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Javi the Frog's Costa Rica Travel Blog - Page 13

Catch & Release with a Marlin off of Quepos

Land a live one while sportfishing

No matter what time of the year you are traveling to Costa Rica, the temperate climate usually hovers around 70 to 85 degrees. I know some of my brothers and sisters would like it to be hotter, but these temperatures are just perfect for me! They also make it perfect for any traveler looking to take advantage of the high seas that lap at our coastline, where you can catch a glimpse of native wildlife like dolphins and whales. One of the most popular ways to spend an afternoon on the crystal clear waters is to go sport fishing. There's nothing better than cruising in the warm breeze to spend a day with a pole in hand, right? Not that they make any poles in my size, but it sure seems like it! Depending on the location you are traveling to, you might catch Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Tarpon, Rooster Fish, Rainbow Bass and much more. Although it is very popular in Costa Rica, strict catch-and-release laws make sure that everyone can enjoy the outstanding wildlife and exciting sport of game fishing.....[More]

Behind the National Museum of Costa Rica

The 44-day civil war of 1948

Today, Costa Rica is one of the most peaceful and prosperous countries in Latin America. We don't even have a military any more! However, this lasting peace was the result of a dark period in Costa Rica's history - the civil war of 1948. Come with me to learn more about this historic conflict....[More]

Locavore cuisine taking off in Costa Rica

Ticos know that the secret to good food isn't just how you cook, it's what you cook. Although Costa Rican restaurants often use local produce, many high-end eateries at popular resorts often import their produce. Now, thanks to the efforts of a select few visionary restaurateurs, "locavore" cuisine is taking off in Costa Rica in a big way. A "locavore" is someone who eats food made from ingredients sourced locally, as opposed to ingredients that have traveled great distances. Let's find out more about this emerging culinary trend! ...[More]

Hiking Costa Rica's volcanic peaks

Costa Rica is home to some of the most active and ancient volcanoes in the Pacific Ring of Fire. These mighty mountains tower over the country's rainforests, offering breathtaking views and an opportunity to see this tropical paradise from an entirely new perspective. If you're looking for an active way to see the real Costa Rica, come with me and let's go hiking up some of the country's volcanic peaks! ...[More]

Canoeing in Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park in Limon is one of Costa Rica's most beautiful conservation areas. Boasting lush jungles, miles of canals and some of the country's most exotic wildlife, Tortuguero is the ideal place for tourists to enjoy Costa Rica by water. To really appreciate the stunning natural beauty of this national park, take a canoe ride down one of its many canals and rivers...[More]

Fer-de-Lance Snake in Corcovado National Park</a><br /><br /></td></tr>

The deadliest snakes in Costa Rica

Not every inhabitant of Costa Rica's lush rainforests and dense jungles is as friendly and cute as me! In fact, some of the denizens of Costa Rica's national parks are downright deadly. Come with me to learn more about three of the most dangerous snakes in Latin America...[More]

Best places to go on canopy tours

When you're hiking through the lush Costa Rican rainforest, you might see exotic birds flying through the air above you. Ever wondered what it'd be like to soar above the canopy of the trees and see the jungle as the birds do? Well, you can see the incredible scenery of Costa Rica's national parks by taking a canopy tour. Come with me to discover the best places to explore the rainforest from above![More]

The most tranquil beaches in Costa Rica

Nothing beats lounging on a secluded beach when it comes to getting away from it all. Fortunately, Costa Rica has two coastlines boasting miles of unspoilt sands, isolated coves and crystal-clear waters. If you're looking for the ultimate relaxing getaway during your vacation to Costa Rica, come with me to explore the most tranquil beaches in the country! ...[More]

Trail at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve</a><br /><br /></td></tr>

Exploring Monteverde Cloud Forest

Costa Rica is literally a tropical paradise. Home to approximately 5 percent of the world's biodiversity, this stunning natural variety is what makes national parks such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve such a magical place. Home to an incredible array of exotic birds, animals and plants - including tree frogs! - no trip to Costa Rica is complete without a tour of this remarkable cloud forest...[More]

Poas Volcano Costa Rica</a><br /><br /></td></tr>

Tour the volcanoes of Heredia

Costa Rica is famous for its dense jungles, exotic wildlife and stunning beaches. Tens of thousands of people come here every year to explore the national parks of this tropical paradise. The province of Heredia is renowned for its volcanoes, and if you're looking for the ultimate exotic adventure, come with me to tour the volcanic peaks of Heredia!.[More]

