Geography and Landscapes
What type of landscape is most commonly associated with Costa Rica?
beachfront fields and rainforests
What is the national bird of Costa Rica, known for its vibrant colors and long beak?
The clay-colored thrush (Turdus grayi) is a common Middle American bird of the thrush family (Turdidae). It is the national bird of Costa Rica, where it is well known as the yigüirro (Spanish: [ʝi'ɣwiro]).
What is the traditional Costa Rican greeting that means "pure life" and is a common saying among locals?
"Pura Vida."
When did Costa Rica gain its independence from Spain?
September 15, 1821
What does "Pura Vida" mean, and how is it commonly used in Costa Rica?
"Pura Vida" translates to "Pure Life" and is used as a greeting, farewell, or to express positivity.
Can you name one of the active volcanoes in Costa Rica?
Turrialba Volcano, Poas Volcano, Arenal Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, and Irazu Volcano
Which type of sloth is commonly found in the rainforests of Costa Rica?
brown-throated three-toed sloth and the more elusive Hoffman's two-toed sloth
Name a traditional Costa Rican dish that features rice and black beans as its primary ingredients.
Gallo Pinto
Who is considered the "Father of Costa Rican Independence" for his role in the country's sovereignty?
Juan Mora Fernández
Which popular national park in Costa Rica is known for its cloud forests and diverse ecosystems?
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Which river is the longest in Costa Rica?
San Juan
What is the world's smallest monkey species that can be found in the country's forests?
The Pygmy Marmoset.
What is the name of the traditional dance often performed during Costa Rican festivals and celebrations?
Punto Guanacasteco
Which famous battle took place in Costa Rica during the Filibuster War?
The Battle of Santa Rosa
What is canopy zip-lining, and why is it a popular adventure activity in Costa Rica?
Canopy zip-lining involves riding along zip lines through the treetops. It's popular due to the country's lush rainforests and biodiversity.
Costa Rica has two coastlines; can you name them and the bodies of water they border?
The Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
Can you name one of the big cat species that inhabit Costa Rica's jungles and protected areas?
Jaguar, Puma, or Oncilla, Jaguarundi
Which significant Costa Rican festival features a reenactment of the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors?
The "Festival de las Carretas" or Ox-Cart Festival.
What is the name of the pre-Columbian indigenous people who inhabited the region before the arrival of the Spanish?
Caribs, Borucas, Chibchas, and Diquis
Name two of the many outdoor adventure activities that tourists can enjoy in Costa Rica's ecotourism destinations.
Activities include white-water rafting, kayaking, surfing, hiking, birdwatching, and snorkeling, among others.
What is the name of the unique geological formation in Costa Rica where tectonic plates are exposed and can be explored?
La Fortuna de San Carlos and the Arenal Volcano area, are known for their lava fields and Arenal Observatory Lodge.
Which endangered sea turtle species nest on the beaches of Tortuguero National Park?
The Green Sea, hawksbill an the Leatherback Sea Turtles.
Can you name a famous Costa Rican artist or literary figure and one of their notable works?
Teodorico Quiros, Roberto Brenes Mesen, José Joaquín Gutierrez, Francisco Amighetti, Ramón Obón, Max Jimenez, and so on.
Which UNESCO World Heritage Site in Costa Rica is known for its unique stone spheres and is believed to have been created by ancient indigenous cultures?
The Diquís Stone Spheres of the Southern Zone
Costa Rica is known for its biodiversity. What measures has the country taken to promote sustainable and responsible tourism while protecting its natural resources?
Measures include establishing national parks and reserves, promoting eco-friendly practices, and supporting wildlife conservation initiatives.