13 Interesting Fun Facts About Costa Rica

Last Updated: February 18, 2025

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In our 11+ years of journey, we have hosted many travel enthusiasts, who explored the different interesting places and cultures of Costa Rica. To give you more information about this magnificent country here we are providing 13 interesting facts about Costa Rica.
A land of lush rainforests, vibrant wildlife, and stunning beaches, this small but mighty country has a lot to offer. Here are 13 fascinating fun facts about Costa Rica that will make you fall in love with this incredible place even more.

1. Costa Rican Banknotes Are as Colorful as Their Landscapes

Costa Rican currency isn’t just money,it’s a piece of art. Each denomination features a different landscape and native animal, such as the white-tailed deer, capuchin monkey, sloth, and blue morpho butterfly. These vibrant designs reflect the country’s biodiversity, making every transaction a tiny reminder of the beauty that surrounds you.

2. Nicoya is One of the Five Blue Zones in the World

The Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica is one of the world’s rare Blue Zones, regions where people live significantly longer than the global average. With a lifestyle rooted in fresh food, strong community bonds, and an active routine, many Nicoyans live well past 100. If longevity is your goal, Costa Rica might be the perfect place to take notes from!

3. Costa Ricans are Called Ticos and Ticas

Costa Ricans affectionately call themselves Ticos and Ticas,a nickname that stems from their unique way of forming diminutives in Spanish. Instead of saying chiquitito (very small), they say chiquitico. This linguistic quirk became so common that it turned into a national identity, giving birth to the name "Ticos."

4. Bahía Ballena is Literally Shaped Like a Whale’s Tail

Nature has a sense of humor, and Costa Rica proves it. Bahía Ballena, a stunning beach on the Pacific coast, takes the exact shape of a whale’s tail when seen from above. To make things even more magical, the area is one of the best places in the world to spot migrating whales. Coincidence? Maybe. Fascinating? Absolutely.

5. Costa Rica Holds 5% of the World’s Biodiversity

Despite covering only 0.03% of the Earth’s surface, Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity. That means in this tiny country, you’ll find an astonishing variety of plants, animals, and ecosystems. More than 500,000 species reside here, from jaguars in the rainforest to vibrant tree frogs and exotic birds.

6. You Can Watch the Sunrise and Sunset on the Same Day

Costa Rica is uniquely positioned between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, allowing travelers to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic and the sunset over the Pacific,all in a single day. A road trip between the coasts takes only a few hours, making it a bucket-list experience worth chasing.

7. Costa Rica Has No Army

Costa Rica is one of the few nations in the world without a standing army. In 1948, the country abolished its military after a civil war, deciding instead to invest in education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. The result? A peaceful and progressive nation that consistently ranks among the happiest in the world.

8. Over 99% of Costa Rica’s Electricity Comes from Renewable Energy

Costa Rica is a global leader in clean energy, generating more than 99% of its electricity from renewable sources like hydroelectric, wind, geothermal, biomass, and solar energy. This commitment to sustainability makes it one of the greenest countries on Earth.

9. Costa Rica Has 5 Active Volcanoes

If you’re fascinated by geology, Costa Rica is your playground. The country has over 200 volcanic formations, five of which remain active: Poás, Irazú, Arenal, Rincón de la Vieja, and Turrialba. Each volcano offers unique landscapes, from bubbling craters to hot springs and lava fields, making them a must-visit for adventurers.

10. It’s One of the Happiest Countries in the World

Costa Rica consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries on the planet. The secret? A combination of strong social connections, a laid-back lifestyle, access to nature, and the national philosophy of "Pura Vida" (Pure Life). This phrase isn’t just a saying,it’s a way of life, embodying gratitude, simplicity, and joy.

11. The Sun Rises and Sets at the Same Time Every Day

Thanks to its close proximity to the equator, Costa Rica experiences little variation in daylight hours throughout the year. This means sunrises and sunsets occur at nearly the same time daily, making it easy to plan your outdoor adventures without worrying about seasonal shifts.

12. Costa Rica’s Most Famous Island Appeared in Jurassic Park

Cocos Island, located 600 kilometers off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, served as inspiration for the setting of Jurassic Park. While you won’t find dinosaurs roaming the island, you will encounter breathtaking landscapes, dense rainforests, and some of the best scuba diving spots in the world.

13. The Country Has No Street Names

If you’re used to navigating with numbered streets, Costa Rica might challenge you. Most locations are described based on landmarks, distances, or even unusual points of reference like "100 meters south of the big tree." While this system may seem confusing to visitors, locals navigate with ease and a good sense of direction.

Final Thoughts

Costa Rica is more than just a travel destination,it’s a way of life. With its stunning natural beauty, commitment to sustainability, and the ever-present "Pura Vida" spirit, this country offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Costa Rica has something unforgettable in store for you.
If you are planning to travel and explore Costa Rica, we hope these information and cool facts will motivate you more to begin that journey.