Costa Rica is famous for its enlightened approach to conservation. A large part of the country is protected in one form or another and over 11% is found in the national park system. This means that the traveler who wishes to do so can experience the tropics in a natural way. The variety and density of wildlife in the preserved areas attracts people whose dream is to see monkeys, sloth's, caimans, sea turtles, and exotic birds in their natural habitat. And see them they will!

With both a Pacific and Caribbean coast, there is no shortage of beaches in Costa Rica. Some have been developed for tourism while others are remote and rarely visited. For a relaxing seaside vacation, you can stay in a luxurious hotel or you can camp - the choice is yours. And wherever you stay, you are likely to find a preserved area within driving distance where you will find monkeys in the trees by the ocean's edge.

An active volcano is surely one of the most dramatic natural sights, and few visitors to Costa Rica can resist the opportunity to peer into the crater of a smoking giant.

Apart from hiking and camping in the rainforests, mountains, and beaches, the adventurous traveler will find the opportunity to snorkel on tropical reefs, surf the best waves in Central America, or raft some of the most thrilling white water in the tropics. Pristine rivers tumble down the lower slopes of the mountains and the river banks are clothed with curtains of rainforest - a truly unique whitewater experience. Those liking to fish will find the rivers and lakes offer a beautiful setting for their sport, and the ocean fishing is definitely world class.

In addition to this natural beauty and outdoor excitement, there is the added attraction of a country which has long had the most stable political climate in Latin America. Costa Rica has had democratic elections since the 19th century and is one of the most peaceful nations in the world. The armed forces were abolished after the 1948 civil war, and Costa Rica has avoided the despotic dictatorships, frequent military coups, terrorism, and internal strife that have torn apart other countries of the region. Costa Rica is the safest country to visit in Latin America.

But it is not only safe - it is friendly. Costa Ricans delight in showing off their lovely country to visitors and wherever you go you will find the locals to be a constant source of help, smiles and information. The transportation system is inexpensive and covers the whole country, so Costa Rica is both one of the most beautiful and one of the easiest tropical countries to travel in.