaurant choices. In this post, we’ll share much more about Playas del Coco so you can plan a visit.    

Location & Town Layout

Playas del Coco is conveniently located only a half-hour from Guanacaste’s LIR International Airport. The drive is easy along mostly flat, paved roads. Costa Rica’s other international airport, SJO in San Jose, is about 4.5 hours away.

The town of Playas del Coco is built within a deep valley that follows the curve of its wide seaside cove.

There is one main road that runs perpendicular to the beach. This road has many of the town’s stores, restaurants, banks, and supermarkets. From there, side roads take you to various neighborhoods. These consist of lots of condos, some in gated developments and others ungated.

Right on the beach is a long boardwalk with a few small parks, playgrounds, and basketball courts. The boardwalk is a popular spot where locals walk their dogs, exercise, and gather for sunset.

The tan colored beach has gorgeous views of the surrounding hills, the vast collection of moored boats, and a few offshore islands.

The boardwalk that runs right along the beachClimate

Situated in the country’s Guanacaste region, Playas del Coco has some of the driest weather in Costa Rica. While it may rain often during peak wet season (especially September & October), there are several months where it barely rains at all.

The driest months are January through March. During this time, there may not be a cloud in the sky. Temperatures can soar into the 90s (32+° C), and the foliage in the surrounding hills turns a bit brown with drought. Once occasional rains return in April and May, the hills turn back to a vibrant green.

For more about the country’s weather patterns, read our post, Weather in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know.   

Playas del Coco from above at the end of dry season (April)Beaches

The biggest draw of Playas del Coco is that the town is set up right along the beach. It is also centrally located so that you can visit other beaches to the north and south.

The Main Beach – Playas del Coco

The main beach, Playas del Coco, has dark tan sand and calmer water since it is sheltered within a deep cove. There are waves but nothing big enough to surf on. Because the water is more tranquil, it is a popular spot to moor fishing boats, sailboats, and local pangas.

Coco Beach

Along the main beach are a couple of smaller streams, which sort of cut the beach into sections.

While the name of the beach would imply there are a lot of “cocos” or coconuts, most of the beach is backed by shrubby shade trees, with just a scattering of coconut palms.

On weekends, holidays, and during the dry season (December to May), Playas del Coco is popular and busy. During off-peak months it is more relaxed and quieter.

Nearby Beaches

While Playas del Coco is nice, there is a lot of development and, therefore, the sand and water is not the most pristine. For those looking to explore nearby beaches, it is easy to hop up and down the coast.

Just to the south is Playa Ocotal, which is a much smaller cove that has unique black sand.

To the north is another beach town called Playa Hermosa. Though smaller than Coco, Playa Hermosa is a fun town to spend the day. It has its own restaurants, a more relaxed feel, and is generally less busy than Playas del Coco.

The black sand Playa Ocotal – just a quick drive from Coco

For more adventurous beachgoers, there are some remote beaches worth checking out.

One is Playa Penca, which sits between Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa. This beach has calm waters, snorkeling, and white sand. Access is through a rough 4×4 road.

Another is Playa Nacascolo, a bit farther north on the Papagayo Peninsula. This beach is accessed through private resort properties via a shuttle van. The calm waters and wildlife make it worth the extra effort.

Other Activities from Playas del CocoFishing

Sport fishing is a popular activity out of Playas del Coco. Onshore and offshore trips leave right from the main beach in town. It’s common to catch tuna, mahi-mahi, marlin, sailfish, and even exotic species like roosterfish.

A sport fishing boat heading offshoreDiving

Diving in Costa Rica is a little different from other destinations around the world. Instead of elaborate coral reefs, the focus is more on exploring ocean structures. This includes rocky walls, pinnacles, and ocean caves.

The marine life found within close proximity to Playas del Coco includes large schools of rays (spotted eagle and manta rays), white-tipped reef sharks, moray eels, and fish like grunts, grouper, snapper, angelfish, and sergeant majors.  

Day Trips

With Playas del Coco as your home base, you can travel inland to see some other unique environments in Costa Rica. Two popular day trips are to the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano area or Palo Verde wetlands.   

Rincon de la Vieja

Costa Rica is as famous for its volcanoes as it is for its beaches. The closest active volcano to Playas del Coco is Rincon de la Vieja. This volcano is about 1.5 hours east of the beach.

In Rincon de la Vieja, you can visit the national park to see volcanic activity literally coming out of the ground. Along the trail are volcanic steam vents, bubbling mud pots, and acid lagoons.  

Also in the area are the Rio Negro Hot Springs, which are naturally heated by the volcano’s thermal energy and quite relaxing. Volcanic mud baths are also available.

And just outside the national park is the wonderful Oropendola Waterfall. This easy hike has you cross a unique hanging bridge over beautiful blue water. Once you reach the falls, there is a small swimming hole.

The hanging bridge leading to Oropendola Waterfall, a day trip inland from Playas del CocoPalo Verde Wetlands

For wildlife and especially bird lovers, there are the Palo Verde Wetlands. This low-key activity is also about 1.5 hours away and normally booked as a guided tour with transportation.

A boat ride through the rich wetland ecosystem will let you see monkeys, crocodiles, and lots of bird species like herons, kingfishers, ducks, and if you are lucky others like the Roseate Spoonbill or Scarlet Macaw.

For more about the Palo Verde wetlands, including a cultural element to the tour we took, read our post, Palo Verde National Park: A Wildlife Tour Through Guanacaste’s Wetlands. 

Nightlife

Playas del Coco has an active nightlife with many busy bars and lounges, a couple of dance clubs, and a casino. Live music is popular, especially during peak tourism months.

International sports games (American football, soccer, baseball, basketball, etc.) also can be found at some of the sports bars in town.

Restaurants

With an international lineup of restaurant offerings, dining in Playas del Coco provides a culinary tour of culture and flavor. With everything from Asian, Mediterranean, Indian, and Mexican offerings to typical Costa Rican food, juice bars, and coffee shops, you are sure to find some favorites. Here is a short list of some that we have tried.   

Numu Taproom and Bistro by Chef Nicolas

Built by one of Guanacaste’s best breweries, this taproom has more than great IPAs and farmhouse ales. The upscale tapas menu is perfect for sharing, and larger entrees like snapper wrapped in banana leaf or beef tenderloin are great dinner choices. There is even a fun kids’ menu. Numu has an upscale ambiance, and often has live music and special events. In Pacifico Village Shops near Auto Mercado.

Local snapper wrapped in a banana leaf at Numu Taproom and BistroCafé Corazón

For breakfast or lunch near the beach, check out Café Corazon. This cute coffee shop has strong coffee and a yummy menu. We loved the peace sandwich and waffles, and our omelet was perfectly cooked. They also have delicious fresh fruit smoothies. The environment is relaxed. Open 8 a.m.-3 p.m. and until 6 p.m. on weekends. Closed Monday. Located at the end of main street near the beach.

Santorini Greek Restaurant

Perfect for a nice dinner out, the elegantly decorated Santorini Greek Restaurant serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine. From classics like spanakopita and gyros to local seafood like grilled octopus and calamari. Don’t forget desert too; you can’t find treats like baklava in many Costa Rican restaurants. Located on main street.

A traditional gyro at Santorini Greek RestaurantBuzzed Monkey BBQ

For real southern barbeque, Buzzed Monkey is the place. The giant smokers out back hold the secret to mouthwatering brisket, ribs, chicken, and pulled pork. The atmosphere is totally laid back and the drinks are strong. They often have sports games on. Previously located in Playa Hermosa, we were glad to find them at their new spot in Playas del Coco. Located on a side road a few blocks from main street. 

Villa Italia Restaurante

For authentic Italian like homemade pasta, ravioli, and gnocchi, head to the upscale Villa Italia. The open kitchen in the dining room lets you see, behind the scenes, how much love gets put into each dish. For those wanting to dine outside, a few tables face main street. Located near El Coco Casino.

Spaghetti carbonara at Villa ItaliaJava Coffee

We happened upon Java Coffee in the neighborhood we were staying in. They have a big menu of hot and cold coffees, detox, immunity, and energy smoothies, acai bowels, bagels, and salads. But the favorite among our kids were the two-inch-thick waffles with whip cream and strawberries! Located at the corner of Avenida Las Palmas and La Chorrera.

The decadent Belgian waffles at Java CoffeeAccommodations in Playas del Coco Overview

The most popular accommodations in Playas del Coco are by far the plethora of condos and vacation homes. These can be booked on sites like Airbnb and VRBO.

From simple one-bedroom condos with a kitchenette to extravagant ocean view homes with infinity pools, Playas del Coco has something for every budget.

Long-term rentals are also popular as the same visitors often return every year to beat the cold weather in their home country and meet up with friends they have made.

Although most lodging in Playas del Coco is vacation rentals, a few basic hotels are also available.

Accommodation RecommendationsLaura’s House B&B

Laura’s House is a small bed and breakfast just a couple of blocks from both the beach and main street. Rooms are simple but clean and comfortable and have air conditioning. The bright yellow building is sure to make you feel welcome, as are the friendly hosts. Has a small pool. Around $65/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Laura’s House Bed and BreakfastLuxury Coco Villas

This small complex has seven condo-style units, all surrounding a pool. The basic two-bedroom villas have a lot of space, ideal for families or groups. It is in a good central location, just behind the main drag. Around $125/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Pacifico

Stretching from the center of main street towards the surrounding hills, Pacifico is a large-scale residential development. This gated resort community has a mix of modern condos and larger residences. The property is nicely landscaped and has huge lagoon pools snaking through. Guests have access to the pools, beach club and restaurant, and fitness center. Pacifico can be booked through sites like Airbnb and booking.com (see one option here). Starting around $300/night.

The Pacifico Lifestyle complexConclusion

With beaches, supermarkets, restaurants, and plenty of friendly locals or travelers to share a drink with, Playas del Coco is a destination where you can get comfortable and relax. It’s no wonder Coco Beach is a favorite spot for expats and return visitors.

Have you been to Playas del Coco? What are your favorite things about this lively beach town?

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you book a hotel using one of the links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our Privacy Policy for more information.

