Costa Rica: Where the Wild Things Are
Costa Rica, the little sliver of Central America sitting between Nicaragua and Panama, is a nature lover’s dream, as writer Catherine Eade discovers in our Trip of A Lifetime feature in the October issue
In this tiny country, often described as ‘paradise on earth’, eco-tourism thrives and there is something for every traveller. It boasts an extraordinary array of wildlife, swathes of untouched forests, volcanoes, rainforests, fast-flowing rivers and beaches. Young lovers seek the romance of sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, animal and bird lovers sign up for dedicated nature tours, and retired couples enjoy the unspoilt countryside. Best of all, the Costa Ricans are dedicated to preserving this lush environment for future generations, with over a quarter of the country designated as protected reserves.
Costa Rica can be explored by road, although using a local driver is advisable on the bumpy tracks. Luckily, the country’s top position on The Happy Planet Index, ranking it the happiest place on earth, means you’ll have no trouble finding a friendly guide. In fact, if you’re prepared to catch a ride on various modes of transport, you’ll get the best out of your experience. Hop onboard a boat and go in search of some of Costa Rica’s 1000 species of fish, or saddle up for a horseback trek through the rainforest…. But do watch out for the territorial Capuchin monkeys!
