Denver Man Surprised by Ease of Travel, Wildlife in Costa Rica

Alec Sills-Trausch shares five unexpected discoveries from his first trip to the Central American country.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

After a 16-day trip to Costa Rica, Denver resident Alec Sills-Trausch was pleasantly surprised by several aspects of the country, including the ease of travel from the U.S., the abundance of wildlife, the prevalence of the U.S. dollar, the inefficient driving conditions, and the charm of the lesser-known town of Uvita.

Why it matters

Sills-Trausch's observations provide valuable insights for Americans planning their first trip to Costa Rica, helping them set realistic expectations and identify potential highlights beyond the typical tourist hotspots.

The details

Sills-Trausch was shocked by how easy it was to travel to Costa Rica from the U.S., with a quick 5-hour flight from Denver. He was also amazed by the wildlife he encountered everywhere, from iguanas to toucans to sloths. While the U.S. dollar is widely accepted, prices are often similar to what one would pay at home. Driving proved to be inefficient due to the country's lack of highways and turn lanes. However, Sills-Trausch found the lesser-known town of Uvita to be a gem, with beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and a more authentic feel than the busier tourist areas.

  • Sills-Trausch visited Costa Rica for 16 days in early 2026.
  • The best times for whale watching in Costa Rica are December through March and July to October.

The players

Alec Sills-Trausch

A Denver resident and wildlife photographer who recently visited Costa Rica for the first time.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“After spending 16 days exploring Costa Rica, it has quickly risen to the top of my travel pyramid. From the kindness of the people to the natural landscapes of waterfalls, volcanoes, and beaches to the lively wildlife, I felt transported to another world.”

— Alec Sills-Trausch (Yahoo)

What’s next

Sills-Trausch plans to return to Costa Rica, particularly to the town of Uvita, to further explore the country's natural wonders and authentic local experiences.

The takeaway

Sills-Trausch's firsthand account highlights Costa Rica's accessibility, abundant wildlife, and unique regional differences, providing valuable insights for American travelers considering a trip to this Central American destination.