Experience Costa Rica

• Explore this eco-enthusiasts paradise, home to rainforests, volcanoes and waterfalls
• Come face-to-face with incredible animals like white-faced monkeys and iguanas
• Embark on an ATV safari or a thrilling zipline through the forest canopy
• Spa lovers can find natural "hot spots" with volcanic mud baths and saunas

Costa Rica is bursting with natural charm and beauty. Although it makes up just 0.03% of the world's surface area, it accounts for over 6% of its biodiversity. Visiting Costa Rica means not having to choose between a relaxing beach vacation and an adventurous, action-packed holiday - you get the best of both all in one! The beaches are warm, inviting and blessed with plenty of sunshine, while the country’s interior rolls out an endless array of natural wonders to be conquered from thundering waterfalls and rainforests alive with spider monkeys and tree frogs to brooding volcanoes and dramatic geysers. Gallo Pinto, which has a literal meaning of “spotted rooster,” is the national dish of Costa Rica. Consisting of rice and beans stir-fried together, it is usually served for breakfast and washed down with a deliciously strong cup of hot, steaming Costa Rican coffee.

National language: Spanish

Language notes: Hola! While the local language is Spanish, English is widely spoken in resorts and tourist destinations.

Currency: CRC (Costa Rica Colón)

Voltage: 110V

Travel tips: Canadian devices use 120 V and will work with 110 V. Many resorts have 120 V plugs. For older devices, items using motors or heating (heated beauty tools, electric toothbrushes) and three-prong plugs we recommend bringing an adaptor with voltage conversion.

What to pack: Don’t know what to bring? Don’t worry. Click Here for our full packing list.

What to buy: From colourful handcrafted souvenirs to delicious coffee and chocolate, there are numerous commemorative items you can choose to bring home. Costa Rica’s mantra is "pura vida," meaning "pure life," and you’ll likely find many souvenirs from shirts to hoodies and keychains with the slogan. Or you can change up your style with colourful necklaces, earrings and bracelets made of bamboo and seeds.

Getting around: Your local Sunwing Experiences representative will handle your airport transfers, providing you with round-trip transportation from the airport to your resort and back. They are also on hand to recommend the best experiences to ensure you make the most of your time away. Be sure to attend you welcome briefing to learn about the handpicked selection of Sunwing Experiences offered for your destination.