When we think of Costa Rica, then to carefree moments and unforgettable impressions. Lush green rain forests, beaches, and especially animal encounters that are unique in the world – this Central American country has pulled us into the spell. An experience report on a cruise destination with Wanderlust warranty.
We fell in love with the diversity of this country simply. We were left in the Morning on hot beach, we were a short time later in the middle of the cool rain forest. Lush Green everywhere this! We were deeply impressed by huge trees, lianas, which spread from branch to Branch, and delicate mist in large tree crowns. Soon on every corner there was to discover new exotic animals. And the camera, we could, in fact, rarely out of the Hand.
Towering trees, the green heart of the country.
How to experience Costa Rica as a cruise holidaymakers?
This question was also us the beginning of our trip planning. Because the Central American country was already very long on our travel wish-list. Many friends and Relatives, there were recommendations regarding the most beautiful places. In the route plan for Central America and Caribbean cruises in Costa Rica, however, usually only a single Stop provided. It's rare to several ports in the country. This is not due to the lack of attractions. Rather, only a very few ports to large passenger are designed ships.
In combination with tours dive deeper
Because a single day in this highly acclaimed spot appeared to be too little, we were looking for Alternatives. From time to time, expedition providers-intensive Costa Rica have tours in the program. The ships then lying in the roads and country programmes are carried out with the Zodiacs. At the time of our visit, none of these individual was unfortunately traveling. A Round trip before or after the cruise is the perfect compromise after diligent Research. Thus, the possibility of the country and its people was to get acquainted with. In short, we have booked a shortened Caribbean cruise to Costa Rica, and then 2 weeks to travel around spent. A decision, we can recommend to anyone who brings a little time.
Large range of excursions in the vicinity of the port
However, be assured: Even if you only have a day for Costa Rica, in the framework of excursions numerous impressions. Because of the uniqueness of the country are in the vicinity of the ports easily accessible. We've been on the trail of the most popular tours, which is directly offered by the cruise ports. A short list of our Top 3 recommendations for excursions in the vicinity of the port can be found a little further down in this article.
The location between two seas cruises spoilt for choice for cross
Costa Rica is located between Nicaragua to the North and Panama to the South. In the West, the waves of the Pacific ocean meet at the coast. In the East, turquoise expected us blue coves of the Caribbean. As a cruise vacationers, you have to guides, due to the Route generally speaking, for one of the two sides decide. Because of the Panama canal allows you to change the water by boat.
While the Caribbean side is definitely dominated by the tourism sector is already stronger, located on the Pacific side sections wide, almost deserted coast. Each land has its charms and can come up with different circumstances.
As a cruise vacationers can choose between the Pacific and the Caribbean coast.
What are the attractions on offer in Costa Rica?
Man-made attractions include in Costa Rica are rarities. Much more impressive, the natural peculiarities: Exotic animals, lush rain forests, spectacular volcanoes and wide beaches.
Rare and protected biodiversity
After the 2 weeks to travel around, we can say: Costa Rica is a true natural gem. Because the Central American country has to offer a diversity that is unparalleled. Also, the "Ticos", as the locals call, have recognized the value of natural resources. Incredible 27% of the state area is now available as a Nature reserve reported. In comparison: in Germany, it is a meager 0.6 percent. The visit of such a nature reserve should be on everyone's To-Do list for Costa Rica. Nowhere else there is so much to discover in nature. Us particularly Corcovado National Park and Monteverde in the interior and Tortuguero and Cahuita close to the port of Limón impressed. Anyone who invests on the Caribbean side, you should definitely make time for one of the two Parks.
From here, you can explore various treetop paths or Hiking trails in the jungle.
Sustainability as a living target of a whole country
The animal and natural world experienced in Costa Rica, is a high priority. In one of the few countries in the world without a professional army, the available funds will be invested in sustainability. Costa Rica may call a special record of his Own: Since 2019, the pioneer wins 99,62% of its electricity consumption from renewable energy sources. As we have learned in Costa Rica as a country, we look forward to receiving such positive developments. The preservation of this natural treasure is absolutely desirable.
