Costa Rica is a country of spectacular natural beauty having an array of attractions including exotic beaches and coral, volcanoes, mountains, tropical rainforests, scarlet sunsets and a very diverse range of wildlife covering everything from the mighty jaguar to the elusive resplendent quetzal. There is an extensive system of national parks and wildlife refuges which has helped the country become a prime eco-tourism destination. It is also a stable and prosperous nation with a long democratic tradition. The country has had no national army since 1948 and the former president, Oscar Arias, is a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Cahuita National Park with its living coral reefs and mineral black beaches. Inland, the capital city of San Jose is a sprawling bustling city set amid jagged mountain peaks.  The nearby volcanoes of Paos, Irazu and the very active Arenal are spectacular sights. In the north of the country lies the isolated mountain Quaker community of Monteverde with its dense, dripping cloudforest which is the home of the Resplendent Quetzal.  The Pacific Ocean on the western coast of the country provides picture postcard beaches and forested shorelines which are home to the tree dwelling monkeys and slothes.  The beach at Manuel Antonio is a particularly popular destination and offers scenic nature trails which are easy to follow.