Costa Rica: Paradise Under Pressure – As Its Neighbors Rise, Costa Rica Must Reinvent Itself

For years, Costa Rica was the uncontested jewel of Central America.

Its endless beaches, majestic volcanoes, and vibrant rainforests made it the ultimate promise of escape.

But for the past seven months, the numbers have been falling like a slow, persistent rain: tourism is steadily declining.

Meanwhile, El Salvador and Guatemala, long overlooked, are soaring.

An unexpected reversal that raises a pressing question: What happened?

When Prices Soar, Tourists Look Elsewhere

Costa Rica has become expensive.

Sometimes too expensive compared to its neighbors, who now offer authentic adventures at half the cost.

Add to that:

A repetitive, outdated communication strategy, stuck on the same old circuits.

Concerns about safety, whether justified or exaggerated.

A new generation of travelers seeking raw authenticity, connection, and fair pricing.

The result? Many curious travelers are looking elsewhere.

But Let’s Be Clear: Nothing Compares

Yes, Guatemala is stunning.

Yes, El Salvador is blossoming.

But let’s be crystal clear:

Costa Rica remains in a league of its own.

Where else can you:

Cross from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea in a single morning?

Walk through ancient primary forests, fiercely protected for generations?

Spot howler monkeys, sloths, and toucans freely in the wild?

Swim in turquoise rivers deep in untouched jungle?

Costa Rica is not just a destination.

It’s a living experience, a soul-deep connection with nature, a humbling reminder of what true beauty looks like.

Reinvention Without Betrayal

Costa Rica doesn’t need to become cheaper or more commercial.

It needs to reconnect with its soul:

Authenticity.

Simplicity.

True "Pura Vida."

In a world rushing to homogenize everything, Costa Rica remains a precious exception.

An exception worth protecting, reinventing, and celebrating.

Pura Vida

Emilie Verhee

Owner of Voyagez Futé au Costa Rica

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