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| Costa Rica Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Electric Shower in Costa Rica Electric Shower in Costa Rica dubstar.ch In a relatively small area, Costa Rica has everything one could want in vacation paradise. There are secluded white sand beaches with great surf and amazing SCUBA diving. There are active volcanoes and towering rain forests. And, eco-tourism is a speciality of the house. Getting around is easy via rental car, plane, or public bus, and the warm and friendly people make travel safe and fun. Some of the principal mountain ranges are volcanic, and visitors can easily access many of these areas. In the province of Cartago, for example, which is not far from the capital of San José , you will find Irazú volcano which erupted in the early sixties. Poás volcano, located in the province of Alajuela, has one of the largest active craters in the world. And, Arenal volcano, in the northwestern region, treats thousands of visitors each year to a constant stream of red, hot lava rocks tumbling down its slopes. Beautiful forests grow in the crater of the dormant Barva in Heredia. Arenal, a young volcano in the northern part of the country, is constantly active (and is the site of a spa with natural hot springs). The country's highest peak, Mount Chirripó, is not volcanic; it measures 12.412 feet (On a clear day one can see both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans from atop Mt. Chirripo). The bulk of Costa Rica's borders, sixty-five percent, is made up of coastline. Costa Rica has some of the world's most beautiful and idyllic beaches. Although the coast is not heavily populated, a variety of tourism projects provide access to a great deal of the nation's beach areas... Within Costa Rica, the longest distance you will ever have to travel to get to a beach is 75 miles. So in a way, the country is like a large tropical island. The capital of San José is the starting place for exploring the country. It is conveniently located in the centre of the country and all the bus lines stop here. The port of Limon on the Carribean Coast has quite a different atmosphere from the capital. Life is more laid back; reggae is the favorite kind of music. It is a good starting place to explore some of the beaches on the Carribean. San José is located in the Central Valley region of the country. Evenings in San José can be cool due to the high altitude, but you won’t forget that you’re in a tropical place even in this bustling city. The city itself is busy and filled with traffic. There are many things to do, but travelers often miss these sites, choosing instead to head straight from the airport to beaches or rainforests. Although San José is not the most beautiful city in the world, it is generally safe and has a lot to offer tourists. ___________Sights Edit This SIGHTS [Add Sight] Mount Chirripo Edit This This mountain is not volcanic but on a clear day, you can see both the Atlantic and Pacific ocean from the top. type: Landmarks World66 rating: [rate it] _________History Edit This san jose, city san jose, city erick cabalceta Unlike many of their Central American neighbors present-day Costa Ricans are largely of European rather than mestizo descent; Spain was the primary country of origin. Few of the native Indians survived European contact; the indigenous population today numbers about 29 000 or 1% of the population. Descendants of 19th century Jamaican immigrant workers constitute an English-speaking minority and--at 3% of the population--number about 96 000. In 1502 on his fourth and last voyage to the New World Christopher Columbus made the first European landfall in the area. Settlement of Costa Rica began in 1522. For nearly three centuries Spain administered the region as part of the Captaincy General of Guatemala under a military Governor. The Spanish optimistically called the country "Rich Coast." Finding little gold or other valuable minerals in Costa Rica however the Spanish turned to agriculture. The small landowners' relative poverty the lack of a large indigenous labor force the population's ethnic and linguistic homogeneity and Costa Rica's isolation from the Spanish colonial centers in Mexico and the Andes all contributed to the development of an autonomous and individualistic agrarian society. An egalitarian tradition also arose; this tradition survived the widened class distinctions brought on by the 19th century introduction of banana and coffee cultivation and consequent accumulations of wealth. In 1821 Costa Rica joined other Central American provinces in a joint declaration of independence from Spain. Although the newly independent provinces formed a Federation border disputes broke out among them adding to the region's turbulent history and conditions. Costa Rica's northern Guanacaste Province was annexed from Nicaragua in one such regional dispute. In 1838 long after the Central American Federation ceased to function in practice Costa Rica formally withdrew and proclaimed itself sovereign. An era of peaceful democracy in Costa Rica began in 1899 with elections considered the first truly free and honest ones in the country's history. This began a trend continued until today with only two lapses: in 1917-19 Federico Tinoco ruled as a dictator and in 1948 Jose Figueres led an armed uprising in the wake of a disputed presidential election. With more than 2 000 dead the 44-day civil war resulting from this uprising was the bloodiest event in 20th century Costa Rican history but the victorious junta drafted a constitution guaranteeing free elections with universal suffrage and the abolition of the army. Figueres became a national hero winning the first election under the new constitution in 1953. Since then Costa Rica has held 11 presidential elections the latest in 1998. __________Practical Information Edit This Currency The local currency is the Costa Rican Colon (CRC) Display all or display just: Embassies and Consulates Tourist information general Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Practical address] Communications Edit This Direct-dial telephone service, facsimile, telex, radio and cable television are all available. Bilingual operator assistance for international calls is - 116, local information - 113, long distance information - 124. Your US or Canadian cell phone will generally not work in Costa Rica and when it does the service is spotty and can cost you up to $5 a min. However, you can rent local cell phones from companies like Paradise Cellular which provides great rates and even donates part of your payment to conservation groups within the country. type: Tourist information World66 rating: [rate it] Airport tax Edit This On the day of departure, travelers must be at the airport about two hours before the time your flight is scheduled to leave. There is a departure tax of US$26.00. A planned entry tax of US$15.00 per person is expected to be applied at the airports according to Tourism Minister Carlos Benavides that is intended to replace an existing 3% hotel tourist tax. type: Embassies and Consulates World66 rating: [rate it] zipcode: 10000 address: San Jose, Costa Rica tel: 506 291 5764 email: info@tourism-costarica.com Time Zone Edit This Costa Rica is the same as U.S. central standard time, but does not observe daylight savings time. