Sea turtles are one of the last surviving animal species from prehistoric times. It's impressive when one species, the Warana sea turtle, comes to the beach in large numbers to lay eggs on some beaches in Guanacaste (Pacific Coast).
The animal world of Costa Rica is very rich and contains North American, South American and typically Central American components.
The plant world of Costa Rica is very extensive and varied. There are more than 12,000 different plant species and probably many unknown species grow in remote areas. It is remarkable that no less than 1200 species of orchids grow here. Climate, soil conditions and altitude are responsible for the great diversity. The national flower of Costa Rica is an orchid: the deep pink Guaria Morada.
Divided over the three mountain ranges (Guanacaste, Tileran and Central) are the 16 volcanoes of Costa Rica. Of these, 5 are active (Arenal, Irazu, Poas, Rincon de la Vieja and the Turrialba) and 2 are dormant (Barva and Orosi).