Looking for more information to help you plan your trip? Here are some articles:

Playa Hermosa: Guanacaste’s Northern Beauty: Looking for a more relaxed beach town? Check out Playa Hermosa right next to Playas del Coco. It has more options for traditional hotels and a gorgeous beach.

Jaco: Costa Rica’s Booming Beach Town – Jaco, on the central Pacific coast, is another lively beach town with good nightlife and a lot going on. Learn more about it with this post.

La Fortuna: What to Expect from Costa Rica’s Most Popular Destination – To experience the rainforest, you can easily pair a visit to Playas del Coco with La Fortuna/Arenal. La Fortuna has all of Costa Rica’s quintessential adventure activities, waterfalls, and hanging bridges, plus Arenal Volcano.

The post Playas del Coco: Costa Rica with all the Comforts appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

The Sloth Sanctuary at Selvatura in Monteverde

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Most people visiting Costa Rica want to see a sloth. These adorable creatures are native to Costa Rica but only live in certain regions. Even in those places where it is possible to see one, you may only catch a glimpse from a distance. In this post, we’ll tell you where you can get an up-close view. The Sloth Sanctuary at Selvatura Park in Monteverde has a giant enclosure with almost 20 sloths roaming around inside. Below, we’ll tell you more about visiting and what to expect.

OrientationLocation

Selvatura Park is located just outside the town of Santa Elena in the region known as Monteverde. This area of Costa Rica is in the mountains northwest of San Jose and is best known for its vast cloud forest.

Because it is somewhat remotely located, Monteverde cannot easily be visited on a day trip from La Fortuna/Arenal Volcano or elsewhere. The town offers many activities, though, making it well worth a stop in your itinerary.

For more information about visiting, including other area activities, read our post, Monteverde: A Forest in the Clouds.

Selvatura Park

Selvatura Park has a large nature reserve with over 850 acres (344 hectares) of protected land. It borders the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and another private reserve called Children’s Eternal Rainforest.

Inside the Selvatura Reserve

In addition to a hanging bridges tour through the cloud forest, Selvatura also offers zip lining and wildlife exhibits.

For wildlife exhibits, Selvatura has a butterfly garden and reptile exhibit. A couple of years ago they added the Sloth Sanctuary.

The Sloth Sanctuary TourBackground

Our family recently took a tour of the Sloth Sanctuary.

The tour started at the main office where we met our guide, Juan Carlos, and gave him our tickets. He led us through the forest along the concrete path that goes to the hanging bridges. In just a few minutes, we arrived at the huge enclosure for the Sloth Sanctuary.

The enclosure

Passing through the doors, we noticed immediately that the temperature was much warmer. For the tropics, the climate in Monteverde is fairly cool (average temperature is around 21 °C/69 °F). But inside the closed in, greenhouse-like environment, it felt much warmer.

While sloths are native to the cooler climate of Monteverde, the sloths at Selvatura’s Sloth Sanctuary had previously lived in a warmer climate. A well-known wildlife rehabilitation center on the Caribbean coast called the Jaguar Rescue Center rescued them after they were injured or held illegally as pets. Unable to be released back into the wild, Selvatura now provides them with a comfortable home to live out the rest of their lives.

Seeing the Sloths

Right away after entering the enclosure, we saw a sloth almost at eye level. It was resting on a climbing ladder near the wall. The cuddly-looking animal was in the typical sloth position with its long arms and legs reaching up onto the ladder and its body hanging below. It had long, shaggy, beige-colored fur and a dark brown face and snout.

The first sloth we saw, right near the entrance

From Juan Carlos, we learned that this was a two-toed sloth. All the sloths in the enclosure were the two-toed species because they would not get along well with Costa Rica’s other variety of sloth, the three-toed sloth. Sloths are solitary animals. They are also territorial. So the ones we were seeing were only females, which get along better than a mix of males and females.

Juan Carlos started explaining more about Selvatura’s project and how it was conservation-based. We listened and watched in awe as another sloth cruised right above our heads. This one was rather speedy, crossing the path toward the first sloth we had seen. The two animals began disagreeing a bit through grunts over who should be in that spot. Then they separated without much drama.  

A close encounter between two of the sloths

We learned that the enclosure was designed specifically as sloth habitat in an effort to mimic their natural environment. Thick rainforest filled the space. Short shrubby bushes and flowering plants, broad-leaf banana plants, and plenty of taller trees provided opportunities to climb.

The lush rainforest habitat inside the enclosure

Although two-toed sloths are one of the slowest mammals, when they want to move, they can actually go quite fast. Our guide explained that their light weight allows them to climb with ease. We watched this with several of the animals. They seemed to enjoy going up and down the ladder-like structures or trees and then curling up when they needed a break.

The path curved through the middle of the space. It was roped off, but we were still able to see the sloths fairly close up without stressing them out. Normally sloths spend their lives high up in treetop canopy, out of sight, so it was special to be able to watch them go about their daily lives, eating, climbing, and just relaxing.

This sloth was climbing over to a food bowlLearning About the Sloths

Our group learned a lot from our guide about the fascinating life of sloths, including some things we had never heard before during our travels in Costa Rica.

We knew that sloths lived in the trees, but learned that they mate and even give birth there as well. We also found out that although very slow on land, they are quite adept at swimming. Juan Carlos was very knowledgeable about these creatures and tried to keep us engaged, although we were all clearly distracted by the interesting behaviors of the sloths right in front of us.

Other Sloth Exhibits in Costa Rica

Costa Rica does have other wildlife rehabilitation centers where you can see sloths up close, but Selvatura’s Sloth Sanctuary is different. It feels much more like the sloths are in the wild, since the enclosure is so large and full of greenery. At most other facilities, the animals are in much smaller spaces. It was great to see them living among so much rainforest.

In addition, the goal of the project is conservation. Some of the other sloth projects in Costa Rica seem to be driven by getting visitors and making money, rather than about the care and treatment of the animals.

Planning Your Visit to the Sloth SanctuaryTimes Offered

Tours of the Sloth Sanctuary are available daily at 8:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.

All tours are guided; you cannot do a self-guided visit.

Getting Tickets

Tickets to the Sloth Sanctuary can be purchased directly through Selvatura’s website. Advanced reservations are recommended.

Cost

$39 per person adults. $35 per person students (up to age 18). $27 per person children ages 4-12. Rates plus tax.

Duration

45 minutes

Conclusion

Spotting a sloth in the wild is special but being able to see one close up is truly unique. We highly recommend the Sloth Sanctuary to get that close-up view of these elusive animals. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s a nice activity since you are guaranteed to see wildlife. The tour is great for those adults too who are set on seeing a sloth during their trip.

Have you ever seen a sloth or visited a sloth sanctuary? Let us know in the comments below.Looking for more information to plan your trip to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

Manuel Antonio National Park: Hiking, Wildlife, and Beautiful Beaches – Manuel Antonio is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see a sloth in the wild. Check out our detailed guide about the town’s famous national park.

Monteverde Hotel Guide: Get recommendations for where to stay in Monteverde with this post.

Naturalist Guides in Costa Rica: When You Need Them and How to Find One – If you really want to see a sloth in the wild, it’s best to get a guide. They know where to find them and have powerful scopes that let you see them high in the trees. Learn about how to find a knowledgeable guide and what you’ll get out of a guided tour.

The post The Sloth Sanctuary at Selvatura in Monteverde appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Playa Nacascolo: Calm, Peaceful Water on the Papagayo Peninsula

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

With more surfing than swimming beaches, Costa Rica is not a destination known for glassy, see-through waters. Many beaches are stunningly beautiful but have crashing waves and strong currents. There are, however, some hidden gems. In this post, we’ll tell you about one such treasure on the Papagayo Peninsula. Playa Nacascolo has calm, peaceful water and a lot of wildlife. This beach has tricky access, so we’ll also share how to get there.

Location

Playa Nacascolo is located in northwestern Costa Rica on the sheltered side of the Papagayo Peninsula. This small point of land is best known for its luxury resorts like the Four Seasons and Andaz Papagayo. These properties are nestled into the tropical forest, have great Pacific Ocean views, and are quite peaceful.

From the sands of Playa Nacascolo, you look across the calm Culebra Bay. This bay is sheltered from the mighty Pacific by the peninsula itself.

A catamaran moored in the calm water of the bay

From Costa Rica’s Guanacaste airport in Liberia (LIR), the drive to Playa Nacascolo is a little over a half hour.

The beach is also close to destinations like Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Panama in northern Guanacaste.

From San Jose’s SJO Airport, the drive is about 4.5 hours.

About Playa NacascoloOverview

Playa Nacascolo is a long beach with fluffy, tan-colored sand. Shrubby tropical dry forest backs the beach, and there are mangroves at one end. The water is calm, almost bath-like, and the views across the bay are amazing.

The mangroves on the far right side of the beach

The beach is accessed through the private properties of some large resorts (see Getting to Playa Nacascolo section, below). For this reason, it is a little harder to get to and, therefore, not usually crowded. During weekends and holidays, though, many locals do like to visit and picnic for the day.

Also important is that the resorts we mentioned are a distance from the beach (short drive), so there aren’t people just walking between the beach and the resorts. The beach is secluded.

Calm Waters

The highlight of Playa Nacascolo is the calm water. Since the beach is positioned on the inland side of the Papagayo Peninsula, wind and waves are typically blocked. This ensures flat, clear water most of the time.

Without the worries of crashing waves and rip currents, Playa Nacascolo is ideal for kids and adults alike.

With the undisturbed sea, the water is also fairly clear. At waist deep, you can easily see down to the sandy bottom.

These conditions make Playa Nacascolo the perfect place to swim and snorkel. Though, when snorkeling, we didn’t see many fish because there are no rocks or structures for them to hide around. Only sand and some seashells.

We were lucky enough, though, to see a pair of spotted eagle rays (similar to manta rays) swimming by. We also saw some pufferfish and schools of minnows in the shallows.

An eagle ray cruising near the shoreWildlife

Another big draw of Playa Nacascolo is the wildlife you can encounter right at the beach.

We saw a large family of white-faced capuchin monkeys during our visit. There were also lots of coati. These racoon-type animals have long snouts and long tails. They travel in big groups, scavenging for food in the leaves and dirt.  

