LEARN MORE ABOUT COSTA RICA
Ready to dive deeper into all things Costa Rica? From local traditions and iconic foods to language, weather, and currency—discover what makes this destination so unforgettable. Learn more about Costa Rica below and get excited for the adventure that awaits!
WEATHER
Costa Rica’s weather is warm, sunny, and tropical — perfect for a getaway to paradise! Expect plenty of sunshine, low humidity, and average daytime temperatures in the low to mid-80s °F (27–30°C). Along the Pacific coast, rain is typically minimal, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beaches, pools, and outdoor adventures at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo. Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat, and get ready for warm days, refreshing ocean breezes, and breathtaking Pacific views. Whether you’re relaxing by the water or exploring the natural beauty of Costa Rica, it’s the perfect setting to embrace the pura vida lifestyle.
A BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, with an incredible variety of wildlife and ecosystems packed into a relatively small country. From tropical rainforests and cloud forests to volcanoes, mangroves, and pristine beaches, its landscapes support an extraordinary range of plant and animal life. Costa Rica is home to approximately 5% of the world’s known biodiversity, while 26% of its land is protected. From colorful toucans and scarlet macaws to monkeys, sloths, sea turtles, and countless species of frogs and butterflies, wildlife is everywhere. Whether you’re exploring the rainforest or simply relaxing at the resort, there’s a good chance you’ll encounter a little bit of Costa Rica’s wild side.
LOCAL CURRENCY
Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican Colón (₡) as its official currency, though U.S. dollars are also widely accepted throughout the country, especially at hotels, restaurants, and tourist destinations. Most places accept major credit and debit cards, including contactless payments, but it’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for local shops, markets, or smaller vendors. At Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, you can expect the convenience of card payments throughout your stay, making it easy to relax and enjoy your experience.
“PURA VIDA”
“Pura Vida” translates to “pure life,” but in Costa Rica, it means so much more. It’s a way of living that embraces life to the fullest while nurturing the mind, body, and soul. You’ll hear it throughout the country as a greeting, an expression of happiness, or simply a reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment. From the tranquility of the natural surroundings to outdoor adventure, wellness, and fresh local cuisine, Pura Vida captures the spirit of Costa Rica and the joyful, balanced way of life you’ll experience during your stay. So, take a breath, soak it all in, and embrace the Pura Vida.
LOCAL FOODS
Costa Rican cuisine is full of fresh, flavorful dishes that reflect the country’s rich culture and natural abundance. One of the most iconic staples is gallo pinto, a savory combination of rice and beans traditionally enjoyed for breakfast. You’ll also find casado, a classic plate featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat or seafood. Fresh tropical fruits, locally caught seafood, ceviche, and hearty dishes like olla de carne showcase the incredible variety of Costa Rica’s culinary traditions. And for something sweet, be sure to try traditional treats made with fresh fruit, coconut, or dulce de leche. From family-inspired recipes to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Costa Rica’s food is a delicious reflection of the country’s warm hospitality and pura vida spirit.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGES
Costa Rica’s official language is Spanish, and you’ll hear it spoken throughout the country. English is also widely spoken in tourist areas, so visitors will have plenty of opportunities to connect and communicate along the way. Costa Rica is also home to a rich variety of Indigenous languages, including Bribri, Cabécar, and Boruca, which remain an important part of the country’s cultural heritage. From chatting with locals to picking up a little “Tico Talk,” embracing the language is another fun way to experience the warmth and culture of Costa Rica. And of course, there’s one phrase you’ll want to know: “¡Pura vida!”