natural vibrations

Cristopher Columbus set foot on the country’s Caribbean shore and immediately named it Costa Rica (rich coast). Many years later, the ecological treasure he discovered remains protected for visitors to enjoy.

The northern section stretches for 90 miles (150 km) where warm ocean currents meet lush vegetation. The vast jungle is mostly unexplored, so much in fact, that Tortuguero National Park and Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge can only be reached by river or air.
The town of Limón is a charming retreat where indigenous, afro-Caribbean, Asian and

European heritage combines creating a cultural Mecca. Locals honor their ethnicity feasting, dancing and chanting on the streets during the Carnival held every October. The food is as diverse as the population so be sure to try the Caribbean classics coconut flavored rice and beans, patí or plantintá. The reggae beat welcomes you to this paradise where development and environmental protection go hand in hand.


On a boat or land, exploring Barra del Colorado is an exciting adventure.

BARRA DEL COLORADO WILDLIFE REFUGE
Swamps, mangroves and saltwater estuaries in Barra del Colorado provide a home to thousands of Jabiru storks, oropendolas, crocodiles, caimans, monkeys, iguanas, frogs, butterflies, toucans, sloths, river otters and terrapins among many other wild species. Endangered green macaws and tapirs also breed peacefully in this 225,365-acre (91,200 ha) ecological haven.

For visitors, getting there is half the fun. Although it’s located only 140 miles (225 km) from San José, the refuge can only be reached on a plane or boat. Fly into the village’s airstrip and enjoy a panoramic view of the exuberant vegetation. The endless sea of green is crisscrossed by a labyrinth of rivers and lagoons that eventually run into the blue ocean.


Red-breasted marvels hide in the trees at Tortuguero waiting for dinner to come to them.

Rustic pangas steered by locals lead you through the dense forest via swampy waterways and into the heart of the jungle. The refuge’s wild inhabitants carry on with their lives ignoring tourists and providing a unique opportunity to observe their behavior.

Barra del Colorado is also a prime sport fishing center where tarpon, snook and antediluvian garfish swim by the millions in the undisturbed water. Fishing tours can be arranged in the town and include equipment, transportation and expert guides.

Located in the wettest part of the country, rain is heavy and constant in Barra del Colorado so come prepared. Bring a raincoat, plenty of mosquito repellent and comfortable shoes for hiking.

The Caribbean coast offers a wide variety of hotels, cabins and lodges. Prices are low and service personalized in the cozy inns scattered throughout the region. Eco-lodges and tour operators can arrange transportation to and from San José, accommodations and meals.
For comments or information, please contact us at: E-mail: info@naturallycostarica.co.cr
Melba Lewis Thomas, Marketing and Sale • naturallycr@canatur.org • Tel. (506) 234-6222 • Cel. (506) 367-1798 • Fax (506) 253-8102