Costa Rica

Costa Rica: general info for travelers

Costa Rica is a country located in Central America. It is bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Costa Rica is known for its stunning natural beauty, with an abundance of lush rainforests, breathtaking beaches, and incredible wildlife. The country is also home to several active volcanoes, tropical islands, and a diverse population of friendly people. Costa Rica's economy is largely based on tourism, agriculture, and technology. The official language is Spanish and the currency is the Costa Rican colón.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Costa Rica, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Costa Rica: places to visit

Sure, here are the main places to visit in Costa Rica with a brief description of each: 1. Arenal Volcano - Arenal Volcano National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. The iconic Arenal Volcano stands tall in the park and offers visitors one of the best views of an active volcano in the country.
2. Manuel Antonio National Park - Located on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park is a nature lover's paradise. With several hiking trails, stunning beaches and a vast array of wildlife, visitors can enjoy a unique experience in the heart of the tropics.
3. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve - Monteverde boasts one of the world's most diverse ecosystems and is home to a variety of rare and endangered species. Here, visitors can discover rich biological diversity, hike through the forest, and explore various nature reserves.
4. Tortuguero National Park - Tortuguero is the largest turtle nesting site in the Western Hemisphere. The park is mainly accessed by boat, as most of it is inaccessible by land. Here, visitors can witness a natural marvel, and if they are lucky, spot some of the exotic wildlife that calls Tortuguero its home.
5. Corcovado National Park - Located in the south of Costa Rica, Corcovado National Park is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity and is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park is home to some of the country's most sought-after species, including jaguars, sea turtles, and scarlet macaws.
6. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a charming village situated on the Caribbean coast. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from surfing to hiking, as they explore local beaches, indulge in some locally made chocolate, and enjoy the laidback vibe of the region.
7. Poas Volcano National Park - Located an hour drive from San Jose, Poas Volcano National Park is a worthy destination for those looking to visit an active volcano. The park offers several hiking trails, a lagoon, and the main attraction: Poas Volcano, which towers over a mile above sea level.
I hope this helps you decide which destinations to visit in Costa Rica.
There is more to see and do in Costa Rica: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Costa Rica: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Costa Rica, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, also known as summer, runs from December to April and is considered the best time to visit Costa Rica, as the weather is usually sunny and dry. The rainy season or winter runs from May to November, with September and October being the rainiest months. During this time, the weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rains and thunderstorms. However, the rainy season is also a great time to visit as there are fewer tourists and the vegetation is lush and green.
So, the best time to visit Costa Rica depends on what activities you want to do. If you're planning to visit the beaches and do outdoor activities like hiking, ziplining, or exploring the rainforest, the dry season is a great time to go. But if you want to avoid the crowds and explore the lush tropical rainforest, the rainy season is a perfect time to visit.

Costa Rica: activities and what to do

Costa Rica offers a wide variety of activities and sports to do on holiday. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Surfing: Costa Rica has some of the best surf spots in the world, with breaks suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
2. Ziplining: Costa Rica's rainforest canopy is a great place to go ziplining, with many companies offering tours.
3. Rafting: The rapids of Costa Rica's rivers offer excellent opportunities for rafting, with different levels of difficulty available.
4. Hiking: Costa Rica has a variety of national parks and nature reserves that offer excellent hiking trails, including the famous Arenal volcano.
5. Snorkeling and scuba diving: The waters around Costa Rica offer a diverse array of marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
6. Wildlife watching: Costa Rica is home to a rich collection of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, and colorful birds. There are many tours available to see these animals in their natural habitat.
7. Yoga and wellness retreats: Costa Rica is also known for its wellness tourism, with many yoga retreats and wellness centers.
8. Golf: There are several high-quality golf courses in Costa Rica, set against the beautiful backdrop of the country's natural scenery.

