Costa Rica, a central American country, is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the world. The democratic republic, located between Panama and Nicaragua is more than 50,000 km² (5 ha) large and is subdivided into seven provinces: the region around the capital city, San José as well as the provinces Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste, Puntarenas and Limón. There are around 5.5 million inhabitants living in Costa Rica.
Climate and Nature
Costa Rica is one of the countries that have the largest protected area in the world. Around one fourth of the country are protected natural areas, turning the country into a genuine paradise with various ecological systems and countless animal and plant species. In total, there are five different climate zones in the country: dry and rain forests, a moderate climatic zone, a tropical cooling zone and wasteland. Embedded between two oceans, the country presents a very complex geography. While both the Caribbean and Pacific coast have paradise-like landscapes, a 500 km (311 mi) long mountain chain stretches from border to border. The landscapes are varied and offer anything from impressive volcanoes to smooth hill landscapes, which rivers and streams spring up from. Cerro Chirripó, the highest elevation of the country, is 3,820 m (12,532 ft) high. Throughout the year, the average temperature fluctuates between 14° and 22° C (57° and 72° F). While the “summer” (dry season) lasts from December to April, the “winter” (rain season) lasts from May to November.
You have many travel options...
Even though Costa Rica is a relatively small piece of land, there are many options to travel the country and embark on adventures. One of the main attractions of the country are, of course, the huge variety on beautiful, white beaches, which you can have a marvellous view onto a crystal clear ocean from. It is this beauty of nature that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Costa Rica is a country where relaxation is guaranteed! The country's biological variety of species makes it one of the most important destinations for trips into the wild worldwide. Sustainable ecological tourism is written in capital letters in Costa Rica. Countless natural treasures just wait to be explored by you! In addition, all tourists have the opportunity to get to know the genuine rural way of life and, at the same time, participate in activities, traditions and lifestyle of the indigenous population. Costa Rica's extraordinary nature offers many wellness treatments, too. Aided by aroma therapies and approved natural remedy, guests may indulge their body and soul. Those seeking more action, are just at the right place in Costa Rica as well. Apart from hiking, trekking, mountain biking, riding or surfing, the country is, above all, famous for white-water rafting.