A coati looking for food in the forest along the beach

It was apparent that both the monkeys and coati make daily pilgrimages to the beach to raid people’s beach blankets and coolers. We also saw some people directly feeding them fruits.

If you visit, keep in mind that human food, even fruit, can be harmful to the wildlife.

Bacteria and germs from our hands can make them sick, and eating processed food can lead to malnourishment, especially with baby animals and nursing mothers. Feeding them also disrupts their natural foraging behavior and can make them aggressive. The monkeys we encountered were definitely a bit aggressive. They were all over the trees near us, trying to get close to our bags.  

A mother and baby white-faced monkey

In addition to the monkeys and coati, we also saw several spiny-tailed iguanas, a Deppe’s whip-tailed lizard, and a snowy egret fishing in the stream.

Getting to Playa Nacascolo

Reaching Playa Nacascolo is all part of the adventure. Since access is blocked by the private resorts, you need to park first and then take a shuttle bus to the beach entrance.

By law, the public is supposed to have access to all of Costa Rica’s beaches, so these shuttles are provided for free by the resorts.

Parking

The parking lot for Playa Nacascolo is at the end of Route 253. Here is the location on Google Maps.

This is the main road leading onto the Papagayo Peninsula. The road comes to a small traffic circle (rotunda) and there is a sign for the public parking (parqueo publico). After driving down a short dirt road, you’ll come to a guard house and the parking lot. The guard will direct you to a parking spot.

The parking lot for the beach

This parking area serves other beaches on the peninsula too, including Playa Blanca, Playa Virador, and Playa Prieta.

There is a covered waiting area with benches and some portable toilets nearby. Once the shuttle bus arrives, you just need to tell the driver which beach you would like to be dropped off at.

Shuttle Ride

Playa Nacascolo is about a 10-minute shuttle ride from the parking area. The van or minibuses used hold around 10-20 passengers. Along the way, you will be driven through some maintenance roads (gravel) and then the main (paved) road, which leads to the Four Seasons Resort. On our trip, the drivers were very friendly in both directions. One even stopped for us to see some white-tailed deer grazing in the meadow.

The free shuttle to the beachFacilities

At the entrance to Playa Nacascolo is a nice bath house with toilets and outdoor showers. There is also a guard house here. An employee is available to call the shuttle when you are ready to return to the parking.

The bath house. It’s at the shuttle drop-off point before you walk on the boardwalk to the beach.Beach Access and Accessibility

From the shuttle drop-off point, it is a short five-minute walk down to the beach. This is along a raised wooden boardwalk with forest all around. It’s very nice and smooth without steps. Those with limited mobility should have no problem accessing the beach.

The well-maintained boardwalk leading to the beach

At the end, the boardwalk goes over a small stream and through some mangroves. It then opens to the sand.

Other Ways to Access

Some jet ski tours also bring people to Playa Nacascolo. These usually leave from the nearby resorts or the Papagayo Marina.

Kayaking is also popular in Culebra Bay, so you may see some visitors arriving that way.

What to Bring

There are no restaurants or stores anywhere near this beach. It is best to bring all the food and water you will need for the day. Trash cans and recycling bins are located in some spots along the beach and near the facilities.

The pristine beachConclusion

Playa Nacascolo is not a typical Costa Rica beach. Sitting on the sand, you may feel much like you are relaxing on some Caribbean island. From the smooth, calm waters to the active wildlife and relaxing shade, it is definitely a special beach to visit when staying in the Papagayo area.

Have a question about visiting Playa Nacascolo or have you been? Leave a comment below.Looking for more information about the area? Check out these posts:

Guanacaste: Regional Snapshot – Learn about the landscape, weather patterns, and major destinations in Costa Rica’s northwest region.

Playa Penca: A Gorgeous Hidden Beach in Guanacaste – Another harder-to-access beach in northern Guanacaste but very much worth the effort.

Rental Car Discount – If you are looking to do day trips to beaches like this, a rental car is a great way to get around. Get free delivery and pick up from your hotel or vacation rental. Plus, our readers get a 10% discount and free extras like car seats and coolers. 

The post Playa Nacascolo: Calm, Peaceful Water on the Papagayo Peninsula appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Playa Penca: A Gorgeous Hidden Beach in Guanacaste

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Guanacaste is home to many beautiful beaches. This section of coastline along the northern Pacific coast is carved with inlets and coves. The topography makes for calm water, great swimming, and sometimes snorkeling. In this post, we’ll tell you about one of our favorite beaches in Guanacaste with all those things, Playa Penca. This is the Playa Penca near the destinations of Playa Hermosa and Playas del Coco.

Background

Costa Rica has more than one Playa Penca. The most well-known beach of this name is in the town of Potrero near Playa Flamingo. This beach is very nice too, but the Playa Penca we are talking about here is near Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste.

Playa Penca sits on a long, narrow point between Playa Hermosa just north and Playas del Coco to the south. The point is undeveloped except for an access road. The land is pristine, with nothing else around.

The vegetated land around Playa Penca

Playa Penca is unmarked and mostly unknown by tourists. We have been going to this beach for several years now and were reluctant to highlight it on our website.

However, now things have changed as the property is being developed for a resort. They are in the early stages of the project. On our last visit in late 2022, heavy machinery was onsite starting work on a parking lot. Because of this, we feel like it is the right time to share this special beach with you.

Note that even after the resort is built, public access to the beach should be maintained. In Costa Rica, developers must always maintain a public access route to beaches, which cannot be held privately.

Access to Playa Penca

Getting to Playa Penca is currently a bit of an adventure. Once you get off the paved road, the drive down to the beach is very rough and hilly. We give full directions below. We recommend a 4×4 vehicle at all times of year.

The road to Playa Penca in rainy season (September)

You can’t drive all the way down to the beach, so Playa Penca is best for those with good mobility.

From the parking area, you will need to walk about 10 minutes down a hill. It is undeveloped for now, all dirt and uneven terrain. Our young kids (ages 6 and 3) were able to do it, though, with us giving our three-year old a little help on the way back up.

The trail leading to the beach

Some people get to Playa Penca by kayak. Rentals are available in Playa Hermosa and Playas del Coco.

The Beach

On your way down the hill, you’ll catch glimpses of the turquoise water through the wispy tropical foliage.

At the bottom, you’ll pass through a shady forested area and come onto the sand.

The entrance to the beach

In front of you will be, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.

Playa Penca has fluffy light sand and gorgeous clear water. You can usually see right down to the bottom. Rocks flank each end of the small cove. A hill covered in greenery towers behind the southern end.

Short trees and shrubs back the beach and provide some shade.

The northern end of the beach with shady trees during rainy season

The southern end (to the left) is where we usually spend our time. You can snorkel along the rocks here.

Looking towards the southern end of the beach, where you can snorkelSnorkeling

When we have snorkeled at Playa Penca, we’ve seen a lot of interesting fish. Huge pufferfish, needle nose fish, schooling fish, starfish, and lots of small reef fish along the rocks and coral.

A little deeper in the water where it is cooler, there are some large spiky sea urchins. Some are attached to rocks a little close to the surface so just be careful.

One of the most interesting creatures we have seen at Playa Penca are spotted eagle rays. These are beautiful black fish with small white spots. Their wingspan can reach an impressive 11 feet (3.3 meters). Although they look similar to manta rays and have a long sharp tail, they are different.

A couple of spotted eagle rays that we saw from the shore

Spotted eagle rays often come near the shore to feed. Although they tend to get everyone running out of the water, these rays are generally harmless unless you handle them. Seeing one is always a treat for us!

Not our picture but gives a nice close up of the spotted eagle ray

Ocean conditions can vary, but usually Playa Penca has calm water. Snorkeling is best at lower tides.

What to Bring to Playa Penca

Bring everything you will need for the day as there are no amenities in the immediate area. You’ll want your beach gear and snorkel equipment. For snorkeling, make sure your feet are protected with swim fins or water shoes.

A water shirt/rash guard can help avoid burns. Although the beach has some shade, during dry season (January through April), cover can be sparse as many of the trees will have lost their leaves.

Playa Penca late in dry season (April)

For sunscreen, Playa Penca still has some live coral reef so opt for a reef-safe sunscreen to help keep this beautiful ecosystem intact.

You can walk down the trail to the beach in flip-flops. Some may prefer a shoe that grips better like Keens.

Directions to Playa Penca Near Playa Hermosa

From Playa Hermosa, take the main road out of town towards Playas del Coco (Route 159). A few minutes from town near the top of the hill, look for a dirt road and small guard station on the right. There is also a large green construction fence around the property.

The guard will ask where you are going and take your license plate and name.

Continue along the dirt road. It will be wide in places and narrower in others. The road will go down steeply and has lots of huge ruts. It’s best to have an SUV with higher clearance so you don’t bottom out. We also recommend a 4×4 to get back up after. The dirt can be loose, making traction difficult.

In a few minutes, you’ll come to a beautiful viewpoint of Playa Hermosa and the Papagayo Peninsula beyond that. This is just a pull-off to the right, but a great place to get pictures.

Playa Hermosa and the Papagayo Peninsula in the distance

Just past that, you’ll come to an area on the right where there may be cars parked. There is also a green mesh construction fence near the road. This is the parking area for another beach called Playa Calzón de Pobre. Playa Calzón de Pobre is also really pretty, with light tan sand and calm water. It is popular with locals. Playa Penca is located at the end of the point so keep going down the hill.

Near the bottom, you’ll come to the parking for Playa Penca. It is nothing formal or official. When we were last there, the construction workers told us where to park so we would be out of their way.

The parking is not secure so be sure to leave nothing inside your car, as always in Costa Rica.

From the parking area, the path to the beach is to the right. It’s about a 10-minute walk down.

Here is a Google Map with the approximate location.

Conclusion

Playa Penca is one of our favorite beaches in Costa Rica. With basically no waves, crystal clear water, and even snorkeling, it is the perfect spot for adults and kids alike. We highly recommend a visit if you are near Playa Hermosa or Playas del Coco in Guanacaste.

Have a question about visiting Playa Penca or have you been? Leave a comment below.

