Providing in-depth descriptions of major cultural, architectural and historical sites, this guide takes the reader on a tour of Costa Rica and includes mapping of specially commissioned walks and drives, plus regional and city maps

All the travel experts agree--consumers want more and different experiences from travel than they did in the past. They want to deeply understand their destination before they go, feel a meaningful connection to the place while there, and return home feeling enriched and ready to share their experiences with others. With these trends in mind, and the results of extensive, proprietary market research, "National Geographic Traveler" has been enhanced with engaging new features and a contemporary redesign. Each guide begins with an introduction that enables the traveler to sample a bit of the culture, history, and attractions before they go and plan the trip based on their own interests and length of stay. Travelers can immerse themselves in active, in-country "Experiences" and "Off-the-Beaten-Path Excursions" they won't find anywhere else, like visiting a family in a South African township or learning to cook Maori cuisine with a renowned New Zealand chef. Other new features, such as "Insider Tips" from National Geographic photographers, writers, and experts, as well as "Not-To-Be-Missed" lists ensure that each person's visit will be one-of-a-kind and memorable. To make the most of these and all the other great new features, the guides' design has been simplified, opened up, and enhanced with easy-to-read tinted sections. Gorgeous color photographs, high-quality maps, and the popular walking and driving tours are still highlights of our crisp, new look. To complete the update, our new covers boast a striking, single image of the destination, along with the clear National Geographic branding that signifies quality, trust, and all the best in travel. With more than a century of travel expertise, new content, and a new look, "National Geographic Traveler" is the right guide at the right time--poised to meet the changing needs of today's traveler better than ever and better than anyone. Costa Rica is rich in flora, fauna, and adventure. Learn how to save macaws, speak Spanish, and immerse in the coffee culture.

Highlights the history, culture, and contemporary life of the country while offering mapped walking and driving tours and complete visitor information.

This dazzling, fully updated guidebook, written by a Central America travel expert, covers all the main cities, towns, and regions of Costa Rica, helping travelers negotiate one of the world's leading destinations for eco-travel.

The National Geographic Society brings 112 years of incomparable travel expertise to today's sophisticated globe-trotters. This practical and portable guide features detailed background and site descriptions plus fascinating vignettes on the history, culture, and contemporary life in Costa Rica. A complete directory of visitor information includes hotels, restaurants, entertainment, and shopping. 200 color photos and 20 maps.