Central America
Costa Rica is one of our favorite places to visit – partly due to its natural beauty and partly due to its people. Costa Rica embraces its motto, “Pura Vida,” in all ways, from simple greetings to the philosophy residents and visitors live by.
When planning a trip to Costa Rica, consider how long you have to spend in country and what type of experience you want. There are seven provinces in Costa Rica, each with its own unique personality, including:
- San José: home to Costa Rica’s capital city. A place to wander through city streets, explore museums and art galleries
- Limón: situated on the eastern, Caribbean, side of the country, Limón is home to such gems as the Pacuare River (excellent for white water rafting) and Tortuguero National Park (a nesting place for turtles)
- Alajuela: lush with rainforests, waterfalls and beautiful Lake Arenal at the base of Costa Rica’s youngest active volcano
So… Where do you want to go?
Click on the photos below to come along as we share details about some of our favorite Central America destinations, including places to stay, tips for getting around, and fun things to do to fill your days with Pura Vida.

Hello! Welcome to Wander for Days. We’re Deanna and Todd – wanderers of the world, heading wherever the next adventure takes us.
In this section, you’ll find some of the things we love most about Costa Rica and other Central America destinations.
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From Beaches to Rainforests: Feel the Spirit of Pura Vida in Costa Rica
Come wander the waterfalls, beaches and beachside towns of the Guanacaste region in northwestern Costa Rica.
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Pura Vida Unveiled: Discovering Costa Rica’s Joyful Way of Life in La Fortuna
Pura Vida! That’s what you’ll find in La Fortuna, a beautiful rain forest region in northern Costa Rica, located at the base of the Arenal volcano.
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Hidden Gems of San José: Must-See Spots Beyond the Tourist Trail
Whether you want to wander in a rainforest, go white water rafting, or immerse yourself in the culture of a vibrant city, do it Pura Vida style in Costa Rica.
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Sea Turtles & Serenity: Why Tortuguero Should Be on Your Bucket List
From wild river canals to long sandy beaches where turtles come to nest, see why Costa Rica’s protected Tortuguero National Park should be on your bucket list.
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Monkeys, Sloths and Adventure Activities in Manuel Antonio
The last stop on our Costa Rica coast-to-coast adventure was filled with wildlife and adventure in Manuel Antonio National Park.
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1 Day Experiencing Nicaragua | The Land of Lakes & Volcanoes
A one-day excursion from Costa Rica provides a look into this beautiful Central America country.
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