Some of the links in this post are connected to affiliate programs we have joined. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Looking for more information to plan your visit to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste: Costa Rica’s Northern Beauty – Playa Hermosa is a great destination for exploring Playa Penca. This town is small but still has plenty of amenities.

Playa Carrillo: A Favorite Locals’ Beach in Guanacaste – If you’re into beach hopping, add Playa Carrillo near Samara to your itinerary. This is another gorgeous beach a couple of hours south of Playa Penca.

Costa Rica Rental Car Discount: To get to Costa Rica’s little-known beaches, it’s easiest to have your own car. Check out our rental car discount to save 10% and get free extras.

The post Playa Penca: A Gorgeous Hidden Beach in Guanacaste appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Playa Ocotal: A Relaxing Black Sand Beach

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

If you are visiting Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, you no doubt have beaches on your list. This part of the country has all types. From sandy expanses to rocky coves and everything in between. Playa Ocotal is a special spot among locals and returning visitors. It is a neighboring beach to Playas del Coco. But unlike Coco, which has a busy main strip, boardwalk, and lots going on, Playa Ocotal is quiet and peaceful. Also unique is the beach’s very black sand. In this post, we’ll tell you more so you can plan your visit.

Location

Playa Ocotal is located in the northwestern part of Costa Rica in a region called Guanacaste. This area of the country is drier than other parts and is known for its beaches rather than jungle.

The town of Ocotal is smaller in size. It is made up of condos, private homes (both locals and expats), and small hotels. The nearest larger town is Playas del Coco, about 5-10 minutes away.

From Costa Rica’s Liberia Airport (LIR), the drive to Playa Ocotal is about 40 minutes. From San Jose’s (SJO) Airport, the ride is much longer at about five hours, depending on traffic.

Northern end of Playa OcotalPlaya Ocotal – About the Beach

Playa Ocotal is a quaint cove about 0.33 miles long (0.5 km). It has rocky points on both ends. There is a small island just off the southern point.

The sand at Playa Ocotal is a charcoal black color. It is one of the blackest in Costa Rica, similar to Playa Carbon, to the south. This dark colored sand is the result of volcanic rocks that have broken down into fine sand. That sand is deposited onto certain beaches by ocean currents.

Under the black sand at Playa Ocotal is a much lighter, white sand. This gives a nice color contrast along parts of the beach.

Black and white sand on Playa Ocotal

Moored in the cove at Playa Ocotal are many boats. Sport fishing and scuba diving are both popular activities in the area, and some boats depart right from this beach. You’ll also see more traditional-style fishing boats, since the local community has an active fishing trade.

Boats moored in the calm waterBeach Lounging

For those looking to just relax on the beach, Playa Ocotal is perfect. While small, there are a lot of places along the sand to kick back and spend the day.

Most of the beach is backed by shrubby trees, which hang over the sand and provide partial shade.

Just use caution as some of them are a type of poison apple.

The sap and fruits of these trees can cause a bad skin rash. Avoid sitting under the apple trees and find a different type to set up under. As long as you don’t touch the trees, fruits, or leaves, though, they are pretty harmless.

The leaves of the Manchineel Tree (Poison Apple)

The rocky cliffs at both ends of the beach also can provide shade at certain times of day when the sun’s angle is right.

Keep in mind that the black sand on Playa Ocotal can get extremely hot, especially on sunny days. Make sure to use sandals when making trips down to the water.

Swimming & Watersports

Because Playa Ocotal is in a protected cove, the waves are usually smaller. This makes it a great place to splash around and swim for kids and adults alike. When conditions are right, you also can snorkel around the rocks to see reef fish.  

Occasionally when winds or currents change, the beach can have medium sized waves and be a bit turbulent.

Calm conditions on the southern end of the beach

If you’re looking for activities on the beach, local tour operators offer kayak rentals, banana boat rides, snorkeling trips, and jet ski tours.

Father Rooster Restaurant

While the lack of amenities on Playa Ocotal make it appealing and relaxing, there is one iconic restaurant worth a visit.

Father Rooster has been a landmark since it opened in 1985. This colorful building was once the farmhouse home of the area’s original landowners.

Father Rooster is known for its friendly service, good food and drinks, and laid-back vibe. The restaurant is literally steps from the sand.

Father Rooster Restaurant, just off the beachGetting to Playa Ocotal

Getting to Playa Ocotal is easy.

From Playas del Coco, turn down the road near Super Compro (a large grocery store). Follow the road as it curves through local neighborhoods.

At a Y-shaped intersection, you will continue left (right will bring you to the southern end of Playas del Coco). Continue through more neighborhoods.

Eventually you will come to another intersection. There will be a sign for Father Rooster Restaurant. If you go left, you will pass some condos and curve down to the restaurant. If you go right, you will pass the Ocotal Beach Club and reach the beach shortly after.

Tip: If you are exploring beaches like Playa Ocotal, you will probably want your own car. Be sure to use our Rental Car Discount to save with one of the most reliable companies in Costa Rica. You can have the car delivered to your hotel or vacation rental for free.  

Parking

Parking is available at the end of both roads leading to Playa Ocotal. At Father Rooster, there is parking behind the restaurant for patrons and over on the left for beachgoers. On the other road (near the beach club), there is a small area to park (about 15 cars) by the Los Almendros development.

Parking attendants, who work for tips, are usually hanging around and will help you find a spot. Although the area is fairly safe, we don’t recommend leaving any valuables in your car, just in case.

Parking area near Los AlmendrosConclusion

If you are exploring beaches near Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa, or other parts of Guanacaste, make sure to add Playa Ocotal to your list. From the relaxing water and shady trees to the famous restaurant, you won’t be disappointed.

Have a question about visiting Playa Ocotal? Leave us a comment below. Looking for more information to plan your trip? Check out these articles.

Palo Verde National Park: A Wildlife Tour Through Guanacaste’s Wetlands – The lush wetlands of Palo Verde are full of wildlife like monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds.  

Oropendola Waterfall: An Easy-to-Access Waterfall in Guanacaste – This waterfall is just outside Rincon de la Vieja and the perfect addition to your day trip.

Santa Rosa National Park: Hiking and History in Guanacaste – Explore the tropical dry forest of Santa Rosa National Park and learn about a historic battle that took place in the area.

The post Playa Ocotal: A Relaxing Black Sand Beach appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Private Schools in Costa Rica: Part 2, List of Options

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

In a recent post, we gave some background on private schools in Costa Rica. We explained about the different types of accreditations, options for types of schools, costs, and the school calendar. You can find that post here. In this article, we’re giving a list of specific private schools by region in Costa Rica to help narrow your search.

Overview

Most private schools in Costa Rica are located in the Central Valley. This is a mountainous region located in the center of the country near the capital, San Jose. It’s a huge area with a lot of variety. In and around San Jose is urban and busy, while smaller communities farther from the city are quiet and peaceful. You can learn more about the Central Valley and its different towns here.

There are private schools in other areas of Costa Rica as well.

Guanacaste on the northern Pacific coast has several options for international schools near the beach. The central Pacific coast also has a few options for private schools as does the southern Pacific. More private schools are scattered around the Nicoya Peninsula and inland in places like the Monteverde cloud forest.

One of the many beautiful beaches along the southern Pacific coastHelpful Information

Accreditation: Most schools are accredited by the Costa Rica Ministry of Public Education (MEP) and/or are international.

12th Grade: High school in Costa Rica only goes up to 11th grade. International schools go up to 12th grade. Some MEP schools have an International Baccalaureate (IB) program for 10th and 11th grade that allows students to graduate with an IB diploma.

School Calendar: Most private schools follow either the Costa Rica calendar (approx. early February to late November/early December) or the US calendar (late August to June).

Wait Lists: Some popular schools have wait lists so it’s best to enroll as early as possible.

Prices: Prices for schools vary greatly. We have done our best to include general pricing, when available.

Private Schools in Costa Rica by Region

We have gathered this list based on what we have learned living in Costa Rica and having kids in private schools here. We have probably missed some options. If you have a school to recommend, leave us a comment below.

Central ValleyAtenas

Atenas Green Valley School – Preschool through high school (up to 11th grade). Bilingual. Offers after-school care. Follows Costa Rica curriculum (Ministry of Public Education/MEP accredited). Uses the Costa Rica calendar. Mix of English and Spanish for classes.

Atenas Preschool and Escuela Colina Azul – Preschool through 6th grade. MEP accredited. Founded by a Montessori teacher. Mostly in Spanish.

Escazu

Arandu School – Bilingual, Christian school that offers preschool through secondary. MEP accredited. Most of curriculum is taught in English. 3 pillars: academics, art, and relationship with God. Preschool is Montessori-based. Follows Costa Rica calendar.

Bellelli Educacion – Accepts students from 10 months to 4th grade. Purpose is to facilitate humanized learning to create a well-being society. 3 pillars: community, nature, and play. MEP accredited. Has locations in Escazu and Santa Ana. Follows US calendar.

Blue Valley School – International school that offers an American curriculum with an emphasis on Costa Rican culture and Spanish. Preschool (Montessori) through secondary. Also offers an IB program. Accredited by MEP and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Around $800-1,200/month.

Country Day School – Well-known international school teaching US curriculum (in English – Spanish is taught as a subject). Also MEP accredited. Pre-K through 12th grade. Founded in 1963. Average class size: 16-18. Has a performing arts program with the Julliard School. Has a STEAM program (teachers attend MIT for training). Offers 20 Advanced Placement (AP) classes. One-time entrance fee: $2,500. One-time family fee: $1,000. Annual matriculation fee: $1,250. Annual tuition: Preschool (full day) – around $11,000-13,000; Grades 1-12 – around $17,000-18,000.

International Royal School – Bilingual. Class sizes limited to 12 students. Emphasis on language learning. MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Around $400/month.

Mount View School – Preschool through high school. MEP accredited. Has an IB program. Bilingual. Educational program is based on Christian, moral, and ethical values. Mandarin is taught in primary school and French in secondary. Swimming classes offered in preschool through second grade.

St. Mary School – Catholic, bilingual school offering preschool through 11th grade with IB program. MEP accredited. Three pillars are heart, mind, and spirit. $200-600 annual matriculation fee, $350-750/month.

