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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!

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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.

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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.

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The 16 best things to do in Costa Rica

Jan 26, 2024 • 9 min read

Read on for all the best experiences in Costa Rica from sleeping in a tree house to wild water sports © Kike Arnaiz / Stocksy United

Come to Costa Rica to discover magnificent landscapes, endless outdoor activities and creatures great and small. This smallish Central American country offers a world of adventure, from water sports to mountain hikes, and rainforest wildlife watching to cloud-forest birding. 

And when you’re ready to take a break from outdoor activities, there are tree houses to sleep in, meals to relish and cities to explore. Here are the 16 best things to do in Costa Rica.

1. Ride the waves

Surfers in the know plan their entire vacation around the wild and wonderful waves on the Costa Rica coastlines. If you're new to Costa Rica's surf scene, this is a fantastic place to find out what it’s all about thanks to inviting warm waters, long and luscious waves and non-stop good vibes.

The most popular surf destinations include Tamarindo , Nosara and Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula; Jacó , Dominical and Pavones on the central and south Pacific; and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean side.

Note that any given destination has a few different surf spots, some of which are better for beginners and others that offer more challenging waves. They all enjoy a bit of a party scene, though Nosara and Santa Teresa are more laid-back.

Planning tip: Find the biggest waves on the Pacific coast from May to October (though the dry season is better for beginners). The waves are biggest on the Caribbean side from November to May.

2. Fly through the clouds in Santa Elena

There are zip-line courses all around the country – some higher or faster or longer than others – but the Santa Elena canopy tours are special.

The Costa Rica canopy craze started here, but more importantly, there’s something fantastic about soaring over the treetops with the clouds swirling all around you. Take in the misty magic of the cloud forest, supercharged with an adrenaline rush.

Planning tip : While zip-lining is on many people's Costa Rica travel list, make sure you check your operator's safety procedures before committing. It's also okay to change your mind when you're there – zip-lining isn't for everyone.

3. Raft into the Pacuare Lodge

The Pacuare Lodge is a gorgeous, luxurious facility surrounded by dense rainforest and little else. The only road in is not a road at all, but rather a river: the namesake Río Pacuare.

Here is a case where the journey rivals the destination, as you travel to the lodge by white-water rafting over Class III-IV rapids on this world-famous river.

The roar of the rapids, the spectacular scenery and the thrill of the ride make for a fantastic adventure – and you’re just getting started. Once at the lodge, you’ll enjoy sumptuous accommodations, incredibly satisfying meals, super-attentive service and a roster of activities before rafting back out again.

Planning tip: Pacuare Lodge packages include transportation to and from San José, but you can also have them deliver you anywhere on the Caribbean Coast.

4. Commune with the creatures

For wildlife watchers, there’s no better place to meet Costa Rica's fauna than the trails around Sirena station in Parque Nacional Corcovado , the area  National Geographic called “the most biologically intense place on the planet.”

Here, visitors have a good chance of seeing animals (some endangered) that are rare in other parts of the country, including peccaries, tapirs, crocodiles, tiny squirrel monkeys and more. Note that the best wildlife watching happens at dawn and dusk, which necessitates an overnight stay in the park.

Easier to reach and rich with life, the regions of Río Celeste and Sarapiquí have many eco-lodges and private reserves that are also fantastic for wildlife watching.

5. Hike, swim and climb to La Leona Waterfall

This outing is more than a hike or a waterfall swim – it’s a canyoneering adventure. That’s the only way to describe this excursion down the Río Blanco in Curubandé de Liberia, which involves swimming, scrambling, spelunking, climbing and cliff jumping.

You’ll ogle three different waterfalls on the way, including a final celestial-blue beauty hidden inside a cave that's a real a stunner. 

Detour: This adventure takes place just outside of Parque Nacional Volcán Rincón de la Vieja , a great destination to see volcanic activity (more on that below) and soak in hot springs.

6. Spy on nesting sea turtles

Every few years, female sea turtles perform an ancient ritual, returning to their natal beach to lay their eggs beneath the moonlight before returning to the welcoming waters of the sea.

Elsewhere on the same beach, tortuguita  (little turtle) hatchlings dig out of their nests and scurry to the sea. It’s an incredible and intimate episode to witness. 

Planning tip: The timing varies, depending on the location and turtle species, but you can see this spectacle of nature in Tortuguero in the north Caribbean and at Playa Grande and Playa Ostional on the Nicoya Peninsula.

7. Splurge on a multicourse meal in the sky

San Lucas is not just a restaurant; it's a dining experience – that is, a surprise nine-course menu that's also a lesson in Costa Rican history and culture.

The food presentations are innovative, interesting and excellent overall, but the highlight is the fantastic setting in the sky. Each table occupies a private glass cube high atop a mountainside, overlooking the cloud forest and the village of Santa Elena below.

Planning tip: The San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience offers two seatings per night. If you reserve for the early one, your first course comes with a spectacular sunset.

8. Explore an active volcano

The mountains of northern and central Costa Rica are lined up in a row of hissing, steaming, sputtering volcanoes, some of which are open for exploration.

Wander among boiling mud pots and steaming fumaroles of Volcán Rincón de la Vieja ; hike the lava flows and soak in volcanic-heated pools at Volcán Arenal ; peer into the steaming crater at Poás and leave footprints in the lava fields of Irazú.

Each experience is a little different, but all will leave you awestruck at the earth’s unbridled power.

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9. Kayak through sea caves

Along the Costa Ballena on the southern Pacific coast, Playa Ventanas is a small but spectacular palm-backed beach that has a special feature: intriguing caves in the cliffs at its north end.

At low tide, you can investigate the two caves that open onto the beach (taking care to retreat if the water starts to rise).

But if you’re up for a challenge, you can paddle a kayak along the gorgeous coastline and explore the cliffs and sea caves along the way.

Planning tip: The sea caves are only accessible in certain weather conditions, and they are often impassable during the rainy season. Book tours in Uvita. 

10. See some magnificent birds

Even if you’re not a bird nerd, it’s easy to geek out about the avian life in Costa Rica. Of course, there are myriad multicolored beauties that you’ll see flitting about pretty much everywhere; then there are a few showstoppers – rare in other parts of the world but relatively easy to see in Costa Rica (if you know where to look).

Most famously, the scarlet macaw has made an incredible comeback along the Pacific coast, with sightings practically guaranteed in Parque Nacional Carara and on the Osa Peninsula.

The aptly named resplendent quetzal makes seasonal appearances in the cloud forests of Monteverde and the Dota region .

And the great green macaw – still critically endangered – is sometimes spotted in Sarapiquí and Boca Tapada. Getting a glimpse of these gorgeous creatures in the wild is an awesome and inspiring experience that might just turn you into a bona fide birder.

11. Sleep in a tree house

In the wilds of northern Costa Rica, surrounded by lush forestlands, you can indulge your inner monkey and spend the night in the treetops .

On the edge of its eponymous wildlife refuge, Maquenque Eco-Lodge has a collection of fantastic tree houses – each constructed amid the leafy canopy, 12m (39ft) off the ground and surrounded by trees.

With wide balconies, outdoor showers and screen walls, the tree houses offer complete rainforest immersion with a touch of luxury. It’s a 10-minute walk to the main lodge (or a quick buzz on the walkie-talkie, in case of emergency). 

Detour: On your way to or from Boca Tapada, stop in at the restaurant Centro Familiar Cuyito to try to glimpse a pair of great green macaws nesting in a wild avocado tree on the grounds.

12. Cool off under a waterfall

There’s no more exhilarating plunge than one beneath the downpour of a wild waterfall. And Costa Rica has no shortage of glorious cascades – many of which are swimmable. One fan favorite is Montezuma Waterfalls , on the outskirts of the eponymous village.

It requires a rugged hike, but the reward is a triple-tiered catarata , with a thrilling (and chilling) cliff jump from the top.

Detour: If you can’t get enough, El Chorro Waterfall  is another highlight in Montezuma. It’s a long hot hike, but the cascade – which falls from a high cliff directly into the ocean – is worth the effort.

13. Discover what happens after dark

Some 70% of animals are most active at night. Take a night hike with a nature guide to find out who they are and what they’re doing in the dark.

Night tours are popular in the main rainforest destinations in Costa Rica, including La Fortuna , Sarapiquí, Río Celeste and Manuel Antonio . You’re bound to see plenty of bugs and bats, frogs and snakes, but you might also catch a glimpse of a nocturnal mammal, such as a kinkajou or a tree possum.

14. Cruise a jungle lagoon

One of the most rewarding ways to see wildlife in Costa Rica is to take a cruise through the jungly canals of Tortuguero or the wild wetlands of Caño Negro . From the comfort of your boat, you’re likely to see several species of monkeys, two- and three-toed sloths, green iguanas, striped basilisks, caimans and crocs, not to mention incredible birdlife.

15. Witness a bioluminescent bay

Some aquatic organisms contain luciferin, which reacts with oxygen to produce a sparkly light. This magical glow in the water is called bioluminescence, and it lights up the coves of Ballena Bay, near Tambor on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Bioluminescent tours depart from Santa Teresa, Montezuma or Tambor itself, giving you a chance to kayak over ethereal, illuminated waters. Remember, swimming in bioluminescent waters can cause harm to the glow bacteria.  

Planning tip: Save some cash by driving yourself to Playa Pochote and booking a bioluminescence tour at Don Trino campground, where tours are far less expensive than in the larger towns. 

16. Take a city break in San José

You probably came to Costa Rica for wild animals and outdoor adventure. But guess what? San José is a cool, creative capital, packed with historic architecture, unique museums and trendy cafes and clubs.

Don’t miss the Museo del Jade for its insightful exhibits about pre-Columbian cultures and the  Teatro Nacional for its artistic misrepresentations of Costa Rican culture.

Best of all, Barrio Escalante has the best dining scene in the city – if not the country – so here’s your chance to dig in before heading out to the land of rice and beans.

This article was first published February 2023 and updated January 2024

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The Official Costa Rica Travel Blog

Last updated on April 5th, 2024 at 11:31 am GMT-6 (Costa Rica time)

Hola, amigos! We’re Ricky, a born-and-raised Tico (Costa Rican), former rafting tour guide, and nature and wildlife photographer, and Nikki, a longtime Costa Rica explorer, four-time published Costa Rica guidebook author, and Tica (Costa Rican) at heart. We’re a happily married, adventurous couple in our 17th year of discovering Costa Rica together. (Click here to read our full bio.) In addition to writing this  Costa Rica Travel Blog , we’re also the team behind several other Costa Rica-based projects, including:

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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

Jessica Poitevien

I Traveled to Costa Rica With 17 Family Members

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

This Car-free Beach Town Is a Hidden Gem

5 best festivals in costa rica.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Costa Rica Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

Costa Rica is one of my favorite countries in the world. It was the first country I ever traveled to — and it was the country that sparked my wanderlust.

These days, Costa Rica is one of the most popular destinations in Central America . It’s popular with expats, luxury travelers, and backpackers alike. While it is on the higher end of the price spectrum for the region, it’s nevertheless a phenomenal country to visit and remains affordable.

I love the never-ending activities, gorgeous beaches, diverse wildlife, delicious food, and friendly people.

The country may be expensive by regional standards but that doesn’t make it any less amazing. The beaches are picturesque, there’s great surfing and amazing diving, and there are plenty of places to get away from the hordes of retired Americans that live here.

This guide to Costa Rica can help you have the trip of a lifetime — and save money in the process!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Costa Rica

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in costa rica.

1. Climb a volcano

Volcanoes are among the country’s top tourist attractions. There are currently 5 active ones and over 60 dormant ones. Arenal is the most popular, famous for its beautiful hikes and scenic views. Irazu is known for its astonishing green-blue lake in one of its craters, while the Poas Volcano is home to a boiling acid lake within its crater.

2. Visit Monteverde

Monteverde is one of my favorite places in Costa Rica. I always found this town to be a nice base to hike the surrounding cloud forest, take canopy tours, and visit coffee plantations. I still dream of the coffee from here — it’s like drinking liquid chocolate! Be sure to take a nocturnal rainforest tour while you’re here — they’re super fun and educational.

3. Explore Tortuguero National Park

This park on the Caribbean coast is regarded as one of the most important breeding grounds for the endangered green turtle. The park also helps protect manatees, sloths, and monkeys. If you like jungles, birds, and quiet, this is a must-see! Admission is $16.95 USD. You can visit as a guided full-day tour from San Jose for $195 USD.

4. Explore Corcovado

Established in 1975, Corcovado National Park is on the remote Osa Peninsula in the southwest. Spanning 424 square kilometers (164 square miles), it’s a rugged, quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination. Here you’ll find pristine jungles, hiking trails, and plenty of diving opportunities. There’s lots of wildlife too, including tapirs, jaguars, pumas, and the rare Harpy eagle. The peninsula is not easy to get to but it’s the highlight of the country for me.

5. Stay in Puerto Viejo

Other things to see and do in costa rica, 1. visit san josé.

Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose is in the center of the country. It’s sort of gritty and there’s not a whole lot to do (the city only requires a few days) but while you’re here, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art & Design to check out the future of Costa Rican art, as well as the magnificent Teatro Nacional to take in its décor. There are also many tour companies that offer day trips to the surrounding jungle for hiking, zip-lining, canopy tours, and more. Most start around $150 USD.

2. Zip through the rainforest canopy

The highest 10% of rainforest is where most activity takes place, filled with squawking birds, slow moving sloths, and monkeys scampering from tree to tree. For an adrenaline-pumping view of these vast, diverse ecosystems, take a zip line tour. There are dozens of companies throughout the country, though Monteverde is my favorite place to do it. Expect to pay around $75-85 USD for a multi-line tour lasting a couple of hours .

3. Explore Baru Wildlife Refuge

With over 330 hectares (815 acres) of land, 7 kilometers (4 miles) of walking trails, and 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) of fantastic beaches, this refuge is another prime example of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Located on the coast south of Manuel Antonio , here you can go birdwatching, take canopy tours, and explore the park via guided tours to see the wildlife. Don’t miss the orchid and butterfly gardens. For something more unique, take a nighttime guided tour to see the region’s nocturnal animals. Self-guided tours cost $15 USD while guided tours start at $35 USD.

