Pura Vida in Costa Rica

Now welcoming American tourists from six states

Costa Rica’s secret sauce is pura vida, the “pure life”  – a phrase (and tourism tagline) that encapsulates the country’s upbeat attitude, laid-back disposition, and deep appreciation for simple pleasures: nature, community, good food, and big laughs. No wonder the Nicoya Peninsula, on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, is one of the world’s official Blue Zones – a region where people live to age 100 at 10 times the rate of the general population.  

One of the most biodiverse places on Earth, Costa Rica’s humid rainforests and sparkling oceans are home to a flamboyant array of creatures, including toucans, howler monkeys, giant anteaters, blue morpho butterflies, and, of course, smiley sloths. A quarter of the country’s wilderness is protected by law, and the tourism industry has done a good job of supporting sustainable and eco-friendly operations to help preserve the natural bounty. 

If you’re an active and adventurous type, you’ll feel instantly in your element in Costa Rica. Whizz through rainforest canopies on a zip-line, bounce through river rapids of a raft, hike the Rincon de la Vieja volcano, and surf famous breaks at Malpaís. In Costa Rica, there’s never a dull moment. 

P.S. As of August 1st, Costa Rica is reopening to tourists from six American states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. 

Tourists arriving from permitted destinations are required to buy travel insurance from the Costa Rican National Insurance Institute, provide a recent negative COVID test, and complete this online Health Pass form before departure. And don’t forget to pack your face mask – they’re mandatory in all enclosed public spaces throughout the country.