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Tipping Edit This A 10% tip in a restaurant is appropriate but most restaurants will add it to your bill so read your bill before paying a tip. Taxi drivers generally do not receive a tip. Generally, in the city the taxes are included at restaurants. On the beach or other very turisty areas, they will not. type: Embassies and Consulates World66 rating: [rate it] Churches Edit This Like all Latin American countries, Costa Rica is predominantly Catholic, but other denominations are found throughout the country. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Rain Jacket Edit This Pack light for your travels. The highland areas can be very cold, so pack a sweater if you are going there. For the lowland areas light, loose-fitting shirts and pants are essential. A widebrimmed hat and sunglasses are recommended for the beach type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Hospitals Edit This Heath care in Costa Rica is very good and sanitary standards are high. First class hospitals are found throughout San José and some of the other largely populated areas. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Language Edit This Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas throughout the country. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Taxes Edit This There is a 13% sales tax at hotels, restaurants and most service industries, and an additional 3% tourist tax at hotels. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Water Edit This The water is safe to drink in all areas of the country. Nevertheless we suggest you to buy bottled water for drinking type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Business hours Edit This Government offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Commercial offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Stores and other businesses from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Banking Edit This Banks are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and do not close for lunch. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Costa Rica Travel Supplier Directory Edit This General information to help plan a better trip, country`s weather and what to pack currency, getting their, customs, visas & vaccinations, culture, wildlife and other tools to help prepare your vacation. type: Tourist information World66 rating: [rate it] email: editor@southamericatour.net address: 6 de Diciembre y el Telegrafo, Edif. Garcia Ayala, 2do piso Suite 402 url: Costa Rica Travel Directory and Tour Supplier Index" rel="nofollow"> __________Getting Around Edit This Real State Contributors November 01, 2004 new by fcofrias [Add Local transport mode] Manfred Meier Edit This Here I found this great bus schedule information side www.thebusschedule.com . There is a Nicaragua section too. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 0424233 address: Stans Switzerland email: aulestia@yahoo.com ____________Getting There Edit This [Add Global transport mode] By Air Edit This The Costa Rican national airline is Lineas Aéras Costarricenses LACSA (LR). LACSA flies direct to Costa Rica from Miami, New Orleans, Los Angeles, New York, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela and Panama. For routes via the USA a change of plane is necessary. Flights with one or two stops which do not go via the USA are available from Iberia in Madrid and KLM in Amsterdam. there are now directo flights from Spain offered by Iberia and Air Madrid, a new low-cost carrier. The Visit Central America Pass is available from LACSA and is an economical way to travel to Costa more.. type: By Air World66 rating: [rate it] Road Edit This The Inter-American Highway runs through Costa Rica from La Cruz on the Nicaraguan border through San José to Progreso on the Panamanian border. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Sea Edit This Lauro Lines run regular services to Puerto Limón from the Mediterranean (Genoa Barcelona). Costa Lines run cruises which call at Puntarenas. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] __________Economy Edit This Economy—overview: Costa Rica's basically stable and progressive economy depends especially on tourism and the export of bananas, coffee and other agricultural products. Poverty has been substantially reduced over the past 15 years and a strong social safety net has been put in place. Recent trends however have been disappointing. Economic growth slipped from 4.3% in 1994 to 2.5% in 1995 and to 0.9% in 1996 and then rebounded in 1997 to 3%. Inflation rose to 22.5% in 1995 from 13.5% in 1994 receded to 17.5% in 1996 then dropped to 11.2% in 1997. Unemployment appears moderate at 5.7% but substantial underemployment continues. Furthermore substantial government deficits have undermined efforts to maintain the quality of social services. The government thus faces a formidable set of problems: to curb inflation reduce the deficit encourage domestic savings and improve public sector efficiency while increasing the role of the private sector all this in harmony with IMF agreements. One important positive development—the infusion of more than $200 million in 1997 by microchip giant Intel and the anticipated attraction of other high-tech firms to Costa Rica will help stimulate growth and employment over the next several years. GDP: purchasing power parity—$19.6 billion (1997 est.) GDP—real growth rate: 3% (1997 est.) GDP—per capita: purchasing power parity—$5 500 (1997 est.) GDP—composition by sector: agriculture: 18% industry: 24% services: 58% (1995) Inflation rate—consumer price Labor force: total: 868 300 by occupation: industry and commerce 35.1% government and services 33% agriculture 27% other 4.9% (1985 est.) Unemployment rate: 5.7% (1997 est.); much underemployment Budget: revenues: $1.1 billion expenditures: $1.34 billion including capital expenditures of $110 million (1991 est.) Industries: food processing textiles and clothing construction materials fertilizer plastic products Industrial production growth rate: 10.5% (1992) Electricity—capacity: 1.094 million kW (1995) Electricity—production: 4.53 billion kWh (1995) Electricity—consumption per capita: 1 323 kWh (1995) Agriculture—products: coffee bananas sugar corn rice beans potatoes; beef; timber (depletion of forest resources has resulted in declining timber output) Exports: total value: $2.9 billion (f.o.b. 1996) commodities: coffee bananas textiles sugar partners: US Germany Italy Guatemala El Salvador Netherlands UK France Imports: total value: $3.4 billion (c.i.f. 1996) commodities: raw materials consumer goods capital equipment petroleum