GMT -5 hours.

Arenal, in the north, the most spectacular volcano; Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, for excellent bird watching; Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast for wildlife and turtle watching. Costa Rica is a tiny country so road journeys, even winding ones through the highlands, are relatively short. Some roads are in good condition while others require 4WD vehicles.

By light aircraft from San José to Palmar Sur. By road along the Pan-American Highway to Puerto Jiménez. From Puerto Jiménez there is an air taxi service to Carate and San Pedrillo.

If good weather is your priority, choose the dry season Dec-Apr when there is plenty of sun. The green (i.e. rainy) season is quieter in terms of number of visitors. It’s hot and humid all year round.

Spanish.

Colón. Notes can be withdrawn from ATMs in San José using a UK credit or debit card. You may have to authorise your bank first, and withdrawals may be limited to amounts lower than in the UK. US dollars cash can be exchanged in banks too. Stock up with your local currency needs before travelling to the Osa Peninsula.