Overview
Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica, is a country located in Central America. It shares a northern border with Nicaragua and a southeastern border with Panama, while its coastlines meet the Caribbean Sea to the northeast and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest. The country also shares a maritime border with Ecuador to the south of Cocos Island. Costa Rica has a population of around five million people and covers a land area of nearly 51,180 square kilometers (19,760 square miles).
Capital and Major Cities
The capital and largest city of Costa Rica is San José, which is home to approximately 350,000 residents within the city proper. The greater metropolitan area surrounding San José has a much larger population, with around two million people living there, making it the country's principal urban and economic center.
Geography
- Borders Nicaragua to the north
- Borders Panama to the southeast
- Coastline along the Caribbean Sea to the northeast
- Coastline along the Pacific Ocean to the southwest
- Shares a maritime border with Ecuador near Cocos Island
This dual-coast geography gives Costa Rica access to both the Caribbean and Pacific regions, contributing to its diverse landscapes, which range from coastal lowlands to central highlands and volcanic mountain ranges.
Why Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica is widely recognized as a leading destination for ecotourism and nature-based travel in Central America. Its position between two oceans and its varied terrain—including rainforests, volcanoes, beaches, and cloud forests—make it an appealing destination for travelers interested in outdoor activities and wildlife observation. The country's relatively compact size means visitors can experience both Caribbean and Pacific coastal environments, along with mountainous interior regions, within a single trip.
Practical Information for Travelers
- Capital city: San José
- Population: approximately five million
- Land area: nearly 51,180 km² (19,760 sq mi)
- Neighboring countries: Nicaragua (north) and Panama (southeast)
- Coastal access: both Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean
Travelers planning a visit should note that San José, as the capital and largest urban hub, typically serves as the main gateway for international flights and a starting point for exploring the rest of the country.