This
winter, a new tropical destination awaits Philadelphia International Airport passengers when American Airlines introduces its weekly non-stop service to Guanacaste, Costa Rica, beginning December 7. Philadelphia travelers will be able to fly direct to Liberia Guanacaste Airport (LIR) and explore the Pacific beaches and natural beauty of the region.
Guanacaste Province accounts for an impressive 6.5 percent of the world’s biodiversity and 3.5 percent of global marine life. Protected by the National System of Conservation Areas, Costa Rica's dedication to preserving its natural beauty is clear, with 25 percent of its territory designated as national reserves and parks, says Visit Costa Rica.
Nature enthusiasts can watch sea turtles nesting, scarlet macaws and toucans circling the sky, and frogs, insects, and hummingbirds foraging near iconic Guanacaste trees. Some notable reserves in Guanacaste include Palo Verde National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Tenorio Volcano National Park, and Barra Honda National Park.
Home to over 400 miles of Pacific Coast, Guanacaste features more than 70 stunning beaches ideal for relaxation and adventure. Notable beaches include Samara Bay, Tamarindo, Gulf of Papagayo, Junquillal Beach, and those along the Nicoya Peninsula. Many of these beaches feature lush vegetation, creating a perfect setting for those seeking adventure or idealistic photography. Visitors can also participate in activities such as surfing, diving, snorkeling, soccer, kayaking, and volleyball. Guanacaste is also renowned for its specialty dishes, including pujagua corn atol, papaya picadillo, seafood, fish, and an abundance of fresh fruits. Visitors can savor these while enjoying Costa Rican and Guanacaste coffees, recognized as one of the top coffee producers in the world.
Want to take a quick day-trip? The town of La Fortuna is just three hours away. The town boasts breathtaking attractions within its 504,094-acre wide Arenal Conservation Area, home to the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Hanging Bridges, Lake, and Hot Springs. Embark on exploration through the Arenal Volcano, with flowing lava since 1992. Visit the 400-year- old Ceiba tree while on a hike through the lush rainforest. Spot wildlife and admire the stunning waterfalls of La Fortuna’s Waterfall, and more.
For a closer trip to an equally stunning area, Monteverde, which translates to “green mountain” in Spanish, lives up to its name. Monteverde’s cloud forests feature some of the rarest habitats in the world, where mist and clouds hang low throughout the greenery. Seeking a thrill? From treetop dining, horseback riding, butterfly gardens and a 2.5 hour ziplining experience, Monteverde covers all of the bases.
American Airlines’ nonstop weekly service from PHL to LIR begins December 7. For more itinerary inspiration and flight information, visit Where We Fly on PHL.org.
