Travel + Leisure, an international tourism magazine based in New York, U.S.A., has named Costa Rica as the 2024 Destination of the Year.
According to the experts, Costa Rica’s commitment to a sustainable future coupled with its deep-rooted connection to the land and its indigenous communities make it a standout destination for travelers to visit in the year ahead.
Costa Rica is the ninth winner of Destination of the Year, which is selected annually by T+L editors, with past selections including Italy, Japan and Australia.
“We are thrilled to honor Costa Rica as our 2024 Destination of the Year,” said Jacqui Gifford, Editor-in-Chief of Travel + Leisure. “Costa Rica’s unwavering dedication to sustainable tourism and its breathtaking natural beauty make it a standout destination for travelers seeking unique and eco-conscious experiences in the year ahead.”
The magazine stated that Costa Rica is known for unparalleled contributions to eco-tourism, including pioneering the concept of eco-lodges, as well as setting a global standard for sustainable travel practices.
The country’s commitment to conservation has led to a successful reversal of deforestation from decades past, with over 50% of its landmass now covered in rainforest, they added.
Also, the magazine recognized Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity as unmatched, with 12 ecosystems and half a million species packed into its nearly 20,000 square miles.
Other highlights include the Camino de Costa Rica, the nearly 200-mile trail that stretches across the country, the world-renowned coffee beans exported from the area, and the culinary scene with rich traditions and diversity.