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Javi the Frog's Costa Rica Travel Blog

Welcome to my Costa Rica travel blog, my name is Javi the Frog and I might be famous for my bright hues, but my experiences traveling around Costa Rica have been even more colorful.

While I was growing up, my parents told me lots of stories about all the great things people see when they visit Costa Rica. I knew I had to see it for myself, so I jumped out of my favorite tree and hopped off to see the country.

I've crawled up Arenal Volcano to see its fiery eruptions, and I've trekked to Salsa Brava to tackle the country's toughest waves.

Thanks to my many experiences, I have become an expert on travel in Costa Rica, find out the inside scoop on the best that my country has to offer in my Javi the Frog's Costa Rica Blog.

Costa Rica national flower, Guaria Morada, Paraiso, Cartago

The Purple Country Girl: History of Costa Rica's National Flower

The national flower of Costa Rica is the purple country girl, called Guaria Morada in Spanish. It is a stunning orchid shining with purple hues and thin, rounded petals. Based on Tico tradition, the flower brings good luck and fortune. It has a long history tied to the land and its inhabitants, and without a doubt, it's my favorite flower!...[More]

Rainforest hike in Matapalo next to a Strangler Fig Tree

The Differences Between Cloud Forests and Rainforests

Costa Rica is literally a tropical paradise. Home to around 5 percent of the entire planet's biodiversity, much of the country is covered by lush rainforests and beautiful cloud forests. But what are the differences between the two? [More]

Javi the Frog with magestic Arenal Volcano

Top 5 national parks in Costa Rica

With nearly 27 percent of the land devoted to national reserves and a total of 28 nationals parks, there's no denying that Costa Rica has some truly remarkable standouts of nature. Volcanoes, rain forests, waterfalls and a vast diversity of flora and fauna fill these parks - many of my relatives reside in these areas as well! While it was hard to narrow down a list, here are the top 5 national parks of Costa Rica:...[More]

Actors in procession in Holy Week, San Jose

Top activities during Semana Santa

Topping the list of my favorite holidays, Semana Santa is a celebration during the last week of Lent leading up to Easter. Parades, processions, the best food and mini-festivals fill the streets, and for Costa Ricans, Catholic traditions run deep. Without a doubt, Semana Santa, literally meaning "Holy Week," is one of the most important holidays of the year. Ticos embrace a week off of work, spending downtime with family and friends...[More]

Costa Rica National Hero Juan Santamaria

Who was Juan Santamaria?

If you happen to be hopping around in Costa Rica on April 11th of any given year, you’ll also notice that the entire country, including this frog, is celebrating Juan Santamaría on that day. But what is it that makes this man a legend in Costa Rica?... [More]

Magnificent Howler Monkey in Puerto Viejo forest

Learn all about the monkeys of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a place with dense wildlife, and that wildlife includes four species of monkeys that I’m going to highlight today: the howler monkey, the spider monkey, the tiny squirrel monkey, and the Capuchin (or white-faced) monkey. I travel through the country constantly, and you can bet that when I look up, I am likely to see some monkeys swinging in the trees above me... [More]

The Best Tropical fruits of Costa Rica

There are many things in Costa Rica that you might not be able to do since your travel time is limited – but the tropical fruits are plentiful, so you have no excuses. I recommend that the following fresh fruits become a part of your visit to Costa Rica... [More]

The 9 Most Popular Foods in Costa Rica

Food in Costa Rica is second only to the country’s beauty. Known for its use of fresh ingredients, like fruits and vegetables, the cuisine in Costa Rica is generally on the mild side... [More]

Fall in Love Romantic Places in Costa Rica

While most people fall in love with Costa Rica itself while visiting, I have heard tales of romance between humans too! I’ve long been in love with my home, and having traveled all over it for years, I can say that I know of a romantic spot or two that will get everyone feeling butterflies in their tummy... [More]

Most beautiful Costa Rica Morpho butterfly

Learn about the unique life of Costa Rican butterflies

Did you know that Costa Rica is home to a massive population of butterflies? These colorful creatures float delicately through the canopies they are truly a sight to see! I've made friends with some butterflies throughout my travels, because I am so intrigued by their patterns and life cycle. You know what else is really cool? The species in Costa Rica make up about 90 percent of all Central American butterflies and 18 percent of the world's species! You can learn so much about these interesting creatures at one of the many butterfly farms and conservatories throughout the country. I'll share some of my favorite places to visit with you maybe you'll love them just as much...[More]

