WEEKEND GETAWAYS

Costa Rica is a beautiful country and we encourage you to take advantage of your free time to get to know the countryside. Below a few favorite destinations:

CROCODILE SAFARI, Río Tácoles

Costa Rica is home to both crocs and caiman. Head out to the Rio Tacoles and you can get an up close look at some rather large crocs. Just don't get too close, they are hungry!

CARARA BIOLOGICAL RESERVE

The Carara Biological Reserve is considered one of the nicer reserves in Costa Rica. The reserve actually is made up of a dry forest and a rainforest. These two distinctive habitants are home to many interest plant and animal species. Additionally the rivers and marshes prevalent in the reserve offer the visitor the chance to see an array of reptiles and amphibians. Some of the more commonly spotted animals include, pacas, wild cats, armadillos, waterfowl and pink crane. Furthermore this is one area in Costa Rica where you just might catch a glimpse of some scarlet macaws!

HORSEBACK RIDING, Escaleras

The area around Jaco is perfect for horseback riding through the rainforests on or the beaches. A variety of operators can set up on on a trail ride. SOme rides are just a few hours, or if you are up for it, some can last a few days. Check with the school for their recommendations.

MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK

Manuel Antonio is probably one of Costa Rica's most famous park/beach areas. The reserve is full of trails which are great for hiking. Throughout the reserve are abundant plant and animal species. If you get hot on your hike why not take a swim on one of the many secluded beaches in the park. Next to the park itself is the beach are of Manuel Antonio. Very popular and a lot of fun.

RAINMAKER PROJECT

The Rainmaker Conservation Project is a privately owned Rainforest Reserve that spans over 1530 acres of 90% virgin rainforest. It is a biodiversity bank for 70% of all the flora and fauna species found in Costa Rica.

This project is dedicated to the conservation and protection of the Fila Chonta mountain range on Costa Rica's pacific side. Rainmaker's unique location places it within the strategic Quepoa Biological corridor. It is their firm commitment to ensure that this area may be enjoyed by future generations to come. We recommend you stop by visit and support this worthy project.

Much of the information on our site as it relates to Costa Rica is:

Courtesy of Christopher P. Baker and Avalon Travel Publishing.
© 2004 Christopher P. Baker. All Rights Reserved.

Spanish Abroad, Inc. highly recommends Christopher P. Baker's book: Moon Handbooks Costa Rica. Click on the image to visit his website where you can purchase this book or find out more about the author.