In the past, Costa Rica was a hidden jewel. Today, it’s no longer a secret and thousands of travelers a year flock to this luscious paradise to escape the day-to-day worries of their chaotic worlds. Below are the top 7 important reasons to travel to Costa Rica:
1. Beaches
Over 50 white and black sand beaches. Visitors can bask in the sun or seek refuge under the shade of beach almond trees. The waters are warm year-round, perfect for swimmers and surfers. Cozy restaurants and bars are nearby so travelers can enjoy a fresh beverage or meal any time.
2. Parks/Reserves
Costa Rica is home to 26 national parks which safely harbor over 75% of the country’s flora and fauna. Some of the most visited national parks are Manuel Antonio, Arenal Volcano and Braulio Carrillo. Their natural beauty will tempt any nature lover to travel to Costa Rica.
3. Museums
Gold Museum is home to the most valuable collection of pre-Columbian gold in the world; exhibits include 2,600 gold artifacts, plus a collection of rare coins and bills. The Entomological Museum of University of Costa Rica, where visitors can examine more than a million specimens of butterflies and other insects.
4. Gardens
Most notable are The Butterfly Farm in La Guacima de Alajuela, the Monteverde Butterfly Garden and La Paz Butterfly Observatory. The latter is the country’s largest butterfly garden with over twenty species of butterflies soaring freely in a natural habitat the size of an American football field.
5. Volcanoes
Only five out of more than 200 volcanic formations are considered active: Arenal, Poas, Rincon de la Vieja, Irazu, and Turrialba. There are many hiking tours offered for the adventurer interested in travel to Costa Rica.
6. Wildlife Refuges
There are over 55 in Costa Rica and travelers are treated to sights such as Olive Ridley sea turtles, two and three-toed sloths, white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys, wild pigs, ospreys, herons, and kingfishers.
7. Cultural Attractions
One of the most popular is the National Theater which was modeled after the art deco style of Paris’ Opera House. It’s decorated with Belgian ironwork, Baroque and Italian renaissance flourishes and 22.5 karat gold leaf.