The rainforests are the crown jewel of Costa Rica. It is one of the few countries that have an enlightened view of preservation and conservation, which has ensured that the rainforests will long be home for the poison-dart frogs, monkeys, lizards, butterflies, and every other animal living there. The rainforests are also home to over 1500 varieties of trees and more than 850 species of birds.

General Information for Visiting Costa Rica

Tourists heading to Costa Rica will need a visa and a passport; however, it is recommended that travelers contact the Costa Rican consulate before leaving to double check on the requirements, as they tend to change with some frequency. Mosquitoes in the rainforests do spread viruses, so travelers should update vaccinations before entering the country. The best time to travel to Costa Rica is late December through mid-April, during the country’s dry season. However, because this is the time most people travel there, the prices are much higher and accommodations and tours will be harder to book. Although some roads may be closed, the wet season can still be a pleasant time to visit. Easter and Christmas weeks are national holidays, shutting down nearly every business in the country. Columbus Day is also a national holiday.

Visiting the Rainforests

Visitors should always be prepared for rain, even in the dry season. The tour companies advise travelers to bring rain gear and waterproof shoes, and travelers would be wise to heed their advice. For those who are carrying camera gear, ponchos are the best rain gear, as they will cover the cameras.

A unique view of the rainforest comes from an aerial car that rides on cables just above the treetops. It is an 80-minute ride on a 2600-meter route. This is the best opportunity for birdwatchers, providing a unique perspective of the wildlife below. The guide does an excellent job explaining the rainforest and its ecosystem. The guide also has a well-trained eye for spotting wildlife on the ground or in the trees that the average tourist would otherwise miss. But the bird life provides the easiest animal sightings.

Flower lovers will be enchanted by the orchids. There are 1200 species of orchids in Costa Rica’s rainforests.