The famously pacifist nation (it abolished its military in 1948) is known for being one of the most biodiverse places in the world. In Costa Rica, world-class wildlife—sloths, howler monkeys and colorful frogs, to name just a few—inhabit six different types of rain forests. But there’s even more to experience beyond the lush canopy.

Take a peek at all the delicious adventures and incredible wildlife the country has to offer.

Essential Costa Rica

Striking drone video from across the country showcasing its natural beauty.

Costa Rica | Back to the Pura Vida

This has often been called one of the happiest countries in the world. It all starts with Pura Vida, a saying that means "Pure Life."

Wildlife to See

The Weird Wildlife Of Costa Rica

Home to one of the most diverse ecosystems of it’s size on the planet, the Osa Peninsula is a bastion for wildlife like no other. Animalogic heads to Costa Rica to meet white-nosed coatis, tapirs, margays and more.

The Extreme Life Of A Sloth

Meet the most famous inhabitants of Costa Rica's tropical rainforests, the slowest mammal on the planet.

Howler Monkeys

They are responsible for the quintessential (and terrifying!) sound of the Costa Rican rainforest. The call of the howler monkey can be heard up to three miles away. Of the fifteen species, the Mantled howler, Alouatta palliata, is indigenous to Costa Rica.

Surviving Sea Turtles

Facing dangerous predators from above, recently hatched sea turtles in Costa Rica—home to 5 of the world's seven existing species of sea turtles—struggle to reach the safety of the open ocean.

Red-Eyed Tree Frogs Are Masters of Camouflage

Animalogic explores the jungles of Corcovado National Park to introduces its wide array of reptiles and amphibians, including poison dart frogs, vine snakes and red-eyed tree frogs.

Flavors to Try

Costa Rican Cuisine

Imagine getting jungle grown produce at a restaurant near you. With Pablo, he doesn't have to imagine. Eater's Guide To The World visits Amubri in Costa Rica to talk tradition, cooking and chicken.

From Tree to Chocolate Bar: Heirloom Cacao in Costa Rica

A documentary about Peter Kring—owner of Finca La Isla Permaculture Farm and creator of Talamanca Chocolate in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica—who shares insights into his local chocolate-making process.

Make Costa Rican Sweet Plantains

Chef José González of Restaurante Al Mercat is whipping up a Costa Rican dessert staple: platanitos con natilla, or sweet plantains with custard. Chef José makes this dish family-style by frying ripe plantains in their skins and creating a luscious custard with condensed and evaporated milk.

Like what you see?

Costa Rica makes for an incredible adventure!

Contact me to explore possibilities

The Wonders of Costa Rica