Costa Rica is a wonderful destination packed with serene, wild and marvellous attractions. Truly an adventure paradise, Costa Rica boasts national parks, active volcanoes, and beaches.The fascinating cultural history of this place makes Costa Rica a true heaven to explore. You will be astonished by the fabulous destinations and amazing hospitality this place offers. Costa Rica is a city with rugged terrains, beautiful coastline, scenic landscape, exotic marine life, and ample spots to carry out snorkelling; Costa Rica offers you a mind-blowing experience that will knock your brain out. The emerald crystal blue water of the Caribbean Coast will let you explore the magical marine life to the fullest. Costa Rica in December not only favors balmy weather but also hosts ample events that are full of music and lights. You can also find locals dressed as cowboys, and the horse parades are a must to be watched.
7 Places To Visit In Costa Rica In December
Here is an ultimate Costa Rica travel guidebook that provides all the information regarding this awesome destination. For a rejuvenating and fulfilling vacation, have a glimpse at the top places to explore in Costa Rica and enjoy a balmy vacation in the country’s scenic landscape.
1. Monteverde Cloud Reserve Forest
Image Credit: Haakon S. Krohn for Wikimedia Commons
Monteverde is an idyllic town nestled in the country’s mountainous area. Ranked among the best places to visit in Costa Rica in December, it features awesome landscapes that will astonish you. This is an important hotspot for biodiversity, with plenty of flora and fauna. Orchids are abundant in the Monteverde area. For those who love nature, it offers comfortable lodgings as well.
Location: Puntarenas Province, Monteverde, Costa Rica
Opening hours: 7 AM to 4 PM
Also Read: Canyoning In Costa Rica
2. Guanacaste Beaches
Image Credit: Mariordo for Wikimedia Commons
Do you want to head to a beach where the celebrities party? Then visit these Guanacaste beaches, which are a favorite spot for eminent personalities like Sofia Vergara, Kim Kardashian, and Mel Gibson to party hard. Several beaches span along the Guanacaste Pacific coast. The beautiful weather and crystal clear water of the Pacific Coast are known for awesome surfing opportunities. Sunbathing, horseback riding, traveling, and diving are a few adventurous activities you can indulge in.
Location: From the Nicaragua border to the Nicoya Peninsula
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
3. Arenal Volcano
Image Credit: Leonora (Ellie) Enking for Wikimedia Commons
One of the fabulous places to visit in Costa Rica is the Arenal Volcano, a stunning mountain with amazing symmetry. Hike up the volcano that is located in Arenal Volcano National Park, by going through the hot springs and rainforest hikes. For over 30 years, hotels in this area are bestowed with an amazing view of the lava flowing and the red hot boulders that are ejected from the active volcano sparkles in the darkness.
Location: Volcano in Costa Rica
Opening hours: 8 AM to 4 PM
Related Post: Costa Rica Travel Tips
4. Celeste River
Sorted among the top tourist attractions of Costa Rica, Celeste River draws tourists from all around the globe. Unique aqua blue coloration of the river will definitely leave you awestruck. Bordered by ample hot springs and waterfalls, this celeste river takes an hour trek from the entrance of the park.
Location: Tenorio Volcano National Park of Costa Rica
Opening hours: 8 AM to 4 PM
5. Pacuare River
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Indulge in whitewater kayaking, riverboarding and white water rafting in this Pacuare River that flows 108 kilometers into the Caribbean. Encircling the rainforests are exotic animal species like ocelots, jaguars, and monkeys. Also, it is tagged among the 5 rivers to indulge in rafting. Doesn’t it sound exhilarating? Not only the adventure enthusiasts but also these awesome destinations are known for their scenic beauty. Primitive rainforests that are teeming with cascading waterfalls and pools that invite you to swim and enjoy the serenity.
Location: River in Costa River
Opening hours: 5 AM to 6 PM
Related Post: Snorkeling In Costa Rica
6. San Jose
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One of the outstanding places to visit in Costa Rica, the capital city of San Jose is fully lit and a bit chaotic. This diverse city rich in culture and history, hosts ample tourist attractions, art galleries, and museums. This modern city, brimming with abundant eating, sleeping and drinking places coupled with museums is the best bet to make your vacation truly memorable. This is one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica in December, to make your vacation a fulfilling and memorable one.
Location: Capital of Costa Rica
Opening hours: 6 AM to 5 PM
7. Tamarindo
Image Credit: Tamarindowiki for Wikimedia Commons
Tamarindo is the surfing capital of Central America and is a prime place to visit Costa Rica. Lovely beaches and thriving nightlife of Tamarindo will definitely make your vacation memorable. This place is one of the most famous destinations in the province of Guanacaste. Relax at the banks of Tamarindo by enjoying a mesmerizing view of the sunset.
Location: Town in Costa Rica
Opening hours: NA
Related Post: Things To Do In Costa Rica
6 Things To Do In Costa Rica In December
When you are done with places to visit in Costa Rica, then here is a list of adventurous activities to squeeze in your bucket list.
1. Indulge In White Water Rafting
Surrounded by plenty of rivers, Costa Rica is packed with humidity and jungles. Pacuare River and Río Naranjo are the best river rafting destinations in Costa Rica. Go rafting in the Tenorio River that is located in the Guanacaste area. Arenal Volcano is yet another white water rafting place to head at.
2. Go Snorkeling
Snorkeling is one of the awesome things to do in Costa Rica in December. If you love the beach towns that are dazzling with Caribbean charm then Costa Rica should simply be in your bucket list. Whenever you are near the ocean, look for spots where snorkeling is carried out and get a peep of the aquatic life of the Pacific and Caribbean. Cahuita National Park, Corcovado National Park, Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and Playa San Josecito are the best destinations where you can snorkel and discover beautiful coral reefs.
Related Post: Places To Visit In Costa Rica In October
3. Zipline Through The Forest
Surrounded by vibrant lush greenery and diverse elevations, Costa Rica is a perfect place to carry out zip lining. Fly like a bird in the air and enjoy the stunning view from the above. Most of the ziplining centers are placed inland near the Cloud Forests.
Related Post: Costa Rica Nightlife Guide
4. Try Canyoneering
All the adventure freaks, try out canyoneering in this awesome destination. Using harnesses and ropes explore the rock canyon. Jump, climb and scramble up & down on this rocky landscape. Probably, water rappelling is done right next to waterfalls. There is high risk involved in this activity so make sure you perform this activity under the supervision of an expert company.
5. Immerse In Hot Springs
Image Credit: The World Factbook for Wikimedia Commons
Many active volcanoes are available in central Costa Rica. The natural hot springs have turned out to be the best tourist attractions. You can find ample hot springs positioned in Central Costa Rica as there is a volcanic active zone. If you are planning to stay near La Fortuna Area or Arenal Volcano, there are many hot springs to draw your attention..
Rejuvenate in the thermal springs in Arenal, where you can enjoy spa facilities as well. One can enjoy a comforting spa especially when it’s raining. If you are looking for a hot spring outside central Costa Rica, then visit Vandara Hot Springs in Rincon de La Vieja National Park. The natural hot springs here are rich in nutrients, mud, and clay. They rub themselves for natural skin treatment.
Related Post: Costa Rican Restaurants
6. Enjoy Safari Float At Corobici River
Image Credit: Sumita Roy Dutta for Wikimedia Commons
Sorted among the top things to do in Costa Rica, is to go on a safari float at the Corobici River. On a raft boat, float down the Corobici or Tenorio River for two hours and spend some precious time with your loved ones. You can spot infinite birds, crocodiles, monkeys and iguanas in this river.
Weather In Costa Rica In December
Costa Rica is in its full glory during the month of Christmas. Rainy and summer are two prime seasons that Costa Rica is divided. If you visit Costa Rica in December, it is the peak tourist travel season. This eye-popping Costa Rica draws the maximum number of Costa Ricans and foreigners alike. One can experience great weather in the month of December. It is an ideal season that boasts plenty of sunshine, rainforests, and sun-kissed beaches.
You May Also Like To Read: Shopping In Costa Rica
Visiting Costa Rica in December is the right decision to make. Create a perfect plan for your vacation in Costa Rica by having a glance at the above-mentioned guide. For a hassle-free trip to international with TravelTriangle, just explore the beaches, rich culture, and architecture of places to experience a blissful vacation!
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Cover Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Costa Rica In December
What are the best places to visit in Costa Rica in December?
San José, La Fortuna, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio National Park are the most amazing destinations in Costa Rica that you must visit in December.
Is December a good time to visit Costa Rica?
From mid-December to April is the best time to visit Costa Rica. This is a tourist season that makes it apt for exploring rainforests and beaches.
What’s Costa Rica like in December?
During the month of December, the lowlands and beaches experience high temperatures. Also, this place is in full glory with Christmas celebrations all around.
Is Costa Rica busy in December?
December is both hectic yet an awesome time to visit this place. Since December is a holiday month for school kids, most people seem to be on vacation.
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A keen observer, an avid reader, a complete foodie, a pet lover and a curious entrepreneur with a vision to empower women. Penning down thoughts and musings come naturally, so, what better way to make a living than do what you love the most. Sujata started off as a content writer and today spearheads a content agency with an all-women team, where each day is about exploring the strength within, overcoming challenges and aiming to scale new heights. Her idea of a holiday well spent is visiting beautiful destinations, experimenting with food and trying out adventure activities.
