Pura vida—it means “pure life,” letting go, enjoying simple pleasures. In Costa Rica, it’s not just a mantra, but a way of life that's blossomed in a rainforest-covered country so carefree, it barely uses addresses. Give in to it while zip-lining from treetops or conquering a volcano, between meeting monkeys on the beach and sloth-spotting in the jungle. Pick pura vida, leave all your worries behind.
Visit Costa Rica: get started
With its amazing biodiversity, Costa Rica offers countless wellness retreats and eco-tourism options. Opt for excursions or tours that set you up for surfing in Tamarindo or seeing wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park. Stay on the best beaches in Costa Rica, go to Guanacaste province or hike the Arenal Volcano. Find Costa Rica resorts or vacation rentals with us!
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Costa Rica travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Spanish
What to bring back
Coffee, Pura Vida paraphernalia and miniature versions of the iconic painted wooden ox carts, the country’s symbol.
What to eat
Gallo pinto (rice and beans) with eggs for breakfast, casado (rice, beans, vegetables and your meat of choice) for lunch and olla de carne (beef stew) for dinner.
Fun fact
Nature lovers flock to Costa Rica for a reason—25% of the country’s territory is protected, boasting 29 national parks, 19 wildlife refuges, and 8 biological reserves. There are also hundreds of volcanoes, including 5 that are still active, and about half a million different species. Keep your eyes peeled for red-eyed tree frogs, iguanas, various monkeys, sloths, macaws, pelicans, and whales swimming by the coast.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents, visa, taxes and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
