Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Welcome to Costa Rica
All trails seem to lead to waterfalls, misty crater lakes or
deserted, jungle-fringed beaches. Explored by horseback, foot
or kayak, Costa Rica is a tropical choose-your-own-adventure
land.
The Peaceful Soul of Central America
As the eco- and adventure-tourism capital of Central America, Costa Rica has a worthy
place in the cubicle daydreams of travelers around the world. With world-class infrastruc-
ture, visionary sustainability initiatives and no standing army, the country is a green, peace-
ful jewel of the region. Taking into account that more than a third of the land enjoys some
form of environmental protection and there's greater biodiversity here than in the USA and
Europe combined, it's a place that earns the superlatives.
Outdoor Adventures
Rainforest hikes and brisk high-altitude trails, rushing white-water rapids and world-class
surfing: Costa Rica offers a dizzying suite of outdoor adventures. They come in every shape
and size - from the squeal-inducing rush of a canopy zip line to a sun-dazed afternoon at
the beach. National parks allow visitors to glimpse the seething life of the tropical rain-
forest; simmering volcanoes and cloud forests offer otherworldly vistas; and reliable surf
breaks are suited to beginners and experts alike. Can't decide? Don't worry, you won't have
to. Given the country's diminutive size, it's possible to plan a relatively short trip that in-
cludes all of the above.
The Wild Life
Such wildlife abounds in Costa Rica as to seem almost cartoonish: keel-billed toucans ogle
you from treetops and scarlet macaws raucously announce their flight paths. A keen eye
will discern a sloth on a branch or the eyes and snout of a caiman breaking the surface of a
mangrove swamp, while alert ears will catch rustling leaves signaling a troop of white-faced
