Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica, is a country located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Covering an area of approximately 51,100 square kilometers, Costa Rica is renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning natural landscapes, and strong commitment to environmental conservation. The capital city, San José, is situated in the central part of the country and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Costa Rica. San José is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks such as the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and its bustling markets and modern infrastructure. Costa Rica's geography is characterized by its varied landscapes, including tropical rainforests, cloud forests, volcanoes, beautiful beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, and extensive river systems, offering a wide range of ecosystems and natural beauty. The country experiences a tropical climate, with a distinct wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April, supporting a wide range of agricultural activities including the cultivation of coffee, bananas, pineapples, and various fruits and vegetables, as well as livestock farming and fishing along the coastlines. Costa Rica's economy is primarily driven by sectors such as tourism, agriculture, technology, and services. The country is known for its strong eco-tourism industry, which attracts millions of visitors each year to its national parks, wildlife reserves, and beautiful beaches, as well as its growing technology and manufacturing sectors. Tourism plays a vital role, with millions of visitors each year attracted to its natural attractions like Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the beaches of Guanacaste and the Caribbean coast, as well as its vibrant cultural festivals and eco-friendly accommodations. The official language is Spanish, and the population is predominantly ethnic Costa Ricans (Ticos), with small communities of Afro-Caribbeans, Indigenous peoples, and other minority groups, each contributing to the country's multicultural society. Costa Rican culture is a vibrant blend of indigenous traditions and external influences, evident in its music, dance, art, and festivals. The country celebrates numerous cultural events, including the Fiestas de la Independencia, the Envision Festival, and traditional ceremonies like the Día de los Muertos and the Folklore Festival, which showcase its rich heritage and artistic creativity. Costa Rican cuisine is diverse and flavorful, featuring dishes such as gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a typical meal with rice, beans, plantains, and meat), ceviche, and various types of seafood and tropical fruits, often accompanied by fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. Costa Rica is home to several historical and natural attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Tortuguero National Park, Corcovado National Park, and the Osa Peninsula, the stunning landscapes of Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the vibrant cultural heritage of San José and Liberia, which attract tourists and nature enthusiasts alike, highlighting Costa Rica's rich historical and natural legacy. The nation has a well-developed infrastructure, including modern roads, international airports like Juan Santamaría International Airport, high-speed internet systems, and major seaports like Puntarenas Port and Limon Port, facilitating transportation, trade, and connectivity across the country and with the rest of the world. Education and healthcare systems are highly regarded, with Costa Rica maintaining prestigious universities such as the University of Costa Rica and the National University of Costa Rica, and comprehensive healthcare services that contribute to its high quality of life. Costa Rica is an active member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization of American States (OAS), the Central American Integration System (SICA), and the World Trade Organization (WTO), playing a significant role in regional cooperation and development initiatives. The country is committed to sustainable development and environmental conservation, implementing policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy projects, and preserving its natural resources and biodiversity. Despite facing challenges related to economic diversification, political stability, and environmental sustainability, Costa Rica remains a resilient and influential nation, with ongoing efforts to promote growth, innovation, and social well-being. With its combination of rich biodiversity, stunning natural landscapes, strong eco-tourism industry, and dynamic society, Costa Rica offers a unique and captivating experience for both residents and visitors alike.

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About Costa Rica