It’s a place where rainforest hikes, rushing white water-rapids, world-class surfing, and beachside relaxation all come together to embrace the country’s motto of “pura vida” or the pure life. Welcome to Costa Rica, the small Central American country that certainly makes up for its lack of size with plenty of adventures, beautiful beaches, and warm, friendly people who are ready to welcome travelers from all walks of life to their little slice of paradise.
Located in Central American and bordered by the Pacific Ocean as well as the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is a fairly small country with a total area of around 51,100 square kilometers (19,730 square miles). It shares its northern border with Nicaragua and its southern border with Panama. While it may be lacking in size, the country more than makes up for it with its impressive biodiversity, including lush rain forests and over 500,000 plant and animal species! In fact, Costa Rica is known to be one of the most biologically dense places in the world.
Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts flock to this Central American country every year, and with the wide array of various terrains, there’s definitely something for every type of traveler looking to explore the various beautiful landscapes. Here you’ll find three mountain ranges running through the country, as well as over one hundred volcanic cones, some of which are major active volcanoes. Because the geography in Costa Rica can vary from coastal plains, to rugged mountains, to thick rain forests, there’s plenty to keep even those adrenaline seeking travelers content.
If you’re a fan of outdoor activities that bring a sense of fun and adventure to your vacation, then Costa Rica also has plenty to offer. Try zip-lining through the rain forest canopy, hiking one of the many brisk, high-altitude trails, or stroll along one of the national parks and take in all of the amazing wildlife. Since the country is considered to be the adventure –tourism and eco-tourism capital of Central America, chances are that eager travelers are going to find plenty of things to see and do while spending time in the country. Travelers who are fans of wildlife will marvel at the sheer number of eccentric species found in Costa Rica as well. Keep a look out for the keel-billed toucans as they perch from the treetops as well as the beautiful scarlet macaws. Perhaps you’ll be able to spot the shy sloth hiding on a branch or hear the loud, shrill calls of the howler monkey. And don’t forget about the marine life when you venture to the shores of the country. Here you’ll find a wide range of tropical fish, dolphins, sharks, whales and stingrays, making for a perfect day of snorkeling or scuba diving.
Adventure, culture, and a huge, diverse realm of wildlife and jungles await the Costa Rican traveler…not to mention some spectacular beaches. In this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive look at the country, it’s popular tourist destinations, it’s culture, and even a few places to travel “off the beaten path” for those looking for a thrilling trip to remember. So now it’s time lace up your hiking boots, put on your sunscreen, grab your adventure gear, and dive into all of the wonders and excitement Costa Rica has to offer!
