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Planning a trip to Costa Rica? You’ve probably heard about the beaches, the rainforests, and the wildlife, and yes, all of that is real. But Costa Rica is also full of small, fascinating details that often surprise travelers once they’re here.
From everyday habits and local expressions to nature facts and bits of history, there’s a lot about Costa Rica that goes beyond the usual travel highlights. In this list of 20 fun facts about Costa Rica, we’ll share things you might not learn from a guidebook but will definitely notice during your trip in 2026.
1. Costa Rica has more than one climate zone
One thing that surprises people when they visit Costa Rica is how different the weather can be from one place to another. Even though the country is small, the weather and landscapes change a lot as you travel around. You might start your trip in a warm, sunny beach town and, a few hours later, find yourself in a cooler, misty forest.
This happens because of mountains, elevation, and how close different regions are to the ocean. As you move between places, you’ll notice changes in temperature, rain, and scenery — and that variety is part of what makes traveling around Costa Rica so interesting.
To get a better idea of what the weather might be like during your visit, you can check the current weather conditions in La Fortuna.
2. Costa Rica protects over 25% of its land
Costa Rica is known for taking nature seriously, and one clear example is how much land is protected. National parks, wildlife refuges, and protected areas cover more than a quarter of the country.
For visitors, this means forests, beaches, and rivers are carefully cared for, and wildlife has space to thrive. When you explore Costa Rica, you’re often walking through places that are protected by law, helping ensure they stay healthy for future generations.
Some of the most famous national parks include:
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Rincón de la Vieja National Park
- Corcovado National Park
- Arenal Volcano National Park
- Tenorio Volcano National Park
- Poás Volcano National Park
- Tortuguero National Park
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
3. The country runs mostly on renewable energy sources
Costa Rica has chosen to invest in energy systems that work with its natural resources. For many years now, the country has relied mostly on renewable energy sources like water, wind, solar, and geothermal power. In fact, since 2014, roughly 95–98% of Costa Rica’s electricity has come from renewable sources.
In areas like La Fortuna, this connection is even more noticeable. The Arenal volcano plays a role in generating geothermal energy, while rivers contribute to hydroelectric power. It’s a quiet part of everyday life, but one that reflects a long-term commitment to caring for the environment while supporting communities across the country.
4. Costa Rica has no army
The Costa Rican government made a unique decision in 1948 to abolish its army. Instead of spending money on military forces, the country chose to invest more in education, health care, and social programs.
This decision has helped shape Costa Rica’s peaceful reputation and its focus on quality of life. It’s a point of pride for many locals and an important part of the country’s modern history.
5. Education and health care are national priorities
Education and health care play an important role in Costa Rica. Public education is widely accessible, and health care services reach most of the population.
For visitors, this often shows in the overall sense of well-being you feel while traveling here. These priorities help explain why Costa Rica consistently ranks high in happiness and quality of life, and why many travelers describe the country as welcoming and balanced.
6. “Pura Vida” is more than a phrase
You’ll hear pura vida (which means pure life) everywhere in Costa Rica, and not just as a saying. Locals use it to say hello, goodbye, thank you, and even “everything’s fine.” If you ask how someone’s doing, chances are you’ll hear pura vida back.
More than the words themselves, it reflects a mindset. The pura vida lifestyle is about staying positive, not stressing over small things, and enjoying the moment. As a visitor, you’ll probably find yourself using it too; it tends to grow on you pretty quickly.
7. Costa Ricans don’t use street addresses the same way
Finding a place in Costa Rica can feel a little different at first. Instead of street numbers, directions often rely on landmarks. You might hear something like “200 meters past the church” or “next to the big tree.”
It can sound confusing, but it usually works surprisingly well. Locals are used to giving directions this way and are happy to help if you ask. This is just another small reminder that daily life here runs on a different rhythm.
8. Ticos often eat rice and beans twice a day
Rice and beans are a big part of everyday meals in Costa Rica. You’ll often see them at breakfast as gallo pinto and again at lunch or dinner, served alongside meat, vegetables, or salad. It’s simple, filling, and comforting food. Once you try them fresh and well-seasoned, you’ll see why they’re such a staple.
9. Coffee played a huge role in shaping the country
Coffee has been part of Costa Rica’s story for a long time. It’s often called “el grano de oro,” or “the golden bean,” because of the role it played in shaping Costa Rica. In the 19th century, coffee helped build roads, schools, and entire towns, and it became one of the main reasons the country grew and prospered, especially in the Central Valley.
Even today, coffee remains part of daily life. Many Costa Ricans start their morning with a cup of coffee, and it’s often shared during conversations or breaks. When you drink coffee in Costa Rica, you’re tasting something that’s deeply connected to the country’s history.
Learn more about what is special about Costa Rican coffee in our blog!
10. Costa Rica produces some of the world’s most respected specialty coffee
Costa Rican coffee is known around the world for its quality. The country focuses on high standards, careful growing practices, and smaller-scale production. Coffee is grown in specific regions with the right climate and elevation, which helps create clean, balanced flavors rather than mass-produced blends.
Whether you try coffee at a local café, at breakfast, or during a visit to a coffee-growing area, it’s usually prepared with care. It’s a small, everyday experience, but one that connects you directly to Costa Rica’s culture, history, and way of life.
Want to see it for yourself? This coffee tour in La Fortuna gives you an authentic experience, from bean to cup.
11. Soccer is a big deal here
Soccer is part of daily life in Costa Rica. You’ll hear people talking about matches in cafés, taxis, and family gatherings, especially on weekends. Many locals follow club teams like Deportivo Saprissa, Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, and Club Sport Herediano, and it’s common for plans to revolve around game time.
