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Costa Rica Travel Information

Costa Rica Travel Guide

January 1, 2024 By Sammi 20 Comments

Discover pura vida , or pure life, as they say in Costa Rica. Trek through lush rainforests, explore empty beaches and have an epic adventure filled vacation. Our Mytanfeet Costa Rica travel guide will help you plan your dream vacation.

First, Where is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a country in Central America, 8 – 12 degrees above the equator. Nicaragua borders the north and Panama borders the south. Costa Rica is not an island.

Important Costa Rica Travel Information

COVID-19 entry requirements: None. Please read our Costa Rica COVID-19 travel post and Costa Rica COVID-19 information if you wish to see what it was like during the pandemic.

The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. Many locals in touristic destinations and San Jose, the capital city, speak intermediate and high level English. Many indigenous languages are also spoken throughout the country.

Costa Rica uses 110 V (same as United States and Canada) and uses the metric system. Driving is on the right side of the road (like US and Canada).

Being 8-12 degrees above the equator, Costa Rica experiences tropical climate meaning it follows the typical tropical two seasons: dry and rainy. Dry season is the end of December – end of April. Rainy season is usually May through November. Average day time and night time temperatures don’t change much throughout the year but there are over 25 micro climates.

It is important to note that the Caribbean coast doesn’t strictly follow the tropical seasons. October is the “summer” month on the Caribbean coast while it is the rainiest month for the rest of the country. The Caribbean coast has the possibilities to rain at any time of the year.

Read more about Costa Rica weather, micro-climates and forecasts and what to pack for Costa Rica here.

International Airports

The two main international airports are SJO ( Juan Santamaria International Airport or San Jose International Airport ) and LIR ( Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport or Guanacaste Airport ). There are direct flights from USA, Canada, Mexico and European countries like Germany, Spain, UK and Netherlands. A direct flight from Newark and LAX to San Jose is 5.5 hours.

Find out how to book cheap airefare to Costa Rica in this post here and read more about going through customs and immigration in Costa Rica here.

Transportation Infrastructure

Costa Rica’s network of shared shuttles, domestic airports and public transportation offers travelers many options to get around the country. However, due to limited schedules, ever developing infrastructure and pricey routes, renting a car is the best way to explore with freedom and flexibility. Public buses are very affordable but with limited routes. Costa Rica drives on the right hand side of the road, same as United States and Canada.

Read more about getting around Costa Rica , get our Costa Rica car rental discount here and read our renting a car in Costa Rica tips.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during dry season for the best weather. These are generally the months of December through April for the whole country except the Caribbean coast which has its summer in October.

However, rainy season has much to offer, particularly to budget and off the beaten path travelers as prices drop and crowds thin out. Our personal favorite months are May, June, September and November for those exact reasons. The trade off is that there is tropical rain and may be storms.

Read more about the best time to visit Costa Rica .

Where are the Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica?

The main tourist destinations in Costa Rica are La Fortuna , Monteverde , Jaco , Manuel Antonio , Tamarindo , Papagayo Peninsula , Puerto Viejo de Talamanca , Tortuguero , Osa Peninsula and San Jose . All these destinations are excellent places to experience the numerous natural attractions such as waterfalls, rivers, volcanoes and beaches in Costa Rica.

Read more about the best places to visit in Costa Rica here.

The official currency of Costa Rica is called the Colón . The exchange rate is around 500 CRC to USD but the exchange rate fluctuates often (it can change day by day, even hour by hour). USD and credit/debit cards are readily accepted in touristic destinations.

Read more about handle money in Costa Rica here.

Itineraries

Ready to start booking your trip? Check out our sample Costa Rica itineraries ! We have written itineraries ranging from 5 days to 1 month that you can follow exactly or base your trip off of. There are itineraries for families, couples, solo travelers, backpackers, chock full of information.

Best of Costa Rica

Costa Rica has placed itself as a world leader in sustainable tourism and with nearly 25% of its land protected, it’s a dream destination for wildlife, nature and adventure lovers.

Costa Rica’s abundant nature and open spaces create the perfect playground for kids and adults alike. Experience the tropical jungle on exciting outdoor adventures such as rafting and ziplining. Find out our favorite 50 things to do in Costa Rica!

Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coastlines offer thousands of miles of beautiful beaches of all types, from white sand, volcanic black sand and more. Surf, swim, snorkel, sunbathe and walk on these beaches for the ultimate beach vacation. Find out what our favorite beaches in Costa Rica are!

Thanks to the many national parks, private reserves and wildlife refuges, it’s one of the best places in the world to see exotic tropical animals such as monkeys, sloths, snakes, frogs, turtles and whales. Find out where are the best places and times of year to see wildlife in Costa Rica in this post!

Want even more information about Costa Rica? Join the Mytanfeet mailing list to get our travel tips eBook and receive emails from us once a week to help you plan your trip! We send out all the goodies to our email subscribers first so don’t miss out.

Common Questions About Costa Rica

Is Costa Rica safe? Yes, it is a safe country to visit, even for solo travelers and solo female travelers. Costa Rica doesn’t have an army but they do have a police force and a tourism police. Petty theft is the most common crime.

Can you get around Costa Rica without knowing Spanish? Yes, although it doesn’t hurt to know a little bit. However, as tourism is one of the major economic backbones of the country, many locals speak fluent English, particularly those who work in tourism or live in San Jose.

Do I need a 4×4 in Costa Rica? That depends. First, if you’re going to popular destinations such as San Jose, La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Puerto Viejo and Jaco, no. But if you plan to stay in more remote places or if your hotel is up in the mountains, then probably yes, or at least a high clearance car with a strong engine during dry season. These are places like Monteverde, San Vito, Osa Peninsula, Uvita, Dominical, Nicoya Peninsula, Bajos del Toro and Golfito. Always check with your host if a 4×4 is required to get to your lodging.

Which international airport in Costa Rica should I fly into? Depends. It’s always been a bit cheaper to fly into San Jose International Airport (SJO) than Guanacaste Airport (LIR) so compare prices of both first. Then, it will depend on your itinerary. Fly into SJO if you plan to visit the Caribbean coast, South Pacific Coast or Osa Peninsula. Fly into Liberia if you plan to go to Guanacaste or Nicoya Peninsula. You can fly into either to go to La Fortuna and Monteverde.

Is Costa Rica expensive? Yes. Just because it’s in Central America, don’t expect dirt cheap prices like Southeast Asia or Nicaragua. Average prices for standard hotels are around $80-100 USD a night and tours can range from $40-$280 USD per person. Nearly every attraction has an entrance fee. However, it is totally possible to travel on a budget but it does require more planning.

Do I need travel insurance? YES! You should purchase travel insurance whenever you go abroad, not just to Costa Rica. As we all now know, anything from a car accident to a world wide pandemic can happen so be prepared. Travel delays, lost luggage and cancellations are not uncommon nowadays. Click here to purchase travel insurance for your trip to Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Travel Videos

Watch below our videos of some of our favorite places and things to do in Costa Rica! You can watch all our videos on our Youtube channel

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca : The main town and tourism hub of the South Caribbean. See what the town and the surrounding beaches are like.

Rio Celeste Waterfall : The waterfall of the sky blue river, Rio Celeste, inside Tenorio Volcano National Park.

Tortuga Island : A day trip cruising through the Gulf of Nicoya to the white sand beach of Tortuga Island

Pacuare white water rafting Class 3 & 4 : An exciting white water rafting day excursion down the Pacuare River

If you’re interested in booking tours such as the Tortuga Island day cruise and Pacuare white water rafting, please check out our Costa Rica deals and discounts page . We have additional deals for tours in La Fortuna, Guanacaste and Manuel Antonio! There are affiliate links in this post.

Costa Rica Vacation Checklist

• Get our detailed Costa Rica Packing List so you know what essential items to bring.
• Do not forget to purchase Travel Insurance for your trip to Costa Rica.
• Stay connected by purchasing a prepaid SIM Card in Costa Rica. Get 10% off your Airalo eSIM package with our promo code “mytanfeet”
• Save money with Mytanfeet Deals for tours and hotels. Save more money with our Costa Rica Car Rental Discount.

Join our mailing list and get our free Costa Rica eBook!  

Reader Interactions

Shelley Brockway says

March 10, 2024

I was wondering whether you could work with me to develop an actual plan for a visit to Costa Rica in June with teens. I have read a lot of your information and it has been so valuable. I know where we would like to visit, but am at a loss as to how many days it will take to navigate the various different sites and whether San Jose should be the base for most of the trip or to travel to each location and stay. This has held me up with booking our flights. I am planning on renting a car as you recommend. Is it at all possible to contact you directly so I can get your input? I would really appreciate that. I know you must get a lot of inquiries. Please let me know and, if so, how to reach you. Thank you so much, Shelley.

March 12, 2024

Hello Shelley, we do not offer consultations or itinerary planning but you can check our already written sample Costa Rica itinerary ideas and you can use our start here page to begin planning.

March 10, 2023

Thank you for all the info you publish on this website. Extremely useful! I will be visiting Heredia end of March 2023. My adult daughter will join me on March 31,2023. For a week. We want to visit some good spots that week like La Fortuna and/or Manuel Antonio. I know it’s semana santa. Can you suggest some tours that might still have availability that we could use especially in the first half of that week, April 1 – April 5? Thank you!

March 14, 2023

Hello Happi, you can check out our Costa Rica discounts page to see the tours we have in La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio and once you fill out the booking forms, we will check availability

Marjorie says

February 5, 2023

Can you recommend a private shuttle service between SJO and Uvita?

February 18, 2023

Hello, we sent you an email a few weeks ago with more information, please check your spam folder if you don’t see one from Mytanfeet

October 2, 2022

Hi, we are a party of 5 traveling to Liberia airport in February. Is there a private mode of transportation from the airport to our hotel, Riu Palace? We have a tight connection in Miami so if we prebook a limo and miss our flight what happens to our limo reservation? Thank you

October 3, 2022

Hello Pam, we work with a private transportation provider (shuttle vans only, no limos), we sent you an email with more information

Ilsa Billings says

September 3, 2022

We have booked air travel for our trip arriving in Liberia on the 25 of January 2023 around 2pm and will be flying out of San Jose on the 6th. Our goal is to do Monteverde/La Fortuna/Coffee tour on the first half, and then take a shared shuttle to Puerto Viejo for some relaxed beach time. We are looking for advice for tours/transportation/lodging for the first part. We would prefer not to rent a car since the idea of utilizing the water taxi across Lake Arenal appeals to us. We are open to any suggestions though. This will be our visit to Costa Rica

August 29, 2022

Thank you for the info! What would be the best means of transportation from Liberia to Tamarindo for a family of four?

