There’s a good chance you’ve considered traveling to Costa Rica. From volcanoes and lush rainforests to luxe coastal retreats, everyone seems to be singing the praises of this gorgeous country’s pura vida appeal. (After all, it’s one of the foremost destinations in the world for ecotourism and sustainability.)

Rio Celeste Waterfall, Tenorio Volcano National Park, Costa Rica

Even for the most experienced traveler, Costa Rica is full of delightful surprises, unexpected luxury, and breathtaking beauty at every turn. The sheer diversity of experiences to be had in Costa Rica is staggering. And because so many of them center on spending time outdoors and enjoying nature, it’s a great post-pandemic destination to consider when you’re ready to travel again. Whether you’re a honeymooner, an active single, or a parent with kids, there’s definitely something for you here.

Here, we share seven reasons why Costa Rica is just as irresistible as they say—and why it could easily land on your list of places you’d like to travel next.

1. Staggering Biodiversity

Costa Rica is a relatively small country. It covers 19,730 square miles (about the size of the state of West Virginia). But what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in its incredible biodiversity. Costa Rica accounts for .03% of the earth’s surface, but it contains nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity. The sheer density of its biodiversity means that new species are still being discovered all the time (like this frog that bears a striking resemblance to a certain Muppet named Kermit).

Chestnut-mandibled Toucan, Costa Rica.jpg — Chestnut-mandibled Toucan, Costa Rica

No matter where you travel in Costa Rica, you’re almost guaranteed to feel spoiled by the variety of fascinating animal life surrounding you, including sloths, monkeys, turtles, frogs, butterflies, lizards, and more. And if you’re particularly fond of birds, this might just be paradise. Costa Rica is situated in the bird-rich neotropical region, and it’s home to the celebrated resplendent quetzal, no less than six species of toucan, and plenty of other rare and dazzling birds. While we can’t guarantee you’ll see specific species, you’re sure to go home with a memory bank (and memory card) chock full of beautiful sightings.

And if you’re looking to travel someplace a bit off the beaten path, there’s a beautiful area called the Costa Ballena (“Whale Coast”), and the town of Uvita is a particularly wonderful locale. It’s less developed, not as well known, and less touristed. And as the name suggests, it’s a marvelous place to spot migratory whales like Humpback and Pacific (depending on the season). So if an out-of-the-way destination—that still delivers every ounce of luxury you could want—is on your wishlist, Costa Ballena may be just the ticket.

2. A Wide Variety of Landscapes

For such a small country, Costa Rica boasts a remarkable variety of landscapes. In fact, it’s home to 12 distinct ecosystems:

La Fortuna Waterfall - Arenal, Costa Rica

Caribbean coastline
Pacific coastline
Coral reef (Pacific and Caribbean coasts)
Shallow seas
Highland mountain rainforest
Lowland tropical rainforest
Tropical dry forest
Cloud forest
Semi-deciduous mid-elevation forest
Páramo (a tough combination of grass and scrubland)
Mangrove forest
Wetlands

Whether you want to experience waterfalls, mangrove-laden rivers, volcanoes, jungles, the beach or a combination of several landscapes, Costa Rica absolutely delivers. With two coastlines, five mountains, and plenty in between, there’s no shortage of possibilities for your adventure.

3. Not Just for the Active Adventure Seekers

Given the incredible landscapes and rich biodiversity, it would be easy to assume that Costa Rica is best suited to adventure seekers. And while the perception is partly true—Costa Rica is a spectacular choice for active adventurers—your time here can be as laid-back or as adventure-filled as you like.

Explore nature and wildlife. Dive into high-adrenaline activities like ziplines and aerial adventures. Relax at a tranquil beach resort. Or mix it up with a combination whatever you like the most! We typically suggest you spend a few days in multiple places throughout Costa Rica to take advantage of the wide variety of experiences it offers. You might consider combining several days of active adventures with a relaxing multi-day stay at the coast to round out your journey.

4. Something for Everyone

Costa Rica is a fantastic choice for a wide range of travelers, from couples and families to large groups. You’ll feel right at home here, whatever your travel style. It’s important to note that while eco-conscious travel is the standard here, that definitely doesn’t mean you’ll sacrifice any special experiences or luxe amenities. You truly can have it all here!

