Ecotourism in Costa Rica

Ecotourism is hugely popular in Costa Rica. Over half of the country’s visitors travel to biological reserves or national parks. Many of Costa Rica’s tourists are attracted to the exotic and diverse wildlife found in the various ecosystems.

Flora

Scientists and researchers have found over 10,000 plant species in Costa Rica and new species are being discovered every year. The national flower, called Cattleya Skinneri, is one of the most famous of the 1300 orchids species found in Costa Rica. This flower usually blooms in March. Each ecosystem has its own native plant life, with the tropical rainforests having the most diverse collection.

Fauna

Over 850 species of bird have been recorded in the country. There are more bird species in Costa Rica alone than any one of the continents of Europe, Australia or North America. The country is also home to more than 260 mammal species, about 180 species of amphibians, 235 species of reptiles and 835 species of fish.

Natural Parks and Reserves

There are 26 national parks, 8 natural reserves and a number of other areas that are protected by the State. The national park system began in the 1960s and now covers almost 11% of the country. Between national parks, wildlife refuges, biological and forest reserves and other protected areas, about 27% of the country is protected by the government. There is also a fair amount of privately held land that is protected by private citizens. All of these protected lands offer beautiful nature in its raw form. For a list of national parks:

http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/paginas/parques.asp