August 30, 2022

Hello Sarah, we sent you an email with more information

Michelle Decker says

June 19, 2022

Hi, What a super website.

Myself and 2 friends would like to go, all of us first timers, in the first week of November 2022. We would like to know where you would recommend with least likelihood of daily rain.

Michelle Decker

June 23, 2022

Hello, please check the following posts

Best places in Costa Rica Costa Rica weather

April 1, 2022

Is there a private airport shuttle company you would recommend from Liberia airport to our hotel in Playa Conchal?

April 4, 2022

Hi Holly, we sent you an email with quotes and information yesterday

james comerford says

March 14, 2022

I inquired thru email about rental cars at Liberia airport from 3/15-3/29 and I did not receive any notification from you.

How can I best communicate with you? I am on Whatsapp.

Thanks, Jim Comerford 1+708-436-7883

Hi James, we haven’t received any communication from this email, the form may have had some problems. Please email us at web @ mytanfeet . com (we do not communicate via Whatsaspp, only email) and we will be happy to help

ViaTravelers says

June 25, 2021

Thank you for including necessary travel in Costa Rica information from the language, weather, currency, and concerns in this blog. Love how the best spots in the country are also presented.

June 3, 2021

Hi, do you know if the border crossing near Los Chiles going into Nicaragua is open?

I’m not 100% but it should be as all land borders opened back mid April

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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Exclusive deals

Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to Costa Rica, where “Pura Vida” is a way of life, sloths swing among the rainforest treetops, coconuts rattle in the wind, and baby turtles make their way to the sea for the first time. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to enjoy Costa Rica, home to epic national parks, great surfing, beautiful beaches, and exotic wildlife found around every corner. Life is vibrant in this wonderful country – ready to be enjoyed in this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary!

Ultimate Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica has really got it right when it comes to protecting nature and wildlife . The government is doing its absolute best to ensure that animals are protected and species preserved, making it one of the best countries to visit for animal lovers! There’s nowhere quite like it, somewhere you’ll hear toucans in the early morning and monkeys howling at night on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

Looking for a different itinerary? Read our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary or 3-week Costa Rica itinerary .

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to visit all the top spots, whether it’s waterfalls and hot springs and volcanos in La Fortuna or the cloud forests of Monteverde . Enjoy this ultimate Costa Rica travel guide.

Did you know? Costa Rica generates more than 99% of its electricity using renewable energy!

Day 1: San Jose (arrival)

On day 1, you’ll likely fly into San Jose , Costa Rica’s capital city and one of two major airports in the country. Because of all the fantastic nature spots, you need to see on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, we recommend only staying in San Jose for a day. This amount of time gives you a chance to see a few city sights and recuperate from your journey.

Read: Things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica .

San Jose is not a pretty city but it is home to some nice gardens, museums, and a food market. Other than that we don’t recommend spending much time in this city. Join a food tour to learn a little bit about the city and Costa Rican food.

Where to stay in San Jose

The neighborhood of Amón in San Jose has some nice buildings to see and restaurants to visit; like Cafe Rojo and De Acá.

Hotels in San Jose 😴

Day 2: San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Wake up and enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast (Gallo Pinto!) before embarking on your journey to Puerto Viejo. If you’re renting a car in San Jose, your journey will take around 4 hours. Alternatively, book a shuttle or a tour, or take the local bus directly to Puerto Viejo. Once you arrive in Puerto Viejo, book your tours or activities for the next day. For example, rent a bike, surfboard, kayak, or go on a chocolate tour.

If transport might be an issue you can also visit Santa Teresa instead.

How to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is about 4 hours drive from San Jose on good roads. Because of this, you don’t necessarily need a car with higher clearance from the ground (or a 4×4), although you might consider renting one for other destinations in Costa Rica. 

We recommend to rent a car in Costa Rica through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

By bus or shuttle:

The public buses (MEPE) leave from San Jose to Puerto Viejo about 5 times a day and take roughly 4.5 hours. It’s the cheapest way to travel with tickets starting from around 10 USD. If you want to be picked up from your hotel, and have a slightly more comfortable journey, opt for a shared shuttle with other travelers. This price starts from around 50 USD and takes approximately 5 hours (it’s a bit longer because of hotel pickups).

Book a bus or shuttle to Puerto Viejo

Where to stay in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo has an entertaining atmosphere throughout the day and night. If you don’t mind a little bit of noise and music, stay in the center of town, so you’re close to all the amenities. If you want more of a tranquil experience, choose accommodation along the coast between Playa Cocles or Manzanillo.

Hotels in Puerto Viejo 😴

Day 3 – 4: Puerto Viejo

Enjoy your days in beautiful Puerto Viejo! This laidback little beach town is home to vibrant Caribbean vibes, friendly locals, and beautiful palm-tree-lined beaches. There is not a huge amount to do in Puerto Viejo ; it’s more about absorbing the atmosphere, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying cute cafes. There are also some great outdoor activities, from cycling to surfing and kayaking. 

Make sure also to visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, a home for injured and orphaned animals. You can join an educational tour and learn all about these beautiful animals, whether it’s Sloths or Margay Cats!

Read: 10 best things to do in Puerto Viejo

Day 5: Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

Head north to La Fortuna, a tropical town famous for its hot springs and volcanic activity. The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is relatively long if you travel by public transport. If you’re driving, leave in the morning and aim to reach La Fortuna for lunch. This gives you some time to refresh and cool down in the spray of the La Fortuna waterfall or the pools under the El Salto rope swing.

More time available? Visit the waterfalls of Bajos del Toro on your way to La Fortuna!

How to get from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna should take around 4.5 hours on well-paved roads. However, to avoid pothole damage, we recommend hiring a car with a bit more clearance from the ground. 

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is fairly long and not super accessible by public transport. You’ll need to transfer buses in San Jose, which means the journey can take around 8-9 hours.

If you don’t have a car, the best option is to take a shared shuttle bus that leaves in the morning and takes around 6 hours. The cost of this is about 60 USD, but it’s far less hassle than the public bus.

Book a bus or shuttle to La Fortuna

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

La Fortuna has excellent accommodation for all types of budget. However, you’ll find the best accommodations and campsites just outside La Fortuna if you have your transport. If hot springs play a big part in your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary, consider staying in a hotel with hot springs that are also included in the nightly price. ( Here are all your hotel options ) 

Hotels in La Fortuna 😴

Day 6 of 2 weeks in Costa Rica: La Fortuna

Spend one of the most magical days in La Fortuna, enjoying nature’s very own playground! Wake up early and head for Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the country’s most active volcano! Don’t worry, though, rangers make sure to monitor the activity and close trails accordingly so you’re always safe.

Explore La Fortuna’s waterfalls, hot springs, and vulcanic landscapes on this day tour

Choose from one of the many trails and hike to some incredible volcano viewpoints. When you’re done, head back down into La Fortuna to take advantage of the geothermal activity in the area – yes, there are plenty of hot springs to enjoy! 

Read: Best Things To Do in La Fortuna

Day 7: La Fortuna to Monteverde

Today is the day on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary to head to the luscious green landscapes of Monteverde! Monteverde is stunning, but the journey to get there is also exceptional, as you drive around the peaceful Lake Arenal that sits in the shadow of the volcano.

On your way, stop at Mistico Hanging Bridges, which are about a 30-minutes drive from La Fortuna. This fantastic jungle trail is about 3 km long and includes six adrenaline-pumping hanging bridges. From a height of 45 meters, you’ll have the opportunity to walk across bridges suspended between the treetops, gaining the unique chance to see an abundance of wildlife. Don’t forget to look out for the elusive red-eyed tree frog, an icon of Costa Rica!

How to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde

Although La Fortuna and Monteverde look close on the map, the mammoth Lake Arenal separates the two villages. This means you need to drive around its parameter, which takes around 3 hours. However, luckily, it’s a stunning drive, perhaps one of the nicest on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary! 

The roads around the lake to Santa Elena (Monteverde town) are all well-paved. Still, we recommend having a slightly more powerful car for the steep hills. (no 4×4 needed to visit Monteverde).

Buses leave from La Fortuna to Monteverde, but they take around 7-8 hours. Additionally, you won’t be able to visit the Mistico Hanging Bridges when traveling by bus. Alternatively, get a shared shuttle van for around 50-60 USD.

Book a bus or shuttle to Monteverde

Small ferries cross Lake Arenal, but they don’t take transport. If you are traveling without transportation, this can be an excellent option to get to Monteverde. The journey takes around 2 – 2.5 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy a trip across the lake with beautiful views of the volcano; it’s a unique way to travel! Prices start from 25 USD.

Where to Stay in Monteverde

Monteverde offers numerous accommodation options, from cabins in the forest to hotels in Santa Elena. ( See all your hotels options here )

Hotels in Monteverde 😴

Day 8: Monteverde

Welcome to Monteverde (Green Mountain), home to unique and rare cloud forests. In fact, cloud forests only make up 1% of all forests worldwide! These beautiful areas are given their name because of their high altitude, which causes mist and low-lying clouds to appear through the trees.

Explore the Monteverde or Santa Elena cloud forest trails, looking out for frogs, butterflies, insects, and monkeys (you can even see beautiful hummingbirds at a nearby cafe!). Take part in the exhilarating night walk experience at night, led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Once you’re done exploring the cloud forests, enjoy more adventures among the beautiful Monteverde nature, from ziplining and canyoning to coffee tasting .

Read: Top things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Day 9: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Spend your morning enjoying the colorful butterfly garden at Monteverde before starting your trip south to Manuel Antonio. Manuel Antonio is a lovely coastal town surrounded by pristine, white-sand beaches, beautiful blue ocean, and lush jungle. Most importantly, it’s home to Manuel Antonio National Park, known as one of the most beautiful in the world! Spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans in the wild by joining a tour of the National Park.

How to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

It is an easy 4-hour drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. However, all the roads are good, and you will not need a 4×4 car. About halfway, make a quick stop at the famous Crocodile Bridge , where you have a good chance of spotting crocodiles. Please do not buy any meat from the sellers because this interferes with the crocodile’s natural feeding habits. Plus, according to Costa Rican Law, you are prohibited from feeding wildlife.

Read:   Things to know about wildlife tourism

By bus or shuttle :

Unfortunately, there’s no direct bus from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. Instead, take the Santa Elena ( Manuel Antonio ) to Puntarenas bus and change bus to Quepos. Once in Quepos, change buses to Manuel Antonio. The total journey will take about 6-8 hours and cost about 10 USD. 