Couples

Couples looking for a romantic getaway or honeymoon will love Costa Rica’s intimate, adult-focused lodges and retreats. You’ll enjoy the luxury of being completely pampered and having all the seclusion you could want. If private plunge pools fed by natural springs call to you, look no farther than Costa Rica. And if you and your partner want to mix a bit of active adventure in with the relaxation, we can certainly make that happen!

Families

Costa Rica is incredibly family friendly. Whether exploring the coast or adventuring in the jungle, the whole family will love being immersed in the rich animal life. Attentive guides will pay special attention to your kids, making them feel included and pointing out animals and sharing interesting facts about the local flora and fauna.

Groups

Groups will find a variety of options for accommodation all over Costa Rica. Villas, smaller properties, and lodges are all conducive to small groups and private experiences. From family reunions and multi-generational vacations to girls-only getaways, there are destinations and properties perfectly suited to your unique needs and tastes—and those of your group.

5. Sustainability is a Way of Life

“Sustainability” has become something of a buzzword lately, especially as it relates to travel. But sustainability and environmental stewardship is far more than just lip service in Costa Rica. Renewable energy and conservation are major priorities here.

Costa Rica is deeply invested in the protection and preservation of its stunning natural resources, and that commitment stretches far beyond tourism. Sustainability is central to the Costa Rican lifestyle and culture. In fact, more than 25% of the country is protected.

Costa Rica’s protected areas include:

Sunset at Marino Ballena National Park, Costa Rica

28 national parks
58 wildlife refuges
32 protected zones
15 wetland areas/mangroves
11 forest reserves
8 biological reserves
12 other conservation regions

Ecotourism isn’t just a trend in Costa Rica. It’s a cultural response to Costa Rican’s love of their country and the natural environment. For a quintessentially Costa Rican experience, you might consider a stay in Monteverde, one of the country’s best ecotourism destinations. Here, you can go birdwatching, wander through a butterfly garden, go for a hike, and even soar through the cloud forest on a zipline.

6. Incredible Lodges and Retreats

Costa Rica’s amazing wildlife and landscapes would be enough to draw most travelers. But it’s the world-class lodges and retreats that keep them wishing they could stay longer.

While there are name brand properties in Costa Rica (as is the case nearly everywhere), we encourage you to look beyond those. There are so many unique accommodations in Costa Rica where the staff go out of their way to make you feel special. Here, you’re going to feel local and truly take advantage of the setting.

Explore Arenal Volcano National Park from a place of understated luxury and peaceful seclusion. Take your morning yoga practice to a cloud forest.

Whether you’re looking for a journey that’s luxurious and laid back, secluded, or family friendly, there is a perfect place (or two or three) for you in Costa Rica.

7. World-Class Activities

The activities in Costa Rica are almost too numerous to mention. You can have your fill of kayaking, rafting, white water rafting, canopy tours, hiking, ziplining, wildlife exploration, float trips, horseback riding, surfing, sunset sail, and so much more.

Try a nighttime stand up paddleboarding (SUP) tour or enjoy a full day of adventure park activities (zip line, animal rescue sanctuary, kayaks, snorkeling, etc.) in Guanacaste Province.

Squirrel Monkey, Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

Swim in turquoise waters, then take to the trails to get your fill of adorable squirrel monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

Go canyoning near the Pacuare River in Limón—it’s the perfect combination of climbing, rappelling, and getting your dose of adventure in a lush jungle gorge.

Or for something special with less of an adrenaline rush, consider a chocolate tour or tasting.

If you’re like me and enjoy coffee, you’ll love the coffee haciendas and experiences on offer in Santa Bárbara, just a short drive northwest from the capital of San José. This is a special experience and definitely worth your time!

Coffee beans, Costa Rica.jpg — Coffee beans, Costa Rica

Observe thousands of green sea turtles nesting on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast in Tortuguero National Park. While global sea turtle populations have declined overall, nestings at Tortuguero (“Place of the Turtles”) have increased nearly 500% over the past few decades.

Whatever inspires you and makes you get out of bed in the morning with a spring in your step, you’ll probably find it here in Costa Rica.

Final Thoughts

If you long to reconnect with the natural world, unwind, explore landscapes unlike you’ve ever seen, and even challenge yourself with some fun adventures, Costa Rica may deserve a place at the top of your list of places to travel—when the time is right. That the country is so invested in ecotourism and sustainability make it even more appealing. Whatever your unique style of travel and particular interests, there’s plenty to explore in Costa Rica.