Costa Rica

One of the smallest countries in Central America, Costa Rica is also a very popular destination. Divided in the middle by a beautiful extension of the Andes-Sierra Madre mountain range, the country is known for its natural beauty. Idyllic rainforests, vast mountain peaks, threatening volcanoes and sparkling beaches are all found in the 50,000 square kilometer paradise. Costa Rica possesses vast natural resources and offers world-class surfing. Although the country covers only about 0.03% of the globe's surface, it is home to 6% of the world's biodiversity. The Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of the most fascinating destinations in Costa Rica and home to thousands upon thousands of species including over 100 species of mammals. Manuel Antonio National Park, located along Costa Rica's spectacular coastline, is known for its diversity as well as beautiful beaches. The monkeys of the park are very friendly, and if you bring a picnic you are bound to have a few visitors. With over 800 miles of beaches and thousands of breaks, surfers from around the globe flock to Costa Rica to train, compete or just enjoy. Other natural attractions here are the fantastic volcanoes. Arenal Volcano has been constantly active since 1968, producing towers of ash and red-hot lava daily. The Poas Volcano National Park is also active and home to two deep craters. At the bottom of each you will find eerie blue lagoons still bubbling with sulphurous gases. On top of all this, Costa Rica is known for being one of the safest and friendliest Latin American countries. The people are diverse and accepting with influences from all over the world.