World Heritage Sites in Costa Rica

Cocos Island: The Pristine Marine Sanctuary of the Eastern Pacific

Cocos Island, known as Isla del Coco in Spanish, is a remote and pristine volcanic island located in the Eastern Tropical Pacific, south of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. This island is a natural wonder teeming with unique biodiversity and rich marine life. Cocos Island and its surrounding marine environments are protected as part of the Cocos Island National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

La Amistad International Park: A Sanctuary of Nature and Tradition in the Talamanca Mountains

La Amistad International Park, straddling the border between Costa Rica and Panama, represents one of the most ecologically and culturally significant protected areas in the Americas. Encompassing tropical forest within the Cordillera de Talamanca, this vast park safeguards one of Central America's most extensive remaining tracts of natural forest. Known as the "La Amistad International Peace Park," it symbolizes cooperation between two nations and holds UNESCO World Heritage status.

Los Katíos National Park: A Jewel of Biodiversity in Colombia

Los Katíos National Park, a protected wildlife sanctuary nestled in northwest Colombia near the border with Panama, is a true ecological marvel. Located within the Darién Gap, a densely forested area shared by Panama and Colombia, Los Katíos National Park encompasses significant wetland areas, including the vast Ciénagas de Tumaradó. It boasts a remarkable biodiversity and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Enigmatic Stone Spheres of the Diquís: A Legacy of Costa Rica's Ancient Past

A mysterious collection of over three hundred near-perfect stone spheres lies scattered among the tropical landscapes of Costa Rica's Diquís Delta and Isla del Caño. These remarkable artifacts, known locally as bolas de piedra, vary in size from small stones to massive spheres. Crafted by the now-extinct Diquís culture between 500 and 1500 CE, their true purpose remains unknown. The stone spheres not only showcase the craftsmanship and complexity of the Diquís people but also serve as an enduring symbol of Costa Rica's pre-Columbian heritage.

The Guanacaste Conservation Area: Costa Rica's Ecological Masterpiece

Located in the northwestern province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the Guanacaste Conservation Area (Área de Conservación Guanacaste—ACG) is a shining example of the country's unwavering commitment to environmental preservation. This protected area network is a true ecological masterpiece, comprising a mosaic of diverse ecosystems spanning the Pacific Ocean to the lowlands of the Caribbean basin.