15 Facts About Costa Rica Most People Get Wrong
Costa Rica is home to 5.2M people across 51,100 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for Biodiversity.
Below are 15 facts about Costa Rica, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Costa Rica
A complete overview of Costa Rica's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948.
The country produces 99% of its electricity from renewable sources.
Costa Rica contains 5% of the world's biodiversity in 0.03% of Earth's land.
The phrase Pura Vida (Pure Life) is the national motto and way of life.
Costa Rica is located in Central America, North America, with its capital city in San José.
The population of Costa Rica is approximately 5.2M, spread across 51,100 km² of territory.
Costa Rica has a population density of 102/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Costa Rica has a coastline of 1,290 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Costa Rica shares land borders with 2 countries: Nicaragua, Panama.
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish.
Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican Colón (CRC) as its official currency.
Costa Rica gained independence in 1821, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Central America.
The total GDP of Costa Rica is $68.5B, with a GDP per capita of $13,173, classifying it as a upper-middle-income economy.
Costa Rica has a tropical, dry season december–april climate, with the best time to visit being December–April.
Costa Rica is considered a Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $6–12.
Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 and redirected the funds to education and healthcare. The country contains 5% of the world's biodiversity in just 0.03% of Earth's surface, and runs almost entirely on renewable energy.
🏆 Costa Rica World Rankings
Costa Rica holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🌋 Arenal Volcano
One of the world's most active volcanoes, a perfect cone rising above hot springs and rainforest
🐒 Manuel Antonio National Park
A pocket-sized paradise of beaches, monkeys and sloths in a lush coastal rainforest
🌿 Monteverde Cloud Forest
A misty cloud forest reserve teeming with rare birds, orchids and the elusive quetzal
🦜 Corcovado National Park
National Geographic's most biologically intense place on Earth, tapirs, jaguars, scarlet macaws
Frequently Asked Questions About Costa Rica
What is Costa Rica famous for?
Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 and redirected the funds to education and healthcare. The country contains 5% of the world's biodiversity in just 0.03% of Earth's surface, and runs almost entirely on renewable energy.
What is the capital of Costa Rica?
The capital of Costa Rica is San José.
What is the population of Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a population of approximately 5.2M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Costa Rica?
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish.
When did Costa Rica become an independent country?
Costa Rica gained independence in 1821.
What currency does Costa Rica use?
Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican Colón (CRC).
What is the GDP of Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a GDP of $68.5B, with a GDP per capita of $13,173.
Where is Costa Rica located?
Costa Rica is located in Central America, North America.
Is Costa Rica safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Costa Rica vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Costa Rica?
Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948. The country produces 99% of its electricity from renewable sources. Costa Rica contains 5% of the world's biodiversity in 0.03% of Earth's land.
What are some interesting facts about Costa Rica?
The country produces 99% of its electricity from renewable sources. Costa Rica contains 5% of the world's biodiversity in 0.03% of Earth's land. The phrase Pura Vida (Pure Life) is the national motto and way of life.
Costa Rica facts: what should I know?
Costa Rica is a country in Central America with a population of 5.2M. Its capital is San José and its official language is Spanish. Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948.
Explore More About Costa Rica
Want to explore another country? Generate a random country and discover somewhere new.