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If paradise had an address, it would surely be Costa Rica—a place where nature flourishes, adventure awaits around every corner, and the pace of life feels just right. Welcome to Costa Rica—here are 10 reasons you’ll never forget it.
Nestled in Central America, Costa Rica is known for its remarkable biodiversity, eco-friendly policies, and a relaxed way of life captured by the phrase "Pura Vida." Despite its small size, the nation is globally recognized for its commitment to sustainability, education, and peace.
Whether you're planning a trip or simply curious about Costa Rica, this article provides clear answers to your questions about the country's wildlife, culture, lifestyle, and more—plus intriguing details you'll love to share.
We'll cover everything from the national animal and traditions to cuisine, natural landmarks, and why travelers around the world fall in love with Costa Rica's unique charm.
Despite covering only 0.03% of the planet’s landmass, Costa Rica is home to approximately 6% of the world’s biodiversity. This astonishing concentration of life stems from the country’s unique geographical position—sitting between North and South America—and its varied climate zones.
From the towering peaks of the Talamanca Mountains to the sun-soaked beaches of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, Costa Rica provides habitats for an extraordinary range of plants and animals.
For nature enthusiasts, it’s a paradise: you might spot colorful quetzals and toucans, shy ocelots, or even the elusive jaguar. The country is also famous for its diverse amphibian population, including the iconic red-eyed tree frog.
Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation is unparalleled. More than 25% of its land area is designated as national parks, wildlife refuges, and protected areas—one of the highest percentages of any nation. This dedication to preservation has paid off, making Costa Rica a global leader in ecotourism and sustainable travel.
Visitors can trek through the mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, bask in the natural hot springs near Arenal Volcano, or explore the pristine beaches of Tortuguero National Park, where sea turtles nest every year. The country’s forward-thinking policies demonstrate that development and environmental protection can go hand in hand.
For decades, Costa Rica has been at the forefront of the renewable energy movement. Remarkably, the nation generates nearly all of its electricity—over 99%—from renewable sources, such as hydroelectric, wind, solar, and geothermal power. It’s not uncommon for the entire country to run on green energy for months at a time.
This achievement isn’t just a point of national pride; it’s also a blueprint for other countries seeking to transition away from fossil fuels. Costa Rica’s efforts showcase how a small nation can lead the charge toward a more sustainable future.
If there’s one phrase that sums up Costa Rica’s spirit, it’s “Pura Vida.” Translating literally to “pure life,” this saying is much more than a casual greeting—it’s a philosophy that permeates every aspect of daily life. Costa Ricans, or “Ticos,” use the term to express contentment, gratitude, and the importance of enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
You’ll hear Pura Vida in a variety of contexts: as a friendly hello, a farewell, or a way of saying everything’s okay. It reflects the nation’s laid-back, optimistic approach to living, and visitors often find themselves embracing the Pura Vida lifestyle long after returning home.
Source: Tico Times (Dec 1, 1948: Costa Rica’s abolition of the army)
In 1948, Costa Rica made a historic decision that set it apart from nearly every other nation on the planet: it abolished its military. The move came after a brief civil war, and since then, the funds that would have gone to defense spending have been redirected toward education, healthcare, and social programs.
The result? Costa Rica consistently ranks among the happiest and most peaceful countries in the world. The abolition of the army is a point of national pride and a testament to the nation’s commitment to solving conflicts through diplomacy rather than force.
Costa Rica’s investment in education is one of the reasons it’s known as the “Switzerland of Central America.” By allocating substantial portions of its budget to schools and universities, the country has achieved a literacy rate of over 97%.
Education is free and compulsory for all citizens, and the government’s commitment to learning ensures that future generations have the tools they need to succeed. For travelers, this emphasis on education is often reflected in the country’s well-informed tour guides and the friendly locals who love sharing their knowledge about Costa Rica’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
Source: Expedia
For a country of its size, Costa Rica is brimming with volcanic activity. Five of its volcanoes are considered active, including the majestic Arenal, which was one of the most active volcanoes in the world until it entered a resting phase in 2010. Poás Volcano, with its massive crater and bubbling acid lake, offers visitors an otherworldly experience.
The volcanic soil in Costa Rica also contributes to its lush vegetation and thriving agricultural sector, which produces some of the world’s finest coffee. Exploring these volcanoes—whether through guided tours or hiking trails—provides a glimpse into the raw power of nature.
Costa Rica is home to over 900 species of birds, making it a bucket-list destination for birdwatchers. From the brilliantly colored scarlet macaws that soar over the jungle canopy to the elusive resplendent quetzals hiding in the cloud forests, the diversity of avian life is nothing short of breathtaking.
The country’s protected areas and national parks offer countless opportunities to observe these feathered wonders. Guided birdwatching tours help even novice birders spot rare species and learn about their behaviors, adding another layer of excitement to the Costa Rican experience.
With two stunning coastlines—one on the Pacific Ocean and the other on the Caribbean Sea—Costa Rica offers an incredible variety of beaches, many of which are renowned for their surf. Spots like Tamarindo, Jaco, and Santa Teresa attract surfers from around the globe, while quieter beaches like Puerto Viejo provide a more laid-back vibe.
Whether you’re an experienced surfer chasing big waves or a beginner looking to take your first lesson, Costa Rica’s warm waters and consistent breaks make it a top-tier surf destination.
Costa Rica’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere have made it a global hotspot for wellness and relaxation. Visitors can find yoga retreats nestled in lush rainforests, luxury eco-resorts offering spa treatments with natural ingredients, and meditation centers overlooking pristine beaches.
The Pura Vida philosophy is reflected in the country’s approach to wellness: it’s about connecting with nature, nourishing the body with fresh, organic food, and finding balance in life. Costa Rica’s wellness retreats provide a space to unwind, recharge, and return home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
When traveling to Costa Rica, maintaining a reliable internet connection is essential for navigation, communication, and accessing information. eSIMs offer a convenient solution, allowing you to stay connected without the need for a physical SIM card.
Below is a comparison of best eSIMs for Costa Rica, outlining their advantages and disadvantages:
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
 | Holafly | Unlimited data, 24/7 customer support | Data sharing unavailable | From $6.90 |
 | Airalo | Affordable pricing, extensive global coverage | Limited unlimited data options | From $5 for 1GB |
 | Maya Mobile | Unlimited data plans, Wi-Fi hotspot capability | No app, data-only plans (no calls) | From $13.49 |
Costa Rica's official national animal is the white-tailed deer—but recently, they've also lovingly added sloths (both two-fingered and three-fingered) as national symbols, highlighting their pride in the country's amazing wildlife.
It's best to avoid driving at night because roads are often poorly lit, conditions can be challenging, and wildlife frequently crosses unexpectedly.
Every morning at 7 AM, Costa Rica's radio stations play the national anthem, which kicks off the day with a strong sense of national pride.
Costa Rica is generally considered an upper-middle-income country with a strong economy, particularly driven by tourism, agriculture (such as coffee and bananas), and technology. However, as in many places, wealth distribution varies, with more poverty found in rural areas.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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