Animal world Marvel
Animal encounters were numerous and often unusual. Huge Iguanas and small Squirrel monkey sat in tall trees, Sloths looked tired from dense leaves down on us and never forgotten our first encounter is with Trunk-And-White-Nose Bear. In the morning, at Breakfast, in front of our Bungalow, the whole family came about cat big small bear from the middle of the jungle. The fragrance of our fresh bananas and Papaya were attracted to the leader of the gang closer to us. Small pieces of fruity delicacies were accepted willingly, and shared by all.
The colors can cover between Green and Orange in a wide range.
Looking up at the sky, buzzing it just so before flying exotics. At the sight of the Toucans, Parrots and Hummingbirds only the heart of an ornithologist beats higher. Everywhere one sees more of life essence. Eyes open, the top priority is to keep as many of the animals are true Masters. In and on the water we have Turtles, Sharks and colorful Fishing On the look-out kept. Were not disappointed, we are also here because the waters are clean and the coral reefs can thrive. Even the Hatch of a small leather turtle, we could observe by chance on the beach. What a fight these little creatures right from the beginning to the saving of the sea in front of you is amazing.
Costa Rica nature in all its diversity
The species diversity is only one of the Highlights of a Costa Rica vacation. Within an area slightly larger than lower Saxony, offers Costa Rica's tropical rain forests, vast plateaus and varied high up in the mountains. Possible, the mountain chain of the Cordilleras, which rises from the North to the South makes this. This divides the country into several micro-climates.
In our extensive car rides after the cruise, we were able to experience within a few hours, the variety of nature again and again. The mild climate in San José was then quickly replaced by low visibility in the forest around Monteverde. And during the journey over the highest mountain pass in Costa Rica, the 3451 m high Cerro de la Muertewas the hot Pacific coast in sight.
The highest mountain in Costa Rica, the Chirripó, is located on 3820 m.
Wide coves and dream beaches
Often, our day ended at one of the picturesque beaches. Deep shade hung palms into the water. In the leaves colorful feathered parrots sat. And those who liked the snorkeling and the lively underwater world diving and admire. The perfect opportunity to let the soul dangle and enjoy the relaxation.
This "Rich coast", as the Translation of the Spanish Name Costa Rica is situated on both the sea pages. Due to the volcanic influence, the beaches are more likely to be dark or ocher yellow colored. Special memories are to us, the secluded coves of the Nicoya Peninsula remained. Here we share the space with many beach crabs digging their holes, as with people. An Insider tip for crusaders is Playa Manzanillo on the Caribbean coast. Some shipping companies offer trips to this secluded beach with an offshore reef.
Fertile plateaus and bubbling volcanoes
Between the two oceans of the world, the high level is with numerous volcanoes and cooler climates. Inside the country-wide cultivation cover surfaces for pineapples, sugar cane and bananas. Be sure to try the fruits ripen on the ground. A fresh and flavor intense experience for the palate, we have often enjoyed. Never exotic delicacies taste as good as on the spot!
More than 60 extinct or dormant volcanoes dot the mountain ranges of the country. A further 6 are always active. Fascinated by these forces of nature, two layers of accessible copies on our itinerary. Particularly impressive is a visit to the in 1994, the last active was for us Irazú. A cautious step to the Caldera and the view into the turquoise water-filled crater opened. At the thought of possible outbreaks, a slight shiver ran us over the back.
A contrast to the wild Irazú offered at the volcano Arenal. Easily accessible Hiking trails allow a panoramic view of the mountain. And at night, the stars twinkled in the clear sky, while we relaxed in the warm volcanic springs. Many thermal pools in the resort La Fortuna leave nothing to be desired and also offer exclusive Spa packages.
The hot springs you can enjoy in one of the well-equipped thermal baths.
Original Rain Forests
Has surprised us in the case of the round as close to the rain forest on the coasts. Often one is only a small step from the dense jungle. Therefore, also in close proximity to the cruise ports a lot of impressive rain forests are to be found. While on the Caribbean side, the forests are a year-round humid, bordering the North and the Pacific coast was an impressive dry forest.
The visit to the Arenal volcano, the opportunity in the local special Vegetation dive: the cloud forest was for us. Here are many of fog pull swaths of waterfalls and over the treetops trails. A truly mystical sight.