Washington School – Preschool through secondary school. Has adopted US high school standards but is MEP accredited. Uses the Thought-Based Learning (TBL) methodology.

Grecia

ABC Educational Center – Preschool (including nursery), elementary, and secondary school. Focuses on neuroeducation (teaching based on brain function to optimize learning process). MEP accredited. Teaches some classes in English and others in Spanish. Offers after-school care. Annual matriculation fee: $250-300. Monthly tuition: $240-280.

Heredia

American International School of Costa Rica – Preschool through 12th grade. US and MEP accredited. Offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Small school environment (average class size: 13). Aims to offer a high-quality education along with multicultural soft skills. Has soccer, basketball, and volleyball teams (high school only), as well as many after-school clubs. Follows US calendar. Located in Cariari.

Caspari Montessori School – Montessori-philosophy school that integrates the standards of MEP. Bilingual. Takes kids from 3 months to 6th grade.

European School – K-12 international and MEP school. Offers the IB program. Emphasizes liberal arts and the humanities. Offers many after-school clubs. Calendar: Late July to late June. $7,500-13,000 per year, plus $550 annual fee that covers books, lunch, field trips, etc.

International Christian School – Preschool through 11th grade. MEP accredited.

Lincoln School – Pre-K through 12th grade. US and MEP accredited. Follow US calendar. Offers an entrepreneurship program through the Lewis Institute at Babson College (US). Offers 15+ IB courses. Has 6 varsity teams. One-time new student fee of $2,000. Annual enrollment fee of $50. Monthly tuition: Around $600-1,100 (less expensive for preschool).

Pan American School – Primary through secondary school. MEP and US accredited. Offers the IB program. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Bilingual. Emphasizes learning, community, and sustainability. Around 30% international students. Average class size: 16.

Moravia

Saint Anthony School – Nursery through secondary school. Pillars are trilingual (Spanish, English, French), technology, ranking, and safe environment. MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rica calendar.

Saint Joseph School – Preschool through secondary school. MEP accredited. Spanish, English, French, and German offered. Teaches, among other things, programming and robotics; uses technology in learning. Has a cheerleading program (they were world champs in 2020).

Pavas (San Jose)

British School – Preschool through grade 12. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, MEP, and the University of Cambridge for various programs. Offers the Cambridge IGCSE program and IB program for secondary school. For primary school, it uses the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), developed by Fieldwork Education UK. Follows Costa Rica calendar. One-time enrollment fee: $1,000. Monthly tuition: $500-1,000. Annual matriculation fee: $500-1,000. Does not accept students for short-term stays. Maximum of 22 students per class.

Colegio Humboldt Schule (German School) – Preschool through Abitur (German diploma). Many courses are taught in German. $1,000 one-time enrollment fee. Annual matriculation fee of around $700. Monthly fee of around $700.

San Pedro (San Jose)

Monterrey Christian School – Preschool through 11th grade. MEP accredited. Curriculum is guided by biblical values.

Santa Ana

Franz Liszt Schule – Preschool through secondary. German program and IB accreditation. Trilingual education (Spanish, English, German) and emphasizes music. School calendar starts in February.

Tree of Life International School – Montessori-based school offering preschool through high school. MEP and Cambridge accredited. The school started as a way to offer an alternative to traditional schools. Mixed age classrooms. Project-based. Students learn English, Spanish, and Mandarin.  

Tres Rios (Cartago)

Le Lycée Franco-Costaricien – French school that offers preschool through secondary. Accredited by the MEP and Agency for French Education Abroad.

Marian Baker School – Preschool (starting at age 2) through high school. US, MEP, and IB accredited. Follows US calendar. A smaller school. Classes taught predominately in English. Has a STEAM program and visual and performing arts classes. Around $1,200/month.

St. Gregory – Preschool through 11th grade. Super babies program for ages 0-2. MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Has an IB diploma program and exchange programs with the US, France, and England. Emphasizes academics, sports, and art.

GuanacasteTamarindo Area

Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA) – Popular school that offers nursery through 12th grade (ages 2-18). Internationally accredited and MEP. Emphasis on college prep. Offers a US high school diploma and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Bilingual (Spanish is taught as a subject). Affiliated with the Country Day School in San Jose. Follows US calendar. Student-to-teacher ratio: 10:1. Average class size: 18. Has a STEM lab, science lab, art and music suites, swimming pool, and library. Offers 45+ after-school activities. Has 360 students (2022). $1,000 annual tuition fee deposit. $1,000-1,800 one-time new student matriculation fee. Tuition is $7,400-10,175/year. Located in Brasilito.

Educarte – Preschool through 11th grade. Trilingual (Spanish, English, and French). Follows US calendar. Offers after-school care. Annual matriculation fee: $400-550. Annual tuition: $4,136-5,452.

Flourish Children’s School – Christian, dual-language preschool and primary school (ages 2-10). Classes capped at 10 students. Offers flexible schedules (preschool classrooms have 2, 3, or 5 day options) as well as half and full days. Has five classrooms (ages 2-3, 4-5, 5-6, 7-8, and 9-10). Preschool monthly cost: 5 days/week is $520 for full days or $480 for half days. Primary school monthly cost: 5 days/week is $600. $100 registration fee.

IREN Instituto Renacimiento – Project-based bilingual school intended to be an alternative to traditional schools. Ages 3-17. MEP accredited. High school students can get a US GED. Located on Black Stallion’s ecopark near Tamarindo.

Journey School of Costa Rica – Preschool through high school. Accepts kids ages 0-18. Accredited by MEP and offers US diploma through Cognia and IB diploma. Has 200+ students. Project-based. Uses Conscious Discipline model, which emphasizes developing social and emotional skills. Follows US calendar. One-time enrollment fee of $560. Around $8,000/year.

La Paz Community School – Popular school offering Pre-K through 12th grade. IB accredited. Dual language – 50% of time spent in both English and Spanish. Follows US calendar. Founded to bridge socioeconomic gaps in the region. Community-based. Has two locations – one in Brasilito near Tamarindo and another in Tempisque (near Playas del Coco/Playa Hermosa). Grades using portfolio-based assessment and Bloom’s Taxonomy (0-4 scale). Has 330 students (2022). $6,075-10,160/year. $750 annual matriculation fee. $1,500-2,500 one-time new student fee. Offers a need-based scholarship program for local families.

Launch Pad – $3,000/year. MEP accredited.

Outside the Box – K-5 program (ages 5-10). Alternative to traditional schooling. Montessori, project-based, unschooling, dual language. Follows US calendar. Offers extracurricular activities (art, music, creative writing, STEAM, sustainability club, math, and English tutoring). Located in Brasilito.

Pacific Waldorf School – Pre-K through 6th grade (ages 3-12). Bilingual. Classrooms set in nature. Structured main lesson alternating between English and Spanish. Offers lessons in French and German as well as swimming, gardening, painting, drawing, knitting, physical education, music, etc.

Tide Academy – Preschool through high school. An alternative schooling system for families with non-traditional lives. Has accreditation through two schools in the US (one in Maine and one in California). Follows US calendar. Flexible academic schedule. Allows kids to come and go. Small classroom sizes. Offers daycare. Has a surf academy. $4,600-5,500/year. $600 registration fee. $300 materials fee. Located in Tamarindo.

Playas del Coco/Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste) Area

Dolphins Academy School – Preschool (age 1.5) through high school (11th grade). MEP accredited. Follows national curriculum with international influence. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Bilingual.

Lakeside International School – Preschool (age 3) through high school (12th grade). MEP accredited (unclear if has an international accreditation). Follows Costa Rica calendar. Bilingual. Small class sizes. Holistic approach to teaching. $225-460 enrollment fee. $2,700-5,520 annual tuition.

La Paz Community School – Has a location in Tempisque. See full description in Tamarindo section, above.

Samara

Mareas Academy – Preschool through high school (ages 2-18). MEP and international school (accredited by a school in Florida, US). Follow Costa Rica standards for Spanish language & literature, and Spanish social studies, and US standards for everything else. Bilingual. Interactive teaching style. Uses a non-traditional learning approach. Small class size (limited to 15 students). Must attend for a full year to receive official transcript/credit. Calendar: Early November to end of August. $2,200-6,920/year.

Samara Pacific School – Mission: To offer a comprehensive multilingual education and stimulate the potential of each student to become responsible, entrepreneurial, positive, open-minded citizens with excellent academic backgrounds and strong ethical values, committed to having a positive impact on the world around them.

Southern Nicoya PeninsulaMontezuma Area

Futuro Verde – Preschool (starting at age 3) through 12th grade. Bilingual international school. MEP accredited and offers an IB program. Inquiry-based learning. Has around 230 students. Average class size: 18. Student population is around 70% Costa Rican, 30% foreigners. Follows US calendar. One-time New Family Fee: $500-920. Enrollment Fee: Around $620. Monthly Tuition: $400-600.

Santa Teresa

Hermosa Valley School – Preschool through high school. MEP accredited. Maximum of 20 students per class. Clubs include soccer, ballet, swimming, surfing, basketball, French, choir, art, yoga, and circus. Annual matriculation: $400-515. Monthly tuition: $400-525.

Central Pacific CoastJaco Area

Centro Educativo Bilingüe Inmaculada Jacó – Preschool through secondary. MEP accredited. Traditional school. Bilingual. Has a computer lab, audiovisual rooms, a gym, and swimming pool. Located in the center of Jaco.

Ficus Tree School – Preschool through 6th grade (plans to offer a high school program for 2023). MEP accredited. Costa Rica calendar. Bilingual. Located in Playa Hermosa.

Jaco Learning Center – Pre-K to 8th grade. No longer offers school accreditation. Vision: Collective education for peace, justice, and social harmony. Strives for a creative and responsive learning community. School Calendar: Late July to early July with several weeks off intermittently. No uniform. $275 annual matriculation fee. Tuition is $300-460/month.

