Costa Rica is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, known for its breathtaking nature, eco-tourism, adventure activities, and rich culture. But beyond the obvious, there are surprising reasons why Costa Rica is a must-visit!
Costa Rica is not just about beaches and volcanoes—it offers hidden gems, wildlife wonders, unique experiences, and a laid-back culture.
Read here Things to know before visiting Costa Rica, 3 Week Costa Rica Itinerary and best Costa Rica Sim card for tourist
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Why Costa Rica Is Popular For Visiting
1. Biodiversity Hotspot – More Species Than the USA & Europe Combined!
Costa Rica makes up just 0.03% of Earth’s landmass but holds 5% of the world’s biodiversity. You can find sloths, colorful toucans, poison dart frogs, and over 500,000 species of plants and animals!
Where to spot wildlife?
Tortuguero National Park – Best for sea turtles
Monteverde Cloud Forest – Home to rare birds like the Resplendent Quetzal
Corcovado National Park – Jaguars, tapirs, and exotic monkeys
2. Home to Over 200 Volcanoes (5 Still Active!)
Costa Rica’s dramatic landscape is shaped by volcanoes, with Arenal being the most famous. Some even offer hot springs for natural relaxation!
Top volcanoes to visit:
Arenal Volcano – Hike and relax in hot springs
Poás Volcano – One of the largest craters in the world
Rincón de la Vieja – Mud baths and waterfalls
3. Some of the Best Coffee in the World
Costa Rican coffee is internationally recognized for its smooth, rich flavor and is considered some of the best Arabica coffee in the world.
Best coffee regions to visit:
Tarrazú – Known as the “Champagne of Coffee”
Monteverde Coffee Tours – Learn about sustainable coffee farming
Fun fact: Costa Rica banned the production of low-quality coffee beans to maintain its premium status!
4. Surfing Paradise (Best Waves for Beginners & Experts!)
Costa Rica is a top surfing destination with both Pacific and Caribbean coasts offering year-round waves.
Best surf spots:
Tamarindo – Perfect for beginners
Santa Teresa – Laid-back surf town
Witches Rock – Featured in “Endless Summer II”
5. The Happiest Country in Latin America
Costa Rica ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world due to:
Pura Vida lifestyle (a phrase meaning “pure life,” representing joy and relaxation)
No army since 1948 (the budget goes to education & healthcare)
Blue Zones – Nicoya Peninsula is one of the few places where people live over 100 years!
6. Secret Caribbean Side – A Hidden Gem
Most tourists visit Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, but the Caribbean side is a hidden paradise with Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae vibes, and unique food.
Must-visit Caribbean towns:
Puerto Viejo – Best beaches + Afro-Caribbean culture
Cahuita National Park – Snorkeling & hiking
Try Caribbean dishes:
Rondon Soup – Coconut milk, seafood, and plantains
Patí (spicy beef pastries) – A local snack
7. You Can Witness Baby Sea Turtles Hatch on the Beach
Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world to see baby sea turtles hatch and crawl into the ocean!
Where to see turtles?
Tortuguero National Park (July–October for green sea turtles)
Ostional Beach (Mass “Arribada” of olive ridley turtles)
8. Bioluminescent Waters – Glow-in-the-Dark Ocean
Did you know Costa Rica has bioluminescent beaches? At night, the water glows bright blue due to tiny marine organisms that light up when disturbed.
Best places to see bioluminescence:
Paquera Bay (Nicoya Peninsula)
Gulf of Nicoya (Calm waters perfect for kayaking at night)
9. The Bat Cave Bar – A Bar Inside a Real Cave!
Yes, Costa Rica has a bar inside a cave in Monteverde! The Bat Jungle Bar is a hidden gem where bats fly around while you sip your cocktail.
10. The First Country to Be Powered by 100% Renewable Energy
Costa Rica is a leader in eco-tourism and has run on 100% renewable energy for most years since 2015!
Sustainable Activities to Try:
Stay at eco-lodges like Finca Rosa Blanca
Visit wildlife sanctuaries instead of zoos
Try sustainable adventure tours (zip-lining, hiking, etc.)
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.