Alternatively, book a direct shuttle between both destinations. ( See the shuttle options here )

Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio

The closer your accommodation is to Manuel Antonio National Park, the more expensive it gets. Therefore, we recommend staying between Quepos and the national park if you have your own transport. ( See all your hotel options here )

Hotels in Manuel Antonio 😴

Day 10: Manuel Antonio

Spend your day in Manuel Antonio National Park , one of the most beautiful natural areas in the world! Although it’s home to hundreds of different species, it’s also one of the smallest national parks, making it easy to explore on a day trip. Buy a ticket to enter the park and hike one of the many trails, looking for exciting animals like macaws, iguanas, sloths, and squirrel monkeys. We recommend taking a guided tour so you can get to learn heaps more about the diversity of the wildlife, flora, and fauna in this area.

Once you walk through the jungle trails, you’ll arrive at the paradise Manuel Antonio Beach (many people buy a ticket to enter the park just to spend the day here). Because these beaches are protected, they’re absolutely pristine, with the whitest sand and bluest water. Relax on the beach, listening to the sound of coconuts in the breeze while you spot iguanas roaming freely across the sand.

More about   Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica

Day 11: Manuel Antonio to Uvita

On day 11 of your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, head to the beautiful town of Uvita, famous for whale watching and its backpacker atmosphere. 

Leave Manuel Antonio and stop at the Nauyaca Waterfalls on your way to Uvita. The entire journey takes about 1 hour but you should add 30 minutes to go off the beaten track to the waterfalls. Here, you’ll find two powerful falls with many gorgeous natural pools. Stop here for a swim and enjoy the power of nature! 

Read more about the Nauyaca Waterfalls

Once you arrive in Uvita, watch the sunset from Uvita Beach or Gusto Italian, which looks down onto Playa Hermosa. Alternatively, book a horseriding experience on the beach, galloping in the breeze as you watch the sun go down.

How to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita

The journey from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is very straightforward, directly on the highway and taking only 1-1.5 hours. However, if you want to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls , add an extra half an hour.

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If you’re traveling by public transport, you will not be able to make a stop at Nauyaca Waterfalls . However, they are just a short journey from Uvita and can be visited on a day trip while you stay there. Buses leave from Quepos (near Uvita ) around 4 times a day and take approximately 2 hours, costing around 5 USD. You can take regular public buses to Quesos (from Manuel Antonio), which take about 30 minutes.

The shuttle bus is a more comfortable option that allows you to be collected directly from your hotel in Manuel Antonio, saving you the trip to Quepos. It’s a bit faster, taking 1.5 hours and costing around 40 USD per person.

Where to Stay in Uvita

Uvita town is split into two parts: the main town near the beach and the upper town across the highway towards Uvita Waterfall. When staying in the main town , hotels are more expensive, but you’re always walking distance from the beach and mostly surrounded by lush green. Alternatively, camp at one of the nearby sites or go glamping!

Hotels in Uvita 😴

Day 12 – 13: Uvita

Visiting Uvita between January – March or July – October? This is the best time to see the majestic humpback whale ( join a whale watching tour here )! As a happy coincidence, there is also a beautiful part of the beach called Marino Ballena (whale tail). At low tide, this sand passage is created in the shape of a whale’s tail, which is a beautiful thing to see on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary. 

Read about the best beaches in Costa Rica .

There are many other things to do in Uvita , whether it’s surf lessons, visiting Uvita Waterfall, or a mangrove tour. The mangrove tour is exceptional, providing the opportunity to see tropical birds, crocodiles, and turtles in the protected wetlands. Mangroves are also vital for the environment; they protect the shoreline, prevent erosion, and act as a habitat for many animals.

Read: Best Things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica

Day 14: Drive back to San Jose (Departure)

After an amazing 2 weeks in Costa Rica, it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful country, taking with you all the fantastic memories of your adventure. On the last day of your Costa Rica itinerary, make your way back to SJO airport (a 3.5-hour drive from Uvita). Alternatively, if you have a flight late in the day, you could visit one more waterfall (like La Paz, which is an hour north of the city).

If you need a hotel close to the airport , stay at Alajuela instead of San Jose.

How to Visit Costa Rica in 2 Weeks

Costa Rica has unlimited treasures that could take months to explore. However, 2 weeks in Costa Rica is a good amount of time to see some of the greatest highlights. This Costa Rica travel guide provides various activities, destinations, and transportation options.

Getting to Costa Rica

There are two international airports in Costa Rica: San Jose International Airport and Roberts International Airport in Liberia. Most international flights arrive in San Jose, where your Costa Rica itinerary starts. Keep in mind that it is common that immigration that extremely long.

If you do fly to Liberia instead of San Jose, you can still do this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary. However, the drive from Liberia to your first stop (Puerto Viejo) is around 8 hours, quite long. Instead, consider stopping at San Jose on the way to break up the journey, as there are lots of incredible natural sights to see just outside the city. 

Find the best flights to Costa Rica here

Getting Around on Your Costa Rica 2-Week Itinerary

The easiest way, by far, to get around Costa Rica is with a rental car . You’ll get the freedom to stop anywhere you like, at your own pace, which gives you the flexibility to complete your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary. It’s also far more comfortable than traveling by public bus (especially as on some routes you’ll have to change). 

Be aware that car rental prices can double in the high season and that it can be useful to book in advance.

Driving in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a reputation for having some pretty treacherous roads. However, these days, that’s not the case at all! Now you’ll find well-paved roads that are in good condition for all types of vehicles. The only unpaved road you might encounter on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary is if you take the wrong road from La Fortuna to Monteverde . Because of this, always use the Waze app in Costa Rica to find the right roads.

Tip: Some locals work as parking attendants and may walk up to you and ask for a very small payment to watch your car. This is a good service in general – just make sure they’re not overcharging you. Best is to ask your accommodation for the average rate in the area.

Do I need a 4×4 in Costa Rica?

You might have needed a 4×4 to drive in Costa Rica in the past. However, if you follow the main roads, you no longer need a 4×4. But to avoid any pothole damage, we recommend renting a car with some clearance from the ground. 

Renting a 4×4 can also be helpful in the rainy season when unpaved roads can get very muddy, especially if you’re planning on traveling to more remote areas too.

By Jeep with Tent or Campervan

For an unforgettable adventure, rent a 4×4 jeep in Costa Rica ! This is the most incredible experience, as you sleep under the stars, moving from place to place, and finding some gorgeous hidden spots. 

Best of all, renting a 4×4 jeep gives you the option to drive through national parks and cross rivers in Corcovado and Guanacaste areas. Although the rental price might seem expensive, it’s worth remembering that this is your accommodation, transport, and kitchen all in one. Because of this, your trip might actually end up cheaper! 

Read: Camping in Costa Rica – Everything you need to know

Traveling by local buses in Costa Rica is the cheapest way to get around, and many services are traveling to major destinations all over the country. However, it will take quite a bit longer. This is because the bus routes avoid highways and make stops instead of traveling direct. Plus, some routes will require changes, for example, the route from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna.

Tip: bus timetables often change, so check times in advance.

Shuttles (12-seaters vans) are convenient to travel door to door in Costa Rica. Interbus is the largest shuttle operator and drives between all major destinations, offering you a more comfortable way to travel on your Costa Rica itinerary.  

These shuttles can be booked in advance, and it is recommended to do so, especially during the high season. We didn’t book in advance, which left us with no other option than to take an expensive taxi ride (oops!).

Find shuttles to all destinations in Costa Rica

Our Favorite Accommodations

There are many fantastic options when it comes to accommodation in Costa Rica. It might be camping on the edges of the rainforest, a beach bungalow, an artsy boutique hotel, or a backpackers hostel. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Costa Rica. Below are our favorites for each destination on this Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

• San Jose: Casa 69 , Grano de Oro Hotel , and Escalante Hostel
• Puerto Viejo: Le Cameleon , Shawandha Lodge , and Pagalu Hostel
• La Fortuna: Casa Luna , Sangregado Lodge , and Poshpacker Hostel
• Monteverde: Los Pinos Lodge , Chira Glamping , and Outbox Hostel
• Manuel Antonio: The Falls Hotel and Teva Hostel
• Uvita: Seren Glamping , Karandi Hostel , and Uvita Paradise

How much do 2 weeks in Costa Rica Cost?

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world! It contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity, something that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is also known as the ‘Switzerland of Central America’ because of the high prices that come with the country’s beauty. 

Costs of Traveling in Costa Rica

Travel on a budget in Costa Rica, from $340 − $940 USD weekly per person, mid-range $950 − $1950 USD, and high-end from $1960 − $2650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $150 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $60 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $80 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $30 USD
• Activities: $15 − $40 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit: Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

The best time to travel to Costa Rica is from mid-December to April. This is the time with the most sunshine (between 15-30 degrees) and dry days (although you might experience a small rain shower in the afternoon). Because of the weather, this is the most popular season to visit Costa Rica, making it busy and expensive. 

The end of April to the end of November is the rainy season, with the most rain in October. However, don’t let this affect your choice as it never rains for long, only a few short rain showers each day. The rain also makes nature incredibly luscious! In addition, this period is much cheaper; you could even save a third of your total budget by traveling during this time.

Tip: Puerto Viejo is on the Caribbean coast and has slightly different seasons. August to October are generally dry, unlike other parts of Costa Rica.

Do I Need a Visa for 2 Weeks in Costa Rica?

Most passport holders do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. However, you will need a valid passport and an onward plane ticket to prove that you will exit Costa Rica within 90 days.

Check here if you need a visa to enter

Is Costa Rica Safe?

Costa Rica is very safe for tourists, with some of the friendliest locals globally. It also has the lowest rate of violent crimes in all of Central America. However, like most countries in Latin America, it does have a few problems with drug trafficking, poverty, and pickpockets. Always keep your belongings within eyesight and exercise caution. This way, you’re unlikely to experience any issues.

Read: Tips on how to travel Travel Safe

Travel Insurance Costa Rica

Even if you’re only traveling in Costa Rica for 2 weeks, we recommend purchasing single-trip travel insurance. Although the country itself is safe, there is potential for accidents – for example, an injury after surfing, a canceled flight, or lost baggage.

Costa Rica Entry Requirements: Covid-19

At the moment, you need to complete this health form within 72 hours before you enter Costa Rica. However, you do not need to be vaccinated and do not require a negative PCR test. Despite this regulation, if you are not vaccinated, you will need to purchase a travel policy for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica. Be aware that the policy should cover up to 50,000 USD of medical expenses and 2,000 USD of accommodation expenses. ( Read the specifics here )

What to Pack for a Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica is an incredibly diverse country with differing scenery, wildlife, and micro-climates. Because of this, the weather can change from a sunny 30 degrees to 18 degrees and rainy within a few hours. As such, we recommend taking layers and clothing that is quick-dry. 