Costa Rica: few words on history and culture

Costa Rica has a rich history and vibrant culture. The country was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Chibcha, Boruca, and Huetar, until the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1502. Costa Rica became part of the Spanish Empire, but maintained a relatively independent and democratic society.
Costa Rica's culture is influenced by its indigenous, Spanish, and African heritage. The country celebrates many festivals throughout the year, including the national holiday of Independence Day on September 15th, and the lively Carnival celebrations in February. Costa Rican cuisine features staples such as rice and beans, plantains, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Nature is also an important part of Costa Rican culture, with over 25% of the country protected as national parks and reserves. Costa Rica is famous for its biodiversity, including exotic birds, monkeys, jaguars, and sea turtles. The country is also known for its commitment to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices.

Costa Rica: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transportation to reach and visit Costa Rica depends on your travel style and preferences. If you prefer comfort, speed, and convenience, then taking a flight to the international airport in San Jose or Liberia would be the best option. However, if you want to enjoy the scenic views and explore different parts of the country, taking a bus, renting a car, or hiring a private driver are all excellent options. Costa Rica has an extensive bus network that connects all major cities and towns, and buses are relatively cheap. Renting a car is a great option if you want more freedom and flexibility in your itinerary, but it's important to note that some roads in Costa Rica can be challenging to navigate. Hiring a private driver can also provide flexibility, and you can customize your itinerary to your preferences, but this option is usually more expensive than taking a bus or renting a car. To hire a car to visit Costa Rica, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Costa Rica: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Costa Rica with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Costa Rica and their descriptions: 1. Gallo pinto: This is a traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice and beans. The ingredients are seasoned with onions, sweet peppers, and garlic. It is often served as a breakfast dish, accompanied by eggs, cheese, and sour cream.
2. Casado: This is a popular lunchtime dish. It consists of rice, beans, salad, a choice of meat (usually fish, chicken, or beef), and often served with a side of fried plantains.
3. Sopa Negra: It is a black bean soup that is often eaten as a main course for lunch or dinner. The soup is typically made with black beans, onions, garlic, sweet peppers, and served with a side of rice.
4. Chifrijo: This is a popular snack dish that can also be served as a meal. It is made with rice, beans, pork, and crispy tortilla chips. The dish is usually topped with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
5. Casado con carne en salsa: This is a variation of the casado dish, but it is served with meat in sauce. The meat is usually beef, chicken or pork, and the sauce used is usually tomato-based with sweet peppers and other spices.
6. Arroz con Pollo: It is a delicious and popular Costa Rican dish where chicken and rice are cooked together with onions, peppers, garlic, and other seasonings. It is often served with black beans and a side salad.
7. ceviche: Made with fresh raw fish "cooked" in lime juice and mixed with onions, cilantro, and peppers. It is typically served as a starter or a light lunch. 8. Tamales: These are steamed corn husks filled with rice, beans, vegetables, and meat, often pork. It is a traditional food that is often enjoyed during Christmas or other celebrations.

Costa Rica: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Costa Rica can be relatively expensive for tourists compared to other Central American countries. Prices for accommodations, tours, and transportation can be high. However, there are ways to travel on a budget by staying in hostels or budget hotels, using public transportation, and eating at local sodas (small, local restaurants). It's also possible to save money by booking tours and activities directly with local operators instead of through third-party companies. Overall, the cost of a trip to Costa Rica will depend on your travel style and budget.

Costa Rica: where to find accodation

There are several websites and platforms where you can look for accommodation options in Costa Rica. Some of the popular ones are: 1. Booking.com: This website has a wide range of options for hotels, resorts, hostels and other types of accommodations in Costa Rica. You can search by location, price range and other filters.
2. Airbnb: Airbnb offers a large range of apartments, houses, and rooms for rent in Costa Rica. It is a great option if you are looking for a more personalized experience and local insights.
3. Expedia: Expedia provides both flight and hotel booking options, making it easy to plan your entire trip. It also offers bundle deals, which can save you money on flights and accommodations.
4. TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor is a popular platform that offers reviews and ratings for hotels, resorts, and other accommodations in Costa Rica. It can be a great resource to read other travelers' reviews before making your decision.
5. Hostelworld: If you are looking for budget-friendly options, Hostelworld is a great platform to find hostels in Costa Rica. The website features detailed reviews and ratings from previous guests. 6. VRBO: VRBO specializes in connecting travelers with vacation rental properties, including condos, villas, and beach houses. You can filter your search by location, amenities, and other preferences.
You can check hotel prices in Costa Rica here:
Booking.com

