Common Misconceptions about Costa Rica: What To Know

Ever since moving to Costa Rica in 2012, I’ve heard my fair share of wrong facts, impressions and ideas of Costa Rica. As an advocate for responsible travel, I always recommend researching at least the basics about the country you’re going to visit so you aren’t that tourist.

So before you come, make sure you read up on these common misconceptions about Costa Rica!

Common Misconceptions about Costa Rica

These are a collection of misunderstood thoughts about Costa Rica we have heard.

Costa Rica is an island

This is the biggest common misconception about Costa Rica. So many people confuse Costa Rica for Puerto Rico and think it’s an island!

I’ve even had many people ask me “How is Costo Rico” or “how island life is.”

So just to make it clear, Costa Rica is not an island, it’s a small country in Central America. Nicaragua neighbors the country to the north, Panama neighbors the country to the South.

Costa Rica is part of the…