Costa Rica stands as one of Central America’s premier destinations, renowned for its breathtaking beauty. This nation is a thriving biodiversity hotspot, home to over 500,000 species, placing it among the most biodiverse regions globally. A pioneer in conservation, Costa Rica has dedicated approximately 28 to 30% of its terrain to sanctuaries, national parks, and refuges, showcasing its commitment to preserving land-based ecosystems. Similarly, about 17.5% of its marine areas are protected, with ongoing efforts to further increase this percentage, reflecting a strong national dedication to environmental stewardship both on land and in the sea.

From an external perspective, Costa Rica appears to have everything expertly managed, particularly when it comes to preserving its natural wonders. Crossing the border from Panama, there’s an instantly noticeable shift in the environment. As you enter Costa Rica, you’re greeted by a lush, vibrant jungle, a stark contrast from the dry, cleared fields surrounding the border of Panama. The air is alive with the sounds of chirping birds, the sight of butterflies fluttering around, and monkeys playfully swinging from the trees. The mangroves are dense and alive with life, and the beaches are spectacular, drawing people from all over the world who are eager to reconnect with nature during their unforgettable vacations.

But during our expedition, we uncovered a layer of Costa Rica’s conservation story that isn’t as widely discussed. While the country is celebrated for its extensive network of national parks, refuges, and sanctuaries on land, there’s another less visible narrative that tends to be overlooked. Despite the progress Costa Rica has made, there’s an underbelly to the conservation success story – a complex side that remains hidden from many casual observations.

Before delving into these complexities, it’s necessary to understand Costa Rica’s conservation history and the national motto that captures the spirit of the land: pura vida.

In 1963, the establishment of Cabo Blanco National Reserve marked a significant shift in Costa Rica’s conservation efforts. In the decades that followed the creation of this reserve, the establishment of more national parks became a burgeoning trend. By 1982, Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve on the Nicoya Peninsula was created as the first marine protected area in the country. Ultimately, the country had begun to recognise the potential of its ubiquitous natural resources, and Costa Rican stakeholders saw an opportunity to rebrand the nation as a destination for ecotourism.

This was a strategic pivot from the previous economic motivators for the country, which involved extensive deforestation and ecosystem destruction before the rise of said national parks. By promoting conservation and leveraging their environmental assets, Costa Rica could generate revenue while preserving its natural habitats – a visionary move that set the stage for the country’s current status as a global leader in ecological conservation.