4. Go surfing in Jaco

Located on the Pacific Coast west of San Jose, Jaco was once a sleepy resort town whose main attraction was its excellent surfing. Growing tourism has transformed it into a haven of beach parties and nightclubs. Surf lessons and rentals are widely available on the beaches and sport-fishing is also popular here. For a more laid-back visit, head to the nearby Carara National Park to spot scarlet macaws, armadillos, and hundreds of species of birds (admission is $11.30 USD).

5. Learn some Spanish

Costa Rica is one of the most popular countries for learning Spanish due to the country’s easy-to-understand dialect. Programs vary in length and cost, but most offer the opportunity to do an immersive homestay with a Costa Rican family. Expect to spend around $500 USD for a basic week-long homestay language learning program.

6. See La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Located just one hour from San Jose, this makes for a popular day trip. Aside from the many stunning waterfalls throughout the lush cloud forest, here you’ll also find several beautiful gardens, an aviary, a hummingbird garden, a butterfly garden, and a reptile area. Plan to stay at least two hours to see everything. Admission is $50 USD. You can also do a full-day tour to the Waterfall Gardens that includes a visit to a coffee plantation and Poás Volcano for $159 USD.

7. Go fishing

Costa Rica is home to Marlin, Sailfish, Dorado, Snapper, Wahoo, and more. If you love to fish (or just want to give it a try), consider doing a half-day or full-day fishing excursion. A basic group excursion costs around $105 USD and usually includes food, though prices can be ten times as high for multi-day or exclusive charters. A half-day private charter is around $400-600 USD. You can usually find places that can cook your catch as well.

8. Chill out in Santa Teresa

At the bottom of the Nicoya Peninsula is the hippy backpacker town of Santa Teresa. This “town” is really nothing more than a beach with a road lined with eateries, surf shops, and hostels. Not much goes on here as everyone is up early to hit the waves. I enjoyed my time here as it’s a good place to just lay on the beach, hang out with people, and relax. It’s an easy place to fall into and spend weeks. Or, like most people who visit, months.

9. Learn to surf

Puerto Viejo , Cahuita , Manuel Antonio , Jaco, Santa Teresa, or Tamarindo all offer plenty of waves and lots of places to learn to surf. In fact, most travelers come here to surf because the waves are world renowned. If you have never learned but always wanted to try, this is the best place in the region to learn. Group lessons cost around $60 USD and private lessons are around $80-100 USD, while all-inclusive surf camps (including food, accommodation, lessons, and more) can be up to $2,500 USD. Board rentals are usually around $10 USD per day.

10. Walk through the treetops

The Rainmaker Aerial Walkway, located one hour from Jaco, was the first aerial walkway to be built in Central America. Spanning the canopy of a private rainforest, it’s still considered to be one of the top aerial walkways in the region. At the highest point on the walkway, you’ll find yourself 20 stories above the ground, giving you ample opportunities to spot all kinds of birds and monkeys. A self-guided tour is $23 USD, while guided tours start at $74 USD.

11. Wander a coffee plantation

Costa Rican coffee is famous the world over. On a coffee plantation tour you can learn about the entire bean-to-cup process and see it all up close — all while learning about the lives of the local farmers who grow it. While I personally dislike the taste of coffee, the kind I had in Monteverde tasted like chocolate and was delicious! Prices vary but expect to pay around $40-50 USD for a tour.

12. Take a chocolate-making workshop

Cacao is Costa Rica’s other famous bean (also technically a seed). Once widely exported, Costa Rican chocolate is now mostly made in small batches on local artisan farms. There are many places around the country where you can take chocolate making workshops, where you can see the entire process, sample the goods, and try your hand at grinding raw cacao. Tours generally last 2-3 hours and cost around $30-40 USD.

13. Experience the rainforest by night

A guided night walk offers the chance to spot and learn about some of the countless nocturnal animals that call the forest home, including tarantulas, armadillos, and stick bugs. It’s a cool way to see a different side of the jungle as your guide will point out animals, insects, and plants that you might not have noticed otherwise. You can take night walks at national parks and nature preserves around the country. Tours generally last around 2 hours and cost $25-35 USD.

14. Take a cooking class

One of my favorite ways to learn about a new culture is through its cuisine, and taking a cooking class is one of the best ways to do that. Taking home new recipes is also a great souvenir from your trip! In this 3-hour cooking class in La Fortuna, you’ll learn about typical Costa Rican produce and ingredients, and then prepare a few traditional dishes like picadillos (a spicy stew), tortillas, and guisados (a meat dish).

  For more information on specific destinations in the country, check out these guides:

• Arenal Travel Guide
• Manuel Antonio Travel Guide
• Monteverde Travel Guide
• Puerto Viejo Travel Guide
• San Jose Travel guide
• Tamarindo Travel Guide
• Tortuguero Travel Guide

Costa Rica Travel Costs

Hostel Costs – A bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds costs between $15-25 USD per night, while dorms with 8 beds and up can be found for as cheap as $11-14 USD. Private rooms in hostels are usually $35-60 USD.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels also include free breakfast. The majority of hostels around the country also have self-catering facilities too. Many also have bars/restaurants on site. In the beach areas especially, some hostels even have pools.

Budget hotel costs – Budget hotels begin around $50 USD per night but average closer to $65-70 USD.Breakfast is often included and most have basic amenities like AC and TV. Many budget hotels even have pools, especially in beachside towns.

For Airbnb, private rooms start around $40-60 USD per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least $75-125 USD. Prices double when not booked in advance.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is an option all around the country. Most campgrounds usually charge around $10 USD per night for a basic plot without electricity. Avoid wild camping as it is often unsafe and illegal in many areas due to the protection of natural areas.

Food – Costa Rican cuisine is centered around rice and beans, which are usually eaten for every meal. Potatoes, plantain, pork, and beef are also popular. Gallo pinto (rice and bean stir-fry) is the national dish. You’ll find it mixed with eggs for breakfast. Casado is a typical lunch dish, which consists of rice, beans, veggies, fresh salad, and your choice of meat. Generally, the food here is quite mild.

Note: While you can easily pay for tours and entrance fees in USD, in smaller establishments, such as local restaurants, you’ll need colones (CRC). Prices in this section are in CRC to reflect this.

At sodas (cheap local restaurants serving traditional cuisine), expect a filling meal of casado (rice, beans, veggies, and meat) to cost around 3,500-5,000 CRC. You can usually find empanadas and other savory snacks from traditional bakeries for around 2,000 CRC or less.

At a mid-range restaurant or in touristy areas (like right along the beach) expect to pay around around 7,000-8,500 CRC for a fish dish, 6,000-7,000 for a burger or a simple pasta dish, and 9,000-11,000 CRC for a steak dish or large pizza to share. Seafood dishes like lobster start around 12,000-17,000 CRC.

For fast food (think pizza or burgers) or a dish of fried rice at a Chinese takeout place, expect to pay around 4,500-5,000 CRC.

Domestic beer costs around 1,500-2,000 CRC, a glass of wine is 3,000 CRC, a cocktail is 3,500-5,000 CRC, and a latte/cappuccino is around 2,000 CRC. Bottled water is 1,000 CRC. Fruit smoothies, which you can get made either with water or milk, are 2,000-2,500 CRC.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 20,000-30,000 CRC depending on the area. This gets you basic staples like rice, beans, veggies, fruit, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Costa Rica Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Costa Rica, my suggested budget is $50 USD per day. On this budget, you can stay in a hostel, cook most of your meals, have some cheap street food, take public transportation to get around, and enjoy mostly free activities like hiking and the beach.

On a mid-range budget of around $135 USD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at local sodas, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like guided tours, surf lessons, and museum visits

On a “luxury” budget of $250 USD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, rent a car to get around, drink as much as you’d like, and do as many excursions as you want, including diving and canopy tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Costa Rica Travel Guide: Money Saving Tips

Costa Rica is one of the most expensive countries in Central America. Between food costs, accommodation, and activities, there’s a lot of ways to spend money. You can get by on a budget compared to other places in the world but it’s still an expensive place to visit. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save money while you’re here:

• Travel off-season – Late April to November is considered the rainy season and prices tend to be less expensive and the region is less crowded. If you’re on a budget, visit during this time.
• Avoid tour activities – There are a lot of great (but expensive) group activities and tours in the country. Skip them and do free activities like hiking, swimming, and relaxing at the beach instead.
• Eat at the sodas – “Sodas” are small family-run restaurants that specialize in inexpensive yet filling traditional meals, usually costing around 3,500-5,000 CRC. These hole-in-the-wall restaurants offer the best value in the country.
• Go camping – Some hostels let you camp on their property if you have a tent. If not, there are plenty of campgrounds around the country where you can pitch a tent. Usually, this costs around $10 USD per night.
• Visit the Caribbean side – Visiting the cheaper Caribbean side lets you see the beautiful country without the high prices of the popular Pacific destinations.
• Avoid the tourist shuttles – While local buses are a lot slower than tourist shuttles, they are also a fraction of the price (i.e the local bus from San Jose to Monteverde is $6 USD while a shuttle is $60 USD). If you aren’t rushed for time, take the local buses.
• Pack a water bottle – While the tap water is drinkable in most of the country, there are some remote and beach destinations where it’s recommended to drink bottled water. A reusable water bottle with a filter can help you save money (and thousands of plastic bottles) by purifying the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw .

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has lots of fun, social, and affordable hostels. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Costa Rica:

• Arenal Backpackers Resort (Arenal)
• Selina Puerto Viejo (Puerto Viejo)
• Stray Cat Hostel (San Jose)
• Costa Rica Backpackers (San Jose)
• Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio)
• Sloth Backpackers (Monteverde)
• Pura Vida Hostel (Tamarindo)
• Aracari Garden Hostel (Tortuguero)

How to Get Around Costa Rica

Bus – The cheapest and easiest way to get around Costa Rica is by bus. Short bus trips (under 3 hours) are usually around $2-10 USD while longer trips cost $10-20 USD. The Costa Rica tourism board has a comprehensive schedule and guide to help you plan your trip.

Minibus – Private minibuses or shuttles provide an easy way to get around the country, or to and from the airport. They are all over the place and are often quicker and more direct than the public buses (but also more expensive, starting at $50-60 USD). Ask your hotel/hostel staff for the local options as they vary around the country.

Flying – Since the country is so small, air travel within Costa Rica isn’t budget-friendly or efficient. I would skip this method of travel. It won’t save you time or money.

Car Rental – Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Costa Rica. You can rent a car for as little as $30-45 USD per day. However, the roads here are not always great and drivers can be aggressive. Make sure you have insurance if you do rent a vehicle. Most rental companies require drivers to be 25 though some will rent to drivers who are 21. For the best car rental prices in Costa Rica, use Vamos (as a Nomadic Matt reader, you’ll get 5% off by using our link).

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking isn’t common for long-distance rides, however, it’s possible in beach destinations or in remote places with less public transport. HitchWiki is the best website for additional hitchhiking tips and info.

When to Go to Costa Rica

Overall, temperatures and weather vary per region, but most people go to Costa Rica during the dry season, which takes place from December to April. Although it’s peak season and tourism is at its highest, there’s almost non-stop sunshine, ideal for enjoying the country’s beaches and rainforests. If visiting during this time, make all your reservations in advance since things fill up fast.

The rainy season is from May to November. This is when it’s cheapest to visit Costa Rica. It doesn’t rain all the time though and temperatures are still warm. The rain tends to lighten during June and July, making the country’s rainforests burst with life.

If you’re around the Caribbean coast and the Northern Plains, you can expect year-round humidity and temperatures somewhere in the 20s-30s°C (70s-80s°F). It’s not so humid in the North Pacific, but temperatures can get even hotter in this area during the dry season.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries for traveling and backpacking in Central America . Most popular tourist towns are small and with little threat of violence. Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

That said, it’s always good to play it safe. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is one of the most common types of crime here. Don’t flash your valuables and make sure they are always secure while you’re out. When going out for the night, only bring the money you need. Leave the rest of your cash and cards locked up in your accommodation.

There are some common scams here, including a taxi scam where the driver tells you the meter is broken once the drive has begun. For that reason, you should stick to metered taxis or negotiate a price in advance. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight as break-ins do occur. Be mindful of missing road signs and potholes, as well as aggressive drivers.

Costa Rica’s natural wonders can be unpredictable. If you’re hiking in the jungle, always check the weather in advance and never stray from the trail. Doing so disturbs the fragile ecosystems, and opens yourself up to the possibility of encountering poisonous snakes and spiders. When in doubt, hire a guide. If you’re not a strong swimmer, stay out of the water. The currents and waves off the coast can be very strong, so heed signs and local advice on whether it’s safe to swim in a certain area or not.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against unexpected costs due to illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Costa Rica Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Costa Rica Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Costa Rica and continue planning your trip:

The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Costa Rica

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 8 Best Hostels in San José, Costa Rica

Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

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Your Costa Rica Vacation

Explore exotic landscapes, spot rare wildlife, and immerse yourself in colorful culture with a jam-packed Costa Rica travel package. Start your adventure in San Jose , the lively capital of this unique Central American country. From there, venture out to the coast to recline on pristine shares, or head deep into the rainforest in search of wildlife like tapirs, three-toed sloths, and rhinoceros beetles. If it’s epic views and soul-soothing solitude you’re seeking, a Costa Rica solo travel package could deliver you to the stunning Monteverde Cloud Forest. Whoever you travel with and wherever you visit, one thing is for sure: you’ll find the joy in pura vida, the simple life.

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The Latest Costa Rica Vacation Packages

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Costa Rica Beach Vacation Packages

Costa Rica is a beach lover’s paradise, and there’s a setting here for everyone. Book a Costa Rica package deal to Cahuita and lie back on the black sands of Negra Beach . Surfers worth their wax know that the waves off Tamarindo Beach in Tamarindo are among Costa Rica’s best. If it’s great swimming you’re looking for, Playa Punta Uva near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca has calm waters and beautiful white sand.

