Costa Rica

Once a forgotten nation, Costa Rica has leapt to the forefront in recent years as a premier eco-tourism destination. Nestled between Nicaragua and Panama, this small country has an abundance of natural wonders for you to feast your eyes on. A true leader in sustainable tourism development, Costa Ricans are firm in their vision to keep their country free from the overt westernisation dooming many developing nations around the globe.

A visit to Costa Rica undoubtedly means you will be making a stop in San Jose, the country's capital. A city bursting at the seams with more than half the population, a full range of accommodation, copious international restaurants and many museums, San Jose has plenty to keep the visitor occupied. However, if making the journey to Costa Rica it is highly unlikely that you came for the city experience. Fortunately, San Jose is well-situated so you can make it a base for your eco-adventures.

Rain forests and National Parks cover more than 27% of Costa Rica's territory, including two parks declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO. Consequently, the National Parks of Costa Rica are easily accessible from absolutely anywhere in the country. Amidst the lush, dripping confines of the spectacular rain forests exists an incredible bio-diversity of over one million species of flora and fauna. Indeed, small though Costa Rica may be, it is home to 5% of all the plants and animals found on the entire globe. Secreted carefully within the natural beauty are bases from which the eco-tourist can explore, such as the EcoLodge San Luis and the Biological Station. From here, take a guided rainforest tour, a hiking trip or even a horsepacking ride all led by experts with fascinating insider knowledge of the local wildlife. There are also bird watching expeditions to observe and admire some of the 850 species residing in Costa Rica. From monkeys and sloths to white nosed coati and crocodiles, Costa Rica's stunning countryside is crawling with all kinds of wonderful creatures.

Enclosed by the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea lapping untouched stretches of beach, Costa Rica has also become a top beach bum destination under the glare of the hot, tropical sun. The most popular resort, equipped with a full range of amenities, is Playa Tambor peering out at the expansive Pacific. However, there are many deserted beaches to be sought out if seclusion is what you had in mind.

Whether you are in full 'explorer' mode, seeking out the country's 12 distinctive ecological zones or in need of some sun therapy, Costa Rica can exceed your expectations. Costa Rica is a land with no army, no extremes - a land of tropical rainforests, outstanding beauty and unwavering dedication to conservation. Costa Rica was once described by National Geographic as the "land of the happy medium", and what was once Central America's little secret is now a top international destination. Get there before it too loses it's untouched appeal.

Write your own travel review >>