Introducing Costa Rica
Costa Rica is sometimes referred to as the Switzerland of Central America because of its comfortable lifestyle, peaceful democracy and overwhelming natural beauty. The country’s Disneylike cast of creatures – ranging from howler monkeys to toucans – are populous and relatively easy to spot. The waves are prime, the beauty is staggering and the sluggish pace seductive. A peaceful oasis in a tumultuous region, this tiny nation draws 1.5 million visitors every year.
To put things in perspective, consider the fact that prior to 1950, half of the country struggled with grinding poverty, and living beyond the age of 50 was an achievement in itself. Today, less than one in five Ticos (Costa Ricans) lives below the poverty line, and life expectancy is on a par with the USA. Given the rise in quality of life throughout the country, Ticos are generally self-content and passive about politics. But underneath the easygoing veneer is discernible pride and support for their unarmed democracy.
What’s on tap? The question is what isn’t? Active travellers can surf, hike, snorkel and spot wildlife for starters. The incredibly varied topography means you can cruise the cloud forest one day, visit an active volcano the next, and finish relaxing on a hot sandy beach. Adrenaline junkies have a myriad ways to make mothers worry – among them zipping through canopy lines hundreds of meters long and riding the rough surf of the Pacific. Choice and variety name the game.
Of course, the frenzy to snatch up a piece of Shangri-la has its consequences. Since the boom, tourism is more chic and less cheap. Classic destinations are now crowded destinations and local culture is often lost or cast aside. Lucky for Costa Rica that its do-gooder fans, ranging from ecologists to proud Ticos (Costa Ricans), are vocal and vigilant. Nature here (like everywhere) suffers its blows, but at least it is taken seriously.
Ready to go?
These tours & activities make it easy:
Sights in Costa Rica
Activities in Costa Rica
Northwestern Costa Rica
Awash in hot springs and waterfalls – with an unrivaled collection of national parks and wilderness areas, cloud forests of quetzals, and endless savannah exploding into raucous color come rainfall – there is no end to this region’s gifts.
Tours in Costa Rica
Península de Nicoya
The Nicoya Peninsula, a hook-shaped, beach-fringed and sun-drenched strip of land, has always figured prominently in the history of Costa Rica.
Costa Rica destination guides
San José
pop Greater Metro Area: over 1.
Hotels in Costa Rica
Budget Hotels & Hostels in Costa Rica
Guesthouses and B&Bs in Costa Rica
Apartments in Costa Rica
Interamericana Norte
Despite Tico speed demons and lumbering big rigs, the Interamericana, which bisects the travel hub of Liberia, offers a wide-angle view of the region.
Entertainment in Costa Rica
Caribbean Coast
The cloud-covered mountains of the Cordillera de Talamanca and the volcanic peaks of the Cordillera Central effectively split Costa Rica down its spine, creating a very real division between the ‘Caribbean side’ and the rest of Costa Rica.
Shopping in Costa Rica