Popularity hasn't gone to Costa Rica's head... yet.

Fifteen years ago, this tiny tropical country was the best-kept secret of backpackers and biologists. Imagine immaculate beaches and sheltered coves. Dense jungle rivers with the most developed conservation program in Latin America. And all this in a democracy so friendly it's never even had an army.

Despite over one million tourists a year, Costa Rica remains a pristine eco-tourism destination. Small personable lodges offer gourmet food, comfortable rooms, and thrilling rafting and kayaking tours. You can also customize your pleasures: hire a guide and horse to explore the bubbling geysers of Rincon de la Vieja; charter a seaplane to Drake Bay to spy on herons and sloths. Surf the best waves in Latin America, or simply move at a tortoise pace: from June to October, the famous Green Turtles come invade Tortuguero Beach--probably because they've already seen the higher Caribbean prices.


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