If you’re in the mood to really kick back and relax during your beach getaway, stay at one of our All Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica . Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica puts you on the edge of Playa Matapalo in Puntarenas . Four pools, a swim-up bar and snorkeling activities help make it the ultimate beach trip to Costa Rica. At Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica in La Cruz , soak up some rays on your private beach along Playa El Jobo, and make the most of pursuits like scuba diving and fishing trips. Spectacular stretches of sand, relaxing amenities, activities, meals … These all-inclusive beach vacations have it all!

Last-Minute Package Deals

Costa Rica is a manageable flight away from many major U.S. cities, making it an excellent option for a last-minute escape. For example, flights from Washington, D.C., New York and Chicago to Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose take just over five hours. Browse our Last Minute Vacation Deals to find a cheap Costa Rica package or put together your own.

Enter your departure and destination cities and dates and you’ll see what’s still available, sometimes with special discounts! As you scour the results, some properties will show you the difference in price between booking the stay and the flight together, compared to booking them separately. Last-minute deals offer fantastic savings, so book before they’re gone, and make sure to check back for new deals on cheap Costa Rica vacations.

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Famous for its beaches, volcanoes, rainforests and exotic wildlife, Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Central America. Here are some of the best places to book a Costa Rica package deal:

• San Jose : Costa Rica’s capital city, San Jose is also the cultural hub of the nation. Stay here to explore exquisite architecture, rich historical sites and museums.
• La Fortuna : Incredible natural wonders lure travelers to this part of the country. Volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls and wildlife are on the sightseeing list.
• Monteverde : If it’s thrills you’re chasing, you’ll find them in Monteverde. Hike through cloud forests, navigate suspension bridges and go zip lining through the treetops.
• Manuel Antonio : This popular coastal village is known for its pristine white-sand beaches and rich tropical forests. Spot sloths, monkeys and toucans in its namesake national park.
• Puerto Viejo de Talamanca : Beautiful beaches, amazing surfing opportunities and a laid-back vibe make this seaside town the kind of place you’ll end up staying longer.
• Jaco : Want to party on your trip to Costa Rica? When the sun goes down, live it up in this beach town’s clubs, bars and discos.

Top Things to Do

A trip to Costa Rica is like no other. Discover the true meaning of the country’s motto “pura vida” (the simple life) with these top attractions and experiences:

• Nature : Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve and Manuel Antonio National Park dazzle with their natural beauty. When you’re ready to chase waterfalls, La Fortuna Waterfall is one of the best.
• Family-Friendly : The kids will love zip lining through the treetops at Ecoglide Arenal Park . Or book a boat tour at Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge to spot animals in the wild.
• Adventure : Hike the iconic Arenal Volcano and go white-water rafting on Rio Pacuare . If you’d rather chase a different kind of swell, take surfing lessons at Santa Teresa .
• Historical : For a fascinating insight into the past, visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and Pre-Columbian Gold Museum .
• Culture : Learn about indigenous cultures and enjoy a taste of Costa Rica with a local coffee farm tour . You can also add a Pura Vida Cooking Class in La Fortuna to your vacation to Costa Rica package.

To find the best deals, simply browse our awesome offers or enter your preferred travel dates. You can filter the results by price, property type, guest rating and amenities. You can also find cheap hotels in Costa Rica by using the map on the search page.

Why not add some epic activities to your vacation package with the dollars you save? An Arenal Volcano and Baldi Hot Spring or a bird-watching tour in search of the elusive quetzal are favorites!

Top Vacation Destinations in Costa Rica

Enjoy a beach town with Jaco vacation packages

Jaco is a fun beach town with plenty to do in a relaxed environment. The local energy is fun but not overbearing, letting you have as many or as few thrills as you like. The beach offers inviting waters and soft sands to enjoy while the local restaurants focus on local cuisine, emphasizing seafood since it is so close to the water.

Find adventure with Manuel Antonio vacation packages

When you visit Manuel Antonio, you'll find yourself in an incredible park that offers plenty of vibrant greenery to explore alongside an inviting beachfront. Hiking paths are available throughout the rainforest area, while the beaches are perfect for swimming and relaxing. Thanks to its crystal clear waters, you may also be interested in snorkeling and diving in some areas of the park.

Discover beauty with San Jose vacation packages

San Jose is best known for its immense natural beauty in its urban environment. However, when you're not taking in the views, you can enjoy prominent coffee shops and craft microbreweries. Even vegan restaurants are available, making this city one of the most hip you'll find in all of Costa Rica. Don't forget to explore its numerous historical sites and buildings as well.

Discover surfing fun with a Tamarindo vacation

In Tamarindo, you'll find beachfront fun that's particularly popular with surfers. The waves here tend to be perfect for surfing, but that's just the beginning of the outdoor activities to enjoy. You'll also find volcano hikes and ziplining alongside chances for sailing and snorkeling. Tour operators around town can lead you on an adventure to enjoy a bit of everything.

Costa Rica Essential Information

Prepare for your costa rica vacation with our essential travel info, costa rica hotel deals.

Reviewed on Apr 13, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 12, 2024

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in costa rica.

Explore the depths of the ocean with your snorkel and fly through the treetops of the jungle on a zip line in this picturesque beach town.

Tamarindo Beach

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Tamarindo Beach, a popular beach in Tamarindo. Stroll along the seaside or seek out the surfing spots.

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park

See crater-filled mountains and hot sulfurous mud pits edged by lush tropical forest in this park filled with tropical plants and animals.

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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!  

Exclusive deals

• Enter Costa Rica

Costa Rica Vacation Packages

Looking for something to look forward to? Our fully customizable Costa Rica vacations deliver everything you need to enjoy an amazing vacation. Discover the wonders of Costa Rica while staying at top hotels, ecolodges, and resorts. Experience the best tours and attractions with top-rated guides. You’ll move around the country in style with the best domestic transportation options. Every sample itinerary will be tailored to your budget, preferences, and hotel selection. Select the travel style that suits you best and start planning your trip today!

Ask us about our FREE NIGHT promos! We currently have many 4 nights for the price of 3 (4x3) and 3 nights for the price of 2 (3x2) promos available with some of our best hotels. Many of these promos are only available through Pacific Trade Winds . Please click here >> to contact us today to take advantage of these extraordinary deals!

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Packages By Interest | Top 10 Vacations | Best Destinations | Why Choose Us? |  Custom Trip

The Top 10 Costa Rica Vacation Packages for 2024

Looking for the perfect honeymoon setting? Or a family vacation full of adventure? Maybe you’re flying solo and just want to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. These hand-picked packages, complete with transportation, hold the key to a world like no other, full of wildlife, spectacular beauty, and exciting adventures. All are 100% customizable so you can add your personal touch to make it the vacation you’ve always dreamed about. From lavish luxury to rustic ecolodges, and everything in between, the choice is yours!

All of our amazing vacations can be customized with upgraded or downgraded hotels to match your interests and budget!

Pure Life Adventure   7 days  ( customizable ) destinations:  Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio Beach tags:  light adventure & nature category: affordable value: $$  and add a free night from now through Dec 14 ! category: affordable deluxe: $$$  and  add a free night from now through Dec 14 ! important: Low Lifelong Deposit,  Free PTW Rescheduling

The perfect vacation for first-time visitors to Costa Rica! Pure Life Adventure presents an awesome opportunity to pick your adventure preferences while visiting the Arenal Volcano area, complete with river and rainforest activities, plus onsite hot springs at your resort!  Then you’ll be off to the Pacific coast to go beachcombing along the white sandy shores of Manuel Antonio Beach. This is an incredibly affordable package that will take you to two of the top three destinations in Costa Rica. And, if you want, you can choose to extend your itinerary to add the third most popular tourist area, the Monteverde Cloud Forest ( Pure Life Adventure + Monteverde )! You’ll enjoy great hotels, incredible tours, beautiful beaches, and soothing hot springs on this wonderful 7-day Pura Vida adventure combo that includes a couple of days at the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Paradise Discovered Inclusive Adventure 7 days ( customizable ) destinations: Arenal Volcano & Conchal Beach tags: light adventure, nature, and some all-inclusive category:  affordable value: $$ category:  deluxe: $$$ important: Low Lifelong Deposit,  Free PTW Rescheduling* set vacation or custom? This trip can be customized in many ways, including upgraded or downgraded hotels to match your budget!

Paradise Discovered delivers an amazing 7-day getaway beginning at Arenal Volcano for hot springs, adventure activities, and nature exploring, before transporting you to an all-inclusive luxury beach resort, the Westin Playa Conchal, overlooking a gorgeous soft shell beach with turquoise waters and swaying palm trees.

All-Inclusive Fun in the Sun 7 days ( customizable ) destinations: Conchal Beach tags: light adventure & all-inclusive from $$$ important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

All-Inclusive Fun in the Sun takes you to the luxurious all-inclusive Westin Playa Conchal Resort on one of Guanacaste’s most beautiful beaches for a weeklong seaside escape. AND you’ll enjoy snorkeling the underwater world while on a catamaran cruise plus going for a thrilling zipline experience within Costa Rica’s lush tropical rainforests. This 7-day itinerary can be customized as a family vacation experience by choosing to stay in the resort’s family section, or can as easily turn into a romantic destination vacation simply by selecting the exclusive adults-only section of the resort! Both offer easy access to the beach and a host of onsite hotel amenities.

Discover Costa Rica   9 days ( customizable ) destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest & Conchal Beach tags:  light adventure, nature, and some all-inclusive category:  affordable value: $$  and  add a free night for May, June, September, & October dates ! category:  affordable deluxe: $$$  and  add a free night for September & October dates ! important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

Discover Costa Rica delights travelers seeking to explore the highlights of Costa Rica by visiting 3 strikingly different areas, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the beautiful pink beach at Playa Conchal. Along the way, you’ll have a choice of exciting activities that can turn it into an action-packed adventure, make it an enlightening safari, or simply choose to enjoy a perfect balance of both. This 9-day vacation combination culminates with some restful ME TIME at a luxurious all-inclusive beach resort.

Rainforest Volcano and Beaches   7 days ( customizable ) destinations: Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio Beach tags:  light adventure and nature – great for families! category:  affordable value: $$   and   add a free night from now through Dec 14 ! category:  deluxe: $$$$ important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

Rainforest Volcano Beaches will have you viewing wildlife from the forest floor to treetops and along the jungle-studded Pacific coastline. Perfect for families, a few days at Arenal Volcano include options for zip-lining or nature hikes, and the beach area of Manuel Antonio never fails to excite visitors with the abundant wildlife found in its national park. Just as the name implies, this 7-day family getaway offers a little bit of everything and includes wonderful resorts, hot springs, fun in the jungle, beach time, and all of the transportation needed to pull it together into one amazing trip your family will remember for years to come!

Smooth Tropics Inclusive Adventure   7 days ( customizable ) destinations: Arenal Volcano & Flamingo Beach tags: light adventure, nature, and some all-inclusive category: affordable value $$$ category:  affordable deluxe $$$ important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

A longtime favorite, the 7-day Smooth Tropics Inclusive Adventure sends you first to the rainforest and river area surrounding Arenal Volcano, then over to one of Guanacaste’s beautiful beaches at Playa Flamingo. From hot springs to cool lagoon, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance of ecolodge jungle adventures and vegging out at the beach pampered by an all-inclusive resort.

Eco-Xtreme Adrenaline   10 days ( customizable ) destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, & Manuel Antonio Beach tags: extreme adventure category:  affordable value: $$  and  add 2 free nights for May, June, September, & October dates OR add 1 free night for all dates now through Dec 14, 2024 ! category:  affordable deluxe: $$$  and  add a free night for September & October dates ! important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

Extremely popular, the 10-day Eco-Xtreme Adrenaline will have your heart pumping as you race from one ultimate sports challenge to another. Picture: Whitewater Rafting, Canyoning, Waterfall Rappelling, Zip-lining, ATVing, and Surfing! And it all rocks at Costa Rica’s top 3 adventure destinations: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio Beach. Bring your Go-Pro!

Costa Rica Safari 9 days ( customizable ) destinations: San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal Volcano & Monteverde Cloud Forest tags: nature & light adventure from $$$   add a free night for September & October dates ! important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

The Costa Rica Safari will carry you from the remote region of Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast, only accessible by boat, to the jungles of Arenal Volcano, including Tabacon Hot Springs. Then to top it off you’ll visit the amazing Monteverde Cloud Forest. Your guides will take you exploring the canals by river safari, the rainforest by hanging bridges, and on a leisurely informative nature hike in the cloud forest. You’re sure to see plenty of wildlife on this 10-day eco-adventure. A nature lover’s dream!

South Pacific Eco-Xtreme 9 days ( customizable ) destinations: Savegre Valley, Southern Mountains & Costa Ballena Beaches tags: off-the-beaten-path, extreme adventure & nature from $$$ important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

South Pacific Eco Extreme will engage you in an epic adventure exploring places few have dared to go! You’ll stay in African-style safari tents, a cave behind a waterfall (yes, you read that right!), and a jungle ecolodge on the South Pacific coast. This 9-day extreme adventure includes mountain hiking, horseback riding, waterfall rappelling, plus whitewater rafting, and will undoubtedly be the most memorable vacation you’ve ever experienced!

Rainforest Safari 14 days ( customizable ) destinations: Central Valley, Tortuguero, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest & Manuel Antonio Beach tags:  nature and light adventure category: affordable value from $$ and   add 2 free nights for May, June, September, & October dates OR add 1 free night for all dates now through Dec 14, 2024 ! category: affordable deluxe $$$ and   add a free night for September & October dates ! important: Low Lifelong Deposit, Free PTW Rescheduling*

The Rainforest Safari sends you cross-country from the Caribbean to the Pacific seeking out wildlife found in incredible habitats. This 14-day quest starts by going to Tortuguero, only accessible by boat or plane, where you’ll cruise the famous jungle canals. Next, you’ll explore the Arenal Volcano region, go on a river safari, and leisurely hike the base of the volcano. Afterward, you can soak in your eco-resort’s onsite hot springs. From there it's up to the unique Monteverde Cloud Forest with a naturalist hike taking you over hanging bridges. Finally, you’ll relax at the beach and enjoy a guided tour of the abundant wildlife living in Manual Antonio National Park found over on the Pacific coast.

