Costa Rica COSTA RICA GENERAL INFORMATION PHOTO GALLERY General Information Costa Rica has enjoyed one of the most peaceful and stable histories in Central America. After a brief civil war in 1948, the country abolished its military and invested heavily in education, healthcare, and democratic institutions. This commitment to peace and stability has helped Costa Rica become one of the region’s most prosperous and environmentally conscious nations. Violent political conflict has been absent for decades, making Costa Rica one of the safest and most popular travel destinations in Latin America. Costa Rica is one of the world’s most spectacular travel destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year with its incredible biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and the famous local motto, “Pura Vida”—meaning “Pure Life.” Nestled between Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south, this small Central American nation offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Despite its relatively small size, Costa Rica is home to nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity. Overlanders can explore lush rainforests, misty cloud forests, active volcanoes, pristine Pacific and Caribbean beaches, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers. Wildlife enthusiasts will be amazed by the abundance of animals, including sloths, monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, sea turtles, crocodiles, dolphins, whales, and hundreds of other fascinating species. Some of Costa Rica’s most famous attractions include Arenal Volcano National Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails, hot springs, and breathtaking volcanic views; Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, renowned for its unique ecosystem and hanging bridges; Manuel Antonio National Park, famous for its beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife; Tortuguero National Park, one of the world’s most important nesting sites for sea turtles; Corcovado National Park, considered one of the most biologically intense places on Earth; and the popular beach destinations of Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, and Puerto Viejo, each offering world-class surfing, fishing, and relaxation. The green season, from May to November, brings regular rainfall that transforms the forests into vibrant landscapes while providing fewer crowds and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Costa Rica is also known for its strong commitment to conservation, with more than a quarter of its land protected as national parks, wildlife refuges, and nature reserves. It is one of the few countries in the world without a standing military, having abolished its army in 1948 and instead investing heavily in education, healthcare, and environmental protection. For overland travellers exploring Central America by vehicle, there is one particularly important regulation to be aware of. Right-hand-drive (RHD) vehicles are not permitted to be driven on public roads in Costa Rica. If you are travelling overland from Panama toward Nicaragua, or vice versa, your right-hand-drive vehicle must be transported on a truck while transiting through Costa Rica. This is an important requirement to plan for in advance, as attempting to drive an RHD vehicle through Costa Rica can result in delays and complications at the border. 2. PHOTO GALLERY PAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION