Paradise Found — Explore Costa Rica’s Lush Rainforests & Rich Biodiversity
Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean on a narrow stretch of land known as the Isthmus of Panama, Costa Rica is the quintessential paradise on Earth. Lush rainforests, volcanic mountain ranges, two coastlines and mangrove forests punctuate this landscape and contribute to its remarkable beauty and biodiversity. In fact, Costa Rica is one of only 36 biodiversity hotspots worldwide. While this country makes up only 2.5% of our planet’s landmass, it supports more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity.
You may not be familiar with the designation of “Biodiversity Hotspot.” These regions are home to exceptional biodiversity and a high concentrations of unique species. They must contain at least 1,500 endemic vascular plants — found nowhere else on Earth — and less than a third of its original natural vegetation. These regions support endangered species, provide essential ecosystem services, preserve cultural heritage and contribute to global conservation efforts. Protecting hotspots is vital for preserving biodiversity, maintaining healthy ecosystems and ensuring a sustainable future. Here, we take a closer look at the flora and fauna of our Campus of the Year, Costa Rica:
Mother Nature
- Costa Rica’s rich and varied geography lends itself to 12 microclimates — from cloud forests to coral reefs, mangroves to mountain rainforests — providing diverse habitats for more than 500,000 plant and animal species to adapt and flourish.
- The Caribbean coastline stretches 135 miles long, while the Pacific coastline extends 631 miles.
- There are six active volcanoes in Costa Rica, and another 61 are dormant or extinct.
- On average, Costa Rica receives 100 inches of rain annually, with mountainous rainforest regions reaching 25 feet.
Nearly 43% of the bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian species found in Costa Rica are endemic.
Feathered Friends
- Costa Rica is home to more than 900 species of birds. Birdwatchers worldwide flock here to add Toucans, Scarlet Macaws and hummingbirds, among many others, to their birding life lists.
- More than three million birds (221 migrating species) follow flyways through Costa Rica every autumn and spring, including large numbers of Scarlet Tanagers, Canada Warblers and birds of prey.
Mammal Mania
- A total of 256 species of mammals live in Costa Rica.
- Four species of monkeys — Squirrel, Howler, Spider and Capuchin — call Costa Rica home.
- Two- and Three-toed Sloths, Costa Rica’s national animal, can be seen methodically moving in the trees.
- Six species of wild cats, including the Jaguar, Puma, Ocelot, Margay, Oncilla and Jaguarundi, thrive in this unparalleled catscape.
It’s Easy Being Green
- Costa Rica lost at least 70% of its forests in the 1970s and 1980s to agriculture and cattle farming, qualifying it for the designation of biodiversity hotspot in 1990. Today, thanks to conservation efforts, Costa Rica is thriving.
- Costa Rica is the first tropical country to have stopped – and reversed – deforestation.
- In 1996, the Costa Rican government made it illegal to cut down forests without approval from authorities. In 1997, the introduction of a monetary incentive program began paying farmers to protect watersheds and conserve biodiversity.
- Costa Rica is dedicated to protecting its environment and biodiversity. Twenty-eight percent of its land is preserved in protected areas, national parks and biological reserves.
Explore our collection of learning adventures in Costa Rica! From birdwatching to kayaking, experience “Pura Vida,” the pure life, with Road Scholar.