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There
is a certain atmosphere that permeates the mid Pacific
region. It wraps itself around you and frees you from
stress and troubles. The Costa Rican salutation of 'pura
vida', pure life, describes the area perfectly.
The Pacific
Coast ranges over 500 miles from its northernmost tip
to its border with neighboring Panama. This vast extension
holds countless beaches and picturesque towns and villages.
There are also several protected areas and national
parks to visit in the region so prepare yourself for
a full itinerary of sights to see.
The peak
season for the mid Pacific region is from December to
April. Puntarenas is the largest town on the coast and
served for years as one of the country's main ports.
Today Puerto Caldera is the primary location for both
cargo vessels and cruise lines. While containers are
being loaded with exportation goods, cruise line patrons
can take a few hours or days for shore leave.
The seafood
found in area restaurants is varied and as fresh as
it gets. Locals make their living from the big blue
and fish for tuna, wahoo, shrimp and lobster Seafood
is available at most restaurants and is offered in several
tasty dishes typical to Costa Rican fare.
Activities
abound and even the most discriminating traveler will
find an adventure to participate in. Surfing, kayaking,
rafting and hiking are just a few of the activities
visitors will find.
Coastal
Towns
Traveling
along the coastal road will take you through many seaside
towns. They have a lot more to offer other than beaches.
You can tour through mangroves and estuaries, horse
back ride to tucked away waterfalls and hike through
the world of the tropical forest.
Every
traveler can enjoy taking in a small town. Not only
can you visit the local church or town half, but you
can take in the market and pick up a few supplies. With
water and a few ripe mangoes, you'll be ready to hit
the streets. The market is always a good place to visit
when in search of typical items such as colorful woven
bags or hand-dipped candles. Have a blended fruit juice
with either water or milk at a local "soda". Bear in
mind that it's a good way to practice your Spanish.
You'll
pass over the Tarcoles River. The bridge is renowned
as a spot for watching crocodiles. From the safety of
the bridge's span, you'll be able to see several good-sized
ones warming up in the sun on the sandy beach along
the river. A number of cows also share the water source
and are quite comfortable slacking their thirst with
rather large reptiles in plain view. The spot is ideal
for both videos and cameras.
Jaco will
soon come into view. This small seaside town is casual
and laid-back. Activities at Jaco include horseback
riding, fishing and kayaking. An added natural benefit?
The waves. Surfers enjoy the town for its surfer friendly
atmosphere as well as the accessibility of several surf
spots just minutes away. Further down south, you'll
pass Esterillos Oeste, Esterillos Este and Parrita.
Carara
Biological Reserve
Made up
of 4,700 hectares, Carara has been under protection
since 1978, This reserve works much the same as others
in Costa Rica and was created specifically to protect
prime forest environment, In this case, Carara is made
up of dry forest and wet tropical forest. The park lies
straddling two life zones thereby possessing an enormous
diversity of wildlife. There are two main trails through
the park and both afford you a pleasurable hike. The
trails are easy and safe providing a great experience
for visitors traveling with children.
Manuel
Antonio & Quepos
Everyone
who travels through the mid Pacific zone, must visit
Manuel Antonio. Not only is it easily accessible, but
it is truly one of the most beautiful parks in Costa
Rica. It sits along the Pacific Coast and boasts an
estuary, mangroves, a lagoon, beaches and winding paths.
All this on 638 hectares of land and 55.000 hectares
of protected marine environment. Take a walk through
the tropical forest and find mosses, ferns, flowers
and epiphytes growing thickly on every tree. One trail
leads you to an observation tower with a breathtaking
360° view.
Throughout
the park, you will find the famous wildlife Costa Rica
is known for. By following logical eco-sensitive advice,
you can enjoy the park to the fullest. Ensure you don't
scare away the furry residents by keeping voices low
and stepping quietly. Although the capuchin monkeys
are quite comfortable in coming close and gazing at
you quite inquisitively, refrain from feeding them.
Take along
a small pack and make a day of it! There are fresh water
showers and bathroom facilities along the trail as well
as picnic areas. You can hike for a while and stop for
a refreshing swim at Third Beach or Gemelas Beach.
Even when
walking or driving along the road, keep your eyes open
because chances are you'll spot either capuchin monkeys
or sloths in the surrounding trees.
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