HomeNewsCosta RicaStartled researchers discover Costa Rica is, in fact, an island

Startled researchers discover Costa Rica is, in fact, an island

A team of researchers from the University of Costa Rica (UCR) has made a stunning discovery: Costa Rica is, in fact, an island.

A previously uncharted network of rivers and lakes comprises the entirety of Costa Rica’s borders with Nicaragua and Panama.

“To be quite honest, we had never bothered to check before,” said Rodolfo Villegas, lead researcher at UCR’s School of Geology. “We always assumed people were confusing us with Puerto Rico when they called Costa Rica an island.”

UCR began its investigation after receiving a number of tips: first from Fox News, then from USA Today, and finally from a bachelorette party that posted a series of Instagram photos from Manuel Antonio with the hashtag #IslandLife.

As it turns out, much like when Google Maps reportedly contributed to a Nicaraguan invasion of Costa Rica in 2010, mapmakers everywhere have again made a grave mistake with the Central American country’s borders.

U.S. officials were reportedly contacting the Panamanian government seeking a refund on a lightly used canal.


This fictional story is an April Fools’ joke. We hope it made you smile during these difficult times.

Trending Now

Costa Rica Turns to Bryan Ruiz After Firing Fernando Batista

Former Costa Rica captain Bryan Ruiz will take temporary charge of the national team after the Costa Rican Football Federation fired Argentine coach Fernando...

US Diesel Export Ban Talk Puts Costa Rica Fuel Prices on Edge

Trump backs a ban on US diesel exports as Costa Rica, which buys much of its diesel from the United States, faces a proposed increase of up to 100 colones per liter in October.

Used-Car Importers Take Costa Rica’s New Vehicle Tax Formula to Court

Costa Rica's used-car importers will challenge in court a Hacienda decree they say doubles or triples import taxes. The ministry cites evasion.

Fire Forces Costa Rica IMAX Theater to Close Indefinitely, Leaving One Left in Country

A Saturday fire at Ciudad del Este in Curridabat has shut Nova Cinemas and one of Costa Rica's two IMAX screens until further notice.

Is Living in Costa Rica Without a Car Really Possible?

To car or not to car, that is the question. Can you live happily in Costa Rica without the convenience of an automobile? The...

Costa Rica El Niño Plan Warns of Major Water Supply Risks

Costa Rica is preparing for possible water shortages affecting hundreds of thousands of people as the strong El Niño weather pattern continues to reduce...

Who Is Costa Rica Really Competing With for Tourists?

Costa Rica's tourism board says its rivals are Thailand, Indonesia and New Zealand, not its neighbors. Business chambers see a wider field and warn the country is getting too expensive.

Costa Rica Takes Growing Role in U.S. Deportation Program

Costa Rica has quietly become an important destination in a growing U.S. deportation program that sends migrants to countries they are not from, leaving...

Two Dead at Guanacaste Beach as Search Continues at Tarrazú Waterfall

Two young men died at Playa Cabuyal in Guanacaste and rescuers are searching for an 18-year-old swept away at a waterfall in Tarrazú after Saturday's storms.
🌴 The Weekly Pura Vida

Costa Rica, Once a Week

The week's top stories, weather & insider tips — delivered every Sunday. One email, zero clutter.

🔒 Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Loading…

Latest News from Costa Rica

Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Car Rentals
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Travel