GEOGRAPHY
MAP OF COSTA RICA
CLIMATE
Costa Rica enjoys a near-perfect climate. Located fairly close to the equator, temperatures vary little throughout the year. The average temperature is 22 degrees Celsius (or 72 degrees Fahrenheit) in the central valley and 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit) at lower elevations and along the coast. March and April are typically the warmest months and January the coolest. Surface ocean water temperatures range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius (74 to 78 Fahrenheit) from January to March, and 26 to 29 degrees Celsius (78 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit) from April to December.
The weather in Costa Rica is divided into two seasons: a dry season from late December to April and a rainy season from May to November. However, on the Pacific coast, most days even in the rainy season start off sunny and clear, with showers only in the afternoon. This makes it possible to get out and enjoy an active outdoors lifestyle, or relax on an open-air terrace year-round.
Another huge advantage for property owners in Costa Rica is the fact that the country is located well south of the region where hurricanes usually occur. Properties along its Pacific coast are particularly well sheltered from the effects of Caribbean storms.
TOPOGRAPHY
Costa Rica is Spanish for “coast of riches” and it’s a country that truly lives up to its name. Located just north of Panama, in the southern part of the Central American isthmus, it has miles of pristine beaches, vibrant forests and spectacular mountain ranges. A fairly small country at 200 miles in length and 70 miles in width at its narrowest point, it has a total landmass of around only 20,000 square miles. But what makes Costa Rica the envy of so much the rest of the world, is the fact that the vast majority of its geographical beauty and diversity remains unspoiled.
With its central volcanic mountains and coastal beaches, Costa Rica is often compared to Hawaii. But it’s what Hawaii was like 50 years ago, before it became so developed. It’s therefore no wonder that, long known for its ecotourism, Costa Rica is fast becoming a popular retirement and vacation home destination among those searching for a peaceful oasis with outstanding natural beauty.
ECOLOGY AND NATURE
Ahead of the curve in terms of sound environmental practices, the government of Costa Rica has set the goal of becoming the first carbon neutral country in the world by the year 2021. Costa Rica also has a greater percentage of protected land than any other country in the world. Over 20 percent of its landmass is designated as some type of parkland, biological reserve or wildlife refuge. But it isn’t necessary to hike into the jungle to appreciate the wonders of nature. Visitors and residents alike are enchanted to be able to see deer, white-faced monkeys, toucans, parrots and other wildlife right in their own backyards. Plus, those who enjoy diving and snorkeling can view colorful tropical fish, whales, sea turtles and other marine life among the vivid coral reefs in its warm coastal waters. With an estimated six percent of the world’s biodiversity, Costa Rica has over half a million species of flora and fauna, including over 1,000 species of orchids and 850 different species of birds. This makes it a natural wonderland for hikers, bird watchers, nature lovers and those who simply want to relax and get away from it all in one of the most beautiful spots on earth.
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