The natural world really puts on a show when we leave the environment untouched – and if there’s a country which knows this more than most, it’s Costa Rica. Monkeys swing excitedly through its dense trees, and jaguars slink sensuously through its misty cloud forests. Excitable frogs and toads sing in the thickets and wetlands, and plucky sea turtles choose to lay their eggs in the sands here every year. In fact, over half a million species of plants and animals make their home here, as well as 900 species of birds. That’s an incredible number of flora and fauna; in fact, for a country which only covers 0.03 per cent of the world’s land mass, Costa Rica harbours 6.5 per cent of its global biodiversity.Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica has a rich and diverse topography which includes rainforest, jungle, coastal plains and 120 volcanoes – five of which are still active. It is, perhaps, hardly surprising, then, that so much wildlife and plant life has made the country its home, although judging by the state of much of the world, and its evolving climate, today, perhaps the only surprise is how it all has not just managed to survive, but thrive. This is not, however, by happy accident, or sheer luck. A lot of work goes into making, and keeping, Costa Rica one of the most sustainable countries in the world.An eco-friendly ethosCosta Rica’s ‘pura vida’ ethos reflects a deep appreciation for nature (Visit Costa Rica)You’ll hear the phrase pura vida everywhere in Costa Rica. Literally translating as ‘pure life’, it’s used as a greeting, farewell and expression of gratitude, but it also reflects a broader outlook on life. At its heart is a deep appreciation for nature, community and living in balance with the world around you.This connection to the natural environment is woven into everyday life. Whether it’s spending time outdoors, protecting local ecosystems or supporting sustainable ways of living, pura vida encourages a sense of respect for the landscapes and wildlife that make Costa Rica so extraordinary. It’s a philosophy that has helped shape the country’s reputation as a global leader in conservation and sustainable tourism.For visitors, it offers a chance to slow down and reconnect with nature, whether hiking through cloud forests, spotting wildlife in national parks or simply pausing to appreciate the beauty of a place where biodiversity thrives. Those looking to leave a positive impact can also take part in purposeful travel experiences, from sea turtle conservation and wildlife rehabilitation projects to reforestation initiatives and community-led sustainability programmes. In Costa Rica, caring for the natural world isn’t just a policy – it’s a way of life.Discover natural products with a 'Pura Vida' approach to lifeChannelling Costa Rica’s ‘pura vida’ philosophy and the ‘live. life. now’ ethos (a new campaign aimed at highlighting the restorative, revitalising nature of a trip to Costa Rica), wellness and natural beauty brand NEOM Wellbeing offers small rituals designed to help travellers slow down, reset and reconnect wherever they are in the world. Crafted with naturally derived ingredients and expertly blended fragrances, ranges including ‘Happiness’, ‘Bliss’ and ‘Perfect Night’s Sleep’ span candles, essential oil blends, pillow mists and bath and body products designed to support mood and wellbeing. The brand’s travel-sized collection also makes it easy to bring a sense of calm on the go – whether you're unwinding after a rainforest adventure, creating a restful evening ritual or carving out mindful moments between coast-to-coast exploration on your Costa Rica travels.Protect and preserveImmerse yourself in the Costa Rican landscape on a hanging bridge or walkway (Visit Costa Rica)Costa Rica is widely recognised as a pioneer in sustainable tourism, protecting over 25 per cent of its land; it has 32 national parks, 13 forest reserves, and 51 wildlife refuges. This ensures that natural habitats are not under threat from humans, and provides an environment where plants and animals can flourish. Take, for example, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, a veritable haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Here, you’ll find dozens of trails through the dense foliage, including a hanging bridge, or walkway, which puts you level with the treetops, as does the exhilarating Sky Tram aerial gondola. There, you’re right in amongst nature’s habitat, with the chance to spot unique species like the resplendent quetzal, a vividly-coloured green and red bird which used to be revered as a deity. Manuel Antonio National Park combines beautiful beaches with lush rainforest, offering easy access to wildlife viewing, while Corcovado National Park is one of the most biologically intense places on earth, featuring diverse ecosystems and unique species such as tapirs and jaguars. And, accessible primarily by boat, is Tortuguero National Park; known for its network of canals and waterways, it’s a crucial nesting site for green sea turtles. Essentially, where else could you have access to so much incredible wildlife?Social impactThe El Camino de Costa Rica trail is a 174-mile hiking route from coast-to-coast (Shutterstock)Millions of visitors flock to Costa Rica each year for exactly these reasons; to gaze in awe and wonder at some of the most incredible creatures on earth. But supporting these numbers has to be done responsibly, and the country’s tourism model is careful to balance economic growth with sustainable measures. The country’s tourism development model is based on three pillars: innovation, sustainability and inclusiveness, aimed at the welfare of people, improving the quality of life and development of its communities. As a result, there are several initiatives throughout the country which seek to achieve these aims, such as the El Camino de Costa Rica trail. A 174-mile long hiking route which crosses the country from the Caribbean sea to the Pacific ocean, it comprises of around 16 stages, offering a diverse experience through forests, valleys, mountains and rural communities. It’s in these small villages where you’ll stop, rest and eat along the way, staying in homes, hostels or campsites run by local residents who are keen to share their accommodations and traditional cuisine; this helps boost the local economy and promotes authentic, in-depth cultural encounters, swapping stories over a campfire, or a plate of gallo pinto.Looking to the futureConnecting with incredible wildlife and nature is a core part of the Costa Rica experience (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Of course, as much as Costa Rica is doing at present, it still has to think ahead, so that it can ensure that future generations also find it the same, untouched Eden. The country’s Decarbonisation Plan aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, promoting a circular economy and efficient waste management, and it has already reached 99.9 per cent renewable electricity generation. This is a country that genuinely wants visitors to experience its remarkable natural wonders, while recognising that protecting them is just as important. Through long-term investment in conservation, renewable energy and sustainable tourism, Costa Rica is working to ensure its extraordinary landscapes, wildlife and biodiversity can be enjoyed for generations to come.For more travel inspiration and information, head to Visit Costa Rica. For the ultimate Costa Rica getaway, Travelbag has curated the 13 Day Spirit of Costa Rica and Beach Extension tour showcasing the country’s extraordinary biodiversity, immersive landscapes and slower pace of life. Beginning with a nine-day independent adventure through Tortuguero, Arenal and Monteverde, the itinerary takes travellers from wildlife-rich canals and misty cloud forests to rainforest lodges beneath the majestic Arenal Volcano, with opportunities to spot monkeys, crocodiles and tropical birdlife along the way. Guided experiences are balanced with time to explore independently, before the trip concludes with a luxurious four-night beach stay on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast – offering the perfect chance to unwind and embrace the country’s restorative ‘pura vida’ spirit.