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Capital City: While Costa Rica comprises a mere 0.03% of the world’s land territory, it contains more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity—with some 500,000 species of flora and fauna can be found here. Last year, more than one million visitors enjoyed 850 species of birds (more than those combined in the US and Canada!), 228 species of mammal, 160 species of amphibians, 6500 species of fish and an astounding 360,000 types of insects. There are more types of butterflies in Costa Rica than found on the entire continent of Africa. Almost a quarter of Costa Rica’s land is protected in a world-renowned system of national parks, biological reserves, wildlife refuges and other protected areas. Just 51,100 square kilometers (19,929 square miles), 10 degrees north of the equator, and situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, visitors can cross Costa Rica from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic in about four hours. Every year, more than one million tourists enjoy the country's beautiful beaches, ride a zip line in the cloud forest canopy, thrill to the drama of active volcanoes and wander through rural villages. Above all, have the unique opportunity to experience the glories of the natural world in the national parks and biological reserves that make Costa Rica the world’s premier eco-tourism destination. You will experience 18 distinct ecosystems here, including cloud forests, Caribbean humid forest and dry tropical forests. Costa Rica is a tropical country with two seasons, dry and rainy. The dry season lasts from December through April, and the rainy season from May through November. In certain parts of the country, including the north, it rains throughout the year. The dry season is the most popular time for visitors, but it is also the busiest time of year, so prices tend to be higher and the hotels may be full. In the rainy season, especially from May to August, and also in November, you can enjoy the beach or hike on nature trails and then in the afternoon, from the comfort of your balcony, watch the rain fall on the green mountains while you enjoy your favorite book. The temperature varies little during the two seasons, but varies principally with altitude. The coasts are hot and humid. The Caribbean averages 69 degrees Fahrenheit at night and 86 or more during the day. The Pacific is a few degrees warmer. In 1949, Costa Rica’s military was abolished. The resulting generations of peace have included Costa role as mediator in Rica's recurring Central American conflicts. International recognition of this came in 1987 when President Oscar Arias was presented with the Nobel Peace Prize. Today, Costa Rica enjoys a strong economic climate, highly regarded social services, excellent free medical care, an excellent educational system that boasts a 98% literacy rate, and a strong family oriented atmosphere, making Costa Rica the ideal place to explore for visitors of all ages. ¡Pura Vida! is the unofficial motto of Costa Rica, and expresses the zest for life and welcoming spirit of its people. We look forward to showing you Costa Rica.
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