partners: US Japan Mexico Guatemala Venezuela Germany Debt—external: $3.2 billion (October 1996 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA $NA Currency: 1 Costa Rican colon (C) = 100 centimos Exchange rates: Costa Rican colones (C) per US$1—243.55 (December 1997) 232.60 (1997) 207.69 (1996) 179.73 (1995) 157.07 (1994) 142.17 (1993) Fiscal year: calendar year __________Geography Edit This Costa Rica is situated to the south on the Central American land bridge between Nicaragua and Panama. It is roughly the size of the state of West Virginia, or roughly a bit larger than the county of Los Angeles. At it’s widest point it is not quite 170 miles and at it’s narrowest just under 80 miles. The country contains a mountain range that stretches from the northwest border of Nicaragua all the way down the center and on into Panama. At it’s highest point, Mount Chirripo, it reaches up to nearly 13,000 feet. The Central Plateau sits right in the middle of the country at a height of about 3,200 feet. On the Pacific side there are two prominent peninsulas. The larger and northern of the two is Nicoya with a large gulf of the same name. The Osa Peninsula is south, almost on the border of Panama, and also has a gulf but it’s name is Dulce. An interesting geographical feature of the Gulfo Dulce is that at its farthest point from the ocean it drops straight down over 750 feet. It is one of the few places on earth that you find the really jumbo shrimp. On the Carribean side, the northern area of Tortuguero is basically a big, lowland jungle with canals and waterways snaking their way throughout. Population:4,133,884 Capital:San Jose __________National Parks Edit This [Add New] Monteverde cloud forest reserve Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Corcovado National Park Edit This This national park is home to more than 400 species of birds and more than a hundred species each of amphibians and mammals and spans more than 40,000 hectares of protected land. Several habitats can be found inside its borders including montane and mangrove. Corcovado Park is the crown Jewel of the Costa Rican park sysem. It's hard to get to the best part of the park,Sirena (means mermaid, but is the ranger station in the center of the park), but it is well worth it. You want at least 3 days to do Corcovado park right, unless you can afford $250 to fly in and more.. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] email: osatomcr@yahoo.com address: Apartado #9, Pt. Jimenez Manuel antonio national park Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Tortuguero National Park Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Curú National Park Edit This Location Curú National Wildlife Refuge is located in the south of Nicoya Peninsula. This place has captured the fancy of many nature lovers. There is a provision of 36 beds, although the cabins are meant primarily for researchers and students. Quality The refuge sports the feel of being cut-off from the mainland. The refuge is just 5% of the total 1214-hectare property. Almost 75% of the land is declared to be a forest, the rest 20% of the land is used for agriculture and cattle raising. The status of refuge was accorded in more.. World66 rating: [rate it] Santa Rosa National Park Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Rincón de la Vieja National Park Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Cocos island national park Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] Cahuita National Park & Puerto Viejo Edit This type: general World66 rating: [rate it] __________Health Before setting off, you might want to check the illnesses described below that occur here. The information is from the CDC and should be pretty accurate, but if you really think you have something, go see a doctor. If you're not sure where to find good medical attention, check with a the nearest international hotel, they are usually in the know (though the facilities they refer to might charge you a little bit more) Rabies A dangerous and possible deadly disease, can be contracted from a wild animal to a human w/ a single bite. Please when visiting do not touch animals that do not seem tamed. [more] Typhoid A very stong course of anti-biotics will wipe it out. After getting typhoid I was very weak for at least 3 months after the anti-biotic course. There is a vaccine that is good for three years. If you consume a large dose of typhoid there is a good chance of getting it regardless of the vaccine. [more] a ids As a physician in Belize and had Dengue myself. Ibuprofen works well for the fever and aches, and, in my opinion, is not a risk for hemmorhagic fever (which has never been seen in Belize, as far as I know). [more] ___________Day Trips Edit This For Day Trips and vacation packages around Costa Rica the most common way to make reservations is throught the different travel agents aproved by the Costa Rica Tourist board or throught the recepcionists of the different hotels. If you are interested in a Multi day vacation package to Costa Rica the best way is to use a recommended tour operator from Costa Rica. The biggest ground tour consolidator is Expediciones Tropicales wich has been in operation for more than 15 years. Expediciones Tropicales works in cooperation with costaricaguides phone in the u.s 1-877-281-8515 in Costa Rica 506-2257-4171. _________Things to do Edit This i Display all or display just: Cycling Diving Going to the Beach Land Activities Other Water Activities Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Activity] Scuba Diving in Manuel Antonio/Quepos Edit This P Pacific coast diving is awesome. You can learn to dive, advance your skills with loads of different courses or just come fun bubbling. Lots of wildlife, plenty of white tip reef sharks, rays and eels. Always big schools of jacks and surgeons. Its pretty much year round but vis is most reliable between december and may. If you want something thats a little bit more adventurous scuba diving is it! Kids can start with special adventure programs from as young as 8. If scuba may be a little too much adrenaline then, Snorkelling tours are great for the whole family as well with more.. type: Diving World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.oceansunlimitedcr.com address: Road between Manuel Antonio and Quepos email: info@oceansunlimitedcr.com Surfing Edit This Surfers love Costa Rica! From anywhere in the country, the warm surf is only a few hours away. There are river mouth breaks, beach breaks, reef and, the experts say, one of the longest left hand curls in the world. Almost constant, manageable wave action means no long waits to hop on your board. There are lodges catering to surfers, 4-wheel-drive vehicles to access the most remote beaches - even charter airplanes to accommodation your board-. No wonder the surf magazines are targeting Costa Rica as a world surfing hot spot. type: Water Activities World66 rating: [rate it] Country Bicycling Edit This The country bicycling tours