Which cruise ports are there in Costa Rica?
The surprising diversity can easily be reached from the two major ports of the country to explore: Puerto Caldera, Puerto Limón. At the very bottom, in the South there is a small port of Golfito. This is very secluded and is rarely driven.
Puntarenas – a port on the gateway to the rainforest
Providers such as Regent Seven Seas or Norwegian Cruise Line the possibility of Costa Rica's Pacific offer to experience the coast. The starting point of the port of Puerto Caldera, near the city of Puntarenas is here.
Excursions in the vicinity of the port of Puntarenas
These 3 attractions have fallen around Puntarenas, particularly:
- Carara National ParkThe entrance to the Park is the so-called crocodile bridge over the Tárcoles river. You are standing on the bridge, one can see right down in the water, huge crocodiles. The national Park can be explored via various Hiking trails. With a bit of luck, you see plenty of birds.
- Espíritu Santo Coffee Plantation: Because we love coffee, we wanted to make a Tour in one of the plantations. This Cooperative has laid emphasis on environment-friendly farming. The introduction to the world of coffee is entertaining, and conveys a lot of background knowledge.
- Historical train journey to Orotina: Costa Rica, purse Seine is currently being expanded only rudimentary. This old railway line was formerly used to Transport the coffee beans in the capital. Along the route, great insights into the villages and landscapes. A Bonus: Many tour providers connect this train journey with a boat trip back across the Tárcoles river.
Caribbean Flair at the port of Puerto Limon
Coral reefs, Bars on the beach & turquoise water of the Caribbean is the cruise passenger in Puerto Limón, literally at your feet. Who is on the cruise with TUI Cruises or AIDA goes, you can enjoy the Flair.
Excursions in the vicinity of the port of Puerto Limon
These 3 attractions have fallen around Puerto Limón, especially:
- Tortuguero ChannelsA wide variety of natural and artificial channels through the Tortuguero national Park. The opportunities to see here, sloths, Howler monkeys, and iguanas are large.
- Puerto Viejo: a coastal town with a pleasant atmosphere. Here you can shop at the gold-coloured natural beaches, relax and take in the many shops craftsmanship.
- Cahuita & Puerto Vargas National Park: Who wants to represent the feet, is in these two national parks to the right place. You can get impressive rain forest walks and nature in Costa Rica is particularly close to. The beautiful beaches offer the opportunity for a little trip into the waves.
Golfito Marina village for small cruise ships
Very few cruise ships to run Golfito, in the South of Costa Rica. Currently this stop to offer only the ships of Seabourn and the Ritz-Carlton. The investor is in an idyllic location in the middle of a wide Bay, on the Golfo Dulce.
Here are the views of the Bay, in the Golfito is located at the very end.
Excursions in the vicinity of the port of Golfito
These 3 attractions have fallen around Golfito, particularly:
- Golfito National Wildlife RefugeThis nature reserve is located a short distance to the place of Golfito. Up to 45-Meter-high trees in lush rain forests provide protection for the species, the Flora & Fauna. A little further North of the equally spectacular national Park is located Piedras Blancas.
- Golfo Dulce: By Kayak nature can be explored around the Golf the best. The nearby mangrove forests provide protection for all kinds of animals which can be observed from the vicinity.
- Museum Finca 6: Fans of the archaeology can embark on the journey to this UNESCO world heritage site. By car to the Museum with the extraordinary large stone balls is about 1.5 hours from Golfito to reach.
Souvenirs of the cruise: coffee in various varieties
In each of the small Shop and Café, you will have this irresistible scent of freshly roasted coffee in the nose. Because Costa Rica is alive thanks to the ideal climate in an ideal Zone for coffee and cocoa cultivation. As I write this article, I will enjoy beans, a Cup of coffee in the brought. Simply delicious!
If you like, you can be one of the coffee and cocoa plantations experience. To think of the perfect opportunity to Souvenirs for Loved ones at home.
5 tips for the successful planning of a tour before or after the cruise
Our decision for a 2-week tour after disembarking, we should repent at any point in time. There are some things to note however. Here are our 5 tips we give are happy to.
