Visiting Costa Rica, General Tourism Info

Costa Rica, is seen as an exceptional example of political stability and sometimes referred to as the "Switzerland of Latin America." Costa Rica has the most diverse environment relative to it size in the entire world while covering only 0.01% of the surface of the Earth and containing five percent of the planet’s plant and animal species.

With 850 species of bird, 209 mammal species, 13,000 plant species (including 1,500 trees and 1,400 orchids), 220 species of reptile and 163 species of amphibians.  Costa Rica also has the highest percentage of protected land in the world so seeing wildlife in it natural environment is only a question of will (Fenell and Eagles).  Costa Rica has preserved these lands and natural habitats in such a way that they are more accessible to tourists than those of any other country in the region (Budowski, 1993).

Costa Rica has developed an image at the international level as an ecological tourism destination. The international magazine ‘Recommend’, edited in London has named Costa Rica the best Tropical Eco-Destination in the World five consecutive years.  Costa Rica is also so small, that a large variety of activities can be carried out in a relatively short period of time. In a few hours tourists may go from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, and in a few days they can visit forests, beaches, national parks, and other diverse attractions.