Fact 1: Costa Rica is Home to an Unprecedented Variety of Flora and Fauna
Despite being a relatively small country, Costa Rica harbors an astonishing 5% of the entire planet’s biodiversity. Boasting a rich array of over 500,000 species, its vast diversity stems from the geographical variety, from lush rainforests and mountain ranges to volcanic territories and coastal areas. Journey into Costa Rica's national parks, and you might see beautiful animals like jaguars, tapirs, monkeys, and incredible bird species.
Fact 2: Costa Rica is a Peace-loving Nation
Costa Rica abolished its military over 70 years ago, in 1948. The act was a historic milestone after a brief but bloody civil war. The money that would have been spent on the military is now allocated in education, healthcare, and conservation. They have embraced a peaceful outlook on global relations, which has earned them a nickname - 'the Switzerland of Central America.'
Fact 3: Costa Rican Life Expectancy is Among the Highest in the World
Costa Rica's people, affectionately known as Ticos, enjoy a high standard of health. The life expectancy at birth is around 79 years, one of the highest in the world. On Nicoya’s peninsula, residents often live well into their 100s, making it one of the world's "Blue Zones" where people live longer.
Fact 4: Eco-friendly and Carbon Neutral Goals
In a world where many countries find it challenging to meet their carbon-neutral targets, Costa Rica is leading the way. With its ambitious plans, the country aims to be the first carbon-neutral country by 2050. Almost 98% of its energy is currently generated from renewable sources, predominantly hydroelectric power.
Fact 5: Costa Rica's Literacy Rate is Exceptionally High
Thanks to significant investments in the educational sector, the literacy rate in Costa Rica is currently at an impressive 97.8%, one of the highest in Latin America. Since 1869, education has been both free and mandatory for all citizens, cementing the country's dedication to literacy.
Fact 6: More Than 800 Species of Birds in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is home to more than 800 bird species, more than the United States and Canada combined. Notably, you might see brightly colored quetzals, macaws, and hummingbirds. It’s a perfect destination for bird watching and nature photography.
Fact 7: Unique and Versatile Currency
The currency in Costa Rica is the colón (CRC), named after Christopher Columbus or Cristobal Colón in Spanish. What's fascinating is that banknotes feature local wildlife such as sloths and hummingbirds, reinforcing Costa Rica's commitment to nature and conservation.
Fact 8: Houses in Costa Rica Don't Have Street Addresses
Addresses in Costa Rica are typically described regarding the distance from a reference point, such as a landmark or a town square. Although this might sound confusing to foreigners, locals navigate without any problems.
Fact 9: 'Pura Vida' Life Philosophy
The term 'Pura Vida' is the unofficial motto of Costa Rica. This phrase, translating to 'pure life,' encapsulates the positive and laid-back attitude embodied by Costa Ricans. It can be used as a greeting, a way to express satisfaction, or just to say everything's great!
Fact 10: Costa Rica has Active Volcanoes
Boasting more than 60 dormant and six active volcanoes, Costa Rica is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire – an area dotted with the world's most active volcanoes. Arenal volcano, an iconic sight near La Fortuna, is one of the most well-known active volcanoes.
Fact 11: Costa Rica is a Pioneer in Ecotourism
Costa Rica is often credited with inventing 'Ecotourism' that focuses on responsible travel, encouraging visitors to preserve the stunning natural environment that is a significant part of the country's appeal.
Fact 12: Home of the Prehistoric Stone Spheres
Costa Rica is famous for its mysterious and ancient Diquis stone spheres. Discovered in the 1930s, these nearly perfect round balls, made from granodiorite, have sparked multiple theories from ancient people used them for navigation to they are relics from Atlantis.
Fact 13: It's A Coffee Lover's Paradise
Did you know? The Arabica coffee plant was introduced to the fertile soils of Costa Rica at the end of the 18th century, creating the backbone of the country's economy. Today, Costa Rican coffee is considered some of the finest in the world.
Fact 14: Two Independences to Celebrate
Costa Rica celebrates its independence twice. First, on September 15 commemorating Central American independence and again on October 29, to mark the Casa de la Ciudad old barracks' independence from Spanish rule.
Fact 15: Protected Lands
Costa Rica has set aside an amazing 26% of its land for national parks, reserves, and wildlife refuges. This is the highest percentage of territory dedicated to protected nature areas in the world.
Fact 16: Costa Rica Has No Official Religion
Although the majority of Costa Ricans identify as Roman Catholic, the country became a secular state in 1949 with the political constitution's amendment. Today Costa Rica ensures freedom of religion.
Fact 17: Rich in Marine Life
Costa Rica's waters are home to over 6,777 species of marine life. This includes various species of whales, dolphins, and colorful fish - making it a popular destination for scuba diving and marine life exploration.
Fact 18: Stunning Orchids
If you're an orchid lover, you'll appreciate this. Costa Rica is home to around 1,400 different species of orchids, with the national flower being the Guaria Morada, a stunning purple orchid.
Fact 19: Four UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Costa Rica is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites; La Amistad National Park, Cocos Island National Park, Area de Conservacion Guanacaste, and the Pre-Columbian Chiefdom Settlements with Stone Spheres of the Diquis.
Fact 20: Costa Rica has Two Distinct Seasons
Costa Rica doesn't experience four traditional seasons but instead has two distinct ones - a rainy season, known locally as 'green season' from May to November, and a dry season, known as 'summer' from December to April. Despite these divisions, temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year.