Costa Rica could have been just a blip on the map; occupying just 0.03 percent of the world’s surface, this tiny Central American country makes up in sheer natural splendor what it lacks in size. The country has incredible biodiversity, 762 miles of gorgeous coastlines, magnificent scenery, and a citizenry who prizes and protects its environment. Costa Rica’s advantageous position between the warm Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean and abundant blessings of flora and fauna are bolstered by social and political stability and an intense desire to preserve and maintain the land.
There’s no reason why you can’t have the time of your life while preserving and maintaining! Costa Rica has beaches the rest of the world envies; with nearly year-round warm water and sunshine, the beaches are as pristine as they are welcoming. The country’s Ecological Blue Flag award further ensures guests that the beaches are safe, clean, and the perfect spot for your vacation. Enjoy dazzling water, exploring coral reefs, surfing, and fishing. Hike through mangrove forests, go for a horseback ride, and enjoy both the placid Pacific and beautiful Caribbean in the same day.
Costa Rica boasts 20 natural parks, 8 biological reserves, 13 active volcanoes, and numerous protected areas; remember, all this is within about 51,000 square kilometers! You don’t have to be a passive observer to this beautiful country’s grandeur; you can experience it, live it. See rock and lava erupt from the Arenal Volcano; walk through the dry forests, rainforests, and cloud forest; look for manatee, crocodiles, monkeys, and other exotic beasts; bungee jump off a bridge and hurtle down towards the Colorado River; kayak through waters that are as challenging as they are beautiful. Adventure is so much more rewarding when you can do it with such a stunning backdrop.
While the beauty of Costa Rica was developed over thousands of years, it is the culture of the people that helps keep the beauty as pristine and untouched as possible. The country is incredibly diverse, with a great blend of European and indigenous influences that are reflected in everything from the architecture to the food. Their national pride shines through in their commitment to biodiversity, eco-travel, and making sure that the land they are so proud of is not left dirtied under their watch.
Visiting Costa Rica is an experience of a lifetime; one of the most beautiful, and progressive, countries in the world, its natural beauty is only rivaled by the great people you will find there.
Enid Glasgow is a travel writer who recently visited Costa Rica.
