According to recent study, Costa Ricans live longer, healthier lives than people on the rest of the planet. And it all comes down to every locals' mantra, which is "pura vida" or pure life. After a few days in this beautiful, rich country, you'll soon realize the true meaning of pura vida and will start living it too. So just sit back and enjoy life's ride in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Plan your trip by downloading the Costa Rica Travel Guide and Offline Map.
1. The Peaceful Soul of Central America
Costa Rica is also known as the "rich coast" and for good reason. It earned its name for its cutting edge surfing, farm-to-table, and sustainable tourism. As one of the world's most biodiverse countries it also protects one-quarter of its wild lands through law. Developing infrastructure is balanced by green energy like wind and hydro, and while there's no standing army, you almost always feel safe.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Costa Rica offers a plethora of outdoor activities that any adventurous soul can think of. From rain forest hikes and white-water rapid rides to world-class surfing and canopy zip-lining--Costa Rica has it all. National parks allow visitors to glimpse life in both rain forest and cloud forest, simmering volcanoes offer otherworldly vistas, and reliable surf breaks are suited to beginners and experts alike.
3. The Wild Life
With half a million species--from insects to the giant anteaters that devour them--one quarter of its lands is protected by law. So much wildlife abounds in Costa Rica that it almost seems like you've been transported to a different land where only animals exist. Blue morpho butterflies flit amid orchid-festooned trees, while colorful tropical fish, sharks, rays, dolphins and whales thrive offshore – all as if in a conservationist’s dream.
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