A Gap Year in Costa Rica

• Costa Rica has a population of 4 million


• The capital city of Costa Rica is San Jose


• Costa Rica recently one the happy planet index rating - measuring it as the happiest nation on Earth!


• Costa Rica is famed for its coffee


• Almost 25% of Costa Rica consists of wildlife reserves and protected forests


• Costa Rica is the second smallest country in Latin America

A list of just a couple of unmissable experiences...

Arguably the most cosmopolitan capital in Central America. A couple of days is probably enough to spend in this city - which may have a slightly dangerous reputation - but is a great insight into real life in Costa Rica. Full of colourful markets and a real pura vida nightlife scene, it's definitely worth braving for a couple of days as least, before heading out into the spectacular surrounding countryside.

Up for an adrenaline rush? Then the small mountain town of Turrialba is one you certainly can't miss. A stones throw from some of the best white water rafting on the planet, this is a bit of a Mecca for enthusiasts, and definitely one of those experiences you'll never forget!

As mentioned in the fast facts, 25% of Costa Rica is covered by protected areas and national parks. Its a country that places a huge amount of importance on its biodiversity and conservation is a key issue. You simply can't visit Costa Rica without going to at least one of the spectacular national parks. From dense rainforest and indigenous communities to dormant volcanoes and tropical beaches, it simply has it all! All the information you could possibly want on the national parks can be found here.

Spotting turtles laying eggs is a special experience. You'll have to make sure you're doing it with a reputable organisation who don't disturb the turtles during this period, but watching hatching from a distance is still special. This can be done in Tortuguero during the summer months only.

Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, you simply cannot go there without sampling as much as you possibly can, and savouring the rich flavour - and superiority over supermarket's freeze dried brands!

Coffee production plays a huge part in the country's economy and its a huge exporter worldwide, with a history of coffee production dating back well over two centuries.

Costa Rica is also a great place to go if you are looking to volunteer abroad, not just if you're travelling.

Before volunteering it's important to know you are going away with a reputable organisation. Doing lots of research can ensure the projects you'll be working on are genuinely needed and providing a benefit to the country, and that you are not inadvertently being a hinderance despite good intentions.