Costa Rica Packing List

• Take layers – Layers of clothing are essential to add or remove items when the temperature changes.
• Quick-dry clothing – You can be almost certain to have a little bit of rain during your trip to Costa Rica. Take clothing made of fabrics that dry quickly because items take very long to dry due to the humidity.
• Microfiber towel – Like quick-dry clothing, it’s beneficial to take microfiber towels as they dry much faster and are incredibly lightweight.
• Waterproof backpack – Keep your valuables dry in a waterproof backpack or a rain cover that comes with your bag. 
• Raincoat – The final item for rain is a waterproof jacket/raincoat. Some can also be easily folded into a package that you can take anywhere.
• Hat – Luckily, there are also a lot of sunny moments. For that, take a hat/cap to protect against the sun for the hikes you will be doing. 
• Long socks & trousers – For some hikes, night walks, or evenings outside, you might also want to take long socks and trousers to cover your legs and prevent being bitten by mosquitos.
• Good footwear – Good walking shoes/sneakers/sandals is an absolute must. Hikes can be somewhat challenging with muddy or rocky paths. It’s not wise to wear flip-flops here. 
• Earplugs – Your nights can be disturbed by animal sounds, music, or when camping in Costa Rica , the sound of the waves. Earplugs save your night’s rest. 
• Camera – Capture memories of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica with a waterproof camera like a GoPro, or get good protection gear for your camera so you won’t have problems during an unexpected shower. 
• Power bank – For the long hikes, power outages, or moments in the jungle, it’s helpful to have a power bank to recharge your phone. ( Get one here )

Packing Sustainable Items

• Insect repellent – Bring an insect repellent but get a non-toxic product to prevent harming nature or animals.
• Sunscreen – An obvious addition to that is also sunscreen. We recommend a product without toxic ingredients, so it doesn’t harm the environment. ( Read about non-toxic sunscreens here )
• Refillable water bottle – Water is drinkable from the tap in almost all of Costa Rica except secluded locations like Tortuguero. No need to buy plastic bottles; refill instead!
• Stainless steel straw – Coconuts are available everywhere in Costa Rica. Carry a stainless steel straw with you and avoid plastic or single-use straws. Pro-tip: With stainless steel, you can scrape out the delicious inside of the coconut too.
• Reusable bag – Don’t take plastic bags when purchasing fruits or other items. Instead, carry your own!

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Hey lovely. Aw hope you both had the most incredible time! :-) Your trip sounds thrilling! So excited to plan for this one.

Thank you for your advice hun. I was actually really keen on the campervan idea, having the option to be able to sleep in the wild etc. Will bring the cost right down, by not staying in hotels too :-)

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Centering yourself on a surfboard or yoga mat, descending into bat-filled caves or ascending misty volcanic peaks – relax and enjoy the ride of Costa Rica.

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Attractions

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Teatro Nacional

On the southern side of the Plaza de la Cultura resides the Teatro Nacional, San José’s most revered building. Constructed in 1897, it features a columned…

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Central Valley & Highlands

This polished storybook garden complex just east of Volcán Poás offers the most easily digestible cultural experience in the Central Valley and is the…

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio & Around

Featuring lush jungle, picture-perfect beaches and craggy headlands, this tiny park (1680 acres/680 hectares) absolutely brims with wildlife (and often…

Playa Negra

At the northwestern end of Cahuita, Playa Negra is a long, black-sand beach flying the bandera azul ecológica, a flag that indicates that the beach is…

Southern Caribbean

Off a dirt road marked by Punta Uva Dive Center is a quiet, idyllic cove that could double for a scene in the film The Beach. When the water is calm, it…

Parque Nacional Isla del Coco

Southern Costa Rica & Península de Osa

Around 500km southwest of the Costa Rica mainland, Isla del Coco is a natural wonder that teems with wildlife, including the largest schools of hammerhead…

Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal

From 1968 until 2010, Volcán Arenal was an ever-active and awe-striking natural wonder, producing menacing ash columns, massive explosions and streams of…

Wilson Botanical Garden

The world-class Wilson Botanical Garden is internationally known for its collection of more than 2000 native Costa Rican species. Species threatened with…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 16 best things to do in costa rica.

Montezuma Waterfalls

A 40-minute river hike leads to a waterfall with a delicious swimming hole. Further along, a second set of falls offers a good 12m leap into deep water…

Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas de Guanacaste

Península de Nicoya

Las Baulas national marine park encompasses the entire beach at Playa Grande, as well as the adjacent land and 220 sq km of ocean. This is one of the…

Parque Nacional Tortuguero

Caribbean Coast

This misty, green coastal park sits on a broad floodplain parted by a jigsaw of canals. Referred to as the ‘mini-Amazon,’ Parque Nacional Tortuguero is a…

Museo del Jade

This museum houses the world’s largest collection of American jade (pronounced ‘ha-day’ in Spanish), with an ample exhibition space of five floors…

Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja

Northwestern Costa Rica

Given its proximity to Liberia, this park (about 160 sq km) feels surprisingly uncrowded and remote. Named after the steamy main attraction – the active…

Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio

The park's heavenly blue river, waterfalls and lagoons are among the most spectacular natural phenomena in Costa Rica; as a result, the park is known to…

Playa Ventanas

Tucked behind a grove of coco palms, this crescent-shaped, black-sand-and-pebble beach has elaborate rock formations at either end, and is called …

Playa Cocolito

Here's your chance to see a waterfall crashing down a cliff, straight onto the rocks and into the ocean. El Chorro Waterfall is the pièce de résistance of…

Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro

Arenal & Northern Lowlands

This remote, 102-sq-km refuge has long lured anglers seeking that elusive 18kg snook, and birders hoping to glimpse rare waterfowl. During the dry season…

Maquenque Eco-Lodge

Set on 80 glorious bird-filled hectares, 20 unique bungalows (including five gobsmacking tree houses) overlook a lagoon and tropical garden; additional…

Parque Nacional Carara

Central Pacific Coast

Carara is the famed home of one of Costa Rica’s most charismatic bird species, the scarlet macaw. While catching a glimpse of this tropical wonder is a…

Parque Nacional Los Quetzales

The Road to Chirripó

Spread along both banks of the Río Savegre, Parque Nacional Los Quetzales covers 50 sq km of rainforest, cloud forest and premontane forest lying along…

Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Ostional

This 85 sq km coastal refuge extends from Punta India in the north to Playa Guiones in the south, and includes the beaches of Nosara and Ostional. It was…

Pacuare Lodge

There are two ways into this dream of an ecolodge, both equally adventurous. Most arrive at its remote location on the Río Pacuare by raft, via a…

Parque Nacional Volcán Poás

Here's your chance to get frighteningly close to this extremely active volcano, which last erupted in 2017. At an elevation of 2708m, the mighty Poás is…

Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde

Monteverde & Around

This beautiful cloud forest reserve came into being in 1972, when the Quaker community (which had already set aside a third of its property for…

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23 Epic Things to Do in Costa Rica

Updated April 2, 2024

Costa Rica's strikingly diverse terrain – lush forests, wildlife reserves, hot springs and tropical beaches – offers a little something for every traveler. Beach lovers should head west and stay along the Pacific Coast; Guanacaste  and the  Nicoya

• All Things To Do

Nicoya Peninsula Nicoya Peninsula free

The Nicoya Peninsula's sparkling, nearly 80-mile shoreline boasts beach-centric towns with cream-colored shores and dense forests. Half of the peninsula is found in the Guanacaste province, while the other half sits in the Puntarenas province. If you're looking for a shortlist of towns or attractions to visit while traveling around the peninsula, consider the following:

Tamarindo: For the most developed beach town, head to Tamarindo on the north end of the peninsula. Tamarindo's beaches gained popularity after being featured in the 1994 surf movie "Endless Summer II," and today, the town is home to a bustling nightlife scene and well-regarded restaurants. Some of its most popular beaches include Playa Grande and Playa Negra. You'll also find sea turtle beaches and birding hot spots along the Nicoya Peninsula – especially at Marino las Baulas National Park – in addition to leatherback turtles and more than 100 bird species at Playa Grande. In addition to its natural wonders, Tamarindo is also home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica . 

Guanacaste Guanacaste free

Costa Rica's "Gold Coast" is one of the nation's top destinations, and that's not just because of its secluded beaches. The northwestern province's dry, sunny savannas contrast the misty cloud-covered rainforests found in other parts of the country. To the east, you'll admire volcanoes comprising the Cordillera de Guanacaste. Along the coast – which extends all the way to the Nicaraguan border – you'll find pockets of white sand flanking all-inclusive resorts and remote fishing villages. Farther inland, you'll discover a thriving cowboy culture that has flourished since Spanish colonial rule in the 19th century.

More notable highlights include the pristine, palm-studded Playa Carrillo, Rincón de la Vieja National Park and Costa Rica's first national park, Santa Rosa.  

Ecotermales Fortuna Ecotermales Fortuna

Located just outside the town of La Fortuna, the Ecotermales Hot Springs offer a relaxing break perfect for soothing post-hike muscles. Its magnesium-rich waters are heated by the natural energy of Arenal Volcano and collect in several rock-edged pools that are surrounded by lounge chairs and a lush tropical rainforest, not to mention views of the volcano. Constantly moving, the natural water refreshes itself every 45 minutes. Bathers will find five pools ranging from 90 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as a pair of bars and an on-site restaurant. There are also cool water pools and a waterfall perfect for enjoying a hydromassage.

Most recent travelers thoroughly enjoyed their experience at the hot springs, praising the clean facilities, the affordable drinks and the tasty food. Even in light rain (which is frequent in Costa Rica), visitors called it "paradise on Earth." Several visitors said the hot springs never felt crowded thanks to the size and variety of the pools. 

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Manuel Antonio National Park Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's smallest protected green spaces, but don't let its size throw you off. Within the park's 7 square miles, you'll find untamed beaches, secluded coves with coral reefs, nature trails and a thick rainforest. You can stretch out on the park's coastline or wander along one of the walking paths to spot rare birds, camouflaged iguanas and purple and orange crabs. If you're a lover of furry creatures, this park shelters sloths and a large population of monkeys. Though you can explore the park on your own, there are a variety of organized tours that take the hassle out of planning and range from guided hikes and kayak tours to boat rides, zip line tours and more.

