Travel to Costa Rica

There are many ways to travel to Costa Rica. Most people arrive by plane of course, but you could have a great adventure going overland. From the USA you would travel through Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.

You could also go by boat, either from California to the Pacific coast or from Florida to the western side of Costa Rica which borders the Caribbean Sea.

Where is Costa Rica?

This central American paradise lies between Panama and Nicaragua. It has coast on two sides and it is a relatively small country, less than 20,000 square miles (about the size of West Virginia).

It has become a very popular travel destination in recent years. This is due to many factors, including the large expanse of coastline, tropical climate and stable political situation.

The country has been able to avoid the political revolutions and civil wars that have plagued many other parts of central America.

Costa Rica is a democracy with strong environmental policies. The country’s aim is to become the first carbon neutral nation.

With many acres of beautiful forest to protect, and a large proportion of the national income coming from tourism, the government has been wise in its emphasis on the environment.

What to See in Costa Rica

The Corcovado national park is one of the best places to go to spot wildlife. It is internationally known for its biodiversity and you may see big cats and tapirs as well as many species of monkey and birds.

Tortuguero national park is named after turtles. Several kinds of turtle nest there including endangered species. You can also hope to see monkeys, sloths, and many birds and reptiles.

Costa Rica is most famous for its top quality coffee beans. Its other main exports are bananas and pineapples. However, in the last 10 years the electronics industry has been a major player in the national economy, with many companies establishing a base here.

Tourism is now the main industry. Costa Rica is one of the best known destinations in the world for ecotourism, with many acres of national parkland and protected areas attracting almost 2 million tourists a year.

This is a huge number when you consider that the resident population is only just over 4 million. Tourists are appreciated and made welcome, perhaps not surprising when you consider that they spend an average of $1000 each during their stay.

Around half of the visitors are from the USA and Canada.

Many people also stay for extended visits. American entrepreneurs are almost as likely to have a second home in Costa Rica as in Florida, and it is a popular haven for raw food eaters who thrive on the many varieties of delicious local fruit.

The national language is Spanish and Roman Catholicism is the official state religion. Around 75% of the population are practicing Catholics.

All in all, Costa Rica is one of the most welcoming travel destinations that you could plan to visit. Its popularity is well deserved and if you have the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica you should grab it with both hands.