While the Caribbean has its own charm, Limon Province, the capital of Costa Rica, adds even more feathers to its hat, making it an ideal tropical getaway for urban explorers. By Shubhanjana Das
The city has a population of just 85,000 (including the neighbouring districts) and even with its dilapidated buildings, swelling parks, and crowded streets, this place doesn’t abide by the conventional prettiness that other Caribbean provinces boast of. If you want to explore Limon, brace yourself for surprises both pleasant and unpleasant. But then, that is the charm of urban adventures, isn’t it? Pristine white sand beaches on the Caribbean coast, lined with swaying coconut trees, Limon is one of the country’s most geographically diverse regions. Despite that its biodiversity ranges from mangrove wetlands to mountains, Limon remains one of the least visited regions in the Caribbean.
1. Puerto Limon
The cultural hub and the busy port of Puerto Limon is the heart of the region. The rich Afro-Caribbean ancestry strolls through its crowded streets. To witness Puerto Limon in its true spirit you must visit the museums, stunning architecture, and Parque Vargas, the tropical park where, if you are lucky, you might even spot sloths climbing branches.
2. Tortuguero National Park
Limon’s water channels traverse through the Tortuguero National Park, which serves the wildlife-loving water baby well. Hop on a boat or even go kayaking or canoeing to catch a glimpse of mammals, aviary species, reptiles and of course turtles. From the leatherback, Hawksbill to the Green sea turtles that cohabit with the West Indian manatee, monkeys, river otters, and more than 50 species of freshwater fish.
3. Talamanca Mountains
If you want to witness the virgin forests of Limon, the Talamanca mountains on the southern end of Limon are as green as it gets. Tropical lowland forest and cloud forest inhabited by wildlife supported by its land coverage and biodiversity, Talamanca is Limon’s own minuscule Amazon. The indigenous villages here are also worth a tour.
4. Uvita Island
Uvita is a 0.8 sq. km humbling little island situated offshore of the port of Limon. Despite being just 420m long from North to South, the island has been known amongst visitors for being one of the best spots to snorkel, dive and go close to the rich coral reefs surrounding the islands.
Getting There
Costa Rica has two international airports, San Jose and Liberia. The former is just a 40-min flight away from Limon connected by two flights in a day. If you want to drive, the 159 km distance can be covered in two hours and 40 minutes.
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