Travel on horseback through Guanacaste

There are so many ways to travel the lands of Costa Rica. For me, I like hopping because I can splash in puddles and jump up to high branches! During my travels, I explore different forms of transportation and one of my favorites is horseback riding. From atop a majestic horse, you can see much more clearly - that is, unless you are very tall! It's a whole new way to experience nature, because humans can feel as though they are a part of it. You can trek through the lush forests, alongside a volcano or on the white-sand beaches...[More]

September 15th is Costa Rica’s Independence Day

The first fun fact is that technically, Costa Rica never really had to fight for its independence from Spain. Along with Nicaragua, Costa Rica was declared an autonomous province according to the Spanish Constitution of 1812. This doesn’t stop Costa Rican from celebrating the official Central American independence from Spain, though... [More]

Ballena National Marine Park Entrance Sign

Explore the wonders of Ballena National Marine Park

One of the best things about living in Costa Rica is the number of national parks and wildlife refuges there are to explore in the country. Sometimes, it can be tricky choosing which one to visit first! Ballena National Marine Park, located on the shores of South Puntarenas, is definitely one of my favorites. Boasting some of the most spectacular scenery in the country and a wide range of exotic wildlife - including some of my brothers and sisters! - Ballena National Marine Park is an essential stop for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Costa Rica. Come with me to learn more about this amazing wildlife sanctuary! ....[More]

Inside Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles Chruch

Costa Rica Celebrates Virgen de los Angeles Day

There is nothing I love more than a holiday, especially a holiday that brings the people of my home together in celebration. Not many celebrations in Costa Rica are bigger than the national holiday on August 2nd, which celebrates my country’s patron saint, Virgen de los Angeles... [More]

A couple of hikers posing for photo before the big hike in Corcovado National Park

Travel Tips for Backpackers

If you’ve ever thought about taking a Costa Rica backpacking vacation, don’t wait another year to make it happen. Start planning your Costa Rica vacation now to enjoy pura vida while you’re young. If you’ve never backpacked, now’s a great time to start working out to be at your best when you finally touch down in Central America... [More]

National Monument to war against Filibusteros of Nicaragua

The history of Costa Rica

Every traveler loves the beaches in Costa Rica, but there’s so much more to this country than just the tropical climate, sun and eco-tourism. If you ask me, Costa Rica is built on its unique and “spicy” culture, which is influenced by all kinds of people: Spanish explorers and settlers, Mesoamerican and Andean cultures to the north and south of the country and Mexico... [More]

Hiker sitting on rock in river at Corcovado National Park

What to pack on a visit to Costa Rica

As a tree frog, I have the luxury of hopping about without worrying about wearing the ideal clothing or bringing the right supplies. However, if you want to fully enjoy your experience here, it’s essential to pack properly. Whether your travel itinerary includes backpacking or enjoying nightlife on the beach, here’s a brief guide for what you should pack before coming to Costa Rica... [More]

Where To Go for Spring Break 2018 in Costa Rica

Looking for gorgeous sun, smooth sand and lots of fun? You must visit Costa Rica during Spring Break 2018. Whether you want to experience a beachside party in the twilight or enjoy a more adventurous experience – like ziplining through the forest – I’ll be happy to show you around... [More]

Beautiful hiking trails in Selvatura Park in the heart of Monteverde

Monteverde & the Quakers: The Past that Preserved the Future

Monteverde in Costa Rica, is one of those places that you visit excepting to see beauty, but still have your breath taken away when you get there. The beauty in this area is natural, thanks to conservation efforts that date back to the early settlement years of Monteverde. While one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations for tourists, it is worth braving the crowds to check out all that this area has to offer. Tourism has been popular in Costa Rica for about 40 years, taking off in the 1980's. It is no surprise that people began to quickly migrate to the Monteverde area – with natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, friendly Ticos, and a unique community, it is the perfect recipe for premium tourism... [More]

Checking out one of the many boiling mud pots

Top Destinations for the Best Hot Springs in Costa Rica

No matter what kind of natural adventure you want to have, be sure to check out some of our Costa Rica hot springs along the way. Not only will you be treating yourself to a relaxing and rejuvenating experience courtesy of Mother Earth’s naturally warm waters, you will get to do so in one of the most spectacular places on the planet!... [More]