For beach lovers, Playa Manuel Antonio is the most popular thanks to its spectacular views. But if you're hoping to avoid your fellow tourists, venture to Playa Espadilla, which combines an arching white sand beach with a rainforest backdrop. Many consider it one of the prettiest beaches in the area. Part of the beach is in Manuel Antonio National Park (where an entrance fee required), though the section near the town of Manuel Antonio (called Playa Espadilla Norte) is free to enjoy. Water sports enthusiasts can also sign up for surfing lessons and catamaran and banana boat rides.

San José San José free

San José, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, serves as a central base for exploration and features a large international airport. You'll likely want to stop here before heading off to the country's magnificent rainforests and beaches. A bustling metropolis, San Jose is home to a bevy of cultural attractions. For visitors, the city's museums and distinct interconnected  barrios  (districts) are the major draws, not to mention the vibrant dining scene.

Barrio Amón is popular with tourists for its centuries-old mansions and photo-worthy architecture. Barrio Escalante is equally popular for its variety of restaurants, bars, cafes and bakeries. If you plan on staying in the city for a few days before connecting elsewhere, consider heading downtown to the Plaza de la Cultura for the exquisite collections at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. For even more treasures, don't miss the Jade Museum, which sits in front of the Plaza de la Democracia. Both museums house dazzling and rare pre-Columbian artifacts. Other must-sees include the National Theater of Costa Rica, the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Central Market.

Jacó Jacó free

Far away from northern Costa Rica's foggy rainforests lies Jacó, a beautiful town teeming with shops, restaurants and beachfront hotels (some of the top Costa Rica all-inclusive resorts can be found here). It's also the closest beachside retreat to San José , the country's capital. Surfers should venture to Playa Hermosa, host of many surfing competitions and tournaments, for the best waves. If you're looking for a more relaxing stretch of sand with calm waters, consider Playa Herradura and Playa Blanca – two beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Nature seekers should head to wildlife havens like the Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls, a 60-acre property that's home to the country's colorful birds and resident monkeys. For those who want a bigger dose of nature, Carara National Park is home to crocodiles, jaguars and the endangered scarlet macaw. For even more wildlife, venture about 45 miles down the coast to Manuel Antonio National Park . If you're traveling sans kids, you may also want to take advantage of the town's rollicking nightlife scene.

Recent travelers highlight one major drawback: the town's popularity. In addition to crowded beaches, family travelers cautioned against the rip currents at Playa Jacó and to heed the posted signs. For most travelers, surfing was the main draw, in addition to the unique gray and black sand beaches. Other reviewers said the national parks were a must.

Arenal Volcano Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica's best-known stratovolcano, stands more than 5,000 feet high and appears to touch the clouds. For the latter half of the 20th century, admirers traveled to its base in droves to catch a glimpse of its glowing rocks and the molten lava tumbling down its sides. But Arenal wasn't always spewing fiery lava, rocks and ash. The volcano sat dormant for 400 years, then on July 29, 1968, Arenal awoke from its slumber. A thunderous earthquake shook the area and a subsequent explosion of lava wiped out three nearby villages. Frequent eruptions continued until 2010, when the volcano re-entered a resting cycle.

Today, you can explore the area by visiting the nearly 30,000-acre Arenal Volcano National Park, which is part of the larger 500,000-acre Arenal Tilaran Conservation Area. Given the area's immense size, the opportunities for adventure and exploration are nearly endless. Popular activities and attractions include hiking trails, hot springs, horseback riding, zip lining and river rafting.

Corcovado National Park Corcovado National Park

Visitors travel to this more than 160-square-mile misty rainforest for its wildlife. In fact, the park is in a region that's considered one of the most biologically diverse areas in Central America. Visitors have the opportunity to spot more than 300 different bird species, 140 types of mammals, 40 fish species and more than 100 different amphibians. Buzzing insects and chirping birds can be seen and heard as you stroll through the verdant jungle. Trek along the many trails and you're likely to spot macaws, tapirs, jaguars, sea turtles or squirrel monkeys. What's more, Corcovado National Park features an untamed beach area. For the adventurous, there’s primitive camping.

Note that permits and a reservation with an official guide are required to access the park. Permits can be obtained through a tour operator ; many local hotels work with tour operators and can book a tour for you. Past visitors spoke highly of Corcovado Info Center .

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Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve

Imagine winding through a forest that touches the clouds with its strikingly tall trees that wrap you in a sea of green. Add to that more than 100 mammals, 400 types of birds and 1,200 amphibian species, and you have Monteverde's lush 35,000-acre reserve. What's more, Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to more than 2% of the world’s biodiversity and 10% of its plants are endemic to the preserve. With its unique setting, Monteverde is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. Adventurous travelers explore Monteverde Cloud Forest from a zip line, but there's also a tram for those who’d like to see the cloud forest without long hikes. For more information about zip line tours, consult the Sky Adventures official  website . If you'd prefer to stay on ground, the reserve also offers guided walking tours year-round (for an extra fee).

More than a couple travelers called the experience of hiking through the cloud forest "magical." Recent visitors praised the forest signage and said it was easy to navigate with their group. Most said the park was a must-see example of Costa Rica's rich wildlife diversity. Recent visitors recommended taking a zip line tour to avoid the crowds and admire the reserve from an aerial view. Past visitors highly recommend hiring a guide if you've come to the reserve in search of wildlife as the local guides will be able to help you easily spot the animals. Another visitor recommended packing plenty of water and rain gear.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Puerto Viejo de Talamanca free

The village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, comes alive with reggae music, funky bamboo bars and a wild nightlife. Surfers crowd coconut-fringed Cocles Beach, a top-rated surf destination, and foodies check out the downtown's Caribbean-influenced cuisine. Meanwhile, nature lovers venture inland to explore rainforests and nearby Cahuita National Park or the Jaguar Rescue Center. Along the coast, you'll discover remote bungalows and empty stretches of sand.

Several recent visitors mentioned the rip current at Playa Cocles, the top surfing spot. Travelers recommend visiting Playa Negra's black-sand beach – located in the northwest end of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – for its unique geography and lack of tourists. If you're just hoping to relax or swim, reviewers say the soft sand and stunning waters at  Playa Punta Uva can't be beat

La Paz Waterfall Gardens La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz may seem quiet and still at first glance. Though take another look, and you'll find this 70-acre eco-park buzzing with activity. From croaking frogs and fluttering butterflies to rumbling jaguars and howling spider monkeys, the park is a wildlife lover's paradise. For nature-seekers, the hiking trails, along with the garden's five flowing waterfalls are both must-dos. The entire La Paz Waterfall Gardens is draped in a sea of leafy green canopies dotted with colorful orchids. In addition to dining, visitors can book accommodations at the on-site Peace Lodge.

Recent travelers said La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a must-see for every first-time visitor to Costa Rica. Others were pleased with the friendly and knowledgeable staff and the ability to see the property in two hours. However, a few noted that the attraction felt very touristy, and some were disappointed with the small size of the animal enclosures. If you don't want to pay the admission price, you can see the waterfalls from the highway, according to visitors. Reviews for the buffet were mixed: some enjoyed the food, while others described it as overpriced.

Tabacón Hot Springs Tabacón Hot Springs

After a trek to  Arenal Volcano , take some time to soak in the Tabacón's luxurious thermal springs. With its serene flowing waterfalls, tropical foliage and mineral-rich natural springs, the Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort is a blissful escape for travelers. The volcano-heated mineral water collects in pools with temperatures that range from a refreshing 72 degrees to a muscle-relaxing 105 degrees. Next to the thermal baths, the Tabacón's top-notch spa boasts volcanic mud wraps, coffee exfoliations and a host of massage therapies. After relaxing under the canopy of trees, dine in one of two restaurants serving Costa Rican flavors along with international favorites. Luxury lodging is available on-site for overnight guests.

Past visitors called the experience relaxing and beautiful, with great facilities. A handy tip from recent travelers: Bring water shoes to protect your feet as you walk from one pool to another. Though past visitors bemoaned the presence of tour bus crowds, many still said this is a "must-do," especially if you're looking for a relaxing afternoon.

Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge

Bird-watchers rejoice: This swampy wildlife refuge houses thousands of water birds, including storks, cormorants and roseate spoonbills, along with rare jabirus. To spot these animals, you'll want to plan your visit during the dry season (July to November), when the refuge becomes a vital feeding ground for the birds. Note that this remote haven sits near the Nicaraguan border and a day tour is required to visit. Visitors will notice an abundance of wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, lizards and possibly freshwater sharks along the Rio Frio.

Recent travelers enjoyed visiting the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge; many took a boat cruise to see the wildlife and birds. In fact, some reviewers said they were overwhelmed by the amount of birds they saw, in addition to the monkeys and sloths that tend to hide in the trees. Many visitors recommend bringing insect repellent and binoculars. 

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Tortuguero National Park Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park sits tucked away in a northeastern pocket of the Caribbean coast and is only accessible via plane or boat (though boat is the most common). Tied to Costa Rica's mainland by weaving rivers and canals, this isolated park is the second-largest wetland in Costa Rica and lures nature seekers looking for a remote piece of jungle paradise. At various times during the year, visitors can spot sea turtles – green, leatherback, hawksbill and loggerhead – nesting in the area. If you want to witness turtle nesting, plan a visit between July and mid-October. Turtle nesting walks can be arranged through a licensed guide (past visitors praised Tortuguero Tours and Tortuguero Eco Experiences). The Asociacion de Guias de Tortuguero is another resource for finding local guides.

Tortuguero National Park is also an important manatee habitat. With numerous aquatic trails (travel within the park is by canoe or skift), visitors can admire more than 400 different bird species, hundreds of different mammals and reptiles, followed by more than 400 arthropods (insects and spiders). The park is also home to white-faced monkeys, toucans, jaguars, bright lizards, red-eyed frogs and blue morpho butterflies. 

Nauyaca Waterfalls Nauyaca Waterfalls

Costa Rica could be called the land of waterfalls as there are hundreds nestled in the rainforests. The Nauyaca Waterfalls are located along the country's South Pacific coast, and they're considered a must-see if you're exploring this area of Costa Rica. Discovered and managed by the same family, the popular Nauyaca Waterfalls feature two tiers of falls within a nearly 30-foot-wide canyon that are part of the Barucito River. The upper section of the falls measures approximately 145 feet; the lower section spans 65 feet and features a six-foot-deep pool that visitors can swim in. There are additional pools for wading and swimming in the area as well.

You have a few options for reaching the falls. The hike to the waterfalls from the parking lot is about 2 miles (which will take approximately an hour). However, you can also sign up for horseback riding or four-wheel drive vehicle tours, which can be reserved through the same company that manages the falls. Whichever way you choose to access the falls, note that advance reservations are required.