in Costa Rica have been designed in the Orosi valley, an area that gives novice and experienced cyclists alike the chance to enjoy stunning mountain panoramas, fertile valleys with a large diversity of crops and historical sites with minimal ups and downs, making this region of Costa Rica suitable for anybody in average shape to be able to complete this 10 mile route in a relaxing unhurried pace. A support van follows the tour and allows any participant the option of resting anywhere along the trip. type: Going to the Beach World66 rating: [rate it] Sea kayaking Edit This Good arms and a strong back will help you practice this sport. Offered up and down the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, sea kayaking is very popular. When the waves are rolling and easy, it provides a great way to travel quietly to estuaries and mangroves for up close and personal viewing of wildlife. And when the waves begin to pound, it provides exhilarating sport for those with a penchant for wet fun. type: Water Activities World66 rating: [rate it] Caves’ exploration Edit This At Barra Honda National Park (Guanacaste province) and Venado Caves (Alajuela province), an extensive system of limestone caverns are protected. However, to enter them it is necessary to receive special advance permission from the Park Service and there are many daily tours leaving from the main hotels near both places. type: Land Activities World66 rating: [rate it] Sky-diving (Parachuting) Edit This Though sky-diving is a relatively new activity in Costa Rica, the enthusiasm of high-adventurers has developed one of the most exciting sports in the setting of one of the capitals of ecology. In Costa Rica, there is space, equipment and spirit needed to make parachuting a major attraction. It’s been 200 years since André-Jacques Garnerin became the first person to jump with a parachute from 6500 feet over Paris. The shapes and materials of parachutes have changed ever since, but not the passion that makes men and women plunge into the wide open space to feel a more.. type: Land Activities World66 rating: [rate it] Windsurfing Edit This i This world-class sport has not lost any of its impetus as it’s grown in popularity. Those with a penchant for speed and water will not be disappointed when they take on winds of 30 to 45 miles per hour on Arenal Lake. This man-made lake is found in the area of Tilarán. Framed by low green ridges, the blue lake is a Mecca for those with a need for speed. Experienced local hotels and operators run their businesses on the lakeside and provide quality equipment as well as comfortable accommodation for those who don’t want to be too far away from the action. Lodges are more.. type: Water Activities World66 rating: [rate it] Kayaking Edit This Whitewater kayaking is a favorite sport and Costa Rica has hosted more than one international tournament. Ocean kayaking is also rapidly gaining devotees because just about anyone can handle it after a few lessons. type: Going to the Beach World66 rating: [rate it] Mountain biking Edit This Claimed to be one of the world’s fastest growing sports, mountain biking in Costa Rica is gaining ground in popularity. It is offered in a number of areas in the country but perhaps better suited for the area of Tilarán. The Inn at Coyote Mountain in the Tilarán Mountains offers mountain bikes for guests. Local operators are currently expanding their operations and have begun developing several biking routes for die-hard enthusiasts who want to sweat and work it when on their bikes. While there are routes that take as long as six-hours to complete there are also more more.. type: Cycling World66 rating: [rate it] Study Spanish in Manuel Antonio Edit This EL Paraiso Spanish School We are a school of Spanish immersion, located in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica and also in the beautiful islands of Bocas Del Toro , Panama . We offer various academic programs, such as Spanish only, Spanish and Surf, Spanish and Scuba Dive, Spanish and Volunteer. In Bocas Del Toro we are located in the main town of Bocas on isla Colon , on a quiet street just 2 streets over from the main street and therefore conveniently located to everything in Bocas. We offer classes from a complete beginner through intermediate to more.. type: Going to the Beach World66 rating: [rate it] accessibility: easy tel: 506-887-9310 url: www.elparaisoschool.com address: Km 1, via Manuel Antonio email: escuela@elparaisoschool.com Horseback riding Edit This Horseback riding in Costa Rica can take you along beaches, at the edge of country roads, through pastures and along forest trails. Riding is great fun - once you get used to the different saddle, stirrups and neck-rein steering-. Although not strictly necessary, a little equestrian experience will stand you in good stead since ranch horses are usually rounded up for trail duty. Lessons on how to control your mount and special assistance should be requested (if it is not offered) before setting out on any trail ride. type: Land Activities World66 rating: [rate it] Trekking Edit This Costa Rica’s National Parks are ideal for trekking, although you definitely need a guide if you plan to venture away from well-marked trails. It’s all too easy to get lost in the rainforest, where everything looks the same. Overnight treks can be arranged through local outfitters and a climb up Mount Chirripó is highly recommended for those in good physical condition. type: Land Activities World66 rating: [rate it] Scuba Diving in Manuel Antonio/Quepos Edit This P Pacific coast diving is awesome. You can learn to dive, advance your skills with loads of different courses or just come fun bubbling. Lots of wildlife, plenty of white tip reef sharks, rays and eels. Always big schools of jacks and surgeons. Its pretty much year round but vis is most reliable between december and may. If you want something thats a little bit more adventurous scuba diving is it! Kids can start with special adventure programs from as young as 8. If scuba may be a little too much adrenaline then, Snorkelling tours are great for the whole family as well with more.. type: Diving World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.oceansunlimitedcr.com address: Road between Manuel Antonio and Quepos email: info@oceansunlimitedcr.com Study Spanish Edit This El Paraiso Spanish School - www.elparaisoschool.com We are a school of Spanish immersion, located in Manuel Antonio-Costa Rica and also in the beautiful islands of Bocas Del Toro-Panama . We offer various academic programs, such as Spanish only, Spanish and Surf, Spanish and Scuba Dive, Spanish and Volunteer. In Bocas Del Toro we are located in the main town of Bocas on isla Colon , on a quiet street just 2 streets over from the main street and therefore conveniently located to everything in Bocas. We offer classes from a complete more.. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 507-757-9338 url: www.elparaisoschool.com address: Isla Colon email: escuela@elparaisoschool.com :::::::::::: Arenal Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Volcan Arenal Volcan Arenal David Dennis - www.GoTraveLit.com Great place to visit volcanoes. The Arenal Volcano is the only volcano in Costa Rica constantly active since it woke up after 400 years with the big 1968 eruption producing huge ash columns, explosions & glowing red lava almost every day. One of the greatest things in Arenal is the Tabacon hot springs. Nestled in the rain forest is a little oasis complete with hot baths, massages, and great food. It's a must. Many people choose to stay at the Tabacon resort when visiting Arenal. While this is convenient to the spa, there are many other places nearby that offer similar quality rooms for much less. :::::::::Cahuita Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Cahuita School Parade Cahuita School Parade Willie's Tours Cahuita is a predominently Afro-Caribbean community in the region of Talamanca. Set on the Caribbean coast it is a fairly quiet village which borders with one of Costa Rica's nicest National Parks. The white and black sand beaches, sloths, monkeys and ease of access make Cahuita National Park an ideal day trip from anywhere in the region. Entering on the Cahuita side you are asked for a donation, be as generous as you can since it is this money, after all, which helps in the conservation of the park. This is also a nesting site for the huge leatherback turtle. ::::::::Cartago Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see x Basillica at Cartago Cartago is the old capital of Costa Rica and offers some impressive ruins to see, dating back all the way to the 16th century. It is also the home of a beautiful church dedicated to the Our Lady of Angels. Here you will also find a statue of Costa Rica's Patron Saint La Negrita or the Black Virgin ::::::::::: Chirripo Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Chirripo national park is a top highlight in the south of costa rica. Some 150 km from San Jose. It includes the highest mountain of the country and some spectacular hikes - including one all the way to the top. It is 20km long with 2400m-elevation gain. The route is well marked and accessible to the average outdoor enthusiast. In Mrach there is the annual Chirripó marathon, where runners try to go to the top as fast as they can. The towns of San Isidro de Perez Zeledon and San Gerardo de Rivas are good starting points for a visit. The former is bigger and has more facilities the latter closer to the entrance of the park, but it is very small. :::::::::Ciudad Quesada Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Church Church Danny Quesada is the agricultural capital of the north of Costa Rica. From San Jose you can visit Quesada on a daytrip and you can even combine it with some coffee towns, Aguas Zarcas and the eastern side of Poas, Heredia and La Paz Waterfalls. Quesada is indeed famous for its cheese, although the name does not come from the word queso, but derives from the poet Napoleon Quesada. There are several hot springs in the Area and you can make some interesting hikes and even do canoe tours on the lakes. ::::::::::Corcovado Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Corcovado National Park is home to more than 400 species of birds and more than a hundred species each of amphibians and mammals and spans more than 40,000 hectares of protected land. Several habitats can be found inside its borders including montane and mangrove. Corcovado Park is the crown Jewel of the Costa Rican park sysem. It is hard to get to the best part of the park,Sirena ( means mermaid, but is the ranger station in the center of the park), but it is well worth it. You want at least 3 days to do Corcovado park right, unless you can afford $250 to fly in and save the hours hiking and the two hours in a taxi. In Sirena rent the pango ( little hand made boat, made from a tree ) and paddle it up river, it is your best change to see a tapir up close. At night go to the river mouth at high tide to see all the sharks and crocodiles in the river mouth. Cocovado has a sister park called Piedras Blancas Park, it use to be part of Corcovado but they have since made it into its own park. One of the best ways to see Piedras Blancas Park is with Escondido Trex, a kayaking tour company out of Pt. Jimenez. www.escondidotrex.com . They offer 2-6 night tours by kayak around the Gulfo Dulce ( Costa Rica's best flat water kayaking from budget for campers to deluxe where you stay at luxury lodges only accessible by boat). They also have an amazing day tour to visit the park and stop by a animal rehabilitation center in the center of the park where it is only boat accessible :::::::::::Golfito Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Golfito is located on the Golfo Dulce in the southern half of the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. The area offers access to the Corcovado National Park, nice beaches and some interesting wildlife spotting opportunities. It is nowhere near where these people have located it on the map which portrays it as being on the Golfo Nicoya. :::::::La Fortuna - Arenal Volcano Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see www.arenalvolcano.com www.arenalvolcano.com Arenal Volcano is located near La Fortuna, Costa Rica. This is the volcano with most activity in Costa Rica. In the area around are many attractions and tours available for tourists like birdwatching, hiking, rafting, canopy tours, hanging bridges, waterfalls, rain forest, caves and more. A few hours from Monteverde Cloud Forest and beaches you can enjoy. :::::::Liberia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Liberia is the capital of the Guanacaste region in the North West of the country. Known as 'the white city' due to the white adobe houses, Liberia still has some buildings remaining in the colonial style. Liberia is expanding as a business center due to the increase of tourism afforded by new developments along the coast, accompanied by increased air traffic as more and more flights land at the Liberia International Airport. :::::::::Limon Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Bats on Palm Tree during boat trip near Limon Bats on Palm Tree during boat trip near Limon Jack Sellards Puerto Limon is the country's most important port. It was built on the site of an old Indian village called Cariari. At this place actually Columbus landed on his last voyage to this continent.Many travelers bypass Limón completely -- the beaches to the south beckon, after all -- but the city deserves a look. Christopher Columbus first set foot here in 1502. You can, too! Most of the habitants of the city are black. Visitors should see the palm promenade and tropical flowers of the Parque Vargas. As you are in the Caribbean you should take part in Limon's nightlife, but beware of strolling around alone at night. Limon is also a good base to to some interesting trips to some of Costa Rica's natural parks. Visit the