Las Nubes School – Preschool to high school (11th grade) (ages 2-17). Traditional school, MEP accredited with emphasis on developing students for national or international university. Bilingual. Offers after-school clubs (soccer, art, dance, karate). Has robotics, farm, life skills, and swim class at on-site pool. Around 200 students. 80% Costa Rican, 20% international. Class size limited to 18 students. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Annual matriculation fee: Around $550-600. Monthly tuition: Around $400-450/month. Located in Herradura.

Manuel Antonio/Quepos Area

Colegio Ecoturístico del Pacífico – Preschool through 11th grade. MEP accredited. Strong ecological values.

Sistema Educativo Los Delfines – Preschool (starting at age 3) through secondary (11th grade). MEP accredited. Traditional school. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Has two swimming pools and a computer lab. Annual matriculation fee: Around $260-420. Monthly tuition: Around $250-320. Located in Paquita.

Southern Pacific Coast (Uvita/Dominical/Ojochal)

Casa del Nino (Uvita Montessori School) – Offers three programs: toddler (ages 18 months to 3 years old), primary (3-6 years old), and elementary (6-12 years old). Bilingual. Montessori-based – aims to address the whole child academically, emotionally, and socially. Located in Uvita.

Centro Educativo Costa Ballena (Escuela Verde) – Offers preschool through 12th grade. MEP accredited. Bilingual. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Has around 140 students. Visiting students welcome to come for a minimum of one trimester. Goal is to have half of students be Costa Rican. Offers after-school activities (e.g., basketball, English (English as a Foreign Language), French, art, Pilates, swim, surfing, and gymnastics). Located in Uvita.

Life Project Education – Non-traditional school offering Pre-K to 7th grade. Bilingual, family-centered holistic education center for local and traveling families. Project-based learning. No uniforms. Not MEP accredited but offers US WASC-accreditation through their partnership with Global Village School in California. Located in Ojochal.

Uvita Christian Academy – Pre-K (age 3) through 12th grade. MEP and US accredited. Bilingual Christian school. Emphasis on sustainability. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Allows students to attend for only part of the year. Grades 1-8 take a placement test.

Trebol – Small, bilingual Montessori school for ages 3-6. Located in Uvita.

La Fortuna/Arenal Area

Cataplinkis Center – Preschool through 1st grade. Bilingual. Offers after-school activities. Located in downtown La Fortuna.

Green Forest School – Preschool through secondary school. Bilingual. MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Maximum class size: 14 students. Located near Ciudad Quesada.

Monteverde

Cloud Forest School / Centro de Educación Creativa – Pre-K through 6th grade (minimum age: 4). Bilingual. MEP accredited. 85% of students are Costa Rican, 15% international. Emphasizes sustainability. Accepts part-time students but for a commitment of at least one full semester. School calendar: August to May. Fees for students from outside Monteverde: $200 registration fee. Annual tuition: $6,250 for Pre-K and Kinder, $7,000 for Preparatory, $10,000 for 1st through 6th grade.

Monteverde Friends School – Well-known Quaker school. Promotes the universal values of peace, love, and respect. Preschool (starting at age 3) through secondary (12th grade). MEP accredited. Bilingual. Uses mixed grade classrooms. Kindergarten is Montessori-based. Around $220-400/month.

Perez Zeledon/San Isidro de El General (Mountains of Southern Zone)

Escuela La Asuncion – Catholic school offering preschool through secondary. MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rica calendar.

Escuela y Colegio El Valle – Preschool (starting at age 3) through 11th grade. MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rican calendar. Traditional school; academically driven. Has a library, technology lab, and science lab. Offers many extracurricular activities, including badminton, basketball, soccer, art, gym, robotics, photography, and anatomy.

Fray Felipe – Preschool (starting at age 2) and primary (through 6th grade). Classes are taught in half Spanish, half English. MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rica calendar.

RISE – Waldorf school that accepts children ages 4-12. Focuses on experiential learning. Community-based. School building designed to fit into the natural environment. Part of a new alternative-lifestyle residential community outside San Isidro de El General.

Victory Christian Academy – Offers a biblical and Christian education. Bilingual. Affiliated with Uvita Christian Academy. Follows Costa Rica calendar.

Southern Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita)

Centro Educativo Complementaria Cahuita – Preschool through 11th grade. MEP accredited. Emphasis on independent thought in learning. Maximum class size: 15 students. Has a biology/chemistry laboratory and a computer lab.

Centro Educativo Playa Chiquita – Preparatory through 6th grade (ages 5-11). MEP accredited. Follows Costa Rica calendar. Holistic learning. Annual matriculation: Around $150. Monthly tuition: Around $275.

Jardín Infantil Las Semillas – Preschool for ages 2-6. Located in Playa Chiquita.

Other Miscellaneous TownsSan Mateo (near Orotina)

Casa Sula – Offers an unconventional learning style based on Montessori method. Located in La Ecovilla development in San Mateo. Accepts children ages 3-9. Children older than 9 are considered on an individual basis, depending on educational history. Enrollment fee: $600-650. Monthly tuition: $520-620/month (includes snacks and lunch).

Journey School of Costa Rica – New branch of the Journey School (other locations are in Tamarindo and Arizona, US). Pre-K through 12th grade. Outdoor learning classroom. Emphasizes sustainability and agriculture. Community-based. Located between the Ecovilla and Alegria developments. Annual matriculation: $550. Materials: $550. Annual Tuition: $5,940.

Conclusion

As you can see, Costa Rica has a lot of choices for private schools. From French and German schools to Christian and international schools, there’s something for everyone. We hope that this list has helped narrow your search.

For more general information about private schools, check out our first post in this series.

Have a question about private schools in Costa Rica or have experience with a specific school? Leave a comment below.Looking for more information to plan your move to Costa Rica? Here are some posts:

Moving to Costa Rica with Kids: Best places to live, visas, information on medical care, cultural differences, and more.

Costa Rica’s Digital Nomad Visa: All about the new digital nomad visa, which lets you stay in Costa Rica up to two years.

Buying a House in Costa Rica: Details about the process of buying real estate.

The post Private Schools in Costa Rica: Part 2, List of Options appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Traveling to Costa Rica: The Basics

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

If you’re just getting started with your trip planning, you may have some basic questions about Costa Rica. Where exactly is it located? What are the main international airports? What about the currency? Can I use my credit card? Do I need to speak Spanish? In this post, we’ll lay out the answers to some basic questions and give plenty of tips along the way.

Basic Travel Information About Costa RicaLocation

Costa Rica is located in Central America. The Caribbean Sea borders the eastern part of the country. The Pacific Ocean borders the western part and is a much longer section of coastline.

A common misconception is that Costa Rica is an island. This is not true. Nicaragua borders the country to the north and Panama lies to the south.

Government

Costa Rica has a democratic government and is considered a peaceful country. In 1949, the country abolished its army and has been without a military ever since.

Airports

The largest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) located in Alajuela near the capital city of San Jose. By world standards, SJO isn’t very big, but it still receives arrivals from around the globe.

The other international airport is Daniel Oduber Quirós International (LIR) in Liberia. This airport is smaller and close to destinations in the region of Guanacaste.

There are also airstrips scattered throughout the country serviced by local small plane carriers.

Entry and Visas

To enter Costa Rica, you need a valid passport and proof of exiting the country within 90 days (e.g., plane ticket).

Visitors from most countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and much of Europe, do not need a visa and can stay in the country for up to 90 days.

Visitors from certain countries will need a visa. You can find more information on the Costa Rica Tourism Institute’s website.

Vaccines

No vaccines are required to enter Costa Rica except for travelers coming from certain countries in Africa or South America who will need the yellow fever vaccine. Covid vaccination is not required.

It is recommended to be up to date on all routine vaccines to travel to Costa Rica. Here is a link to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website with the list of recommended vaccines.

Language

Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. English is taught in schools, however, so many people speak at least some basic English.

You don’t need to speak Spanish to visit Costa Rica. People who work in the tourism industry usually speak very good English. Many are fully bilingual. Still, you may find some people who do not speak English.

For a list of useful Spanish phrases for your trip, check out our post, Simple Spanish for Costa Rica.

Climate

Costa Rica is located near the equator so is warm and tropical year-round.

Although small in size, you will find hot and humid rainforest, cool cloud forest, dry tropical forest, wet mangrove, and everything in between.

Costa Rica has two distinct seasons. Dry season runs from around early December to the end of April. Rainy season goes from May to the end of November. The exact timing of when the seasons transition varies geographically. The Caribbean coast has its own unique weather patterns.

The Guanacaste region looking green in rainy season

For lots more information on the weather, here are some posts:

Weather in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know

Rainy Season in Costa Rica: How Wet Is It? 

Sunset and Sunrise

The sun sets year-round around 5:30 or 5:45 p.m. You can expect full darkness by 6:00 p.m.

Sunrise is between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. The birds start calling much earlier than that, though!

Sunset in Playa FlamingoMoney

Costa Rica’s currency is the colon, named after Christopher Columbus. There are bills and coins. 600-650 colones equals approximately $1 USD.

US dollars are also accepted. If something is priced in local colones, it is best to pay in colones so that you don’t have to worry about the exchange rate you’re getting.

Hotels and transportation and tour companies often price in US dollars.

You can get colones and US dollars out of the ATM with your debit card. Avoid the money exchange at the airport as it has a poor exchange rate.

You also can bring US dollars but be sure not to have anything larger than a $20 as it may not be accepted.

Some remote destinations like Drake Bay and Tortuguero do not have an ATM machine or bank. Be sure to bring plenty of cash if you’re visiting these areas.

For more tips on money, read our post, Money Matters: Currency, Exchanging Money, and Tipping.

A money exchange desk at SJO Airport’s baggage claimUsing Credit Cards

Almost all businesses, even small restaurants, now accept credit cards. Mastercard and Visa are the most commonly accepted.

Having a travel card that doesn’t charge fees for international use is best.

If you’re traveling to a remote destination, be sure to have some cash handy as credit cards are accepted less frequently.

Taxes

A 13% value added tax (VAT) is added to the price of most goods and services. The rate is lower for some tourism companies (8% in 2022 but will increase to 13% in July 2023).

Tipping

In restaurants, 10% service is added onto the bill. It may be included as a line item or embedded in the prices. Servers do not expect more, but we like to tip extra if the bill was a small amount or the service was good.