Catarata del Toro Catarata del Toro

Measuring approximately 300 feet, this waterfall plunges over the edge of an extinct volcanic crater and is surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and mist. Unlike some of the country's other popular waterfalls, admiring Catarata del Toro doesn't necessarily require a strenuous hike. The waterfall is privately owned, and can be viewed from the on-site restaurant and several lookout points. If you'd like to get closer, there is a trail departing from the visitor center.

The first part of the self-guided trail is flat and features three lookout points. The second part of the hike requires that you traverse more than 300 concrete steps. The total length of the trail is about 2 miles round-trip. Though you can't swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls, it's still worth the trek for the views alone, according to recent vactioners.

Irazu Volcano Irazu Volcano

Standing 11,260 feet tall, Irazu is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica (its last eruption was in 1994) and one of the most popular for Costa Rica visitors. From its peak on a clear day, visitors can see across Costa Rica to both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and with the aid of a telescope, Lake Nicaragua. As a stratovolcano, it features five different craters at its peak, giving the Irazu Volcano an irregular shape. The scenery is described as moon-like, and provides a stark contrast to the lush terrain the rest of the country is known for. It also lacks the animal diversity found elsewhere due to the dry conditions, altitude and volcanic activity. Aside from the view, perhaps the biggest draw to a visit to Irazu Volcano is its craters. There are a variety of paved paths that allow visitors to safely and easily observe the craters, including the popular Diego de la Haya crater, which fills with an aquamarine lake if the precipitation conditions are right.

According to recent visitors, you'll want to plan your trip here early to avoid the usual tourist crowds (which start arriving around 10 a.m.) and to enjoy the view before the clouds and fog start to roll in. Note that the crater lake only fills during periods of rainfall, and may be empty during your visit. Reviewers also advised wearing layers and bringing a jacket or other warm clothing as it can get chilly due to the elevation.

Rio Celeste Rio Celeste

The turquoise waters of the Celeste River attract visitors from far and wide to the Cordillera de Guanacaste, a volcanic mountain rage that sits in the northwestern corner of the country near the Nicaragua border. Visitors are drawn to this region for Tenorio Volcano National Park, which is home to the nearly 300-foot-tall Rio Celeste Waterfall. The waterfall attracts visitors for its brilliant blue water. Local lore attributes the stunning beryl-tinted waters to God, who legend says rinsed his paintbrushes in the river after painting the sky blue. However, scientists attribute the color to a chemical reaction between the volcanic minerals in the water. (If you want to observe the falls and the pool at their most striking, visit in the dry season; rain can dull the blue tint of the waters.)

To reach the waterfall, you'll have to traverse a short, relatively easy trail. The first portion is paved, and then it transitions to gravel. To get closer to the waterfall, you'll have to descend a set of concrete steps. After admiring the waterfall, you can turn around, or keep going to discover the rest of the natural wonders along this approximately 3 1/2-mile path, including Laguna Azul (another blue pool) and El Teñidero (the meeting of two rivers, Quebrada Agria and Rio Buena Vista).

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Pacuare River Pacuare River

For whitewater rafters, the top destination in Costa Rica sits on the Caribbean side along Pacuare River, or Rio Pacuare, which is home to rapids ranging in difficulty from Class II to Class IV. Along with its thrilling rapids, the river is also known for its wildlife, including sloths, toucans and parrots, and dramatic scenery: you'll be surrounded by a lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls.

Keep in mind: The river runs faster and the rapids are more challenging from June to October, with the highest water flows in September and October (peak rainy season). If you're up for the challenge the upper section of the river, which spans 16 miles, is rated difficult to extreme. For novices, the lower section of Pacuare River is tamer. Guided tours , which include access to helmets, life jackets and an experienced river runner, are a must. Exploradores Outdoors earns high praise from past travelers for its adept and friendly guides.

Caño Island Caño Island

As one of the top diving and snorkeling destinations in Costa Rica, Caño Island draws travelers for its diverse marine life. Only accessible by organized tour, the waters surrounding the island are crystal clear and the coral reef protects smaller marine life. Scuba divers and snorkelers swim with several types of rays, along with whale sharks and even sea turtles. Most tours last all day and include a 45-minute boat ride to and from the island; visitors should come prepared with motion sickness medication as the water can be choppy. 

Several recent snorkelers said the experience topped their expectations, with sharks and turtles swimming close by and dolphins visible on the boat ride to the island. For other avid divers, the quality of the coral reef seemed to be declining, a problem the world over due to climate change. Several reviewers reported being stung repeatedly by tiny jellyfish, which are known to frequent the waters around the island. Wearing a rash guard can help protect your skin from the jellyfish.

Jade Museum Jade Museum

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ATV or Buggy Private Tour from Tamarindo or Conchal

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• Overview: Destination of the Year 2024 Cover Story T+L's Costa Rica
• 12 Reasons Why Costa Rica Is One of the Best Vacation Destinations in the World
• What to Know About Flying to Costa Rica, From How to Save to the Best Airlines and Routes
• The Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Good Weather, Wildlife, and Affordable Prices
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• 9 Best Beaches in Costa Rica for Surfing, Snorkeling, and Wildlife Spotting
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• How Celebrating My Son's First Birthday in Costa Rica Changed the Way I Think of Family Travel
• 20 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica
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• Destinations
• Central & South America

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Costa Rica

Best hotels, best things to do, best restaurants, best time to visit.

• How to Get There

Places to Know

How to get around.

Costa Rica literally translates to "rich coast,” and it’s easy to see how it got its name. In addition to world-class beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific, this peaceful paradise boasts some of the most bio-diverse ecosystems on Earth. In fact, scientists say five percent of the world's species are found here. For reference, the country is only as big as West Virginia. 

The unparalleled wildlife watching includes encounters with slumbering sloths, majestic scarlet macaws, tree frogs as pretty as they are poisonous, and endangered nesting sea turtles. With dogged determination, they survive, symbiotically, in the shadow of some of the world's most active volcanoes. 

Whether you want to hike in a cloud forest at 10,000 feet above sea level or you dream of riding horses on a white sand beach, it’s never been easier to reach the rich coast. There are nonstop flights to Costa Rica from more than a dozen U.S. cities. Come in winter; the country is one of the best places to visit in January . Or, plan a trip for the summer months when hotel rates drop as temperatures rise. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Nayara Springs: Soak in your villa’s private plunge pool fed by mineral hot springs.  
• Zip lining: Feel the cloud forest come alive as you soar through the canopy. 
• National Parks: These 28 protected areas are Mother Nature at her finest. 
• Restaurant Silvestre: Taste an award-winning chef’s contemporary interpretation of Costa Rican cuisine.
• Limón: Experience the country’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. 

W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal 

With its audacious architecture and cheeky decor, W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal stands out on a coast filled with cookie cutter beach resorts. Rooms run the gamut from traditional queens with balconies and ocean views to treehouse suites with private plunge pools. The property has a spa, 18-hole golf course, beach club, adults' and kids' pools, and five restaurants.

Nayara Springs 

This adults-only oasis was voted one of Central America’s best resort hotels by T+L readers. “From the moment you arrive you feel pampered,” Erica Linares, a Latin America specialist at Kensington Tours told Travel & Leisure. She’s a fan of the welcome drink, Costa Rica’s answer to the Bloody Mary. Meanwhile Emmanuel Burgio , a T+L Top Travel Advisor specializing in Central America, praises the private plunge pools.

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

Located four miles from San José's airport, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring the capital. That said, it feels a world away from all things urban thanks to its valley views and meticulously manicured gardens and outdoor spaces, including several pools and a coffee plantation.

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo

This family-friendly resort is one of Travel + Leisure' s top 500 hotels in the world . “It commands one of the best locations in Costa Rica and offers easy access to the country’s most beautiful beaches,” James Kaiser, author of “ Costa Rica: The Complete Guide ” told Travel & Leisure. His pro tip is to bring binoculars to spot the humpback whales migrating offshore in winter.

Lapa Rios Ecolodge & Wildlife Reserve

Also voted one of the best resorts in Central America by T+L readers, this luxurious ecolodge on the Osa Peninsula is the perfect place to immerse oneself in nature. In addition to proximity to wildlife, Burgio loves the waterfront location. “The bungalows boast terraces with ocean views and outdoor showers, and the shared outdoor pool overlooks the Pacific.” 

National Parks

Between its diverse flora, fauna, and geothermal features, Costa Rica is a nature-lover's paradise . A quarter of the country is set aside for conservation, and there are 28 National Parks to choose from. “Plus, unlike Colombia or Brazil, you can visit multiple ecosystems in one day,” said Kaiser. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Between Costa Rica's 300 beaches there are waves for diehards, beginners, and everyone in between. One of the best places to practice is Tamarindo, where Iguana Surf's instructors are as passionate about teaching as they are pipelines. As you improve, try the Nicoya Peninsula. According to Linares, “It’s known for its powerful waves and the town of Santa Teresa has a very relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.” 

Wellness is a way of life in Costa Rica – it's home to one of the world's five blue zones – so it seems sacrilegious to not get a spa treatment while in town. Vida Mía Healing Center & Spa sits atop a "high vibrational crystal mountain" and was named "Best Spa in the Americas."

Often considered to be the birthplace of ziplining, Costa Rica offers canopy tours almost everywhere there are trees. Hanging bridges are usually an option, too. At Selvatura Park in the Monteverde cloud forest, there are nearly two miles of treetop walkways.

The Pacuare Region

If you ask Burgio, one of the most under-the-radar experiences you can have is a private hike through the Talamanca Mountains with a guide from the indigenous Cabécar community. According to Burgio the Pacuare River is also the best place in Central America for whitewater rafting. 

Restaurante Celajes (Organic)

With its insect hotel, working farm, coffee plantation, and sugar cane fields, Hotel Belmar takes farm-to-table to a whole new level. As a result, its pride and joy – Restaurant Celajes – is so well-respected diners drive from as far away as San José just for dinner.

Lidia’s Place (Caribbean) 

According to Kaiser, the country’s best food is found on the Caribbean coast where “ the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture spices things up.” Lidia’s Place is where he goes for the best Caribbean chicken. A small, family-owned establishment, don’t be surprised if Lidia stops by to say hola. 

Sano Banano (Healthy)

Translating to healthy banana, Sano Banano serves feel-good food – breakfast, lunch and dinner – in an open-air restaurant. Enjoy seating on the back patio or front porch overlooking Montezuma's lively main street and don’t miss the artisanal chocolates for sale by the cash register.

