Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a fascinating country of extremes - it covers just 0.03% of the world's surface but it accounts for 6% of its biodiversity. Here cloud forest, volcanoes, mangrove swamps and coffee fields stand side by side. Monteverde rain forest alone contains 2,500 different plants, 400 of which are orchids. There are over 850 different birds including the resplendent quetzal, Montezuma's oropendola and scarlet tananger; and animals that have evolved nowhere else in the world like agoutis (type of guinea pig) and dantas (huge tapirs).

But to judge Costa Rica purely on its natural bounty would be a mistake. For the kindness of its people, (known as ticos), is as integral as the rain forest. The Spanish conquerors never established sugar plantations here as they did elsewhere in Latin America, so Costa Rica remained a network of villages, free from the colonial slave trade. This peaceful heritage marks the country out from all of its neighbours. Costa Ricans are a peace loving people, passionate about nature. You'll find them sharing a coffee in the friendly village sodas (cafes), or taking a stroll in the bougainvillea decked squares.

Walking in Costa Rica

The best way to explore this wide range on landscapes is on foot, and our guided walking holiday will allow you to really discover this beautiful country. Our expert local guides have a real knowledge and passion for their homeland and will readily share this with you as you discover Costa Rica's unique natural inheritance.