Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a Central American success story: since the late 19th century, only two brief periods of violence have marred its democratic development. Although still a largely agricultural country, it has achieved a relatively high standard of living. Land ownership is widespread. Tourism is a rapidly expanding industry.
Location: Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama
10 00 N, 84 00 W
Population: 3,773,057 (July 2001 est.)
Area: total:  51,100 sq km
land:  50,660 sq km
water:  440 sq km
note:  includes Isla del Coco
border countries:  Nicaragua 309 km, Panama 330 km
slightly smaller than West Virginia
Climate: tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands
Terrain: coastal plains separated by rugged mountains
Elevation: lowest point:  Pacific Ocean 0 m
highest point:  Cerro Chirripo 3,810 m
Natural resources: hydropower