Costa Rica Travel Guide
Costa Rica is the kind of country that makes it easy to build a trip around the outdoors. Rainforest, wildlife, waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs, beach towns, and surfing can all fit into one itinerary without the trip feeling like just one thing.
This page brings together the practical tips, photos, and Costa Rica guides I’ve published from my own time there.
A GLIMPSE OF COSTA RICA
KEY TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP
Best Time to Visit
December to April is the dry season and usually the most popular time to visit. May through November can mean fewer crowds, greener landscapes, and sometimes better prices.
Weather
Costa Rica is warm year-round, but conditions vary by region. Beaches are typically hotter and more humid, while inland areas can be cooler and rainier.
Altitude
Most popular beach towns are close to sea level. Some inland areas sit higher, but altitude is not usually a major concern for most Costa Rica trips.
Top Attraction
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna are worth adding to your itinerary for waterfalls, hot springs, hiking, and ziplining.
Getting Around
Renting a car gives you the most freedom. Shared shuttles are common too. Distances can look short on a map, but drives often take longer than expected.
Local Cuisine
Try gallo pinto, casado, ceviche, fresh fruit, and Costa Rican coffee. Gallo pinto is especially popular for breakfast.
Outdoor Activities
Hike volcanoes, swim at waterfalls, soak in hot springs, zipline through rainforest, surf, ride horses, and look for monkeys and sloths.
COSTA RICA TRAVEL GUIDES
PLAN A COSTA RICA ADVENTURE
Big adventures.
Pura vida.
More of Central America
Costa Rica is only one piece of the region. Head back to the Central America hub to keep exploring the destinations, stories, and guides I’ve added so far.