Costa Rica - Nicoya Peninsula
The Nicoya Peninsula is separated from the mainland of Costa Rica by the Gulf of Nicoya and the Tempisque estuary.
Peninsula de Nicoya, Pacific coast of Costa Rica
From its northern base in the arid Guanacaste lowlands the peninsula extends
140 km to the south where the landscape progressively becomes more moist and hilly.
Tourism and expat living is concentrated along the coast while the interior is still sparsely
populated. Cattle rising shapes much of the landscape with backdrops of the steep-sided and heavily forested inner mountain
range.
The countryside of the Nicoya Peninsula goes overlooked by most travelers but those who want
to stray from the beaten paths will find great options for eco-tourism.
Tortuga Islands near Montezuma
The most noted feature of the Peninsula de Nicoya are the beaches. Within the vast expanse of coastline are innumerable
magnificent beaches with dramatic coastal scenery, and small villages each with its own distinct charm.
Water sports such as surfing, fishing, snorkeling and diving define much of the character of the villages.
Most areas have been discovered by surfers as the pacific side of Costa Rica presents one of the best stretches
of surfing coastline in the world.
Anteater in a palm tree
Various eco-systems provide habitat for numerous plant species and animals. As with all of Costa Rica, the Nicoya Peninsula is blessed with some spectacular natural assets ranging from turtle beaches, to subterranean caves, birding hotspots, and maritime riches which are protected in several nature and wildlife reserves.
The Nicoya Peninsula experiences two extremely different seasons: the dry season begins at the end of November and
until May the sun drenches the land. Many trees lose their leaves and cars driving on the rutted dirt roads stir up
clouds of dust, covering the roadside foliage with a dull, brown layer.
The first rainfalls to relieve the dry season occur in May, initiating the "little summer" with intermittent rain showers.
Rainfalls increase during the following months to become very heavy in September to November, when the peninsula turns
into a dripping lush rainforest.
Temperatures during the rainy season, called winter here, may sometimes drop to 22ºC, while in dry season
temperatures can reach 36ºC.
Traditional ox cart, Costa Rica
The Nicoya Peninsula is divided into the provinces of Guanacaste which occupies the larger part
in the north, and the province of Puntarenas in the south.
Roads connecting the two provinces are still few and in poor condition. A coastal road is in discussion for years but by
now the only reliable north-south connection is along the Gulf of Nicoya.
Most roads on the Nicoya Peninsula are unpaved and potholes abound.
Patience is the key to traveling, so simply slow down and enjoy your vacation in beautiful Costa Rica.