Costa Rica: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), Costa Rica received approximately 3 million tourists in 2019. The peak tourist season in Costa Rica typically runs from mid-December to April, with the busiest periods being Christmas, New Year, and Easter week. During these times, certain areas and attractions can become crowded. However, Costa Rica is a popular destination year-round and there are many options to avoid crowds, such as visiting less popular destinations or traveling during the shoulder seasons.
Yes, Costa Rica is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, as with anywhere in the world, it's always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. There are some areas that have higher crime rates, particularly in certain parts of San José or at night in some areas. Tourists are advised to avoid walking alone at night, carrying expensive items, or leaving your belongings unattended. Additionally, be cautious when withdrawing cash at ATMs, and always use reputable taxi services.
Overall, Costa Rica is a very safe and welcoming country for tourists, as long as you take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Costa Rica on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Costa Rica: events for tourists

Costa Rica is known for its natural beauty, adventure activities, and biodiversity. Some of the most interesting events for tourists to attend in Costa Rica include: 1. Fiestas de Palmares: This is a popular annual festival held in January in the town of Palmares. It includes carnival rides, live music, food stalls, bull riding, and a parade.
2. Envision Festival: This is a festival dedicated to yoga, music, and art held in Uvita in February each year. It features international DJs, workshops, and seminars.
3. Fiestas de Zapote: This is another popular annual festival held in December and January in San Jose. It includes carnival rides, bullfights, food stalls, and fireworks.
4. Festival de la Luz: This is an annual parade held in San Jose in December, with colorful floats, marching bands, and fireworks.
5. Whale Watching: Costa Rica is known for its humpback whale watching from August to October.
6. Carnaval de Limón: This is a popular annual carnival held in October in the town of Limón, which celebrates the Afro-Caribbean heritage of the region.
These are just a few examples of the many interesting events that take place in Costa Rica throughout the year.

Costa Rica: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Costa Rica, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here is a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Costa Rica: Day 1-3: San Jose - Start your trip in the capital city of San Jose and explore the city's museums, markets, and historic landmarks.
Day 4-5: La Fortuna - Head to La Fortuna and visit the Arenal Volcano National Park. Here you can hike the volcano, enjoy hot springs, and visit the La Fortuna Waterfall.
Day 6-7: Monteverde - Continue your adventure in the stunning cloud forests of Monteverde. Enjoy zip lining, hiking, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
Day 8-9: Manuel Antonio - Explore Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches. Take a guided tour to see monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife.
Day 10-11: Tortuguero National Park - Enjoy a boat ride through the canals of Tortuguero National Park and see turtles, manatees, and tropical birds.
Day 12-13: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - Take a trip to the Caribbean coast and visit Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Here you can surf, snorkel, and enjoy the laid-back Caribbean vibe.
Day 14: Return to San Jose - Head back to the capital city for your departure.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your perfect trip to Costa Rica!