Don Rufino (Costa Rican) 

Choose from prix-fixe menus, a la carte, or a five-course tasting tour at this Arenal landmark where Linares says the dishes are delicious and the ambiance is just as memorable. Grandma’s roasted chicken, served wrapped in banana leaves, has a cult-like following, so order it before it sells out. 

Restaurante Silvestre (Experiential) 

This San José institution is famous for its edible experiences derived from “unorthodox and avant-garde culinary techniques.” Since it’s deemed one of the best restaurants in Central America, reservations are a must. And because the chef-driven tasting menu knows no bounds, it’s not ideal for picky eaters. 

The best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your goals. If you're looking to snorkel in clear Caribbean waters, opt for the dry season which on the Caribbean side, is mid-May through mid-December. Meanwhile, in the rest of the country, the dry season is the opposite. It runs from December to May. This is when everything is open and roads are passable. If you want to take advantage of low season rates and avoid crowds, visit during the wet season (which is marketed as the green season). 

For the best cultural events , visit during January for Palmares (basically Carnival) or Easter week. As a Catholic country, many of Costa Rica's biggest holidays correspond with the Church's. Regardless of when you visit, you can always watch sea turtles nest and hatch, go zip lining (they do it rain or shine), and learn how to surf.

Related : The Ultimate Costa Rica Packing List

How to Get There 

Costa Rica has two main airports: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. SJO is your best bet if you’re visiting Manuel Antonio, Limón, Arenal, or the Osa Peninsula. It also tends to have the cheapest flights. For trips to Guanacaste and Alajuela, you’ll probably want to fly into Liberia. Both airports offer rental cars. 

Of course, it’s possible to fly into one airport and out of the other. And transferring between the two is easy thanks to public buses and shared shuttles. The trip takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic. Driving to Costa Rica is not recommended as you’ll have to pass through countries with civil unrest and border crossings can be complicated.

There are seven provinces in Costa Rica, and each has its own distinct vibe. Here are three we recommend starting with. 

San José : The capital boasts the best souvenir shopping and has many cultural institutions including the Museum of Costa Rican Art, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and the National Museum of Costa Rica. It’s also where you’ll find the country’s best culinary offerings.

Alajuela : Alajuela is popular with adrenaline junkies as it’s home to Arenal Volcano National Park where you can zipline, hot springs hop, and hike in a cloud forest all in 24 hours. The province is also where you’ll find one of the world’s largest craters in Poas Volcano National Park (reservations required). 

Limón : Limón is located on the Caribbean side and highlights include Tortuguero National Park and the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge. This province is also where you can experience the country’s incredible Afro-Caribbean culture . Approximately eight percent of Costa Ricans are of African descent.

Trains and Buses: Costa Rica is rebuilding its train infrastructure, damaged during the 1991 earthquake. For now, buses are the best public transportation. While most are privately owned, fares are low. For example, a four-hour ride might cost $10. "Directo" buses offer nonstop service. "Colectivos” stop pretty much everywhere.

Taxis and Shuttles: Costa Rica's official taxis are red or orange (the only cabs licensed for airport pickups) and all have a yellow triangle emblem. It's also easy to pre-book private car services or shuttles online. 

Rideshare: Although it’s technically not legal, Uber has been operating in Costa Rica since 2015. However, it's limited to major cities and tourist hotspots. DiDi is also an option, but it’s also not that reliable in remote areas.

Car Rentals: Car rentals are cheap and plentiful, but keep in mind that most cars are manual, and Costa Rica’s roads don’t have the best reputation (during the wet season, many roads turn into rivers). Try to get a high-clearance SUV with AWD, and if you need extras like a roof rack for surfboards, carseat for kids, cell phone for navigation, or additional drivers, book with Vamos . It’s the only company that offers all of the above for no fee.

Why Costa Rica Is the Perfect Wellness Destination

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I Traveled to Costa Rica With 17 Family Members

Frames, Stamps: Getty Images; Photos: Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

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Welcome to the official site of Costa Rica

Welcome to Costa Rica! This beautiful country is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and incredible wildlife. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Costa Rica has something for everyone.

Some of the top attractions include Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, La Paz Waterfalls, Papagayo Peninsula, Tamarindo beach, Rio Celeste, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Corcovado National Park.

You can enjoy activities such as surfing, snorkeling, fishing, ziplining and hiking. Costa Rica is also home to many unique and diverse animal species such as sloths, monkeys, birds, turtles and more. We hope you enjoy your stay!

The Costa Rica Essentials

Essential Costa Rica is about promoting organic ingredients, unspoiled nature and authentic experiences.

Fill your calendar with the most wonderful natural and wildlife events.

Sun and Beaches

Costa Rica occupies a privileged spot with beaches in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

Costa Rica is a land of volcanoes, rainforests and cloud forests, huge waterfalls and mighty rivers.

If stress is a part of your daily life, Costa Rica is the cure.

Costa Rica has a great place to experience nature’s wonders with your children; the country is a must for families!

Costa Rica is considered one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world.

Costa Rica in English, means rich coast. Every cruise ship visiting Costa Rica understands why.

Costa Rica has a wholesome environment and is an excellent place for families.

The richness of Costa Rica stems from the cultural diversity of its people.

Honeymoon & Weddings

Costa Rica is waiting for you to live this experience.

Where to Go?

Located on the central Pacific coast, the Puntarenas region extends from Punta Conejo south to Puerto Caldera to the mouth of the Bongo River. The region’s rich coastline overlooks small islands, inlets, beaches and beautiful natural wonders. The port town of Puntarenas serves as the center of the region and is home port to a ferry that carries visitors over to the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.

South Pacific

The combination of breath-taking white-sand beaches, sweeping mountain views and an ideal tropical climate has made Guanacaste one of Costa Rica’s most popular regions. It boasts many of the country’s popular beaches, including Playa del Coco, Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal and the Papagayo Peninsula. By day visitors can challenge themselves with a surf lesson, cool off under a waterfall at Rincón de la Vieja National Park, discover the craters of an active volcano with the same name and more before enjoying the active nightlife in Tamarindo.

Northern Plains

Recognized as home of Arenal Volcano National Park, which boasts 75% of Costa Rica’s bird population, the Northern Plains present endless activities for visitors. Excursions range from hiking and waterfall rappelling to canopying and exploring via a hanging bridge tour. Those looking for activities on the water will find that Lake Arenal is an ideal location for canoeing, fishing and kite surfing.

Central Valley

Those in search of cultural and natural attractions will find both in the Central Valley region. Home to the destination’s capital city, San José, many of Costa Rica’s most popular museums can be found in this urban setting including the Gold Museum, Jade Museum, National Museum and Children’s Museum, in addition to the architectural jewel of San José, the National Theatre.

Central Pacific

Beautiful beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, lagoons, rivers and waterfalls make the Central Pacific region an ideal destination for visitors in search of variety. The region stretches from the city of Puntarenas to Dominical de Osa and is made up of some of Costa Rica’s most visited areas including Monteverde, Quepos, Jacó, Bahía Ballena and Manuel Antonio. The region’s climate creates a unique landscape that transitions from tropical wet forest to tropical forest to tropical dry forest, providing the opportunity to observe a wide range of plants and animals.

The diverse coastline of the Northern Caribbean region attracts anglers, naturists and water enthusiasts in search of unique experiences. The North Caribbean region is famous for its interconnected canals and for Tortuguero National Park, where visitors have the opportunity to witness green turtles nesting. Limón City, the largest city on the country’s Caribbean coast, is perched in the center of the coast. The Southern Caribbean boasts some great beaches and picturesque parks, which are complemented by the area’s inviting culture.

Planning your Trip to Costa Rica

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Costa Rica National Parks

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First hand information for your dream vacaction, #essentialcostarica, share your experience, ‌      ‌      ‌      ‌      ‌      ‌   .

Two Weeks in Costa Rica

Travel and Moving Blog

Virtual Field Trip to Costa Rica – Part 1

• Jenn and Matt
• Activities , Culture , Family Travel , Living In CR

At home wishing you were in Costa Rica? Even from afar, there are meaningful ways to connect with and learn about the country’s rich culture, abundant wildlife, and diverse ecosystems. In this two-part series, we’ll share 10 activities and resources that are fun for both kids and adults alike. Some are things we’ve enjoyed with our kids living here in Costa Rica . Others are books that the kids can explore on their own or for you to read together for an easy learning activity. We hope this virtual field trip gets you excited about your next Costa Rica trip, whenever that may be!

Be sure to also check out Part 2 of the series. This teaches you some amazing facts about sea-turtle nesting, fiery volcanoes, how bananas are grown, and even has cool museum tours you can do online.

Cooking Beans from Scratch – A Costa Rican Tradition

Did you know that in Costa Rica almost everyone eats rice and beans at least once per day? It may sound crazy but it’s sort of like how you may eat a bowl of cereal or sandwich every day. You just get used to it!

Rice and beans are considered a traditional food in Costa Rica . In fact, beans are so important that in grocery stores here, you’ll find dozens of different types from many different companies. Some Costa Ricans prefer black beans, while others like red beans. In our house, we alternate.

Most of the beans we eat are grown right in Costa Rica. Once the beans mature, they are picked and dried (traditionally in the sun). Then they are put into bags and sent to stores. Unlike the beans you buy in a can, dried beans can’t be eaten right away. It takes some work to get them ready, but it’s worth it. You can infuse delicious flavors into the beans when you cook them yourself.

First, you need to sort the beans, then soak them for several hours, and finally you’ll have to cook them for a few hours more. This is a fun multiday activity to try with the family, but it’s really quite easy so a good one to do with the kids.

To bring this tradition into your own home, try our recipe . In that post, we also share a traditional Costa Rican dish with beans that most Ticos eat on a daily basis.

Learn About Pineapples and Plant One Too!

Speaking of food, have you ever seen a pineapple from Costa Rica in the grocery store? There’s a good chance you have, even if you didn’t know it. That’s because pineapples are one of Costa Rica’s main fruit exports. In some areas of the country, there are giant pineapple fields so big, they seem to go on forever.

These farms produce a lot of fruit, but the pineapples aren’t anywhere as tasty as those grown on smaller farms. Smaller farms also have less of an impact on our environment since they don’t cut down as many trees or use as many chemicals. Costa Rica’s wildlife likes that!

To learn more about a smaller organic pineapple farm in Costa Rica, check out this link . Be sure to scroll down in the article to watch the video too. Near the end, farmer Andres shows a really cool way to cut a pineapple.

Plant a Pineapple

Even if you don’t live in climate that is warm year-round, you can still plant a pineapple in your house and watch it grow. All you need is a pineapple from the store, a pot of dirt, and your hands.

