Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or deep relaxation – or a little of both – Costa Rica is your ideal destination. They reserve more than a quarter of their land for conservation, meaning undisturbed natural beauty is yours to enjoy. Top attractions with many activities call to visitors from across the globe. Then in vibrant cities you’ll find fascinating art, history and entertainment. They even have an official “Blue Zone” in the Nicoya Peninsula, meaning there’s a high number of centenarians thanks to their balanced diet, active lifestyle, strong social bonds and integrated health care practices.
Sure, you’ve heard the phrase “pura vida” thrown around in regards to Costa Rica, but you might not fully get it…yet. Translated directly from Spanish, it means “pure life,” but there’s a lot more contained in these two little words than that. Every Tico (aka, Costa Rican) you’ll meet will have a slightly different way of looking at it, but essentially “pura vida” represents a philosophy of enjoying life to its fullest — at a slow pace, so you can be present in every moment. The words are used as a greeting, a farewell, an exclamatory remark to express gratitude or satisfaction…we’re practically talking about a belief system here. Take it as a constant reminder to relax and de-stress — and in Costa Rica, you have options.
One of them being soaking in volcanic mud, a tradition that goes back centuries. The waters of Costa Rica’s hot springs flow straight from its many volcanoes, so they’re rich in minerals and accompanied by plenty of glorious volcanic mud. Another option is one of Costa Rica’s most unique spa traditions: the use of locally grown coffee in massages and body scrubs. The finely ground beans gently exfoliate the skin while releasing a rich aroma, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and smelling as heavenly as the country’s famous coffee fields. If neither of those sound appealing, you can also soak in one of the beautiful hot springs. These mineral-rich waters are said to soothe muscles, improve circulation, and melt away stress, all while you’re surrounded by lush rainforest and the sounds of nature.
The natural world really puts on a show when we leave the environment untouched. More than 900 species of birds visit or live in Costa Rica. Sea turtles choose our sands to lay their eggs in every year. Frogs and toads sing in the forests and wetlands. Monkeys swing through the trees. It’s an honor to be able to protect natural wonders as beautiful as Costa Rica. Majestic volcanoes, tranquil beaches, tropical forests, exhilarating jungles and incredible marine habitats are yours to explore. More than 25% of our national territory is reserved for conservation, making Costa Rica a global leader in environmental efforts.
Costa Rica isthe land of pura vida – a friendly, multicultural and multilingual people descended from a fusion of immigrants, including Africans, Chinese, Jews, Lebanese and Italians, and the Indigenous people of the Bribrí, Cabécar, Maleku, Teribe, Bruca, Ngäbe, Huetar and Chorotega groups.
Costa Ricans have more than a century of democratic traditions. They abolished their military in 1948 and instead invested in improving citizens’ standards of living. This people-first policy speaks directly to pura vida and helps maintain Costa Rica’s social peace.
Visitors can experience the Costa Rican soul – and sometimes even take a bit home with them. You’re invited to enjoy the music, dance, theater and cinema, and shop for unique art and handicrafts. Explore community-based rural tourism while you’re there to experience local farms and remote communities. Immerse yourself in the culture, and you’ll see just how wonderful and welcoming Ticos are.
Whether you’re an adventurer chasing jungle thrills, a wellness seeker craving natural rejuvenation, or a nature lover eager to connect with the wild heart of the tropics, Costa Rica offers an experience that awakens every sense and embodies the true spirit of pura vida.
If you’re a travel advisor, you can book accommodations in Costa Rica with Classic Vacations either at the Nekajui, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, or browse our global inventory for more than 100 other options across a broad range of prices.