Cahuita National Park & Puerto Viejo, the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. If you are into sports go biking or snorkeling in Punta Uva Hitoy-Cerere Biological Reserve. All in all, many travelers bypass Limón completely the beaches to the south, but the city deserves a look. ::::::::::Manuel Antonio Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Jungle The Jungle Masha Manuel Antonio National Park is a one of the nicest nature reserves of Costa Rica and that is saying a lot. The tropical rain forest continues right to the white sand beaches. Add some monkeys, parrots, toucans, three-toed sloths, more than 350 different birds and you have a small nature lovers paradise. There are good walking trails through the jungle so all of this is easy to find. The beaches are really nice and you can rent equipment to surf or dive in the village. The park is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday except Mondays. Admission is about $8 U.S. dollars __________Practical Information Edit This Manuel Antonio is limited as to the amount of visitors that are allowed in per day, so it can be nicely secluded. That said, the beaches are popular and can get busy. there aren't many picnic tables, so bring a beach blanket! You cannot buy ANYTHING in the park, so remember to bring plenty of water and whatever else you think you will need. You can buy most "beach" stuff along the "strip" that runs through the town just before you get to the park. Don't plan to buy any fresh produce along the "strip" however - it isn't available (although you can get as many exotic-wood hash pipes as you think you will need...) Decent groceries must be purchased at the superercado back towards Quepos. ____________Things to do Edit This i There are really fun adventures to do while in Manuel Antonio. Some of the activites are; River Rafting on the Savegre , Kayaking the coast, Canopy Zip Lines, horseback riding, nature hikes, Diving and snorkeling. Contributors April 12, 2006 change by giorgio (4 points) [Add Activity] Scuba and snorkelling in Quepos/Manuel Antonio Edit This Pacific coast diving is awesome. You can learn to dive, advance your skills with loads of different courses or just come fun bubbling. Lots of wildlife, plenty of white tip reef sharks, rays and eels. Always big schools of jacks and surgeons. Its pretty much year round but vis is most reliable between december and may. If you want something thats a little bit more adventurous scuba diving is it! Kids can start with special adventure programs from as young as 8. If scuba may be a little too much adrenaline then, Snorkelling tours are great for the whole family as well with such more.. type: Diving World66 rating: [rate it] tel: (506)7773171 url: www.oceansunlimitedcr.com email: info@oceansunlimitedcr.com :::::::::Monteverde Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Hotel at Day Hotel at Day Grace Chen Monteverde is famous for its two not-for-profit Cloud Forest Reserves offering more than 24 km of well maintained trails: the Monteverde Preserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. The growing numbers of visitors stimulated the imagination of local eco-entrepreneurs and there is now several interesting secondary activities such as various Canopy Tours, The Bat Jungle, Butterfly Garden, Frog Pond, etc. to choose from for an extended stay. The area is easily accessible thanks to taxi / boat / taxi shortcuts from the Arenal Volcano and several daily shuttles, private transfer, public buses and lodging possibilities from backpacker's dream to plush Honeymoon Suites overlooking the surrounding forest covered mountains & the Gulf of Nicoya on the Pacific slope. ::::::::::Montezuma Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo Montezuma is a small village inhabited by strange folks. You can buy some fish off the local fishermen and grill it on the beach with the hippies. Or you can get stoned with the hippies. Or talk to them. It's up to you...... Since 2005 there is even an atm there. But it is well-known for good surfing and very mellow vibe. ::::::::::Osa Peninsula Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Osa Peninsula is located in the southwest corner of Costa Rica, a region a bit off the tourist track. The region has lush primary rain forests and a complex system of freshwater and marine resources. With an assisted land acquisition of 86,485 acres in 1975, The Nature Conservancy helped the Costa Rican government create the more than 100,000 acre Corcovado National Park on the western part of the peninsula. In 2000, The Nature Conservancy renewed efforts in the Osa Peninsula after identifying the region as a priority site. :::::::::Pacuare Protected Zone Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Pacuare River canyon Pacuare River canyon In the Atlantic region of Costa Rica there is a protected zone of stunning beauty that begins near the town of Siquirres and covers approximately 25,000 acres as it descends down the Talamanca Mountain Range. This is the area known as Pacuare, which makes up one of the most important protected areas in the region. Its proximity to the lowlands and its high annual rainfall combine to nurture the complex life systems whose abundance makes for extraordinary scenic beauty. The Pacuare River, located within this zone, offers some of the finest white water in Latin America. Officially designated a “Wild and Scenic River,” the water flows deep inside remarkable primordial rainforest, coursing through a wilderness of dense vegetation that covers the sides of steep gorges rising above the riverbanks. The rainforest’s thick undergrowth provides shelter to jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and numerous other species of mammals and birds. It takes about two and a half hours of driving to reach this area from San José , better enjoyed as part of a rafting adventure down the Pacuare River with stay in a jungle lodge. ::::::::::Playa Flamingo Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Playa Flamingo Playa Flamingo Playa Flamingo has a nice beach and some nice hotels. Nightlife is pretty good too. In Playa Flamingo you can rent diving gear or book a tour such as river rafting on the Coricibi River, boating on the Tempisque, visiting the Tamarindo Mangroves. ::::::::Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see jungle around manzanillo next to p.v. jungle around manzanillo next to p.v. PV is situated in the South Caribbean of Costa Rica. It is a reggae town with a number of activities from chilling and taking in the atmosphere to surfing at the Salsa Brava beach, hiking through the forests at Manzanillo and Cahuita, witnessing the great raptor migration in October/November from Kekoldi, seeing nesting marine turtles in nearby Playa Negra or Gandoca, or arranging trips a little further on such as to Yorkin. ::::::::Quepos Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo Puerto Quepos is located close to Manuel Antonio. The main reason to