Top 6 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica & Why You Should Go There

What are the Most Interesting Facts About Costa Rica?

Looking for a dream destination that boasts stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush rainforests all in one spot? Look no further than Costa Rica! Tucked in Central America and bordered by the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, this small yet robust country offers abundant activities and attractions for travelers of all tastes. Costa Rica has something to suit every kind of traveler, from foodie lovers and coffee enthusiasts to thrill-seekers. Before you embark on your journey, here are some fascinating nuggets about this incredible place that will surely revive you for your adventure!

Natural Habitats and Wildlife

Some of the most distinctive and diverse wildlife in the world can be found in Costa Rica, but these are two of the most fascinating facts about Costa Rica’s wildlife and natural environment:

1. Endless Biodiversity

One interesting fact about Costa Rica is that it contains more than 34,000 different insect species and over 20,000 different types of spiders, making Costa Rica one of the most biodiverse nations in the world. The location and climate of the nation make it a haven for insects. Due to the biodiversity, some insects can look very strange; just look at the Rhinoceros Beetle and the Walking Stick Bug!

2. Infinite Wildlife

Although Costa Rica is a tiny country, it has over 500,000 flora and fauna, which is quite an impressive biodiverse statistic. Representing more than 5% of all species on Earth but covering only 0.03% of the Earth’s surface, there are around 220 reptilian species, 878 bird variants, 163 amphibians, and 208 types of mammals in Costa Rica. And more species haven’t even been discovered yet!

Book a consultation call now to learn about our Costa Rica expeditions!

3. Miles and Miles of Coastline

Another interesting fact about Costa Rica is its long coastline of over 800 miles, which makes it home to some of the most majestic beaches in the world. If you are a beach person, Costa Rica would be a paradise for you! The coastline offers various activities, including surfing, fishing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and relaxing in the sun.

4. Scorching  Sights

Costa Rica is situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region well-known for its volcanic activity. Many people don’t realize that Costa Rica has over 200 volcanic formations, including five active volcanoes. These include Arenal, Irazú, Poás, Rincón de la Vieja, and Turrialba, which are all unique in their way. Despite the potential danger associated with volcanoes, visitors to Costa Rica can find incredible experiences and activities because of them. For instance, the Arenal Volcano has natural hot springs heated by thermal activity from the volcano, while the Poás Volcano is home to one of the world’s largest active craters, which is over 1,000 feet wide and 300 feet deep.

For those who love adventure, hiking up to the crater of a volcano or zip lining over the volcanic terrain is a must. However, it’s essential to remember that volcanic activity can be unpredictable, so it’s vital to follow safety guidelines and check for any warnings or restrictions before visiting. Ultimately, Costa Rica’s volcanic formations provide an extraordinary insight into the country’s geology and natural wonders.

Rich and Cultural Diversity

Costa Rica is also known for its rich, diverse culture. With influences from indigenous populations, Spanish colonizers, and modern-day immigrants, Costa Rica’s culture is a unique blend of traditions, customs, and art. Here is one of the most interesting cultural facts about Costa Rica:

5. Filled With Hospitality & Happiness

Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos (male) and Ticas (female), are friendly and welcoming people with a heritage that mixes indigenous traditions and Spanish colonizers’ influences. Ticos and Ticas have a ‘pura vida’ attitude that values their laid-back and chill attitude toward life and their value of spending time with family and friends. This friendly, hospitable culture is reflected in the country’s food, music, and festivals, which center around community and celebration. Costa Ricans also place a high value on education and environmental sustainability, and they are proud to be one of the most stable and prosperous countries in Central America.

6. Coffee Heaven

A fact about Costa Rica is that they have an annual production of over a million bags of coffee, Costa Rica is a coffee lover’s delight. The rich volcanic soil and favorable climate make the nation the ideal location for growing premium coffee beans. A fun fact about Costa Rica is that making bad coffee is illegal! It’s the only country with a law that the coffee produced can’t be anything other than 100% Arabica coffee!

Experience all Costa Rica Has to Offer

Raleigh International offers a range of unique expeditions throughout the year in Costa Rica, showcasing the best the country offers. Our expeditions provide diverse volunteering opportunities, from community projects to environmental initiatives to adventure leadership treks, within our iconic three-phase experience. Whether you’re interested in discovering the country’s remarkable wildlife, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and cuisine, or making a meaningful impact on the communities you visit, Raleigh has an expedition activity to suit everyone.

Costa Rica is a small country with massive culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty. To get the whole experience of this incredible country, why not book a trip with Raleigh and experience all that Costa Rica has to offer yourself?

This blog was written by Kristian Nikolov.