Tipping is common for baggage handlers, house keepers, drivers, and tour guides. Our Money post has some guidance on how much to tip.

Drinking Water

The water is safe to drink in most areas of Costa Rica. Some exceptions where you will likely want filtered or bottled are Esterillos and Bejuco on the central Pacific coast, the southern Nicoya Peninsula (Montezuma and Santa Teresa), the Caribbean coast (Tortuguero, Cahuita, and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca), and parts of Guanacaste (Tamarindo area, Nosara, etc.).

Voltage

Costa Rica uses 120V/60Hz, the same as North America. Electrical outlets are North American style (2 or 3 prong).

Using Your Cell Phone

You can get a local SIM card with a Costa Rica phone number. You just need an unlocked phone (it can’t be tied to another carrier by contract). Phone and internet plans are available from a few different providers and are very affordable. Here is a link to our post, Getting a SIM Card for Travel to Costa Rica, with more information.

Many phone companies in the US and elsewhere also offer international plans on a daily or monthly basis so that you could keep using your regular phone and existing SIM.

Getting AroundRenting a Car

Many visitors choose to rent a car to get around so that they can explore at their own pace. This is usually the most economical option if you are traveling with four or more people.

Getting ready to load onto the ferry from Puntarenas to the Nicoya PeninsulaShuttles

If you are not comfortable driving, shuttle vans are a great alternative. Shared and private shuttles are both options.

Shared shuttles connect major destinations and work on a set schedule. They are less expensive than private shuttles.

Private shuttles can take you anywhere you need to go, pick you up whenever you want, are for your group only, and can make stops along the way.

Check out our post, Taking Shuttles in Costa Rica, for lots more information.

Public Bus

The public bus is the cheapest option and what many locals use. There are two types of public buses: direct and collective. Collective buses stop more frequently.

The public bus goes just about everywhere but usually takes a lot longer than shuttling or driving.

Taxis

Taxis are available in most towns. Official taxis are red with a triangular medallion on the door. Official airport taxis are orange with the triangle. These can be arranged right after you exit the baggage claim.

Be sure they use the meter. Outside San Jose, most taxis don’t have meters so agree on the price before getting in.

Pirate taxis are also common, but we don’t recommend them. These are unofficial taxis that may not have the proper licenses and insurance. They have unmarked cars with regular license plates.

Ride Shares

Uber is available in the San Jose metropolitan area but is not common in other places yet. Keep in mind that Uber can’t pick up right at the airport, so you will need to meet them nearby.

Driving

You do not need an international driver’s license in Costa Rica. Be sure to have your license and passport handy in case you get pulled over by traffic police.

Many people are overwhelmed by the idea of driving in Costa Rica. Overall, the roads are in good condition and paved, especially between common routes connecting tourist destinations.

Costa Rica does have large mountain ranges dividing the country, so some roads are steep with more challenging terrain. Four-wheel drive is recommended for these areas, especially in rainy season.

There are also many side roads that still are not paved.

Exploring a back road in Costa Rica

For more specifics about driving and some idiosyncrasies about getting behind the wheel, here are some posts:

Driving in Costa Rica: What to Know Before You Go

Road Conditions of Specific Routes in Costa Rica

Renting a Car

Understanding how insurance works is key to renting a car in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica has a mandatory liability insurance that cannot be declined even if you have coverage of your own. Always be sure this is included when you are looking at prices online. Not all companies include it, and it can be a shock to people when they arrive and find out their rental is going to be $15-20 more per day.

The rental car company that we recommend in Costa Rica is Adobe Rent a Car. They are a local company with offices all around the country. Their cars are never more than two years old. They are transparent with their pricing and include a breakdown of insurance costs in all their quotes. Here’s a link to our Rental Car Discount page where you can save 10% and get free extras like a second driver, surf racks, and car seats for kids.

Most rental car companies will let you decline Car Protection insurance if you can show coverage through your credit card.

For more information on renting a car, check out our post, Renting a Car in Costa Rica: Clearing Up the Confusion.

Crime

Costa Rica is generally very safe as long as you follow the usual precautions. Most crimes against tourists involve petty theft.

Probably the most common crime that tourists encounter is having their rental car broken into. It’s very important not to leave anything inside your car when you park. Backpacks, especially, are often left on the front seat while at the beach, a restaurant, etc.

If you are stopping at a restaurant between destinations, try to park so that you can watch your car. A good practice is to take a small bag with your most valuable belongings with you inside.

Another place to be mindful of security is at the beach. Bring as little with you as you can and take turns swimming so that someone is always with your stuff.

Here’s a link to our Safety Tips post with more information.

If you’re planning to stay in an Airbnb, be sure to check out our post, Vacation Rentals in Costa Rica: Safety and What to Look for.

Medical Care

Costa Rica has socialized medical care. Public hospitals and clinics are located all around the country and provide fairly good care.

Most popular tourist destinations have private clinics with English-speaking doctors. These are a great resource in case of emergency. The cost for care is very affordable, at around $65-100 for most minor incidents/illnesses.

Modern private hospitals are available in San Jose. Some good ones include Hospital CIMA, Clinica Biblica, and Hospital Metropolitano.

It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance for your trip so that you’re covered in case of emergency.

Hospital CIMA, a reputable private hospital in San JoseMosquito-Borne Illnesses

Dengue is the most common illness you can get from a mosquito, but it is still not that prevalent. Malaria is present in Costa Rica but very uncommon.

Mosquitoes are the most abundant during rainy season (May through November) but can be found year-round in most places.

The best precaution you can take against getting a mosquito illness is to avoid bites by wearing repellent or covering up. For specific tips, read our post, Mosquitoes in Costa Rica: Tips to Prevent Zika, Dengue, and More.

If you are prone to bites, you may want to avoid accommodations that are open to the outdoors. Instead, opt for a hotel room that closes up completely with screens on the windows, etc.

Conclusion

We hope this post gave you some general background about traveling in Costa Rica. If we’ve left something out and you have a question, feel free to ask in the comments below.

Looking for more information to help plan your trip to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

First-Time Visit to Costa Rica: Information on why you should go, what to expect, and more tips to plan.

Itineraries: Check out our Itineraries page for sample itineraries for one- and two-week visits, family vacations, and rainy season travel.

Destinations Summary Guide: Get a quick snapshot of Costa Rica’s popular (and lesser known) destinations with links to more information.

The post Traveling to Costa Rica: The Basics appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

The Wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Costa Rica holds about 25% of its land in protected areas. There are 32 national parks and many more private reserves. These vast stretches of jungle, mountain, mangrove, and other habitats are home to an amazing number of species. While Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the country’s smallest parks, it is arguably one of the easiest places to see Costa Rica’s best wildlife. In this post, we’ll tell you what animals you can see and explain why it is so easy to observe them.

3 Reasons Why Manuel Antonio National Park Is Great for Wildlife Viewing

Here are three reasons why Manuel Antonio is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see wildlife.

A Mix of Habitats

Manuel Antonio National Park has the perfect mix of habitats for easy wildlife viewing. Positioned on the central Pacific coast, you can find primary and secondary rainforest, mangrove, wetland, and beach all within a short walk.

Within these environments is an incredible diversity of plants and animals. Over 346 plant species provide food and shelter for more than 350 species of birds and 100 species of mammals.

A basilisk lizard hiding behind the leavesThe Wildlife Isn’t Scared of People

Over generations, the wildlife inside Manuel Antonio National Park has grown accustomed to living with people around. Tourists and guides are part of their everyday life. This allows you to get some great, close-up wildlife encounters without stressing the animals.

This white-tailed deer sneaked across the trail right after these people passed

Be aware, however, that getting too close to the animals or feeding them can be dangerous and is also bad for the wildlife.

The Park is Small & Accessible

Manuel Antonio National Park is small compared to many of Costa Rica’s other national parks.

In total, there are about 5 miles (8.3 km) of trails. If you are just looking for an easy walk, you can combine a few of the shorter trails to make a 2- or 3-mile (3-5 km) loop. If you are the type to hike all the trails, you can zig-zag through the different habitats.

For those with limited mobility, wildlife is still within reach. The first trails inside the park are along a flat boardwalk, which is handicap accessible. There are resting benches and shady spots to sit and observe the wonderful flora and fauna.

The handicap-accessible boardwalk trail inside the parkWildlife You Can See Inside Manuel Antonio National Park

Anyone visiting Manuel Antonio National Park should expect to see at least some wildlife. How much depends on the day, conditions, and of course, some luck. Seeing a lot of wildlife on your own is possible, but a good guide can help you get even more out of your visit.

Monkeys

If you are visiting Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ll no doubt be able to see monkeys. In Costa Rica there are four types of monkeys. Inside the park, you should be able to find two or maybe even three of them.

The two most common monkey species to encounter inside Manuel Antonio National Park are howler monkeys and white-faced monkeys.

You’ll likely hear the howler monkeys before you see them. These blackish-brown monkeys spend most of their time in groups high up in the trees. They occasionally let out loud bellows to mark their territory and communicate. Once you hear their call, you can usually pinpoint their location.

Howlers are the biggest species of monkey inside the park. They can grow to be around 20 pounds (9 kilograms).

A howler monkey in the treetop

White-faced monkeys (capuchin) are easier to spot since they are more active and social. These black monkeys with white faces travel in small troops. They especially like to hang out near the beaches in the low branches but travel all around the park as well. They aren’t shy and are the ones who have a reputation for stealing food.

A white-faced monkey mother and baby

A third type of monkey called the squirrel monkey (known locally as the titi) is a bit harder to find, but their squeaky calls can give them away.

They are small, a bit bigger than a squirrel, and a rusty brown color. These super cute monkeys usually travel in large family groups in the middle-level of the canopy searching for fruits and insects to eat. They are fast and great jumpers.

A squirrel monkey, Costa Rica’s smallest monkey species

While Costa Rica’s fourth species, the spider monkey, is said to live in the park, we have never spotted one on our many visits. They are fewer in number throughout the country and may live in more remote parts, away from the main trails.

Sloths

Costa Rica has two species of sloth. The three-toed sloth and the two-toed sloth. Both live inside Manuel Antonio National Park.