It can take 18-24 months, or even longer, for a pineapple plant to make a fruit. Depending on how much sun it gets, you may get a nice sized fruit or a small, ornamental pineapple flower. If you do this with kids, you could have them be responsible for the watering. We have some papaya and watermelon seeds growing at our house, and our four-year old is in charge of their daily maintenance.

4 Steps to Plant Your Own Pineapple

1) Twist off (don’t cut) the spiky green top of your pineapple. This will take a bit of strength, but all you do is hold the top base of the pineapple in one hand and green spiky part in the other. Then twist the top with some force until it breaks free. Note: Once you take the top off the pineapple, it will ripen quickly.

2) With the top off, remove about 4-5 rows of the lower (smallest) leaves (these are the ones you just exposed). This will show some little roots, which are usually brown dots, but they can sometimes be short and squiggly as well.

3) Press the pineapple top into soft, well-draining soil (roots first). Use your hands to firm the dirt around the roots.

Tip: If you are using a flowerpot, make sure it is at least 12” in diameter to give the pineapple enough space to grow. Here’s a link  to a selection of choices you can buy online if you don’t have one at home.

4) Make sure your pineapple plant gets plenty of sun, and be sure to water it when the soil gets dry. For best results, keep the leaves dry and only water the soil.

If you want video instructions on how you plant a pineapple, we found a good link here .

Wildlife Guides

A big highlight of visiting Costa Rica is its amazing wildlife. In the tropical rainforest, you can find monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, toucans, and all kinds of other jungle animals.

Before your trip, it’s both fun and important to learn about some of these creatures. Field guides are one of the best ways to learn. Using the write ups and pictures in these guides, you can find out where different animals live, what they eat, and other cool facts about them.

For example, did you know that the call of a howler monkey can be heard from up to three miles (4.8 km) away? That’s far! Just knowing this fact will help you figure out on a hike what made that crazy noise you heard, how close you are, and if you might be within distance to see it. The more you learn, the better chances you will have to spot some of your favorite animals in the wild. Additionally, if you already know the basic facts about Costa Rica’s wildlife, your tour guides are more likely to share some of their in-depth knowledge with you since they can skip the simple stuff.

Which Field Guides Are Best?

The best simple field guide that we have found is The Wildlife of Costa Rica by Fiona Reid, Twan Leenders, and Jim Zook. This book has a lot of information but the descriptions are shorter and not over-the-top “sciency.” It also has some great colorful pictures and illustrations. Our four-year-old son often grabs this book when we find a strange insect in our house or want to know more about an animal we saw.

For some very simple fold out field guides, you can look at Rainforest Publications . They have several different ones, including mammals, marine animals, reptiles, birds, butterflies, and amphibians. So one day, you can learn about what you’d see snorkeling along the coral reef at Costa Rica’s Cano Island, and another day, about the country’s 42 species of tree frog (see cover photo, above). These pocket guides don’t have much information besides the names of animals, birds, plants, etc. But they have colorful illustrations and are laminated so smaller kids can’t rip them and they carry along well in a day pack .

Wildlife Camera Traps and Videos

To see some of Costa Rica’s wildlife in action before you visit yourself (and test out what you learned with your field guides), check out some cool camera trap videos online. Camera traps are small cameras that are hidden in the jungle. They are attached to trees or other structures and have sensors so that when a creature moves past them, it takes their picture or a video.

We set up some of these in our own jungle backyard in Costa Rica a few years back and saw some fun surprises. You can read more about how we did it and what we saw here .

Other Camera Traps to Check Out

To see even more animals, there are other Costa Rica camera traps you can check out. Here are a few of our favorites.

Hacienda Baru (southern Pacific c oast near Dominical) – Hacienda Baru is a hotel and wildlife reserve that has been regrowing and protecting a section of land formerly used for cattle ranching. After working at it for more than 30 years, the wildlife has come back and now there are more animals than ever.

To see some of the species on Hacienda Baru’s property, check out their Facebook videos . You’ll be able to catch a glimpse at monkeys, big cats like pumas and ocelots, armadillos, and anteaters. Something interesting you may also notice are strange tunnels. These were put in under the new coastal highway to help protect the wildlife. They make it so the animals don’t have to cross the busy road above and risk getting hit.

Ocho Verde (southern Pacific coast near Golfito) – These guys have a fun YouTube channel with lots of trail camera footage as well as other videos that guide you through different animal experiences. You can see and learn about things like jungle cats, snakes, and interesting bugs.

Guanacaste Wildlife Monitoring (northern region of Costa Rica) – Guanacaste has mostly what scientists call tropical dry forests. That means the forests are adapted to long stretches without rain. Many trees even lose their leaves during drought. While you wouldn’t think there would be as much wildlife there, as compared to say, the rainforest, these camera traps prove otherwise.

Check out their YouTube channel to see things like pumas, coyote, coati (raccoon-like animals), agouti, and many interesting birds.

Costa Rica Storybooks

To finish part one of our virtual field trip, we thought we’d leave you with some Costa Rica-themed storybooks. For the kids, there are plenty of fun ones, plus we’ll plug our own book for adults looking for a Costa Rica-themed story to take them out of their everyday life.

Where’s the Sloth? (Ages 3 to adult) – This look-and-find book will remind you of Where’s Waldo but with cute little sloths to find instead!

National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of the Rain Forest (Readers 4-8) – This book, while not specifically about Costa Rica’s rainforests, teaches kids some amazing facts. It also shows them where rainforests are located around the globe. There are over 200 colorful photographs of things like frogs, snakes, monkeys, and plants. We have some of the other books in this series for our son, and he loves them! They have awesome illustrations and lots of detail to teach them some science.

Lovely Amelia Travels (Costa Rica) (Readers 4-12) – Lovely Amelia Travels is a series about a little girl who visits exciting destinations around the world. In this one, she goes to Costa Rica and explores jungle, volcanoes, and more. Written by a native Costa Rican woman who traveled the globe as a nanny. 

If I Ran the Rain Forest: All About Tropical Rain Forests (Readers 4-9) – Everyone loves Cat in the Hat books and this one is no different. Here, the Cat takes Sally and Dick through the different layers of the rainforest, meeting animals and people and learning about plants along the way.

Sophie Washington: Mission Costa Rica (Readers 8-12) – Part of a nine-book series, this one takes a sixth grader and her friends to Costa Rica for service work. It didn’t go as expected and the friends have lots of adventures.

Two Weeks in Costa Rica (written mostly for adults) – This was our first book that we wrote several years ago and is where the name for our website came from. It’s a fun little travelogue that sweeps Jenn and Matt (that’s us!) away from the snowy weather in Boston to Costa Rica’s tropical beaches and rainforests. Of course, like any trip, there were some bumps along the way.

We hope this list of resources and activities gives you some ideas on how to connect with Costa Rica, even from your home. Be sure to check out Part 2 in our virtual field trip series for more awesome ways to discover the country’s food, culture, and wildlife.

Did you try one of the activities? How did it go?Leave us a comment below.

Some of the links in this post are connected to affiliate programs we have joined. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Planning your Costa Rica dream trip? Check out these posts:

Family Travel: Why Costa Rica is the Perfect Destination – Want to explore a new culture with your kids? This post explains why Costa Rica is a comfortable travel destination for families.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica – If you are considering which month to plan your visit, this post will lay out your options. Things covered include weather conditions and busiest/least crowded months.

Best Beaches for Families in Costa Rica – Looking for a calm cove and shady palm tree? Costa Rica has many surfing beaches with rougher water, but this post will guide you to destinations that are safe for your little swimmers.

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• A Bevy of Luxury Resorts Is About to Transform This Quiet Costa Rica Province

A Waldorf, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a Six Senses, and more than a dozen others are transforming the nation's once sleepy Gold Coast into a scene out of St. Tropez.

Melinda fulmer.

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When Chris Ingham Brooke, a digital publishing entrepreneur, first came to Nosara, Costa Rica in 2016 it was just a sleepy little surf town, with one main drag and jungle stretching to the sand.  

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“It had become really vibrant and interesting,” he said. Still, there weren’t many options when it came to luxury family-friendly accommodations.  

He bought a commercial lot and three years later, in March, opened Silvestre—a boutique resort with nine, 1,000-square-foot residences, a rooftop bar, a yoga studio, and a surf “concierge.” Located steps from the beach path to Playa Guiones, Silvestre sits on one of the most consistent surf breaks in the world. 

International visitors to Costa Rica jumped 17 percent last year from 2022, and the number of visitors this January was up 59 percent from January 2023 with new direct flights being added from Los Angeles, Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, and Houston, according to the Costa Rican Tourism Board.    

While Costa Rica’s draw is not its amenities or nightlife (although they are improving), the year-round warm weather makes it a polestar for outdoors addicts, with perfect conditions for surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and mountain biking. The jet set here are more likely to gather to watch sunsets than disco. It’s much-touted Blue Zone wellness culture and unspoiled beaches and forests are bait for chakras that are better aligned. 

What’s coming to Guanacaste

An incredible 18 properties are slated to open by 2025, including two new luxury properties that will hit the market at the end of this year: Nekajui, a Ritz Carlton Reserve Hotel and Residences and Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique. A Six Senses Resort and Spa Papagayo is expected to open in late 2025. 

The Waldorf Astoria, located 30 minutes from the Liberia Airport, will have 188 guest rooms and suites and 41 residences built into the hillside with its own sandy beach, signature restaurants, cenote-themed spa, teen center, and kids club, including eco-tourism experiences in the surrounding área. 

“We won’t just take care of the kids at the club, we will help them experience different things about the country,” said Valeria Nowotny, vice president of operations for Hilton’s resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. “Visitors here are looking for a nature experience, mixed with a little local culture.”

For luxury travelers that have struggled to find a resort in the right location with the right amenities and polish, these properties will provide new reasons to return to Guanacaste, with expanding infrastructure and more paved roads making it easier to get from place to place. 

And, despite the construction boom in the Papagayo Peninsula, the área is unlikely to be overbuilt anytime soon, thanks to the vast Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) , a UNESCO World Heritage site protecting wildlife on 400,000 acres from the shore of the Pacific surrounding these hotels to the lowland rainforests in the Caribbean basin. And while many locals complain that the nearby city of Tamarindo is becoming more like Cancun, there are limits to access on water rights to restrict development here and across Costa Rica, said Wagner Loria, an agent with Keller Williams Tamarindo.

Further south, in Nosara there are also protections that keep developers from building directly on the beach, leaving views pristine. 

“There’s a very powerful community here that’s very protective of the town,” said Brooke. “When you look back from the beach, all you can see is jungle. That makes it a very special place.”

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• Ritz-Carlton Hotels
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• waldorf astoria

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