Costa Rica
Geographical & General info
- Capital: San José
- Population: approx. 5.2 million
- Languages: Spanish
- Area: 51,100 km²
- Time Zone: UTC-6 (CST)
- Currency: Costa Rican colón (CRC)
- Flag colors: Blue, white, red
- National Day: September 15 (Independence Day)
- National Anthem: Himno Nacional de Costa Rica
- Neighboring countries: Nicaragua, Panama
Top 15 Largest cities
- San José
- Alajuela
- Cartago
- Heredia
- Liberia
- Puntarenas
- Limón
- Pérez Zeledón (San Isidro)
- San Vicente (Moravia)
- Curridabat
- Desamparados
- San Nicólas
- Paraíso
- Turrialba
- Quesada (Ciudad Quesada)
Top 15 Attractions
- Arenal Volcano National Park
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Tortuguero National Park
- Corcovado National Park
- Poás Volcano National Park
- Río Celeste (Tenorio Volcano National Park)
- Tamarindo Beach
- Marino Ballena National Park
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- La Fortuna Waterfall
- Irazú Volcano
- Santa Teresa & Mal País
- Cahuita National Park
- Bijagua Sloth & Wildlife Trails
Climate and Nature
Costa Rica experiences a tropical climate with a distinct dry season (December–April) and a green season. Despite covering only 0.03% of Earth's landmass, it contains over 5% of global biodiversity, boasting active volcanoes, cloud forests, and coastlines on both the Pacific and Caribbean.
Culture and Gastronomy
Culture centers on the famous 'Pura Vida' philosophy, reflecting a friendly and peaceful way of life. Traditional cuisine is wholesome, with 'Gallo Pinto' (rice and black beans) served for breakfast and 'Casado' (a plate with rice, beans, plantains, and protein) popular for lunch and dinner.
Economy
Ecotourism is a primary pillar of the Costa Rican economy. The nation is also a major exporter of medical devices, high-tech components, bananas, pineapples, and specialty coffee, supported by a strong commitment to renewable energy.
Did you know?
- Costa Rica constitutionally abolished its standing army in 1948, reallocating military funds toward education and health?
- Locals proudly refer to themselves as 'Ticos' (men) and 'Ticas' (women)?
- Over 25% of the country's total land area is designated as protected national parks and wildlife reserves?
- The Nicoya Peninsula is recognized as one of the world's rare 'Blue Zones', where residents live exceptionally long lives?
- The national phrase "Pura Vida" translates to 'pure life' and is used as a greeting, farewell, and expression of well-being?
Live footage: Discover Costa Rica via webcams and livestreams
Watch the most current webcams in Costa Rica and enjoy real-time footage from beautiful locations. Whether you want to check the current weather, see the crowds at points of interest, or simply want to daydream with a livestream from Costa Rica: our interactive map points you to the best camera viewpoints.
All webcam locations in Costa Rica: Weather & Info
In the list below you'll find all available webcams from Costa Rica in alphabetical order. Click on a city for the full live connection, current temperature, wind speed and local weather conditions for that specific place.