In our experience, the three-toed sloth is the easiest to see. These sloths have grayish, rough fur that can sometimes appear green because of algae growth. They also have a distinctive black mask.

Close up of a three-toed sloth

Three-toed sloths are more likely spotted along the inland trails in taller trees. However, they do move around into lower branches.

Two-toed sloths are less common or maybe just better at hiding from us. Two-toed sloths have whitish fur and sort of a pink face. When we do see them, they are usually in trees near the beach catching an ocean breeze.

If you are set on seeing sloths, we would highly recommend a guided tour of the park. Guides know what trees they prefer to sleep in and what leaves they like to eat.

Reptiles

Many species of reptile call Manuel Antonio National Park home as well. There are larger reptiles like crocodiles and caiman inside the park’s swampy lagoon and salty mangroves. These can be tricky to see, though, because of the dense vegetation.

More easily observed are smaller species like spiny-tailed iguanas, green iguanas, Jesus Christ lizards, basilisk lizards, whiptail lizards, and anoles. Less common species like the helmeted iguana and some species of skink also can be observed with a little luck.

A spiny tailed iguana. These are easy to spot in Manuel Antonio and most of Costa Rica.Birds

With over 350 species of birds living in or migrating through Manuel Antonio National Park, you’re sure to see at least a few exotic feathered friends.

Two types of toucan, the Yellow-throated Toucan and Fiery-billed Aracari, are common inside the park.

You also may be able to see a few trogons, antbirds, flycatchers, tanagers, motmots, and birds of prey like hawks as well.

A Black-hooded Antshrike

The rocky islands just offshore, which are observed best by hiking the Cathedral Point Trail, are home to Frigate Birds, Brown Pelicans, and even the occasional Brown or Blue-footed Booby.

Other Critters

Other things you may see on your own are racoons and coati.

Coati are sort of like racoons but have longer snouts and walk with their tails in the air.

Agouti are small, brown rodent-like animals that can sometimes be seen scampering along the forest floor.

Keep a lookout for white-tailed deer too. These quietly stroll through open areas or across the trail. 

Halloween crabs, with their bright orange and black color pattern, are easy to see near the mangroves and on the edges of the boardwalk. They make burrows in the mud.

A colorful Halloween Crab. These hide in holes under the boardwalk trail.

Also be on the lookout for cool insects like leaf-cutter ants walking in long lines along the trail edges.  

How to See the MostSelf-Guided

Our best advice when trekking through the park on your own is to go slowly and look very carefully. Many people walk the trails too quickly, trying to see everything, and pass right by some amazing creatures.

Guided Tours

If you want to learn more about what you are seeing and find wildlife that is hidden, a good certified naturalist guide is key.

Guides are trained to know the local flora and fauna specifically found in Manuel Antonio. They know where to look for certain species.

Guides also walk the park’s trails over and over. They see patterns in the animal’s behavior and might know where a certain animal will be hanging out based on previous tours.

They also talk to one another, so if there is a special animal along the trail, they may get that location from a colleague.

We saw this sleeping red-eyed tree frog with the help of our guide.

A guide’s scope also can zoom in on wildlife. Some guides will take pictures with your phone using their scope, giving you a great memento to take home. 

Some cool animals we have seen with the help of a guide inside the park include a mangrove hummingbird, two-toed and three-toed sloths, three types of monkeys, toucans, parrots, a central American bull frog, Brazilian hornets, a sleeping kinkajou, and even a humpback whale and her baby breaching off the coast nearby.   

Planning Your Visit

For details about visiting the park, getting tickets online, trail descriptions, and how to book a great guide, see our post, Manuel Antonio National Park: Hiking, Wildlife, and Beautiful Beaches.

Conclusion

We hope this post has gotten you excited about the wildlife you can see inside Manuel Antonio National Park. We have probably visited this park more than a dozen times now and always have a different experience. Whether it is monkeys leaping from branch to branch, a sloth yawning in the treetops, or iguanas nodding their heads on the beach, you are sure to check some of Costa Rica’s best wildlife off your list.

Have a question about visiting Manuel Antonio National Park? Post a comment below.Need more information to help plan your visit? Check out these posts:

Manuel Antonio Trip Planning – This post is a great place to start if you are in the initial phase of your trip planning. We lay out the town, tell you what there is to do, and where to stay and eat.

Manuel Antonio Hotel Guide – Looking for a place to stay in Manuel Antonio? The options can be overwhelming. Check out this post for a narrowed down list.

Manuel Antonio Activities Guide – There is much more to do in Manuel Antonio and the surrounding area. Check out this post for adventure activities, cultural experiences, and more.

The post The Wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Private Schools in Costa Rica: Part 1, General Info

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

If you’re planning to move to Costa Rica with your kids or just visit for an extended stay, you’re no doubt trying to figure out where to send them to school. In addition to public school, Costa Rica has many options for private schools. But what can you expect at these institutions? In this post, we’ll give some background on the private school system in Costa Rica. We will explain about accreditation types, options for learning philosophies, school calendars, and costs. In a subsequent post coming soon, we’ll give a list of private schools so that you can start looking at specific options.

This post gives our impressions and what we have learned from our experience so far raising our two young boys in Costa Rica. People’s experiences differ so be sure to ask around when considering options for your children’s education.

BackgroundPublic School System

The public school system is run by the Costa Rica Ministry of Public Education (MEP). The system is vast, with hundreds of schools all around the country.

In Costa Rica, even the tiniest village has a school. When we lived in the Dominical area, our small community had a one-room schoolhouse where a teacher taught all the kids who lived in the neighborhood until high school level. Education is a constitutional right in Costa Rica so it is taken fairly seriously. Costa Rica’s literacy rate is high.

A public school on the central Pacific coast

That said, the educational quality varies a lot. Many kids in public school are not in the classroom for very many hours a day. And school is sometimes interrupted for long periods of time during the year. Recently, for a couple of years in a row, the kids did not have school for months at a time when there were countrywide strikes. This time was never made up.

Private School System

Private schools typically offer more stability, a higher quality education, a nicer facility, and more extracurriculars. For that reason, many Costa Ricans and expats living in the country choose to pay to send their kids to private school.

A preschool classroom at a private school in Costa Rica

Private schools may be under the authority of the MEP depending on their accreditation, but they still make their own rules for the most part.

During the countrywide strikes, our kids who we have in a private MEP school, still had school. During Covid when there were various shutdowns in the public school system, our kids were in school (either virtually or in person) almost all the time. Private MEP schools work with the MEP on their rules and regulations but still have their independence.

Virtual lessons during CovidPrivate School Accreditation

Private schools can be accredited by the MEP and follow the MEP guidelines, academics, and school calendar, or they can be an international school. Some schools are both MEP and international.

International schools follow other standards for academics/curriculum and have their own calendar. They may be accredited by schools in the United States or elsewhere so that credits obtained from these schools will easily transfer.

International schools are popular with expats and others planning to stay in Costa Rica for only a year or two. Kids who go to these schools will be learning the same things as their peers in the US, for example, and will not have to make up a grade when they return to their home country. The credits they receive from the international school will transfer to their school in the US, Canada, etc. as long as the school has the proper accreditation.

School CalendarMEP Schools

The MEP school calendar typically starts in late January or early February and ends in early December.

Mid-year vacation is in late June/early July and lasts about three weeks.

Most schools give a week off for Semana Santa (Easter Week) and a week or two for Independence Day in September.

MEP schools observe all public holidays in Costa Rica.

International Schools

The school calendar for international schools differs by institution. Most of the private international schools we know of in Costa Rica follow the US calendar. They start in mid-August and end in June.

A Pre-K classroomUniforms

Children at all public schools wear a uniform. Most, but not all, private schools require a uniform as well.

Learning Philosophies at Private Schools in Costa RicaMEP Schools

MEP private schools in Costa Rica have a more traditional learning style. Our sons’ school is very curriculum-based. In first grade, they have books for math, phonics (English), and Spanish. English is typically heavily emphasized in private schools because Costa Rican parents want their children to learn English because of the opportunities that brings.

This year, our son’s first grade teacher is from South Africa and speaks English. Spanish is taught as a separate subject. Last year when he was in Preparatory, his teacher was Costa Rican and spoke Spanish. English was taught as a separate subject.

Kids doing “areas” in Preparatory at a more traditional private school

Much of the learning in his class is project-based. They often incorporate art into math and do social studies projects.

In social studies, they learn about Costa Rican culture and history. This is a very important subject. Several times a year, they have events or performances for different holidays that we get to attend.

Running the torch on Independence Day in September

Although they spend much of their time doing academics, they also have garden class, robotics, gym, swim class, and art.

International Schools

The learning philosophies at international schools really vary. You can find more traditional institutions, Montessori schools, German schools, British schools, Christian schools, and even a couple of Waldorf schools.

Some people who are moving to Costa Rica right now are looking for a more alternative lifestyle. To that end, schools have been popping up that do not follow any set of standards or require exams, uniforms, etc.

Costs

The cost of private schools in Costa Rica varies significantly. You can find more basic options starting at $300 per month. The most prestigious institutions are $1,000 or more per month.

Most private schools also charge an annual matriculation fee, which adds significant costs. Typically, matriculation is a one-time fee of around $500-1,000 per year.

Books are an additional fee as well. At our sons’ school, books for preschool are $100-170, and books for elementary and high school are around $450.

Uniform costs also can add up. At our sons’ school, one complete uniform (shirt and shorts) is around $50.

Most private schools give a discount for sending more than one child. The youngest kid usually gets 5-10% off the regular monthly admission.

Conclusion

Costa Rica has many great options for private schools, whether you’re planning to raise your kids here or just come for a gap year. We hope this post gave you some background on what the private schools are like.

Have a question about private schools in Costa Rica? Ask us below.Looking for more information about living in Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

Costa Rica’s Digital Nomad Visa: Learn about this new visa that lets you stay in Costa Rica for up to two years.

Buying a House in Costa Rica: Overview of our experience buying a home.

Planning a Long-term Visit to Costa Rica: Thinking of coming for an extended stay? Read our tips on choosing where to live, finding a rental, transportation, and more.

The post Private Schools in Costa Rica: Part 1, General Info appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.