The Culture
Costa Rican culture is where the nation’s history, nature, and diversity meet. It reflects the warmth and friendliness of its people, known as "Ticos" and "Ticas," and the nation takes pride in its commitment to peace, democracy, and environmental conservation, creating a unique cultural identity within the Americas.
Costa Ricans celebrate their Spanish heritage through festivals, music, and dance. Traditional folk music like the "guanacaste" and "punto guanacasteco" can be heard in the streets. The country's religious influences are evident in the numerous festivals dedicated to Catholic saints, blending indigenous and European traditions.
Costa Rica's love for nature is deeply ingrained in its culture, with a significant emphasis on sustainability and ecotourism. The pura vida lifestyle, meaning "pure life," encapsulates the national ethos of living a simple, stress-free life in harmony with nature.
Artisans craft intricate oxcarts and vivid masks across the country, reflecting the indigenous Boruca and Chorotega cultures. In short, Costa Rica's culture is a colourful one, blending history, nature, and a commitment to preserving the beauty that defines this Central American gem.
What is the visiting etiquette in Costa Rica?
There are few rules around etiquette in Costa Rica per se, but remembering a few important tips will improve your trip. A handshake is a typical greeting, though you may receive a light kiss on the cheek from someone of the opposite gender. Men tend to dress more conservatively than women in Costa Rica. Mild forms of harassment such as catcalling can unfortunately happen in the country’s machismo culture, but a firm "no" will usually put a stop to it.
Costa Ricans frown on unnecessary drama and they hate to argue. Avoid criticism of the country or its people, or making a scene if things don’t go to plan. The more chill you are in Costa Rica, the better chance you have of things going smoothly. Costa Ricans’ aversion to conflict has its downsides too. They may tell you what they think you want to hear, rather than admit they don’t know. Just be polite and take local advice with a grain of salt if it sounds uncertain or fishy.
What is Costa Rica best known for?
Costa Rica is recognized as a world leader in ecotourism, and most Costa Rica vacations reflect this. With over half a million species (five percent of the world’s total) across land, in the air and in the water calling this relatively small country home, this comes as no surprise. Don’t dismiss the country’s human elements, however. The locals are proud of their country and its biodiversity, and are not afraid to share their lively, colourful culture with visitors.
What are some Costa Rican traditions?
Costa Rica blends indigenous traditions with those introduced by its Spanish colonizers. In big cities like San Jose, holidays such as Christmas tend to be quite commercialized. But in more rural areas, you’ll see a more traditionally religious version, including Posadas, in which local children go from door to door dressed as Mary and Joseph, asking for room at the inn. On December 26, cowboys from across the country show off their skills at the national horse parade, called Tope Nacional. A non-lethal form of bullfighting is still practiced in Costa Rica, though it remains controversial with animal rights activists.
What are Costa Ricans like socially?
Costa Ricans tend to be laid-back, easy-going, and conflict-averse. With no armed forces, the only fight Costa Rica is interested in is the one against climate change, and most of the locals are proud of their country’s neutral stance. Conversation with strangers can feel more reserved than in other Latin American countries, using the formal usted form in Spanish, with the familial tu being reserved for family, friends, or children. You’ll also hear the term pura vida used as a greeting, goodbye, thank you, and in other contexts you wouldn’t normally expect to hear it.
What language do Costa Ricans speak?
Spanish is the dominant language in Costa Rica, though many people who work in tourism and hospitality are also fluent in English. You may also hear indigenous languages including Bribri, Cabécar, Maleku, and Guaymi.
