Geography and Nature
Where is Costa Rica located?
Costa Rica is located in Central America and is bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the southeast. It has coastlines along the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
Approximately what percentage of Costa Rica's land is protected rainforest?
26%
Which majestic volcano holds the title of Costa Rica's highest peak?
Cerro Chirripó, at 3,820 meters (12,533 feet)
What nickname does Arenal Volcano hold, thanks to its frequent fiery eruptions?
"The Little Switzerland of Central America"
Which national park in Costa Rica boasts some of the highest biodiversity in the world?
Corcovado National Park
What iconic creature, known for its vibrant green plumage, adorns Costa Rica's national currency?
The Resplendent Quetzal
Tourists flock to Tortuguero National Park to witness what natural spectacle?
Nesting sea turtles, particularly the endangered green turtle
Which type of forest, characterized by mist and high altitude, can be found in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve?
Cloud forest
What breathtaking natural formation attracts visitors to Manuel Antonio National Park?
Manuel Antonio Beach, known for its white sand and calm waters
The Rio Sarapiquí is known for its vibrant green color. What mineral naturally dyes the water?
Copper
Culture and History
What phrase, often heard in Costa Rica, captures the laid-back, optimistic attitude of the people?
"Pura vida," meaning "pure life" or "the good life"
Costa Rica has a long history of coffee production. What type of coffee bean is most commonly grown there?
Arabica
Who was the first Costa Rican woman to win an Olympic gold medal, and in what sport?
Claudia Poll, for swimming in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics
Costa Rica abolished its army in what year, making it a rare exception in the region?
1948
Which traditional dance, accompanied by marimba music, celebrates Costa Rican folklore?
Punto Guanacasteco
What colorful masks, often depicting animals and spirits, are worn during traditional Costa Rican festivals?
Máscaras tradicionales
Which type of traditional oxcart, brightly painted and intricately decorated, is a symbol of Costa Rican craftsmanship?
Carreta costarricense
The Guanacaste region of Costa Rica is known for its unique musical style, influenced by what other culture?
African
Which pre-Columbian civilization built elaborate stone spheres found in southern Costa Rica?
The Diquis people
Who was the famous Costa Rican botanist who led the world in orchid conservation efforts?
Dr. Rodrigo Gámez Lobo
Fun and Facts
Costa Rica is sometimes called the "Switzerland of Central America" due to its what?
Political stability, peaceful nature, and high standard of living
Which famous Hollywood movie used Costa Rica as the setting for its dinosaur park?
Jurassic Park (1993)
Costa Rica is home to what type of unusual amphibian that walks on both its hands and feet?
The glass frog
Which type of fruit, native to Costa Rica, is known for its sweet, tangy flavor and bright orange flesh?
Mamoncillo
In 2019, Costa Rica became the first country in the world to achieve what status?
Carbon neutral
Sloths are one of Costa Rica's most beloved animals. How many hours per day does a sloth typically spend sleeping?
Up to 20 hours