come are the beaches and the rainforest. The village is filled with restaurants, bars, hotels, bakeries, art galleries and gift shops. Best time to come is from December to April, with a special notice for February when the Festival del Mar is held. ::::::::Samara Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The small beach town Samara is located in the Guanacaste province. Samara is a popular tourist destination by families, because this is a good beach for swimming. All the roads on the way from San Jose to Samara are paved. :::::::::Santa Cruz Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Santa Cruz is located in the Tamarindo area, on the North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, one of the best places to go for secluded beaches. The city itself lies inland but it a good starting point for tours in the region. :::::::::Talamanca Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Canton de Talamanca in the province of Limon is the Southern Caribbean zone of C. Rica. It has 3% of the world´s Biodiversity and is, culturally, the richest part of the country with three different indigenous groups, afro-caribbeans and campesinos (Spanish-speaking farmers). There are some great beaches such as Cahuita and Pta Uva, some great jungle walks amongst which are the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge or Cahuita National Park, nesting turtles, the world´s 2nd most important site for Raptor migrations (around 3 million in the autumn season), remote communities such as Yorkin and even the party town of Pto. Viejo. It is also a place with a lot sustainable development projects, and an increasing interest and care for the environment from the local and imigrant populations. This is a place where one can bum on a beach, surf, party, hike, get interesting cultural experiences, see dolphins, sloths, monkeys, turtles, crocs, snakes, raptors, and even, if you´re really lucky manatees or jaguars. ::::::: Tamarindo Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Internet Cafe del Mar Internet Cafe del Mar Located on the north of the pacific coast, Tamarindo is a good place to do a Mangrove tour. The Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge consists of mangrove forest and tropical dry forest in an area of almost 400 hectares. There is abundant wildlife - including dozens of bird species and three species of monkeys. _____Practical Information Edit This The local phone company is unable to provide an accurate listing of phone numbers. So a local business has taken on the job of collecting phone numbers and publishing them in an attractive. If your hotel doesn't provide one, you can pick one up at Mr. Tom's Office Supplies. The information in the phone book is also published on-line at http://www.tamarindo-directory.com. ::::::::Tambor Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Tambor is set in the valley of a large and calm horseshoe bay: the Bahia Ballena which means whale bay in English. During dry season these giants of the seas used to come into the bay. Nowadays with the increased coastal activity whales prefer to stay further offshore. The valley of Tambor is cradled by lush forested hills which belong to the Biological corridor in Costa Rica. The northern side of the bay is close to the Curu Wildlife Reserve which protects various ecological habitats with a wealth of wildlife. It is fronted by the Islas Tortugas, a tropical island paradise which can be visited by boat from Tambor. The volcanic history of the sand makes for a grey-colored beach which slopes gently into the bay. The shallow waters are exceedingly calm and offer excellent swimming for even the most timid of bathers. Tambor is a perfect holiday destination for families with kids. The beach is comfortably accessed with a car and shaded by old almendro trees and palms. Low tide produces a broad expanse of fine sand which easily accommodates teams of volleyball and soccer along with children building sand castles and couples on their honeymoon. Hotels in Tambor are often oceanside or within easy walking distance to the beach. The village is very small and has preserved a somnolent, laid-back atmosphere. However, four kms north of the village of Tambor is Costa Rica's first and only all-inclusive resort, which nowadays many tourists might mistake for Tambor. The hotel also contains a casino and discotheque and an associated country club offers a golf course. Tambor also hosts the only airport of the whole Southern Nicoya Peninsula, which serves several flights per day to Costa Rica's capital San José. One km south of the village is a small fishermen community and the pier of Tambor. The bay of Tambor offers one of the few safe anchorages at the pacific side of Costa Rica. From the pier you can get on a sport fishing tour or go for a hike around the western tip of the Tambor bay to discover a series of pristine beaches. ::::::::::Tortuga island Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see View from a boat View from a boat Tortuga is a beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea. It is famous for its white sands. Tortuga also offers a beautiful flora and fauna. Tortuga Island is a good example for ecological sustainable development projects. Many visitors book with Calypso Tours and their yacht, the Manta Ray to explore the islands. This is definitely one of the most beautiful islands in the world. |
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Questo articolo è rilasciato sotto i termini della
GNU Free Documentation License Esso utilizza materiale tratto da http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Costa_Rica Cronologia/Autori: http://it.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Costa_Rica&action=history Costa RicaDa Wikipedia, l'enciclopedia libera.
La Repubblica del Costa Rica è una nazione (51.100 km², 3.835.000 abitanti, capitale San José) dell'America centrale istmica. Terra di foreste, vulcani, spiagge, natura incontaminata, paradiso delle biodiversità, è uno dei pochi luoghi del nostro pianeta dove la natura e gli ecosistemi non hanno ancora subito l'aggressione dell'uomo. Il Costa Rica è situato fra gli 8° 03’ e gli 11 ° 13’ di latitudine nord e gli 82° 32’ e gli 85° 57’, di longitudine ovest. Includendo l'area insulare (Isola del Coco) vanta una superficie di 51.100 chilometri quadrati. È uno degli stati più piccoli del Centro America Insieme al Belize e a El Salvador. Confina a
Le coste si estendono per 1.228 km, dei quali 1.016 si affacciano sul versante del Pacifico e 212 km sul Mare dei Caraibi. La costa pacifica è caratterizzata da numerosi promontori e penisole che danno luogo a golfi e baie, spiagge di sabbia bianca che hanno favorito l'installazione, seppure in maniera non aggressiva per l'ambiente, di infrastrutture turistiche. La costa atlantica, al contrario, sebbene sia più regolare, è meno adatta allo sviluppo del turismo balneare. Il Costa Rica è una repubblica presidenziale. La lingua ufficiale è quella spagnola.
