A toucan in the national park in Vara Blanca, Costa Rica

In December 2019, I took a short holiday to Costa Rica, marking my first visit to the country. From the moment I arrived, I knew this trip would be something special. Lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, colonial towns, and Pacific beaches—Costa Rica had it all. But one experience stood out above the rest: the hot springs. There was something magical about soaking in the naturally heated waters, surrounded by tropical greenery, feeling the tension melt away.

San José – The Capital’s Hidden Charms

I began my journey in San José, Costa Rica’s capital. Often overlooked by visitors heading straight for nature, the city still had its own unique appeal. Wandering through its historic quarters, I found beautifully preserved colonial-era buildings mixed with modern architecture. One of the highlights was the National Theatre, an opulent landmark that reflected the country’s rich cultural heritage. The city’s vibrant markets and street food stalls provided the perfect introduction to Costa Rican flavours—fresh tropical fruit, gallo pinto (rice and beans), and delicious tamales wrapped in banana leaves.

Sarchí – The Heart of Costa Rican Craftsmanship

A short drive from San José brought me to Sarchí, a town famous for its traditional artisanship. Sarchí is best known for its beautifully painted oxcarts, once used for transporting coffee but now celebrated as a national symbol. Walking through the workshops, I watched local artisans meticulously hand-paint intricate designs, keeping a tradition alive that has been passed down for generations. The combination of bold colours, floral patterns, and geometric shapes made every piece feel like a work of art.

La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano – Where Nature Reigns

From Sarchí, I continued to La Fortuna, a small town best known as the gateway to Arenal Volcano. The volcano’s perfectly conical shape dominated the landscape, standing majestic and imposing against the sky. Although Arenal is no longer erupting, the surrounding lava fields, waterfalls, and thermal springs remain a huge draw.

I spent the day hiking through Arenal National Park, where trails led through dense rainforest, over old lava flows, and past panoramic viewpoints of the volcano. But the best reward after all that trekking? The hot springs. The area’s geothermal activity has created natural pools of mineral-rich, steaming water, and I relished every moment of relaxing in them.

Doka Estate Coffee Plantation – A Taste of Costa Rica

Coffee is at the heart of Costa Rica’s history and economy, so a visit to a coffee plantation was a must. At Doka Estate, I learned about the process from bean to cup, from growing and harvesting to roasting and brewing. Costa Rican coffee is known for its smoothness and rich flavour, and sampling a freshly brewed cup amidst the green fields made it taste even better.

Later that day, I attended Doka Events, where I got to experience traditional Costa Rican music, dance, and cuisine. It was fascinating to see how culture and agriculture intertwined, creating a deep connection between the land and the people.

Vara Blanca and the Waterfalls

Vara Blanca, nestled in the cloud forests, was a refreshing stop. The area is famous for its misty landscapes and waterfalls, and I visited La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where multiple cascades tumbled through thick jungle. Walking along the trails, surrounded by hummingbirds, butterflies, and exotic orchids, felt like stepping into a dreamlike rainforest world.

Cartago – A City of Faith and History

In contrast to the natural wonders, Cartago offered a glimpse into Costa Rica’s spiritual and colonial past. As the country’s former capital, it is home to Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, a striking pilgrimage site. The basilica, with its intricate Moorish-influenced design, draws thousands of Costa Ricans each year who walk for miles to honour the Black Madonna, Costa Rica’s patron saint.

Puntarenas – A Taste of the Pacific

After exploring the inland wonders, I headed towards Puntarenas, a coastal town known for its relaxed seaside charm. The warm Pacific breeze, fresh seafood, and laid-back atmosphere made it a perfect place to unwind. I strolled along the beachfront promenade, watching locals enjoy ceviche and ice-cold pipa fria (fresh coconut water) under the shade of palm trees.

Quepos – The Gateway to Manuel Antonio

My journey ended in Quepos, the main town near Manuel Antonio National Park. While I didn’t have enough time to explore the park fully, I got a taste of its famous beaches and diverse wildlife. Even in town, it was easy to spot monkeys leaping between trees and colourful birds darting through the sky.

Reflections on My First Trip to Costa Rica

Costa Rica completely lived up to its reputation. From volcanoes and waterfalls to coastal escapes and rich traditions, the country offered an incredible mix of adventure and relaxation. But what stood out the most was the connection to nature—whether through the hot springs of Arenal, the cloud forests of Vara Blanca, or the waves of Puntarenas. This short visit left me wanting more, and I knew it would only be a matter of time before I returned to explore even deeper.

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