The national team, known as La Sele, brings an even stronger sense of pride. When Costa Rica plays in international tournaments, the country really comes together while the national anthem plays. Matches at the National Stadium of Costa Rica, located in San Jose, the capital, are especially important moments, and even if you’re not a big soccer fan, it’s hard not to notice how much the sport matters here.
12. Costa Rica has blue zones linked to longevity
Costa Rica is home to some of the world’s well-known Blue Zones, places where people tend to live longer, healthier lives. One of the most recognized is the Nicoya Peninsula, where many residents live active lives well into old age.
What makes areas like Nicoya a Blue Zone isn’t one single secret. It’s a combination of everyday habits. Many people stay physically active through daily routines rather than formal exercise, eat simple meals based on fresh ingredients, and spend a lot of time outdoors. Strong family ties and close-knit communities also play a big role.
See what makes Costa Rica a popular wellness destination for travelers around the world.
13. Costa Rica is home to eight indigenous groups
Costa Rica is home to eight Indigenous groups: the Bribri, Cabécar, Ngäbe, Maleku, Boruca, Térraba (Teribe), Huetar, and Chorotega peoples.
These communities are not only part of Costa Rica’s history. Many continue to live in their ancestral territories, preserving cultural practices, crafts, languages, and knowledge passed down through generations.
While most travelers may not visit Indigenous territories directly, their presence and influence are still part of Costa Rica’s cultural identity. Recognizing this diversity helps give a fuller picture of the country beyond its landscapes and wildlife.
14. Wildlife sightings can happen during ordinary moments
In Costa Rica, wildlife isn’t limited to national parks or guided tours. You might see monkeys crossing the road, birds resting near your hotel, or iguanas sunbathing along a riverbank.
That said, sightings are never guaranteed, and animals should always be respected from a distance. When they do happen, they often feel like a quiet surprise. These small moments make everyday experiences feel a little more special.
15. Costa Rica’s rainforests can make their own rain
One of the most fascinating things about Costa Rica’s rainforests is that it can be raining inside the forest while nearby areas stay dry. This happens because dense trees release moisture into the air throughout the day. When that moisture builds up, it can turn into clouds and light rain right over the forest.
Because rainforests are thick, warm, and full of vegetation, this process happens more easily there than in open or coastal areas. That’s why you might drive through sunshine and suddenly find mist or rain once you enter the forest.
This natural cycle helps explain why rainforests stay so green and full of life.
16. It has seven active volcanoes
Volcanoes are a big reason Costa Rica looks the way it does today. The country has seven active volcanoes, including well-known ones like Arenal, Poás, Rincón de la Vieja, Irazú, and Turrialba. Even when they’re not erupting, these volcanoes continue to shape the land around them.
Over time, volcanic activity has created rich, fertile soil, which helps explain why Costa Rica has such dense forests, productive farmland, and strong biodiversity. Many rivers begin in volcanic areas, and forests often grow quickly on old lava flows once the land cools.
As you travel through the country, it’s common to see volcanoes rising in the distance.
17. There are natural hot springs
Costa Rica’s volcanoes don’t just shape the scenery. They also heat water underground, creating natural hot springs. These warm waters flow to the surface in several regions, especially near volcanic areas like La Fortuna.
Many people visit them as a simple way to relax after a day outdoors. Whether it’s soaking your feet or spending an evening in warm water surrounded by nature, hot springs are part of how locals and travelers alike slow down and unwind.
18. Turtles nest on both coasts
Costa Rica is one of the few countries in Central America where sea turtles nest on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. This makes the country especially important for turtle conservation.
Places like Tortuguero and Ostional are known for nesting seasons, when thousands of turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Seeing this, even from a respectful distance, is a reminder of how closely Costa Rica’s wildlife is tied to its protected beaches.
19. The sand on some beaches is black
If it’s your first time visiting Costa Rica, black sand beaches can come as a surprise. The dark color comes from volcanic rock that has broken down over time and mixed with the sand.
These beaches are especially common along the coasts of the Pacific ocean. They feel different from white-sand beaches and often heat up more under the sun, but they’re just as beautiful in their own way.
20. It has a beach naturally shaped like a whale’s tail
Costa Rica is home to a beach that looks like a whale’s tail when the tide is low. This natural formation is located at Marino Ballena National Park, on the Pacific coast near Uvita. From above or during low tide, the sandbar clearly forms the shape of a tail reaching into the ocean.
It’s small details like these that make traveling to Costa Rica more meaningful. Whether you’re learning about the country’s early development, its Indigenous roots, protected lands, or wildlife habitats, each piece of information adds depth to your trip and helps turn a great experience into a truly memorable one.
If you’re planning your visit, let Mistico Park take you to discover Costa Rica! Contact us today to start planning a memorable trip.
FAQs
Why is Costa Rica considered a happy country?
Costa Rica is considered a happy country because of its relaxed lifestyle, strong sense of community, access to nature, and focus on well-being. People tend to value balance, family time, and enjoying everyday moments.
What surprises most travelers about Costa Rica?
Many travelers are surprised by how diverse Costa Rica is. In just a few hours, you can move between beaches, rainforests, volcanoes, and cooler mountain areas, and the scenery changes completely along the way.
Where can you experience Costa Rica’s wildlife up close?
Wildlife can be seen in national parks, protected reserves, and even during simple walks in forested areas. Places like rainforests, coastal parks, and guided trails make it easier to spot animals while learning how to observe them responsibly.