Packages By Interest  |  Top 10 Vacations  |  Best Destinations  |  Custom Trip

The Best Destinations for 2023 & 2024!

Arenal Volcano

intro: Arenal Volcano is not only one of Costa Rica's most beautiful vacation destinations but also numero uno for adventure and hot springs! Whether you are seeking peace and tranquility or thrilling outdoor challenges, you'll find it here with an incredible selection of high adventure or nature eco-tours. Combine that with world-class hot spring resorts plus a mild year-round temperature, and you'll wonder why you'd ever want to leave!

why visit: adventure, nature, hot springs, volcano combines well with these destinations: Manuel Antonio, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Guanacaste Beaches, Sarapiqui, Nicoya Beaches, Caribbean best weather: While Arenal is in North Central Costa Rica, it is positioned at the base of the Talamanca Mountains, on the fringe of the Caribbean slope of the country. Weather usually is best from mid-January - mid-May, and September through October, but is highly unpredictable as the area can be affected by weather from both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.  best prices: May, June, September - November

where to stay: The Arenal Volcano region boasts some of Costa Rica's most unique and luxurious hotels in Costa Rica. The amazing Nayara Gardens and the Nayara Springs properties have been voted among the best hotels in the world for several years running. These amazing sister properties offer luxurious bungalow-style accommodations with world-class service and yet, retain a casual vibe. They were recently joined by the new, eco-friendly Nayara Tented Camp, where you can enjoy a luxurious safari-themed holiday in style. The Springs Resort is another amazing luxury-class resort with dozens of hot springs pools and rivers surrounded by gorgeous tropical gardens and jungle. The Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa is one of the most famous hot springs resorts in the world! This amazing eco-friendly resort offers the best hot springs in Costa Rica, set in gorgeous gardens and jungle. The Arenal Kioro Hotel is another beautiful 5-star eco-resort that is set at the base of the imposing Arenal Volcano. You won't find better views of the volcano, and this is a hotel to remember in the rainy season as they offer great green season specials. Amor Arenal Hotel is the newest luxury resort in the Arenal Volcano region. This stylish and luxurious eco-resort offers guests gorgeous bungalows, amazing views, and hot springs surrounded by rainforest. The Amor Arenal is sure to be one of the most popular hotels in Costa Rica in the coming years. Rounding off the top of the list, we have to include Arenal Springs Resort & Spa. This unique and popular 4-star eco-resort offers guests beautiful hot springs, world-class service, and incredible value, making it one of our favorite and highest-rated hotels!

what to do: Your visit to Arenal Volcano will likely be the highlight of your Costa Rica vacation! Arenal is the hot springs and adventure capital of Costa Rica but is also one of the best places to take in natural beauty and enjoy the incredible biodiversity and nature. We always recommend staying at a hotel with onsite hot springs, but if you can't find availability, you'll likely want to spend a day at one of the resorts that offer day or evening passes. Tabacon is undoubtedly the most popular day pass hot springs option, followed by the Los Perdidos Springs at The Springs Resort, and then Baldi Hot Springs for a more economical option that is great for kids. Adventurers will be thrilled with dozens of fun and exciting experiences available at Arenal! You can go whitewater rafting on the awesome Rio Balsa River or go extreme on class III and IV rapids on the Rio Sarapiqui. Arenal offers the best canyoning and waterfall rappelling in Costa Rica. Just imagine rappelling down tropical waterfalls and then scrambling through a canyon in the middle of the jungle! This area is also home to some of Costa Rica's most popular zipline adventures. Ziplining is the ultimate high-speed, high-flying adventure activity that offers a birds-eye view of the jungle. Other popular adventures include ATV riding, horseback riding, cave exploration at the Venado Caves, kayaking at Lake Arenal or on the Rio Penas Blancas, and whitewater tubing on the thrilling Rio Arenal. Nature lovers have plenty of options, as well! The Arenal Hanging Bridges offers a unique way to hike through the rainforest. Visitors can hike several kilometers on their terrestrial trails as well as on their hanging bridges so you can experience the magic of the jungle and its canopy, where most of the animals live. The Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge is one of the most popular places in Costa Rica to search for monkeys, sloths, caimans, and many other species of wildlife. You can go by motorized riverboat or on a canoe for a more intimate experience. Closer to Arenal, we offer a Safari Float on the Rio Penas Blancas. This float is a fun and memorable activity for families as you go on a whitewater rafting boat. While there are no rapids, you will be thrilled by the amazing wildlife that inhabits this biological corridor, including sloths, toucans, monkeys, iguanas, and many other animals. A hike through the Arenal Volcano National Park is a great way to spend a couple of hours in the afternoon before a visit to the hot springs. The park can be hit or miss at times but is home to many species of wildlife. Monkeys, sloths, toucans, and peccaries are commonly spotted, but you also have an off chance of seeing something incredible like an ocelot, margay, or tayra. Birdwatching can be incredible in the Arenal Volcano region. Chestnut and keel-billed toucans are common. Aracari, motmots, honeycreepers, and several species of tanagers are as well. If you want to visit a waterfall, be sure to save time for the La Fortuna Waterfalls. This gorgeous waterfall is nearly 200 feet tall and surrounded by a lush jungle. The world-famous Rio Celeste Waterfall is also a great day trip from the La Fortuna area. To access it, you hike through the Tenorio Volcano National Park until the forest opens up and you are facing one of the world's most beautiful waterfalls. The Kool-Aid blue color waters are a stunning contrast to the lush green jungle that surrounds it. insider's advice: Choose a hotel with onsite hot springs. You'll save time and money versus visiting costly offsite hot springs, and you'll be able to enjoy them throughout your stay for free!  

insider's advice: Choose a hotel with onsite hot springs. You'll save time and money versus visiting costly offsite hot springs, and you'll be able to enjoy them throughout your stay for free!

Manuel Antonio  

intro : Manuel Antonio, a tiny town set on the Pacific coast, offers stunning white sand beaches backed by palm trees and rimmed with a rainforest jungle full of wildlife. Its national park, teeming with sloths, monkeys, and parrots, to name a few, is the most visited in the country.

why visit:  beach, nature, adventure combines well with these destinations:  Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Ballena, Osa Peninsula, San Gerardo de Dota best weather:  December - April (some years have a mini dry season in July, known locally as El Veranillo de San Juan) best prices:  May - November

where to stay: Manuel Antonio is best known for its eco-friendly boutique hotels that line the hills above the beaches. Los Altos Resort is a luxurious 5-star Bali-inspired condo resort that we highly recommend! They offer various unit configurations, from 1 - 3 bedrooms. Los Altos is on a private wildlife reserve and has direct beach access at the base of the property. Arenas del Mar Resort is another excellent high-end boutique hotel, and right by the beach. This hotel offers elegant rooms and world-class services. The Tulemar Resort is a beautiful eco-friendly resort located on the hill near the center of Manuel Antonio. You would have to take the hotel's shuttle to reach the beach, but it is accessible from the resort property. This hotel is best known for its fantastic customer service, which makes it among Costa Rica's highest-rated hotels. Si Como No Resort is a beautiful 4-star eco-resort with stunning views over the jungle and gorgeous Pacific coast. The Shana Hotel is another terrific 4-star option. The Shana is set on a hillside overlooking the forest and coast, but you can walk down a nature trail to a gorgeous little beach within 10 minutes. La Vela Boutique Hotel is a wonderful 3-star option if you are looking to save money. This fun, small hotel is within just a few minutes walk from the beach, national park, shopping, and a variety of restaurants. Monkeys and other incredible animals frequently pass through the hotel grounds from the park! You can't go wrong with this gem!

what to do: Manuel Antonio is a jungle beach destination with loads of wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and much more! This beach offers more activity and experience options than any other in Costa Rica. A visit to Manuel Antonio National Park is practically a requirement! This fantastic park, set in the coastal jungles, is home to countless species of rare and exotic animals. You can also sign up for a wide variety of adventures in Manuel Antonio, including whitewater rafting, canyoning and rappelling down jungle waterfalls, horseback riding, ATV adventures, canopy zipline, biking, and more! Of course, you can also choose from a variety of beach activities such as surf lessons, kayaking, or even parasailing. Catamaran Cruises are another popular activity in this area. Imagine cruising along the gorgeous coast as you watch the brilliant sun setting on the Pacific.

insider's advice: Bring your towel and bathing suit when visiting Manuel Antonio National Park. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica are in the park. Plan to stick around after your tour and enjoy some fun in the sun in this incredible setting! 

Tamarindo  

intro: One of Costa Rica's most popular beaches, Tamarindo, invites visitors to enjoy its many surfside village restaurants, shops, and nightlife entertainment. If you're seeking an endless summer with beautiful beaches and live music, Playa Tamarindo is the place to go on your Costa Rica vacation!

why visit:  beach and surfing combines well with these destinations:  Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Nicoya Beaches best weather:  mid-November - July but many days in August are nice as well best prices:  May - November

where to stay: Tamarindo is a great place to visit and offers visitors some wonderful hotels to choose from! Capitan Suizo is a beachfront boutique hotel located close enough to town to walk to restaurants but far enough to escape from the crowds. This 4-star hotel offers luxurious accommodations and remarkable customer service. Cala Luna is another higher-end 4-star boutique hotel that we highly recommend. Located in the quiet Langosta neighborhood of Tamarindo, Cala Luna offers guests 2 and 3-bedroom villas or well-appointed guest rooms. The 4-star Tamarindo Diria Resort is located in the center of Tamarindo and right in front of the beach. This hotel is more like a resort and offers adults-only or family sections of the hotel, so there's something for everyone!

what to do: Tamarindo is a fun and enjoyable town, offering a plethora of activities! Of course, beaching, swimming, boogie-boarding, and surfing are at the top of the list, but there are plenty of other things to do as well. Adventurers can go canopy ziplining, horseback riding, ATVing, kayaking, or even take a drive up to one of the adventure ranch haciendas near Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Nature lovers can go on a birdwatching tour or a riverboat safari at Palo Verde National Park.

insider's advice: Tamarindo is unique in the sense that the beach is perfect for swimming or surfing. The south end of Playa Tamarindo is calm and perfect for swimming. The north end of the beach has larger waves that are ideal for surfing.  Bring your boogie board for the area in between!

Monteverde Cloud Forest

intro: The mysterious cloud-enshrouded mountains of Monteverde offer an almost magical experience as you walk the forest floor and up into the canopy on overhanging suspension bridges. Home of world-class highland species birdwatching, where birders flock to seek a glimpse of the rare Resplendent Quetzal or hear the call of the 3-Wattled Bellbird, the unique Cloud Forest also features a rich assortment of orchids and epiphytes. Thrill-seekers can choose to quench their thirst for adventure traveling at high speeds by zipline through the magnificent old-growth forest over spectacular scenery. The local village of Santa Elena provides plenty of eateries, local artisan shops, museums, and galleries.

why visit:  cloud forest, nature, adventure, birdwatching combines well with these destinations:  Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio, Guanacaste Beaches, Nicoya Beaches best weather:  December - April best prices:  May - November

where to stay: For years, Monteverde has been known as the land of rustic ecolodges, but that is beginning to change. Opening its doors in 2019, Senda Monteverde Hotel offers guests a luxurious ecolodge option. This hotel is backed by a private nature reserve and offers stylish eco-friendly accommodations, but the secret is in its service. The staff at this hotel is simply wonderful and makes it one of our favorite hidden gems! We also like that they have an onsite restaurant with great prices, a nice change these days! Koora Monteverde Boutique Hotel is another great eco-friendly lodge. They also opened for business in 2019 and offer higher-end eco-lodging. Along similar lines, Hotel Belmar is a great eco-friendly lodge that offers simple but stylish accommodations. Built out of local hardwoods, the buildings are beautiful. If you want to save money for tours and experiences, we'd recommend El Establo Mountain Hotel or Hotel Poco a Poco. Both of these hotels are in the midrange category, offering affordable, but nice accommodations.

what to do: Monteverde is one of the most popular cloud forest destinations in the world, so be sure to plan to visit one of the cloud forest reserves! While Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is far and away the most recognized reserve in the region, Curi Cancha gets our vote as the best of the best! This amazing reserve is located near the other reserve but has far fewer visitors and a lot more potential for animal sightings and great birdwatching. We also recommend checking out one of the amazing canopy tours that Monteverde is famous for. The canopy ziplines in this area are among the best in the world! If you're looking for a slower-paced activity, birdwatching, and just learning about the cloud forest, we'd recommend a guided hanging bridges tour. These hikes will take you both on the ground and through the canopy of the cloud forest via hanging suspension bridges.

insider's advice: Monteverde is home to the best canopy hanging bridge tours and canopy zipline courses in Costa Rica and perhaps the world. If you are planning on enjoying one of these activities, save it for Monteverde! Birdwatchers will like to know that the best time to observe Resplendent Quetzals is during their breeding season from February through May. Three-Wattled Bell Birds breed in Monteverde from March through June. 

intro: Known as the Gold Coast, Guanacaste is home to some of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica. Whether you're seeking world-class surfing, classic beach hangouts, a romantic getaway on miles of gorgeous beach, seaside horseback riding, or an all-inclusive beach resort, Guanacaste has it all. This just may be the perfect destination for your Costa Rica beach vacation!

why visit:  beaches combines well with these destinations:  Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest best weather:  mid-November - July but many days in August are nice as well best prices:  May - November

where to stay: There are many great hotels in Guanacaste, so we'll focus on a handful that are consistently rated as the best by our clients. Guanacaste is home to the majority of Costa Rica's all-inclusive resorts. The 5-star Westin Playa Conchal is our highest recommendation as it's positioned on one of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica and has wonderful amenities. It's also just a 15-minute drive from Tamarindo, so there's plenty to do in this area. Secrets Papagayo Resort is our top recommendation for adults-only all-inclusive. This 5-star resort is also beachfront and located just 25 minutes from LIR Airport, making it one of the most conveniently located resorts in Costa Rica. In the boutique hotel category, we recommend several great options. Hotel Playa Hermosa Bosque del Mar is a wonderful beachfront hotel with an amazing open-air beachfront restaurant. At just 25 minutes from the airport, it's also very convenient. Bahia del Sol is another great option if you want to go a little off-the-beaten-path, but still be within a half-hour drive of Tamarindo. This beachfront hotel is located in the quiet village of Potrero and offers luxurious eco-friendly accommodations. Be sure to check out our Tamarindo section for recommendations, including Capitan Suizo and Cala Luna.

what to do: Guanacaste offers visitors a variety of beaches, offering everything from gentle swimming to world-class big wave surfing and everything in between. Popular beach activities include kayaking, sunset catamaran cruises with snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing. if you're an adventurer, we'd recommend taking a day trip to the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. This national park and surrounding area is covered in tropical dry forest and offers great hiking opportunities. The adventure ranches surrounding the volcano offer canopy zipline, ATV riding, whitewater tubing, horseback riding, and much more, including hot springs! Nature lovers can go on a riverboat safari cruise in Palo Verde National Park or go on a guided hike in Santa Rosa National Park, in search of rare and exotic animals.

insider's advice: Northern Guanacaste from Tamarindo through Papagayo is the driest region of Costa Rica. Even in the rainiest months, September and October, many days see some sunshine.

