Guanacaste: water, tourism and developmentCEFR A2
21 Apr 2026
Adapted from Liz Carrigan, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Erick Morales Oyola, Unsplash
Guanacaste is Costa Rica’s driest province. The dry season runs from December to April and temperatures can reach 35 degrees Celsius. The region attracts tourists and foreign buyers for its beaches and dry landscapes.
Much land was cleared long ago for cattle, which damaged the tropical dry forests. In recent years, and especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, more foreigners bought coastal property. In some towns up to 60 percent of houses are unoccupied for six months or more.
Water has become the most serious local problem. Developers and big hotels often secure water while nearby communities face shortages. A 2026 investigation and officials say many water systems are contaminated and need more investment. People have protested and organised to protect their water.
Difficult words
- province — A main political area inside a country.
- dry season — Months of the year with little or no rain.
- landscape — The appearance of land and its natural features.landscapes
- clear — To remove trees or plants from land.cleared
- contaminate — To make water or soil dirty or unsafe.contaminated
- shortage — A situation when there is not enough something.shortages
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think people organised and protested to protect their water?
- Have you seen houses that are empty for many months? How did that feel for the town?
- Would you visit a dry coastal place for its beaches and landscapes? Why or why not?
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