Another exotic country that I have heard so much about is Costa Rica.  There is so much to see and do in this wonderfully civilized society.  Lonely Planet has lots to say about the merits of Costa Rica.  Just Mention Costa Rica and people think paradise. The country’s Disney-like cast of creatures – ranging from howler monkeys to toucans – are populous and relatively easy to spot. The waves are prime, the beauty is staggering and the sluggish pace seductive. A peaceful oasis in a tumultuous region, this tiny nation draws 1.5 million visitors every year. 

Nowhere else in the world are so many types of habitats squeezed into such a tiny area. The range of habitats in Costa Rica, a consequence of its unique geography, creates an incredibly rich diversity of flora and fauna – in fact no other country on the planet has such variety. Measured in terms of number of species per 10,000 sq km Costa Rica tops the list of countries at 615 species.  Hip-Hideaways let’s you view neat spots in the country.  

It is just two-thirds the size of Scotland and yet contains over 5% of all the world’s plant and animal species; there are more birds here than in the entire whole of the USA. 

Covering just 0.1% of the planet’s land mass, yet home to around 5% of the world’s biodiversity, Costa Rica is the ultimate nature paradise. With most of its precious treasures found within the twenty-six national parks and protected zones spread across the country, Costa Rica has a staggering wealth of flora and fauna. Vibrant and diverse, each part of the country also has its own unique micro-climate, making it a place in itself to enjoy.  Soak in the beauty of Costa Rica amid luxurious hotels, lodges and resorts or simply camp out under the stars to experience Mother Nature at her very best.    

The only other country I could think of to match Costa Rica for diversity is Madagascar.  Due to its isolation from the rest of the world it has tremendous biodiversity and high rates of endemic species; of more than 200,000 known species found on Madagascar, about 150,000 exist nowhere else.  Wow! Check out this country.  I always loved the name of the capital: Antananarivo.  I will do a blog on Madagascar soon, so check back often!   jeb