Osa Peninsula and Corcovado

intro: One of the wildest, most remote, and rugged regions of Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula is home to the world-famous Corcovado National Park. Often unreachable except by boat or plane, this area offers an untamed, raw experience with guided tours into the remotest areas, including protected ocean reefs. Mostly ecolodges are found here, including some quite primitive, a real back-to-nature experience!

why visit:  nature, beaches, off-the-beaten-path combines well with these destinations: Manuel Antonio, Costa Ballena, Southern Mountains, and San Gerardo de Dota best weather:  December - April (some years have a mini dry season in July, known locally as El Veranillo de San Juan) best prices:  May - November

where to stay: The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the world's best ecolodges. Copa del Arbol in Drake Bay offers beachfront lodging, with charming bungalows and world-class service. Surrounded by jungle and in front of a gorgeous beach, you'll have no problem setting your cellphone down for a few days of paradise! Aguila de Osa is another wonderful Drake Bay ecolodge. Known for its great food, amazing experiences, and world-class service, Aguila is a great choice for your stay in Drake Bay. Cabo Matapalo is another amazing destination on the Osa Peninsula and is home to some incredible lodges! Lapa Rios Lodge defines eco-luxury. Set on a hill overlooking the wild jungle and the Pacific coast, this amazing ecolodge offers luxurious accommodations and world-class service. El Remanso is another amazing "rustic-chic" ecolodge in this remote region. With airy and thoughtfully decorated bungalows and villas, a gorgeous swimming pool, spectacular jungle, and ocean views, and a prime location by Corcovado National Park, El Remanso is one of the best ecolodges in Costa Rica!

what to do: Corcovado National Park is one of the most biologically intense places on the planet! A guided trip to the park is practically a must to see monkeys, sloths, toucans, macaws, and countless other species of exotic animals. You might even catch a glimpse of something extraordinary like a jaguar, ocelot, or tapir! Cano Island is Costa Rica's best scuba diving and snorkeling location. Located off the southwest coast of the Osa, Cano Island is a must for anybody interested in experiencing the wonders under the sea. The waters off the coast of the Osa Peninsula are home to year-round populations of dolphins, but this is also one of the best places in the world to observe humpback whales from December through March and again from August through October.

insider's advice: There are no large or luxurious resorts on the Osa Peninsula. Expect rustic but, in some cases, elegant ecolodges that cater to ecotourists. Amenities such as air-conditioning and television are rare, but then again, where else can you be entertained by sloths and Scarlett macaws by day and use howler monkeys as an alarm clock?

Nicoya Peninsula

intro: The Nicoya Peninsula offers an incredibly diverse and beautiful region of Costa Rica with miles of pristine Pacific coastline. Part of the Guanacaste province, it provides off-the-beaten-path beaches and old-world Costa Rican charm. Here you'll find a variety of beaches, secluded coves, big wave surf breaks, sea turtle nesting sites, snorkeling, fishing, surfing, and the occasional all-inclusive resort. 

why visit:  beaches and off-the-beaten-path combines well with these destinations:  Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest best weather:  mid-November - July but many days in August are nice as well best prices:  May - November

where to stay: The Nicoya Peninsula is a great place to go if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path beach destination for your Costa Rica vacation! Nammbu Bungalows in Carrillo is a nice 4-star hotel, located just across the street from one of the prettiest beaches in Costa Rica. Tango Mar Resort in Tambor is another great option. This beachfront hotel has a golf course, yoga studio, seaside bar, and more - essentially everything you need for a tropical escape! Hotel Nantipa in Santa Teresa offers luxurious oceanfront suites and villas, so you can explore the exotic, world-class surfing beaches of this famous surf and yoga destination.

what to do: Surfing boogie boarding, and swimming top the list of things to do on the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula, but there are some other great experiences as well! Nature lovers can watch nesting sea turtles on many nights from May through November at Playa Ostional or Camaronal. A guided hike at the Cabo Blanco National Park is another great way to see animals, including monkeys, Scarlett macaws, anteaters, and many other amazing species! Kayaking and snorkeling at Isla Chora is a great way to spend the day if you are staying in the Samara or Carrillo area. There's also a wonderful day trip to Isla Tortuga available from Tambor, Montezuma, and Santa Teresa. This fun-filled day includes a boat ride to the exotic island, where you can relax on white-sand beaches and experience amazing snorkeling. Of course, many visitors to the Nicoya opt to just relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches!

insider's advice: If you are traveling to beaches on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula from Monteverde, Arenal, or points east, use the ferry from Puntarenas to cross the Gulf of Nicoya. You'll also need a 4x4, GPS, a good map, and a strong sense of adventure if you are driving your own!

Southern Caribbean

intro: Costa Rica's southern Caribbean coast invites you to indulge in its reggae vibe, spicy food, and lively steel drum music for an interesting cultural experience. You'll find flat, sandy beaches, turquoise waters, surf breaks, and swaying palms amid lush rainforests ideal for surfing, snorkeling, swimming, or swinging in a hammock. Inland, you can visit indigenous farms practicing old methods of natural sustainability, visit waterfalls, hike the Talamanca mountains, and find a host of adventure activities.

why visit:  beaches, nature, and off-the-beaten-path combines well with these destinations:  Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero, Pacuare, Turrialba, Sarapiqui best weather:  March - April, September - October best prices:  May - November

where to stay: The boutique-style Hotel Aguas Claras sets the stage and defines luxury on the Southern Caribbean coast. This area is known for its rustic and unique lodges, but the Aguas Claras has changed everything! Set in front of the gorgeous Playa Chiquita and surrounded by a jungle that is teeming with wildlife, this amazing hotel is designed to deliver an authentic Caribbean experience. It is sure to be a highlight of your Costa Rica vacation! Hotel Le Cameleon is another great hotel choice for the Southern Caribbean! With its modern design, beach club, open-air restaurant and bar, and gorgeous jungle surroundings, it's easy to see why this is one of the region's most popular hotels!

what to do: The Southern Caribbean coast is home to a variety of beaches. Some are better for swimming and others are great for surfing. There is also amazing snorkeling in front of Cahuita National Park, where you can see corals and colorful fish. Cahuita National Park is also a great place to take a guided hike through the nature trails, in search of boisterous howler monkeys, cute sloths, and countless other species of animals! There's also a great hike at Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge, where you can go on a guided hike through the jungle to gorgeous white-sand hidden beaches. One of the best tour experiences is a form of transportation to or from the Caribbean coast. We offer a transfer between San Jose, Arenal Volcano, and the Southern Caribbean, with a stop for a whitewater rafting trip on the world-famous Rio Pacuare. This trip is a great opportunity to break up the long drive with something exciting and spectacular!

insider's advice: There are no large resorts or all-inclusive hotels in the Southern Caribbean region. With few exceptions, expect rustic lodges and bungalow-style accommodations with few amenities and amazing surroundings! While the southern Caribbean is best known for its beautiful beaches, the area is also home to loads of wildlife. Cahuita National Park is one of the best places in Costa Rica to observe sloths, monkeys, and other exotic animals.

intro: Inaccessible by car, the remote coastal region of Tortuguero provides a sanctuary for rare wildlife. It is also a primary nesting site for several species of endangered sea turtles. Canals wind through the jungle allowing you to observe the untouched beauty. Supporting eleven unique types of biospheres, it may be the most diverse place in Costa Rica! A small colorful village sits on an island sandwiched between the river and the Caribbean coastline. Ideal for serious nature enthusiasts!

why visit:  nature and off-the-beaten-path combines well with these destinations:  Arenal Volcano, Southern Caribbean, Pacuare, Turrialba, Sarapiqui best weather:  March - April, September - October best prices:  May - November

where to stay: Tortuguero is home to some of the best ecolodges in Costa Rica! Most of these lodges include roundtrip transportation from San Jose, including a segment on a boat! Many of the lodges also include meals and tour experiences such as a tour to the remote village for a cultural experience as well as a safari-style boat ride through the fantastic Tortuguero Canals in search of the many rare animals that inhabit this remote region. Tortuga Lodge and Gardens offers higher-end lodging and individualized service, making it one of our favorite lodges in the area. Mawamba Lodge is another excellent ecolodge option. While it is rustic, guests will love the location and incredible service!

what to do: Tortuguero is an ecotourist's paradise! Only accessible by boat or plane, the canals and parks are loaded with rare and exotic animals. Most lodges will include a riverboat safer through the canals, hiking through the jungle, and also a cultural trip to the village. From the end of July and through October, many of the lodges offer sea turtle nesting tours at night, allowing you to experience the thrill of witnessing a giant sea turtle laying her precious cargo!

insider's advice: Tortuguero is another area with very rustic lodging. Expect an authentic ecolodge experience and immersion in nature in this region! Many of Tortuguero's lodges offer packages that include transportation to and from San Jose, lodging, tours on the canals, and meals for less than it costs for a hotel stay in other areas!

Costa Ballena

intro: Costa Ballena is one of the most beautiful yet least visited regions in Costa Rica. Towering rainforest-covered mountains extend to long stretches of beautiful southern Pacific beaches, creating a spectacular contrast of gorgeous scenery and inspiring landscapes. Home of the famous Whale's Tail at Ballena National Park and world-class surfing.

why visit:  nature, beaches, off-the-beaten-path combines well with these destinations: Manuel Antonio, Osa Peninsula, Southern Mountains, and San Gerardo de Dota best weather:  December - April (some years have a mini dry season in July, known locally as El Veranillo de San Juan) best prices:  May - November

where to stay: While you won't find any large resorts, there are some incredible independently-owned boutique-style hotels to choose from on Costa Ballena! You will find protected coasts with gorgeous natural habitats along the shores, but this also means that the hotels are located further back, in the surrounding mountains and hillsides. Oxygen Jungle Villas, Kuru Villas, and Rancho Pacifico are all fantastic and luxurious small boutique hotels, offering sweeping views, world-class services, and beautiful guestrooms and villas. Hotel Cristal Ballena is a great choice to save a little money, but still, enjoy 4-star accommodations and an amazing all-around experience.

what to do: We recommend a 4x4 SUV rental car for exploring this beautiful region, where you can walk miles on stunning beaches without seeing another soul or stop at a towering waterfall along the road! This area also offers some extraordinary organized tour experiences. Whale watching in front of Marino Ballena National Park from December through March and again from August through October is simply spectacular! Kayaking and snorkeling in the same park can be amazing during the dry season, from December through April. If you have a rental car, we recommend a visit to the Hacienda Baru Hacienda and Wildlife Refuge. Organized tours to choose from include guided nature hikes, birdwatching tours, canopy zipline, and much more. If you are up for an adventure and in good physical condition, we would recommend an overnight stay in a cave at the Diamante Rappelling Overnight Tour. This tour is one of the best experiences an adventurer can have in Costa Rica! You hike through the jungle-covered mountains up to a cave that is tucked behind a towering double waterfall. They have a rustic kitchen, sitting area, gym mats to sleep on, and a bathroom in place, and use burros to pack in food. Aside from the thrill of the hike and unique stay, you can also rappel down the waterfall. The next morning you can jump off of another waterfall into a pool below. This tour truly is a memorable experience and is sure to be the highlight of your vacation to Costa Rica!

insider's advice: If you have a rental car, be sure to drive the coastal highway to see some of Costa Rica's most beautiful landscapes! Many waterfalls can be seen cascading down mountainsides, and small turn-off beaches can be found all along the coast. Visit Playa Ventanas to see caves on the beach!

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Costa Rica offers an amazing experience for everybody!

Whether you’re a family looking for an adventurous vacation, a couple desiring a romantic beach getaway, or a thrill-seeking backpacker, Costa Rica delivers. With a year-round tropical climate and one of the most diverse landscapes in the world, you will find endless opportunities in every corner of Costa Rica. Sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean the country offers a playground of stunning beaches, spectacular mountains, a wealth of wildlife, and friendly welcoming people who truly believe in Pura Vida, the Pure Life!

Due to its rich bio-diversity, pure beauty, and proximity to Mother Nature in unison with its small ecological footprint, Costa Rica offers an experience like none other. Whether diving or snorkeling the crystal clear offshore protected waters, to zip-lining hundreds of feet above a giant old-growth rainforest, you’ll be surrounding yourself with tropical beauty. Marveling at sunsets and sinking your feet in the warm sand, you’ll likely experience complete detoxification, ultimately feeling the embrace of a carefree state of mind.

Costa Rica was termed one of Forbes’ “Happiest Countries in the World”. Having abolished their army in 1949, Ticos, as Costa Ricans call themselves, support a peaceful lifestyle, protect their natural wildlife, and are well on the way to becoming the first carbon-neutral country in the world.