Comfortable Vacation Packages
There are some fantastic provider for round trips, remove any planning. The Team around is in our preparations, especially travel-to-nature been recommended. In the end we have us, since we had already some well-Known and local contacts for planning to be decided. We could not, however, rely on this network, would have been a trip for sure the best Option. The most beautiful places and nature are offered in different routes. You just need to select the variant that corresponds to the timing and content of the Wish.
Timely Car Reservation
If you are planning a round trip on its own initiative, is the timely car reservation and Particularly for the peak travel season around Christmas and new year are out of stock the best models quickly.
Here is also the Consideration of whether you need a four-wheel drive vehicle is. Because many of the sections are only gravel roads to reach. Want to make this a four-wheel drive vehicle is essential.
Exact Tour
For this reason, a detailed tour planning is the basic requirement. We have informed us of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica in advance, and our Route planned accordingly. Therefore, the us also was aware that we would be on dirt roads. The choice of a four-wheel drive vehicle with high ground clearance was the logical conclusion. And, in retrospect, is the best choice. Because that's how we were able to access remote areas, where well-Known places to visit.
Our round trip in bullet points:
Puerto Limón, San José, La Fortuna – Arenal volcano – Playa del Coco, Playa Flamingo, Tamarindo – Sámara – Puntarenas – Dominical Drake – Cartago – Irazú volcano – San José
You can ask us for Details. Write us an E-Mail info@cruise-book.com. We can help with our tips at any time.
Costa Rica travel time note
The climate is different, in principle, a dry season (December – April) and rainy season (may – November). Due to the micro-climate, however, this is highly dependent on the Region you are visiting.
The Caribbean offers in December and January is quite strong rainfall and hot and humid temperatures. The September and October, in turn, are rather dry. The best time to visit the Caribbean is therefore of March and April plus September and October. With unsettled weather is expected at any time.
On the Pacific coast is, the more obvious differences between the two times of the year. The rainy season should be avoided. Many of the dirt roads are by swelling rivers and streams difficult passable. The best time to visit the Pacific is November-may.
Due to the proximity to the US-American feast days of the popular travel times. We therefore recommend the 2 weeks around Christmas and new year in each Region to avoid.
Warm rain-proof clothing pack
The temperature differences between the coasts and the mountains and rain forest can be enormous. In addition, there may be a chance of showers during the rainy season, often on the day. We recommend, therefore, necessarily warm clothes and a good rain jacket (or umbrella) to take.
Provider of cruises to Costa Rica
Various providers offer a variety of cruises to and from Costa Rica. TUI Cruises, AIDA, Regent Seven Seas, Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea, Sea Cloud Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and many other shipping companies to offer Costa Rica as a Stop. Who would like to experience, we can choose Costa Rica as a Start or end point of the Voyage. Endhafen of our Caribbean cruise, and thus the starting point of the subsequent Costa Rica trip was to Puerto Limón.
Check in to one of the three cruise ports
The two biggest ports of Limon and Puntarenas, are quickly and easily accessible. The starting point of the Juan Santamaria airport in the capital city of San José is usually. Puerto Limón is from there by plane to reach. At the airport Taxis are, in turn, you, the close to 5 km up to the dock.
If you start your cruise on the Pacific ocean in Puntarenas, we recommend a Shuttle service for less than 70 km. A regular flight schedule from San José, there is not to our knowledge. Your travel Agency can you be sure when booking your Shuttle to help. Alternatively, it is also available in the larger Hotels and at the airport, travel Agency, bookings are possible.
The smaller port of Golfito is very secluded and to reach therefore more difficult. Due to the large distance to San José, the small aircraft, the Golfito to fly to recommend as a means of transport.
The public bus network is extended rather sparse. The buses don't run on time, at all times. Therefore, we At rates of public transport for arrival and departure in Costa Rica more.
Our conclusion: Costa Rica is well worth a visit and will meet again very soon.
Photo sources: post image 2 Silversea Cruises | post image 3 bobby20/Shutterstock.com | post image 16 Jorge A Russell/Shutterstock.com | Post Image 17 Solarisys/Shutterstock.com | Post Image 21 Seacloud Cruises