Costa Rica: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Costa Rica described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Cahuita is a small town located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and national park, which features an abundance of wildlife such as monkeys, s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cahuita
- Dominical is a small beach town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and its laid-back and bohemian vibe. The town is a popular destinat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dominical
- Jacó is a popular resort town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, just a couple of hours from the capital San Jose. It's known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent surfi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jacó
- La Fortuna is a small town located in the Northern Region of Costa Rica, known for its stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, which towers over the town at 1,670 meters tall. It is a popular destinatio... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Fortuna
- Manuel Antonio is a popular travel destination located in Puntarenas province in Costa Rica. It is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque scenery, and diverse wildlife including monkeys, sloths,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manuel Antonio
- Monteverde is a beautiful town located in the northern part of Costa Rica, known for its gorgeous cloud forests, stunning nature reserves, and diverse wildlife. This region is also famous for its cons... CONTINUE here for a trip to Monteverde
- Playa Azul is a small beach town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste. It is known for its beautiful and relatively quiet beaches, great surf and snorkeling spots,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Azul
- Playa Blanca is a beautiful beach located in the province of Guanacaste, in the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. This beach is known for its crystal clear waters, white sand, and stunning sunsets. It is a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Blanca
- Playa Carbon is a beautiful and secluded beach located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste. This beach is known for its calm waters and natural surroundings, making it a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Carbon
- Playa Conchal is a stunning beach located on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, specifically in the province of Guanacaste. It has crystal-clear turquoise waters and a stretch of white sand beach that i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Conchal
- Playa del Coco is a popular beach destination located in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. The town has a vibrant and lively atmosphere with lots of restaurants, bars, and shops. The beach itself i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa del Coco
- Playa Flamingo is a beautiful beach located on the northwest coast of Costa Rica, in the Guanacaste province, less than an hour's drive from the Liberia International Airport. It is renowned for its s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Flamingo
- Playa Grande is a beach located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the Guanacaste region. It is part of the Marino Las Baulas National Park and is famous for being a nesting site for leatherback t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Grande
- Playa Hermosa is a beautiful beach located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste. It is known for its incredibly clear water, pristine sandy shores, and excellent surfing c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Hermosa
- Playa Manzanillo is a small, secluded beach located on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, near the border with Panama. The beach is characterized by its clear turquoise waters, soft white san... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Manzanillo
- Playa Matapalo is a stunning coastal destination located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. It is a tranquil and secluded beach that stretches for miles and is surrounded by lush green vegetation. The waters ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Matapalo
- Playa Montezuma is a small coastal town located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush green landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The tow... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Montezuma
- Playa Naranjo is a small coastal town located on the Nicoya Peninsula in the province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica. It is a secluded and quiet beach with picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and surrou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Naranjo
- Playa Negra is a stunning black sand beach located in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. It's a popular destination for surfers due to its consistent and challenging waves. The beach is surrounded b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Negra
- Playa Nosara is a beach town located on the northwest coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste. It is known for its natural beauty, with miles of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Nosara
- Playa Ocotal is a beautiful beach located on Costa Rica's northwestern coast in the Guanacaste province. It's known for its clear turquoise waters and fine volcanic sand. The beach is surrounded by lu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Ocotal
- Playa Panama is a beautiful beach located in the northwestern province of Guanacaste in Costa Rica. It is renowned for its picturesque landscape, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush ve... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Panama
- Playa Potrero is a beautiful beach town located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. It is known for its stunning beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and abundant wildlife. Playa Potrero has a laid-ba... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Potrero
- Playa Santa Teresa is a picturesque beach town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the Nicoya Peninsula. This area is famous for its world-class surfing and stunning natural beauty, includi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Santa Teresa
- Playa Sámara is a beautiful beach located in the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica, on the Pacific coast. It is known for its calm turquoise waters, long stretches of sandy beaches, and lush tropical veg... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Sámara
- Playa Tamarindo is a beautiful seaside town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It features stunning beaches with sparkling turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Tamarindo
- Playa Tambor is a stunning beach town located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. The town is known for its scenic beauty, crystal-clear waters, and soft sand beaches. It is sur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Tambor
- Playa Ventanas is a beautiful beach located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the Puntarenas province. It is known for its stunning clear waters, soft golden sand, and two natural caves ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Ventanas
- Playa Zancudo is a quiet and secluded beach town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, near the border with Panama. It is known for its long, pristine beach with calm waters, perfect for swimmin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Zancudo
- Puerto Jiménez is a small town located in the southern part of Costa Rica. It's located on the Osa Peninsula, which is famous for its incredible biodiversity and natural beauty. Puerto Jiménez is a po... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Jiménez
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a charming coastal town located on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. It's known for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture that blends i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica. It is located in the center of the country in the Central Valley, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. San José is a vibrant city with a mix o... CONTINUE here for a trip to San José
- Sámara is a coastal town located in the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica. It's known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and relaxed vibe. The town offers a variety of a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sámara
- Tamarindo is a small town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, known for its world-class beaches, great surf, and vibrant nightlife. It's situated in the province of Guanacaste, in the northwes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tamarindo
- Uvita is a small, laid-back town located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its stunning beaches, including the famous Marino Ballena National Park, where visitors can see hu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uvita


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