One of Costa Rica’s greatest advantages is its ability to cater to so many different groups of people. Whether it be a large family, a group of retirees, a corporate business, a yoga circle, or a big wedding party, you’ll find the perfect accommodations in a paradisiacal atmosphere. Children can discover a world of amazing animals, teenagers can enjoy a day of surfing, Dad can take an offshore fishing charter, and Mom can indulge in a day at a hot springs spa. Costa Rica truly offers something for everyone, ensuring each visitor leaves with a lasting memory to smile about.

Enjoy a slice of freshly cut pineapple, sip from a hand-picked coconut, or add a little local rum to both, delighting in one of Costa Rica’s most indulgent cocktails, the Piña Colada. Take a horseback ride, surf a few waves, or simply soak up some sunshine; regardless of what you choose, your mind will be miles from the office and finally at ease.

We specialize in making dreams like this come true every day. So, if you’re ready for an amazing experience, give us a call or use our easy Customize Your Trip form to get started. All of our vacation packages are fully customizable, or you can create your own from scratch. We’ll show you how to easily plan your dream vacation with valuable tips to save you time and money. Curious about how to plan a Costa Rica vacation? Click here to see how.

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Looking for more vacation ideas?

Our Adventure Costa Rica Vacations create the perfect balance of fun-filled outdoor activities and natural habitat exploration. Well known as a paradise for eco-tourists, Costa Rica’s rainforests, beaches, mountains, and cloud forests, full of abundant wildlife and natural beauty, provide an unforgettable setting for satisfying your thirst for adventure.

Inclusive Vacations

Our Inclusive Vacations invite you to indulge in tropical decadence as you relax and enjoy the many amenities provided by your all-inclusive resort surroundings. In addition, you’ll be taken on great tours and exciting adventures. These fun-filled vacations include delightful hotels and resorts, organized tours, all transportation, most if not all meals, and often include drinks for a portion of the trip.

Extreme Adventures

Our Extreme Adventure vacations can be summed up in two words – Game On! Imagine yourself in the jungle careening down raging whitewater rivers, rappelling rainforest waterfalls in giant canyons, or zipping at high speeds through the cloud forest canopy. We offer all this and so much more. Hold on tight as we take you for the ultimate challenge while visiting some of Costa Rica’s premier vacation destinations.

Wildlife Safaris

Our Wildlife Safaris, with the very best bilingual naturalist guides, can escort you into a variety of protected natural habitats, such as pristine rainforests, coastal canals, tropical dry forests, wetlands, and cloud forests to name just a few. Whether you want to travel way into the wilderness or prefer being led into easier areas for mountain birdwatching and lowland river cruises, we offer excellent wildlife observation opportunities to choose from.

Honeymoon Getaways

Our Honeymoon getaways will bring you to paradise where you can share the wonder of each other surrounded by spectacular natural beauty at some of the most romantic settings in Costa Rica. Walk along deserted beaches watching the sun go down (or up! on the Caribbean side), soak together in a secluded river grotto at Arenal’s natural hot springs, encourage each other to swing like Tarzan on thrilling zipline adventures, indulge in all-inclusive resorts with fabulous spas; we have many choices to make yours a memorable special occasion.

Surfing Safaris

Let's go surfin' now, everybody’s learning how, come on and safari with meeeee! With this classic song, the Beach Boys introduced the idea of surfing to people around the world. Our Surfing Safaris, taught by dedicated expert surfers, will teach you either how to surf for the first time if you’re a beginner, or show an old pro some new board moves. If you’ve always wanted to try it, Costa Rica’s the place. Most people learn in one lesson. From regular rollers to epic waves, these ocean surf breaks rock! You’ll also enjoy traveling through the scenic countryside to get there. So what are you waiting for? Let’s go surfin' now!

Learning and Family

Our Learning and Family vacations provide an enormous outdoor biological classroom to explore both geological wonders as well as the rich diversity of wild plant and animal life. What better place than Costa Rica for you to engage in fun, meaningful activities together? Throw in a caving tour or zip-lining over a river canyon for added thrills. We provide the best bilingual naturalist guides to ensure you don’t miss a thing as you explore this amazing country and culture.

Sport Fishing Adventures

Our Sport Fishing Adventures will cast you into waters where numerous record billfish have been caught off the Pacific side and huge tarpon regularly reeled in off the Caribbean coast. Lake Arenal provides a freshwater hot spot for the elusive (and delicious!) Guapote. Costa Rica is home to some of the best sport fishing in the world. We utilize only the best captains plus top-of-the-line equipment and boats for our famed fishing expeditions.

What are the Top 10 Benefits of Planning My Trip with Pacific Trade Winds?

Planning your Costa Rica vacation with PTW offers numerous advantages but these are at the top of the list!

Local Expertise : Based in Costa Rica, and with nearly two decades of experience, only offering vacations to Costa Rica, we truly are the local experts! Our team of local, native Costa Ricans and expats who have been here for 20+ years know this country inside and out. From first-hand experience as well as the experience of working with tens of thousands of clients over the years, our team has extensive knowledge and expertise about this country that we love dearly. Our team possesses an in-depth understanding of Costa Rica's destinations, attractions, and logistics, allowing us to provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your preferences.

Bespoke Customization : We customize bespoke vacations specific to each client's interests, preferences, and budget. We take the time to understand the purpose of your trip, whether it's adventure activities, cultural experiences, wildlife and nature, or relaxation, and design an itinerary that matches your desires. When you receive a first draft itinerary from us, it is always just that - a first draft. We will work with you to fine-tune your vacation to perfection. We will continue iterating until it's just right for you and you are ready to book. But unlike most companies, we do not charge service fees for future changes, meaning that you can customize up until you've completed your trip.

Exclusive Accommodations : Over the years, we have established relationships with hundreds of hotels, resorts, and lodges that provide exceptional experiences to our clients. We can recommend and arrange accommodations that align with your preferences, ensuring comfort, quality, and immersion in the local culture and environment.

Guided Tours and Activities : We only work with the best of the best tour operators and guides and offer tours across the entire country. Whether you want to explore national parks, embark on wildlife excursions, enjoy water sports, or immerse yourself in cultural tours, we connect you with experienced guides who can provide informative and engaging experiences. Additionally, we have arranged for many extra perks for our clients which sometimes include free drinks or snacks, transportation, extra time, or even preferred guides.

Seamless Logistics : Planning a vacation involves various logistical aspects such as transportation, airport transfers, and coordination between different destinations, connecting the dots between destinations or hotels and tours. We take care of these details, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing any potential stress or hassle during your trip. We can arrange transportation, flights, and other logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation.

The Best Prices : Due to our high-volume wholesale agreements and price matching with nearly every hotel we work with, you will nearly always save money when booking through us compared to booking individually. And of course, we cost less than any other agency in Costa Rica - we dare you to compare! We also offer interest-free payment plans that can often be paid at your convenience.

Free Rescheduling & Flexible Cancellation Policies : We make it easy to reschedule with free one-time rescheduling* and our cancellation policies are among the best in the industry.

No Hidden Fees! : Unlike many other travel sites, we do not have hidden fees - ever! Your itinerary will always include current taxes and fees or will thoroughly explain what these fees may be in the rare cases when you must pay directly to the provider. Hidden fees on other sites often account for up to 15 - 50% or more of the price. Don't believe me? Look at the fine print of any advertised air and ground package...

Concierge Service : By partnering with us, you have access to our dedicated team of professionals in our Concierge Department who are available to assist you 24/7/365 throughout your journey. We provide personalized support, address any concerns or questions, and offer recommendations and insights based on our local knowledge and experience. We are here for you!

Safety and Security : We prioritize your safety and security throughout your entire Costa Rica vacation. We stay updated on current travel advisories, work with trusted partners and suppliers, and ensure that all necessary precautions are taken and accounted for to provide a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Planning your Costa Rica vacation with us offers the advantage of local expertise, customization, exclusive accommodations, guided tours and activities, seamless logistics, personalized support, great pricing, and a focus on safety and security. With our assistance, you can enjoy a meticulously planned, memorable, amazing, and stress-free vacation in Costa Rica.

*Explanation of Lifelong Deposits and No Charge Rescheduling & Modifications

Lifelong Deposits

If you delay or cancel your trip for any reason, your deposit will be valid until you are ready to go. It is also transferable to a friend.

Free Rescheduling & Modifications for PTW Services

For travelers with existing bookings and new bookings, we will waive modification fees for those who wish to change their travel dates to future travel dates for all booking plans. Restrictions may apply. Please review our policies  for details.  

Unsure of what to do? Let us make you a free custom trip plan!

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Costa Rica and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $503; Family vacation $474; Romantic vacation $673; Luxury vacation $480; Budget vacation $378.

Why should you book a vacation package to Costa Rica?

When booking your vacation in Costa Rica, you can save money by booking flights, lodgings and transfers in a single package. Visiting in the off-season is cheaper than during peak times and gives you the opportunity to snag hotel accommodation bargains.

When should you book a vacation package to Costa Rica?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the off-peak season. The weather is cooler and the school holiday crowds have left. Rates are generally cheaper for flights, hotels and rental cars.

Where should you stay in Costa Rica during your vacation?

For any vacation type in costa rica:.

The Intercontinental Costa Rica is one of the region's most popular hotels. This urban hotel is located in central Escazú -San Jose's most opulent suburb. It is located in a Multiplaza Mall complex allowing access to shops and restaurants.

The Sheraton San Jose Hotel is a great choice for a city hotel. Located on Route 27, in the upmarket suburb of Escazú, the hotel is close to the landmarks and attractions in the CBD, but just 3 miles west of Sabana Park. There is a restaurant for meals and a bar. Airport transfers can be arranged.

For family vacations in Costa Rica:

The Best Western Jaco Beach Resort is a great family hotel. This all-inclusive resort offers beach volleyball or the chance to snooze in the sun. You can go surfing and boogie boarding nearby. El Puerto restaurant serves international cuisine.

La Mariposa Hotel is also a great family location. This stunning hotel provides an airport shuttle for guests who can relax with hot stone massages, detox body wraps and lunch or dine at Le Papillon. Four outdoor pools and two poolside bars complete the package.

For romantic vacations in Costa Rica:

The Double Tree Hotel by Hilton Cariari is a wonderfully romantic hotel in a beautiful natural setting. The hotel is located only five minutes from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), this San Jose hotel can be a haven or starting point for adventure activities. The lush gardens provide a restful aspect.

The Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort offers couples 4-star accommodation in a relaxed and beautiful beachfront setting. Guests can spend time at the beach sipping drinks or diving. There are outdoor pools for swimming and an on-site spa. The Matapalo serves international cuisine.

For luxury vacations in Costa Rica:

The Barceló San Jose Palacio Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel that was chosen as the best business hotel in Costa Rica. It has a conference center which seats 1,000 people and a spa. There is a transfer to the Juan Santamaria International Airport.

The 5-star Barceló Tambor Beach Hotel has been voted the best beach hotel and is located on Playa Tambor. It's the ideal location for water activities and there is on-site surfing/boogie boarding and windsurfing. Guests can swim in the pool or visit the spa for aromatherapy, hot stone massages and healing wraps. There's a nightclub and a free kid's club. Airport transfers can be arranged.

For budget vacations in Costa Rica:

The KC Hotel San Jose is a great option when it comes to affordability. This 3-star hotel offers close proximity to the airport, which is less than 4 miles away. Meals are served at the Green Restaurant. Transport to the hotel is by shuttle, taxi or rental car.

The Holiday Inn San Jose-Aurola Hotel is located close to the heart of the city, making it a great choice for a business trip. A business center and meeting rooms seat 350 people. It's located within easy driving distance of the government offices.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

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Costa rica, is all the travel worth it? - Costa Rica Forum

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15 replies to this topic

I suppose that partially depends upon where in CR these roads are. For the most part, I enjoy the scenery and have great memories from the places we've stopped, even for brief breaks.

Then again, I really don't enjoy being in buses or shuttles; we usually drive ourselves. I think you'll find that what's "worth it" for one person may be uncomfortable and frustrating for another.

That’s a good point. Lengthy drives, no matter how you do them, are less troublesome if you’re staying in each spot for a while. If you’re moving that way every few days, that would be a bit grueling.

How long were you thinking of staying for and how many locations were you hoping to visit?

In Costa Rica you travel to see the different environments and hence different flora and fauna which were all amazing. We fitted in Tortugero, La Fortuna , Monteverde , Manuel Antonio , Osa Peninsular and Central Valley Transfers were shared and private, including boats to get to Tortugeuro and Osa then small plane from Osa to SJO, ( we did this on last leg as managed to give away clothing so we could meet very tight luggage allowance for SANSA ). However travelling is part of the experience for us when we go abroad.

I would say the worst journey was from La Fortuna to Monteverde as the road was mainly unpaved and full of pot holes, however our driver was great and gave us information on all the little villages we passed and this journey was done in an SUV which helped.

Costa Rica has do much to offer and is such a diverse country of things to do and see that personally I think it’s worth it. I had lots of advice from this forum especially mimdaisy and subjectively objective that it made my planning so much smoother.

Susan, that's a great idea. I agree that the weight limit is no problem, but the dimensions are.

I try to fly with Southwest internationally because of their generous checked bag policy. That makes it possible to fill an old suitcase and leave the whole thing at your destination. For anyone able to do that, check the Pack for a Purpose website.

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24 Hours in San Jose, Costa Rica

Iftikhar Khan

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/CTH28S/24-hours-in-san-jose-costa-rica-iftikhar-khan

Adventure Travel

City Travel

Nature Escapes

Local Culture

Entertainment

Curator’s statement

Costa Rica truly has something for everyone. This is the closest to Avatar as you'll get, and it usually starts and stops in San Jose, Costa Rica. If you only have 24 to 48 hours, this is the guide for you. Enjoy!

The Fora Difference

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Where to stay

Intercontinental costa rica at multiplaza mall, an ihg hotel.

A luxurious urban oasis in San José, combining sophisticated accommodations with convenient access to shopping and entertainment, providing a refined stay in the heart of Costa Rica.

Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out

$100 hotel / resort credit.

Breakfast daily.

Welcome amenities.

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is a historic gem in the heart of San José. With elegant accommodations, classic charm, and a central location near cultural landmarks, this hotel offers a unique and refined experience for guests immersing themselves in the rich heritage of Costa Rica's capital.

Buena Vista Chic Hotel

Experience luxury and style at Buena Vista Chic Hotel, where breathtaking views meet modern elegance.

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Overview of Day 1

After checking into your hotel and freshening up, start your day with a delicious breakfast at a nearby eatery before embarking on your adventure.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Cafeoteca, where you can indulge in artisanal coffee and gourmet pastries to fuel your day. Amazing reviews!

Outdoor Activity:

After breakfast, depart for your volcano tour: Volcano Tour Option : Head to Poás Volcano National Park, which is relatively close to the Buena Vista Chic Hotel. Explore the impressive crater and sulfuric lake, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding cloud forest and volcanic landscapes. OR here are 5 other tour options for you to consider:

AERIAL TRAM TOUR - HALF DAY PASS Rainforest Adventures Braulio Ca

Explore San Jose By Night: Food and Culture Tour with Local Dinner

Skip the Line: Day Ticket- La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge

Zip Line La Carpintera: Half day Tour ZipLine+ Rappel +hiking in San Jose

Bites and Sights: Walking Food Tour in San Jose

Mid-Morning:

Take some time to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the volcano park before continuing your day.

Refuel with a satisfying lunch at a nearby restaurant: Mid-Range Option : Alma de Café is a convenient choice for lunch, offering innovative Costa Rican cuisine in a charming setting. Amazing coffee!! Situated inside of the National Theater building.

Depending on your preference and time, you can either continue exploring the volcano park or head back to San José for more sightseeing.

As the day winds down, enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant in San José. Here are three great options:

Budget-Friendly Option : Conclude your day with dinner at Soda Tapia, where authentic Costa Rican dishes await. It offers a variety of traditional Costa Rican plates, such as casados, arroz con pollo, grilled meats, and more. It's been open and operating for 100 years!

Mid-Range Dinner Option : Tin Jo is a popular restaurant in San José that offers a fusion of Asian and Costa Rican cuisine, providing a unique dining experience with a local twist. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and creative dishes make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. From traditional Costa Rican flavors to Asian-inspired dishes, Tin Jo offers a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. Enjoy fresh seafood, flavorful curries, and innovative fusion dishes that showcase the best of both worlds.

High-End Dinner Option : Restaurante Grano de Oro is an upscale dining establishment, located in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion in the heart of San José. The restaurant specializes in contemporary Costa Rican cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and innovative flavors. The elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and sophisticated dishes make it the perfect choice for a high-end dining experience with a local touch. Indulge in gourmet creations crafted by skilled chefs, accompanied by fine wines and impeccable service, for a memorable culinary journey through Costa Rica's rich gastronomic heritage.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through Barrio Amón to admire the historic architecture and vibrant street art, soaking in the atmosphere of San José's cultural scene.

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica . Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 6 Night Buenos Aires & Mendoza Trip with Kids .

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

From Mexico and the Caribbean to the Catskills and Canada.

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It's plain and simple: When you're traveling as a family, you're looking for space, ease and good deals. After all, you're probably juggling multiple schedules, meal requests and expenses when you're at home — do you really want to do that when your out-of-office is on too? Enter: The all-inclusive resort . Previous iterations may have been lacking in, well, every department. But today's all-inclusive resorts offer delicious food, tons of activities and — crucially — one less thing for you to worry about, since everything is included in the room rate. Many also offer deals, either seasonally or yearly, when kids under a certain age stay and eat free with a paying adult, making them an even better bargain than comparable hotels where you pay a la carte. (Heads up: For certain resorts, blackout dates apply and there are limits regarding how many children stay free per adult, so be sure to call ahead.)

Mexico and the Caribbean may be top of mind for this class of properties, but we also found top-notch options from all around the world, including in the United States and Canada. Read on for 10 of the best all-inclusive resorts where kids stay free.

Cap Maison Resort & Spa (Saint Lucia)

Lush rainforests and powder white sand rightfully make Saint Lucia a popular family destination. Not to mention that one of the Caribbean's best all-inclusives is conveniently located right on the island. Cap Maison offers the Family Time All-Inclusive in Saint Lucia Package , which includes two children under 12 staying and eating for free (when dining with parents), plus three hours of babysitting and a free Kids Club when it's open for the season (July 1 to September 15).

Carlisle Bay (Antigua)

Perched on one of the most stunning bays in Antigua, it would be easy to spend your entire vacation here without ever leaving the beach. But Carlisle Bay also offers plenty to do for more adventurous guests, from water sports to yoga and pilates sessions. There's also a popular all-inclusive program , where children under 12 stay free (and can take advantage of their stellar supervised kids club). The food here is also known for being some of the best on the island: All the restaurants and bars use locally sourced produce, plus herbs and vegetables from the chef's own garden.

BOOK YOUR TRIP

The Chatwal Lodge (The Catskills, New York)

Beach resorts are, by far, the most popular category of all-inclusives, so you can imagine how excited we were to find out that one of the newest properties in The Catskills also boasts its own program. The Chatwal Lodge offers an all-inclusive dining program for adults , and with that, kids under six stay free. With only 14 guest suites, the lodge almost feels like a private home, albeit one with kayaking, snowshoeing and a bowling alley all on-site.

Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico)

Nestled in Puerto Vallarta, between the cerulean Banderas Bay and the towering Sierra Madre mountains, Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa may be the most perfectly situated hotel on this list. It's also one of our favorite family all-inclusives, thanks to its robust programming, including sandcastle building, painting lessons and an activity-packed kids club helmed by a bilingual staff. And with the all-inclusive plan , up to two kids under 12 eat and stay free. (Note that blackout dates include March 24 to 31, 2024; July 1 to August 19, 2024; November 26 to 30, 2024; December 23, 2024 to January 3, 2025.)

Club Med Québec Charlevoix (Québec, Canada)

Club Med may be synonymous with all-inclusive family vacations, but you'd be mistaken if you thought all of their properties were beach escapes. One of the most unique in their portfolio is Club Med Québec , located on a 300-acre parcel of land deep in the heart of Le Massif de Charlevoix. The four-season resort has perks like ski-in/ski-out access, superb kids clubs and dog sledding — plus kids under four stay free (four- to 11-year-olds stay at 50% off the adult price).

Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort (Tulum, Mexico)

This Hilton in the Rivera Maya is straightforwardly an all-inclusive — but with 13 different restaurants from which to choose, you might not even get a chance to sample all of them before it's time to hop back on the plane. This property (and Hilton's other Mexican all-inclusives in Cancun and Puerto Vallarta ) also offers one of the most generous kids packages : With a three-night minimum stay, all children 17 and under stay and eat for free.

Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)

This family-friendly resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, is situated on stunning Bávaro Beach, while also boasting plenty of kid-friendly pools. Other amenities that make this a top choice for little travelers include a staffed kids club, chocolate tastings and restaurant options ranging from Dominican to pizza. For 2024, the all-inclusive hotel's Kids Stay Free program starts in April and goes through the remainder of the year. (Call to confirm blackout dates.)

Shangri-La Yanuca Island (Fiji)

Sure, there may be closer options than Fiji for your beach vacation, but there may not be anything more beautiful. Plus, Shangri-La Yanuca Island has a pretty awesome all-inclusive package : Up to two children under 12 can stay and dine for free. As for what there is to do on property? A floating water park, tons of water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding and children's dance classes all make this worth the flight.

Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection (Costa Rica)

Costa Rica's motto of pura vida — pure life — rings true here. Whether you're surfing, hiking or simply relaxing, everything in the Central American country somehow seems brighter and more joyful. That goes for our favorite hotel here as well: Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection is 180 acres ripe for exploring or zoning out. The inclusive rate — which allows children five and under to stay for free — not only encompasses meals, but also the hotel's substantial wellness and adventure programming — and kids can take advantage of a free kids club all summer.

Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort (Cancun, Mexico)

It can be hard to find a property that appeals to both kids and teens. Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort manages it seamlessly, however, thanks to separate kids and teens clubs, plus nightly entertainment that includes live DJs and dancing fit for the whole family. In 2024, kids and teens stay free at this property from April 8 through October 31, with a minimum three-night stay. And parents, take note: While the kids are at the club, you can take advantage of indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, cabanas and even a hydrotherapy circuit.

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El Silencio Lodge and Spa Costa Rica

Unleash your inner artist and learn traditional oxcart painting techniques - one of Costa Rica’s most iconic crafts.

Vaulted suites and villas are housed in stand-alone structures crafted from locally sourced, sustainable wood. Rooms are decorated in an earthy-luxe palette and offer privacy as well as sweeping views of the surrounding landscape thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows and private decks. Bathrooms have double sinks.

The cuisine is a tribute to both Costa Rican flavors and sustainability. Savor farm-to-table fare at Las Ventanas Restaurant, which offers peaceful views of the forest, and rotating seasonal menus. Enjoy a private lunch at Rancho Orquideas, a covered deck overlooking the Gorrión River. Local and classic cocktails, as well as wine and beer, are on the menu at Toro Bohemio Bar.

The Esencia Spa is a wellness sanctuary, with open-air treatment rooms that let you enjoy the soothing sounds of nature. Signature treatments and bespoke experiences feature a selection of herbs, fruits, and seeds from the resort’s organic greenhouse. The spa is also home to a Yoga Deck and the Conical Room, designed to channel the Costa Rican cloud forest’s energy.

The resort offers various activities, from archery classes to white-water rafting and a guided Mystic Hike. Hop on a mountain bike to explore the surrounding trails, or visit Poás Volcano and Arenal Volcano National Parks.

Location of El Silencio Lodge and Spa Costa Rica

Toro Amarillo. Bajos del Toro, 21203 Costa Rica

Juan Santamaria International Airport.

• 12pm check-in, when available
• Room upgrade at check-in, when available †
• Daily breakfast for two
• Experience Credit : US$ 100 Property credit to be used during stay
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• 4pm check-out guaranteed
• Complimentary valet parking for one vehicle for duration of stay

† Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.

Experience an exclusive getaway with one of our private stays ready for your arrival. Unpack, relax, and we'll do the rest.

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Looking for more? See all our luxury hotels in Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica

*Terms and Conditions

Fine Hotels + Resorts Program:  Fine Hotels + Resorts® (FHR) program benefits are available for new bookings made through American Express Travel with participating properties and are valid only for eligible U.S. Consumer, Business, and Corporate Platinum Card® Members, and Centurion® Members. Additional Platinum Card Members on Consumer and Business Platinum and Centurion Card Accounts are also eligible for FHR program benefits. Companion Card Members on Consumer Platinum and Centurion Card Accounts, Additional Business Gold and Additional Business Expense Card Members on Business Platinum and Centurion Card Accounts, and Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card Members are not eligible for FHR program benefits. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express® Card, in the eligible Card Member's name, and that Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked. The average total value of the program benefits is based on prior-year bookings for stays of two nights; the actual value varies. Noon check-in and room upgrade are subject to availability and are provided at check-in; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of experience credit or additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property; the experience credit will be applied to eligible charges up to the amount of the experience credit. Advance reservations are recommended for certain experience credits. The type and value of the daily breakfast (for two) varies by property; breakfast will be valued at a minimum of US$60 per room per day. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional FHR benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke FHR benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you may have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your FHR benefits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for FHR program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card.

The Hotel Collection Program:  The Hotel Collection (THC) benefits are available for new bookings of two consecutive nights or more made through American Express Travel with participating properties and are valid only for eligible U.S. Consumer and Business Gold Card, Platinum Card® Members, and Centurion® Members. Additional Card Members on Consumer and Business Platinum Card Accounts, and Additional Card Members on Consumer and Business Centurion Accounts are also eligible for THC program benefits. Delta SkyMiles® Gold and Platinum Card Members are not eligible. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express® Card, in the eligible Card Member's name, and that Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked. Room upgrade is subject to availability and is provided at check-in; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of experience credit or additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property; the experience credit will be applied to eligible charges up to $100. Advance reservations are recommended for certain experience credits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional THC benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke the THC benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your THC benefits. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for THC program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card.

$200 Hotel Credit:  Basic Card Members on U.S. Consumer Platinum Card Account are eligible to receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when they or Additional Platinum Card Members use their Cards to pay for eligible prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings made through American Express Travel (meaning through amextravel.com, the Amex® App, or by calling the phone number on the back of your eligible Card) or when Companion Platinum Card Members on such Platinum Card Accounts pay for eligible prepaid bookings for The Hotel Collection made through American Express Travel (meaning through amextravel.com, the Amex® App, or by calling the phone number on the back of your eligible Card). Purchases by both the Basic Card Member and any Additional Card Members on the Card Account are eligible for statement credits. However, the total amount of statement credits for eligible purchases will not exceed $200 per calendar year, per Card Account. Fine Hotels + Resorts® program bookings may be made only by eligible U.S. Consumer Basic Platinum and Additional Platinum Card Members. The Hotel Collection bookings may be made by eligible U.S. Consumer Basic and Additional Platinum Card Members and Companion Platinum Card Members on the Platinum Card Account. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card Members are not eligible for the benefit. To receive the statement credits, an eligible Card Member must make a new booking using their eligible Card through American Express Travel on or after July 1st, 2021, that is prepaid (referred to as "Pay Now" on amextravel.com and the Amex App), for a qualifying stay at an available, participating Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection property. Bookings of The Hotel Collection require a minimum stay of two consecutive nights. Eligible bookings must be processed before December 31st, 11:59PM Central Time, each calendar year to be eligible for statement credits within that year. Eligible bookings do not include interest charges, cancellation fees, property fees or other similar fees, or any charges by a property to you (whether for your booking, your stay or otherwise).