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StoriaL'origine della colonizzazione umana del Costa Rica risale probabilmente al periodo delle glaciazioni del Pleistocene, quando probabilmente lo Stretto di Bering si congelò e iniziarono le prime migrazioni provenienti dal continente eurasiatico. I primi abitanti si dedicavano alla caccia e alla pesca e alla raccolta dei frutti, ma ben presto si andarono sviluppando due tipi di agricultura di sussistenza: la prima basata sulla coltivazioni dei tuberi (yucca) e l'altra, che prevalse nell'area centroamericana, basata sulla coltivazione del mais e dei fagioli. Grazie a questo tipo di coltivazioni fioriscono nel continente americano le due grandi civiltà Maya e Azteca (Messico, Guatemala) e Inca (Perù).
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La scopertaViene scoperta da
Cristoforo Colombo nel
1502, che la
chiama Costa Rica y Castillo de Oro.
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Colonia spagnolaLo sviluppo della regione fu ritardato da una cattiva amministrazione e
dalla rivalità tra
Spagna e
Inghilterra.
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IndipendenzaNel 1821 il
Costa Rica si proclamò indipendente e nel
1823 entrò a far
parte della
Repubblica Federale dell'America Centrale, uscendone nel
1838.
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Storia modernaNel 1910 si aprì un periodo di tensione con il Panamá, a causa dei confini tra i due paesi: la definizione definitiva avvenne solo nel 1944. Dopo la seconda guerra mondiale, a cui aveva partecipato contro il Tripartito, con un colpo di stato salì al potere J. Figueres (1948-1949), il quale come primo atto abolisce l'esercito: finora è l'unico caso al mondo. Nel 1953 Figueres viene eletto presidente; nel 1955 avvengono gravi scontri di frontiera con il Nicaragua: l'intervento dell'OAS portò alla ricomposizione dei rapporti diplomatici tra i due paesi (febbraio 1955).
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Storia contemporaneaNel 1986 viene eletto presidente O. Arias Sánchez, che vara un piano di pace centroamericano. Riceverà per questo il Premio Nobel per la pace. Oscar Arias è stato rieletto presidente, a 20 anni dal suo primo mandato, nelle elezioni celebratesi il 5 febbraio 2006.
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Geografia
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Geografia fisicaIl territorio è percorso da una cordigliera che separa i due versanti,
caraibico e pacifico, che comunque comunicano agevolmente grazie a solchi
trasversali.
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MorfologiaLa basilica di Cartago Il Costa Rica è in gran parte montuoso e corrisponde strutturalmente alla
dorsale istmica, bordata su entrambi i versanti da pianure costiere.
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Idrografia
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FiumiIl sistema idrografico nazionale è formato da fiumi brevi, ma di portata relativamente elevata; i maggiori corsi d'acqua sono in parte navigabili.
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ClimaLa sua posizione geografica (tra gli 8° e gli 11° di latitudine nord), dà al Costa Rica un clima caldo e umido; le precipitazioni sono abbondanti, grazie all'aliseo di N-E, praticamente quotidiane sul versante atlantico (4.000 mm annui), meno frequenti su quello pacifico, con un'alternanza di stagioni (piovosa da giugno a novembre, secca da dicembre a maggio). Le temperature sono uniformemente elevate, con medie annue di 26°-29° C. Nella parte interna il clima è condizionato dall'altitudine: tra gli 800 e i 1.600 m si hanno le tierras templadas con medie tra i 12° e 22° C, oltre i 1.600 m le tierras frías con temperature media fra i 5° e i 14°, con forti escursioni termiche giornaliere.
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Temperatura e precipitazioni
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Geografia umana
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PopolazioneDensità: 75,05 per km²
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EtnieLa popolazione è composta da ladinos (discendenti degli europei), da meticci e da amerindi indigeni che parlano lingue ricollegabili alla lingua chibcha.
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ReligioneCattolici 80%, protestanti 16%, atei e agnostici 4%
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Geografia politicaIl Costa Rica è suddiviso in 7 province, a loro volta divise in 81 cantoni e questi in 459 distretti.
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Geografia economicaUn tempo l'economia nazionale si basava sulle ricchezze minerarie, oggi è
invece prevalentemente agricola. Prodotto Nazionale Lordo: 2.680$ pro capite
(85° posto della classifica mondiale). Il vulcano Arenal
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RisorseProduzione di energia elettrica: 1.200.000 kw.
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TrasportiGuida a destra. Rete stradale: 5.814 km.
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Turismo1 visitatore l'anno ogni 4,5 abitanti. Provenienza: USA 35%, Nicaragua 14%, Panamá 7%, altri 44%.
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EsportazioniUSA 53%, Germania 5%, Nicaragua 4%, Belgio-Lussemburgo 3%, Canada 3%, altri 32%.
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ImportazioniUSA 59%, Messico 6%, Venezuela 3%, Giappone 3%, Colombia 3%, altri 26%.
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Cultura
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AlfabetizzazioneTasso di alfabetizzazione: 95%.
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IstruzioneObbligo scolastico fino a 18 anni.
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SanitàSistema sanitario pubblico.
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AmbienteIl 27,0% del territorio è protetto.
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FloraIl territorio è abbondantemente coperto da una ricca foresta tropicale.
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FaunaIl Costa Rica ha una fauna straordinaria: 864 specie di uccelli, (quasi il dieci per cento delle specie del mondo). 250 specie di mammiferi, di cui piu o meno la meta sono pipistrelli. 230 specie di rettili, 215 specie di anfibi, e 1522 specie di pesci.
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PoliticaIl potere esecutivo è esercitato dal presidente eletto ogni 4 anni.
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Sport
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CalcioLa nazionale di calcio costaricana è una delle più titolate dell'America Centrale. Le principali squadre di calcio del paese sono la Liga Deportiva Alajuelense e il Deportivo Saprissa.
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Festività nazionali
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Galleria Fotografica
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Città
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Montagne
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Vulcani
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Fiumi
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Laghi
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Mari
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Isole
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Voci correlate
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Altri progetti
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Collegamenti esterni
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