On Location in Naranjo at the Espiritu Santos Coffee Tour

It's no secret that coffee is one of Central America's most important crops and exports. However, if you've ever wondered how your morning cup of joe gets from the rolling hills of Costa Rica to your cup, come with me and let's find out on the Espiritu Santos Coffee Tour in Naranjo![More]

On Location at Tio Charly's in Naranjo

Exploring the beautiful Costa Rican countryside can be hungry work! When you're out and about discovering the hidden gems of Alajuela, why not stop at Charly's for some chicharones? I can't figure out why anyone would prefer these tasty treats to a delicious dragonfly, but to each their own, I suppose![More]

On Location at Tropical Bungee in Naranjo

If you're looking for the ultimate in adrenaline-pumping excitement, head to Naranjo in Alajuela. In addition to the lush tropical rainforests, exotic wildlife and rolling hills, you'll also find Tropical Bungee, a company that has been providing tourists with the ultimate bungee jumping and adventure sports experiences for more than 20 years. Come with me to learn more about this exciting activity![More]

The destructive power of Costa Rica's volcanoes

Located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, Costa Rica is home to several volcanoes. While some of these are dormant, others are highly active. After the earthquake that struck Costa Rica last week, four of the country's volcanoes are under close watch in case they show signs of seismic activity, but what makes these mighty mountains blow?[More]

Awesome beach rock formations in Corcovado National Park

Explore the waters off Corcovado on a snorkeling adventure

Isla del Caño, located around 12 miles from Drake Bay, is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive in the world. Known for the clarity of its waters and abundance of exotic marine life, the memories of a snorkeling trip here are sure to last a lifetime. Many tour companies offer guided trips to the area, and after taking a short boat ride to the island, you'll be free to take the plunge and explore the stunningly beautiful depths.... [More]

Sixaola border crossing just after 1991 Limon Earthquake. Photo courtesy of Clive Graham

The Limon earthquake of 1991

We're all still a little shaken after this week's earthquake, but fortunately, there doesn't seem to have been much damage and very few people were hurt. Sadly, this wasn't the case back in 1991, when another powerful tremor shook the country, causing widespread damage and casualties. Although the quake was a little before my time - I wasn't even a tadpole back then! - some of the locals remember it well.[More]

Earthquake fissure on remote road near Ciudad Quesada from 7.6 Costa Rica earthquake on Sept 5, 2012

7.6 Earthquake strikes Costa Rica!

This morning, as I was hopping through the rainforest, the ground began to tremble! It was so loud and scary, that the other animals in the jungle and I didn't know what was going on! Apparently, it was an earthquake, and I overheard the local townsfolk saying that the epicenter was located around 85 miles west of San Jose. So, I did what any tree frog would do - I ran! When I eventually got to the nearest town, the earthquake was all over the news, so I went to find out what was going on...[More]

The best places to take a dip in Cartago

During the dry season, it can get pretty humid in Costa Rica. After a long day spent trekking through the country's lush rainforests and national parks, why not cool off with a refreshing dip? If you're spending time in Cartago, located in Costa Rica's Central Valley, you're never far away from a tropical oasis.[More]

Hiking expeditions in Guanacaste

When it comes to seeing everything that Costa Rica has to offer, there's no better way than on foot. With thousands of trails winding through lush jungles and along the country's twin shorelines, Costa Rica offers hikers the opportunity to see the breathtaking scenery for which this Central American nation is famous. For some of the best hiking anywhere in the world, head to Guanacaste![More]

Surfer at Pan Dulce during big swell, Matapalo

Take a surf trip along Costa Rica's southern Pacific Coast

Costa Rica attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year due to its lush rainforests, unspoilt beaches and exotic wildlife, including a certain species of adorable tree frog! The country is also one of the best places to surf in the world, and travelers from across the globe come here to ride the huge waves and enjoy the spectacular scenic beauty of Costa Rica's two coastlines. Unfortunately, some people can only stay here for a short while before they have to go back home, but what if you're planning a surfing vacation in Costa Rica that will last a little longer? If the idea of spending a week or two riding the best waves in the world appeals to you, take a surfing vacation on Costa Rica's southern Pacific Coast...[More]