Statement credits are typically received within a few days, however it may take 90 days after an eligible prepaid hotel booking is charged to the Card Account. American Express relies on the merchant to process transactions within the same calendar year that you made the prepaid booking in order to apply the statement credit in the calendar year that it was intended. For example, if you make an eligible prepaid booking on the last day of the year, but the merchant doesn't process that transaction until the next day, then the statement credit available in the next calendar year will be applied to the Card Account, if the purchase is eligible. Statement credits may not be received or may be reversed if the booking is cancelled or modified. To be eligible for this benefit, your Card account must not be cancelled or past due at the time of statement credit fulfillment. If American Express does not receive information that identifies your transaction as eligible, you will not receive the statement credits. For example, your transaction will not be eligible if it is a booking: (i) made with a property not included in the Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection programs, (ii) not made through American Express Travel, or (iii) not made with an eligible Card. Participating properties and their availability are subject to change. If American Express, in its sole discretion, determines that you have engaged in or intend to engage in any manner of abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with this benefit, American Express will not have an obligation to provide and may reverse any statement credits provided to you. If a charge for an eligible purchase is included in a Pay Over Time balance on your Card Account, the statement credit associated with that charge may not be applied to that Pay Over Time balance. Instead, the statement credit may be applied to your Pay In Full balance. Please refer to AmericanExpress.com/FHR and AmericanExpress.com/HC for more information about Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection, respectively.

5X Membership Rewards® Points Platinum Card:  Basic Card Members will get 1 Membership Rewards® point for each dollar charged for eligible purchases on their Platinum Card® or an Additional Card on their Account and 4 additional points (for a total of 5 points) for each dollar charged for eligible travel purchases on any Card on the Account (“Additional Points”), minus cancellations and credits. Eligible travel purchases are limited to: (i) purchases of air tickets on scheduled flights, of up to $500,000 in charges per calendar year, booked directly with passenger airlines or through American Express Travel (by calling 1-800-525-3355 or through AmexTravel.com); (ii) purchases of prepaid hotel reservations booked through American Express Travel; and (iii) purchases of prepaid flight+hotel packages booked through AmexTravel.com. Eligible travel purchases do not include: charter flights, private jet flights, flights that are part of tours, cruises, or travel packages (other than prepaid flight+hotel packages booked through AmexTravel.com), ticketing or similar service fees, ticket cancellation or change fees, property fees or similar fees, hotel group reservations or events, interest charges, or purchases of cash equivalents. Eligible prepaid hotel bookings or prepaid flight+hotel bookings that are modified directly with the hotel will not be eligible for Additional Points.

Bonuses that may be received with your Card on other purchase categories or in connection with promotions or offers from American Express cannot be combined with this benefit. Any portion of a charge that the Basic Card Member elects to cover through redemption of Membership Rewards points is not eligible to receive points. Additional terms and restrictions apply.

Merchants are assigned codes based on what they primarily sell. We group certain merchant codes into categories that are eligible for Additional Points. A purchase with a merchant will not earn Additional Points if the merchant’s code is not included in an Additional Points category. Basic Card Members may not receive Additional Points if we receive inaccurate information or are otherwise unable to identify your purchase as eligible for an Additional Points category. For example, you may not receive Additional Points when: a merchant uses a third-party to sell their products or services, a merchant uses a third-party to process or submit your transaction to us (e.g., using mobile or wireless card readers), or you choose to make a purchase using a third-party payment account or make a purchase using a mobile or digital wallet.

To be eligible for this benefit, the Card Account must not be cancelled. If American Express, in its sole discretion, determines that you have engaged in or intend to engage in any manner of abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with this benefit in any way American Express may remove access to this benefit from the Account. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card or visit americanexpress.com/rewards-info for more information about rewards.

5X Membership Rewards Points for Business Platinum Card:  You will get one point for each dollar charged for an eligible purchase on your Business Platinum Card® from American Express. You will get 4 additional points (for a total of 5 points) for each dollar spent on eligible travel purchases. Eligible travel purchases include scheduled flights and prepaid flight+hotel packages made online at AmexTravel.com, minus returns and other credits. Additionally, eligible travel purchases include prepaid hotel purchases made through American Express Travel, over the phone with our Travel Consultants or made online at AmexTravel.com, minus returns and other credits. Eligible travel purchases do NOT include non-prepaid hotel bookings, scheduled flights and prepaid flight+hotel packages over the phone, vacation packages, car rentals, cruise, hotel group reservations or events, ticketing service, cancellation or other fees, interest charges, purchases of travelers checks, purchases or reloading of prepaid cards, or purchases of other cash equivalents. To be eligible for the 5x Membership Rewards® points, you must both reserve and charge the travel purchase with the same eligible Business Platinum Card®. To modify a reservation you must cancel and rebook your reservation. You can cancel and rebook your reservation on AmexTravel.com or by calling a representative of AmexTravel.com at 1-800-297-2977. Cancellations are subject to hotel cancellation penalty policies. If hotel reservations are made or modified directly with the hotel provider, the reservation will not be eligible for this 5X Membership Rewards® point benefit. To be eligible to receive extra points, Card account(s) must not be cancelled or past due at the time of extra points fulfillment. If booking is cancelled, the extra points will be deducted from the Membership Rewards account. Extra points will be credited to the Membership Rewards account approximately 6-10 weeks after eligible purchases appear on the billing statement. Bonuses you may receive with your Card on other purchase categories or in connection with promotions or offers from American Express may not be combined with this benefit. The benefits associated with the Additional Card(s) you choose may be different than the benefits associated with your basic Card. To learn about the benefits associated with Additional Card(s) you choose, please call the number on the back of your Card.

Merchants are assigned codes based on what they primarily sell. We group certain merchant codes into categories that are eligible for additional points. A purchase with a merchant will not earn additional points if the merchant’s code is not included in an additional points category. You may not receive additional points if we receive inaccurate information or are otherwise unable to identify your purchase as eligible for an additional points category. For example, you may not receive additional points when: a merchant uses a third-party to sell their products or services; or a merchant uses a third-party to process or submit your transaction to us (e.g., using mobile or wireless card readers); or you choose to make a purchase using a third-party payment account or make a purchase using a mobile or digital wallet.

Please visit  americanexpress.com/rewards-info  for more information about rewards.

Pay with Points:  To use Pay with Points, you must charge your eligible purchase through American Express Travel to a Membership Rewards® program-enrolled American Express® Card. Eligible purchases through American Express Travel exclude non-prepaid car rentals and non-prepaid hotels. Points will be debited from your Membership Rewards account, and credit for corresponding dollar amount will be issued to the American Express Card account used. If points redeemed do not cover entire amount, the balance of purchase price will remain on the American Express Card account. Minimum redemption 5,000 points.

See  membershiprewards.com/terms  for the Membership Rewards program terms and conditions.

If a charge for a purchase is included in a Pay Over Time balance on your Linked Account the statement credit associated with that charge may not be applied to that Pay Over Time balance. Instead the statement credit may be applied to your Pay in Full balance. If you believe this has occurred, please contact us by calling the number on the back of your Card. Corporate Card Members are not eligible for Pay Over Time.

Terms and Conditions for the Membership Rewards® program apply. Visit  membershiprewards.com/terms  for more information. Participating partners and available rewards are subject to change without notice.

The value of Membership Rewards points varies according to how you choose to use them. To learn more, go to  www.membershiprewards.com/pointsinfo .

American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. is acting solely as a sales agent for travel suppliers and is not responsible for the actions or inactions of such suppliers. Certain suppliers pay us commission and other incentives for reaching sales targets or other goals and may provide incentives to our Travel Consultants. For more information visit  americanexpress.com/travelterms

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COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

In the above Costa Rica News Recap video, we’ll be diving into three captivating stories that showcase the diverse challenges and opportunities facing the country. From the introduction of a new personal-sized pineapple variety to the controversy surrounding a proposed airport in the Southern Zone, and the ongoing efforts to protect the endangered Jabiru, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive look at these important issues. Join us as we uncover the details and implications of these stories and discover how they shape the future of Costa Rica’s natural and cultural heritage.

Precious Honeyglow: Costa Rica’s Personal-Sized Pineapple

Fresh Del Monte has introduced a new personal-sized pineapple called Precious Honeyglow, ideal for single-person households. Cultivated in Costa Rica, this variety joins the likes of Honeyglow, Pinkglow, and Rubyglow. Exclusively available in the U.S., Precious Honeyglow aims to reduce food waste by catering to the increasing trend of single-person households, which now represent over 28% of U.S. homes.

Recognized for its enhanced sweetness and golden hue, this pineapple is allowed to ripen naturally on the plant longer than usual. This launch reflects Fresh Del Monte’s response to survey findings that smaller households prefer smaller pineapples to minimize waste. While the company faces challenges with unauthorized sales of other varieties in Costa Rica, Precious Honeyglow offers a legal and tailored solution to meet consumer preferences both in the U.S. and potentially in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica’s Southern Zone Airport Plan Faces Strong Opposition from Locals

The Costa Rican government’s plan to build a new airport in the Southern Zone, overlapping the UNESCO-listed Diquís Delta area, has sparked significant local opposition. According to Mongabay News, community members are protesting the project due to its potential to destroy sacred land rich in pre-Columbian artifacts and displace approximately 350 families. Concerns extend to the environmental impact on the Terraba Sierpe National Wetlands, a crucial habitat for diverse species.

Critics argue that the tourism model promoted by the airport could lead to cultural appropriation and environmental degradation, mirroring concerns seen in other heavily visited areas like Guanacaste. Despite a negative environmental assessment from SETENA highlighting risks to waterways and vulnerability to extreme events, the government persists with its plans. Locals are now considering legal actions to protect their heritage and environment from the perceived invasive development.

Protecting Costa Rica’s Endangered Jabiru: A Call for Community Support

Recent reports from the Arenal Conservation Area in Costa Rica have highlighted an increase in Jabiru sightings in the Bagaces, Cañas, and Abangares areas. However, concerns have arisen due to observed plumage damage, prompting an investigation by MINAE-SINAC and wildlife experts into potential causes and effects on the Jabiru population.

Officials urge the public to avoid interacting with these birds to aid their recovery. The Jabiru, an endangered species found only in Guanacaste and the Northern Caribbean, is one of Costa Rica’s largest birds, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining due to habitat degradation and other environmental pressures. The community is encouraged to report any harmful activities via the SITADA website or by calling 1192 to help protect this vital species

Today's Top News

Forest fire rages in costa rica’s lomas de barbudal biological reserve, imf to give a $510 million to boost costa rica’s economy, norway declines costa rica’s request for oil and gas exploration studies, costa rica invests in la radial de alajuela to enhance tourism and reduce traffic, u.s. and costa rica forge strategic alliance in technology and telecommunications, poas volcano national park temporarily closed due to increased volcanic activity, spanish football federation interim president pedro rocha under investigation in graft scandal, costa rica’s film industry gains momentum with $10 million reality show, naomi osaka focused on “bigger picture” in her tennis comeback, honduras’s abortion ban on trial: indigenous woman seeks justice at un.

Date: Mon, January 27, 2025 - Thu, February 6, 2025

Trip Status: Waiting for the brochure

Price: From $4,981, per person including air

Activity Level: Moderate

Region: Central America & the Caribbean

Arrangements: Odysseys Unlimited

In this small, nature-kissed Central American democracy, your small group sets out on a relaxed yet comprehensive 11-day exploration. Discover staggering biodiversity in four distinct regions from cloud forest to rainforest, Central Valley to Pacific Coast.  Take an excursion to Irazú Volcano, the country’s tallest volcano, and learn about Costa Rica’s prized export at the Doka Coffee Estate.  In Carrizal, admire wondrous orchids.  During a three-night Arenal region stay, enjoy magnificent vistas of Arenal Volcano.  After meeting students at an elementary school, encounter the natural splendor of the remarkable Ecocentro Danaus Biological Reserve and experience the rainforest from the canopy level on Arenal’s hanging bridges Sky Walk.  Continuing on to the amazing Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, explore this “green cathedral.”  Spend three final nights at a beautiful Guanacaste beachfront resort and take an extraordinary Tempisque River float safari. Discover more ecological wonders with a 4-day/3-night Tortuguero National Park pre-tour option. 

Reservations and Information

To reserve, complete a registration form in the brochure and mail to Duke Travels, Box 90572, Durham, NC 27708, or call (919) 684-2988 to reserve conveniently over the phone and let us know you are mailing your reservation form to hold your space. To learn more about our travel program or any of our upcoming trips, please contact us at [email protected] or 919-684-2988

Duke Leaders

Dr. Anne Pusey

James B. Duke Distinguished Professor Emerita of Evolutionary Anthropology

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Elektrostal Hotel & Travel Guide

Travelocity's Russia hotels database doesn't list any place to sleep in Elektrostal.

When you and your family plan to book Travelocity-listed hotels near this region of Russia, Moscow could be an ideal alternative. It can be located 35 miles (54 kilometers) from Elektrostal. Moscow hotels and apartments include he The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow and Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow .

Once you and your family have got to know Elektrostal, why not explore a little more of the area? The Central Russia district has myriad things to offer visitors. Discover Central Russia's old towns and don't forget to see the region's forests, rivers, canals and mountains. In this corner of Russia adventurous travelers might partake in ice skating and four-wheel driving.

35 miles (59 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal you will find Garden Ring, where you can spend a little time at the Arena CSKA. Khoroshevskiy rooms include the Kutuzovsky prospekt II and Hotel Bega . If you're looking for an alternative, you can visit Garden Ring, 35 miles (53 kilometers) west of Elektrostal. While you are in Garden Ring, take the time to explore the State Literary Museum. The Hotel Savoy Moscow and Hotel Metropol Moscow are great places to retire for the night.

While in town, don't miss out on enjoying thrills and spills in the company of fellow supporters at an engaging game. Luzhniki Stadium can be found 35 miles (58 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal. Book a Travelocity-listed hotel right in the thick of the sporting action at the Moscow Suites Noviy Arbat or the LikeHome Apartments Arbat .

Before you and your traveling partner journey to Elektrostal, make sure you browse Travelocity's Elektrostal city guide where you can hear local secrets about the numerous attractions on offer.

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