Costa Rica Eco Tourism

Featured ecoDestination - Costa Rica

"In Costa Rica we have a long tradition of receiving tourists with open arms. It doesn´t matter what you are looking for: adventure or rest; beaches, mountains, rivers or volcanoes… I invite you to share all the richness that nature spread in this tropical land full of contrasts. The Costa Ricans proudly and responsibly protect our biodiversity for our children and for you." - Carlos Ricardo Benavides, Ministro Turismo, Costa Rica (Minister's message from: VisitCostaRica.com)


Naturally Peaceful

Costa Rica, demonstrating its fierce dedication to peace and democracy, became the first country in the modern world to constitutionally abolish its standing army in 1948, and is today proudly the oldest and most stable democracy in Central America. Thirty-nine years after Costa Rica's declaration of peace with the world, the beloved leader of this peace-loving country, President Oscar Arias Sanchez was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. President Arias' efforts in promoting his "Peace with Nature" policy has inspired many Costa Ricans, who enjoy living with more trees per capita and per square kilometer than any other country in the world. Costa Ricans are also among the world's most enthusiastic tree planters, enriching their landscapes with a few million trees each year.

Pioneering Green Challenge

Costa Rica is also en route to becoming the first carbon neutral country by 2021. The famous vow by the Costa Rica government, delivered in 2007, to become the first carbon neutral destination, raised the standard yet again for the global ecotourism community.

Pura Vida

Literally translating to "pure life", if there were an official national moto of Costa Rica, this would likely be it. Trust us, by the end of your journey, it will be your favorite new expression. "Pura Vida is a word that identifies a Costa Rican wherever he or she may be. When you say "Pura Vida" the facial expression of the person changes and the person smiles. It is a word very meaningful to Costa Ricans. It reminds us of home and its' beauty." Read more about Costa Rica's national symbols.