Guanacaste has become the cradle of Costa Rican and foreign tourists.
This region (the biggest of Costa Rica) covers most of the Guanacaste province and a small area of Puntarenas.
Cattle farming is very important in Guanacaste, which has given rise to the "sabanero" (cowboy) tradition. The "sabanero", with his lifestyle, and his social and cultural impact, generated the diverse activities of the cattle economy in this region. This experience inspired Guanacasteco poets, painters, musicians, writers and sculptors. For this reason, Guanacaste was named a symbol for Costa Rican cultural patrimony.
Guanacaste has a leading role in the formation of Costa Rica as a country. Santa Rosa National Park was the scene of three historical battles. One of them was in 1856, when a group of filibusters tried to seize the country. The National army was
called to defend the mother country and to overcome the invaders. This was how sovereignty was retained.
The first efforts to create an ideal tourist destination started in Guanacaste because of its extraordinary scenery, its conservation of natural parks, the protection of its white sand beaches and its warm climate throughout the year. This is why the biggest hotel developments are located in Guanacaste.
The Guanacaste name derives from the word quahnacaztlan, the native name of the Guanacaste tree. This is also the Costa Rican national tree. Other characteristic trees of this region are the indio desnudo and roble sabana. Animals such as the white tail deer, the iguana, zarigüeya and the white-faced monkey belong to the area.
Some of its protected areas are important worldwide because of the conservation of species that live there. For example, the Leatherback turtles come to Playa Grande Beach to lay their eggs. The Ridley sea turtles also can be found in Nancite and Ostional Beach. Palo Verde National Park lodges a great number of migratory birds.
The Northern Pacific region is a great alternative for those looking to relax at a location with natural beauty and excellent lodging options. It also offers all kinds of sports for those who enjoy a little more activity, such as, golf, sport fishing, kayaking, diving, swimming, snorkeling, horseback ridding and other beach sports.