Central America · 26 Places · Best December to April (dry season)
Costa Rica is a Central American paradise known for its incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes. This eco-tourism destination offers world-class wildlife viewing, adventure activities, and a laid-back 'pura vida' lifestyle that welcomes travelers from around the globe.
Costa Rica is a Central American paradise known for its incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes. This eco-tourism destination offers world-class wildlife viewing, adventure activities, and a laid-back 'pura vida' lifestyle that welcomes travelers from around the globe.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
One of Costa Rica's most iconic landmarks, Arenal Volcano rises 1,657 meters above sea level. While currently in a resting phase, this near-perfect cone-shaped volcano offers spectacular hiking trails, hanging bridges, and stunning views across Lake Arenal. The park is home to diverse wildlife including howler monkeys, toucans, and agoutis.
Costa Rica's smallest but most popular national park combines pristine white-sand beaches with lush tropical rainforest. The park is renowned for incredible wildlife sightings including three-toed sloths, white-faced capuchin monkeys, iguanas, and over 350 bird species. Four beautiful beaches within the park offer excellent swimming and snorkeling.
This mystical cloud forest reserve protects over 26,000 acres of pristine biodiversity. Perpetual mist creates an ethereal atmosphere as you walk among moss-covered trees, orchids, and ferns. Home to the resplendent quetzal, jaguars, and over 400 bird species, Monteverde offers some of the world's best nature experiences including canopy bridges and night tours.
Accessible only by boat or plane, Tortuguero is a remote paradise of canals, lagoons, and pristine beaches where sea turtles nest. Often called the 'Amazon of Costa Rica,' this park's waterways teem with caimans, river otters, manatees, and over 300 bird species. Between July and October, witness the incredible spectacle of green sea turtles nesting on the beaches.
Home to one of the world's largest active crater lakes, Poás Volcano offers an otherworldly landscape of steaming fumaroles and turquoise acidic lagoons. The main crater is 1.3 km wide and periodically emits sulfurous gases. Well-maintained trails lead through cloud forest to viewpoints, though the volcano can close during periods of high activity.
National Geographic called Corcovado 'the most biologically intense place on Earth.' This remote park on the Osa Peninsula protects 13 major ecosystems and is home to all four Costa Rican monkey species, jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws. Pristine beaches, dense jungle, and incredible biodiversity make this a once-in-a-lifetime destination for serious nature lovers.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
This adults-only oasis near Arenal Volcano features private plunge pools fed by natural hot springs in each villa. Surrounded by lush rainforest with volcano views, the resort offers world-class spa treatments, gourmet dining, and exceptional service. Named one of the world's best hotels by Condé Nast Traveler.
Check rates on Booking.comThis boutique hotel in San José occupies a beautifully restored Victorian mansion. The rooftop restaurant is renowned for gourmet dining, while elegant rooms feature antique furnishings and modern amenities. A peaceful courtyard garden provides an oasis in the city center.
Check rates on Booking.comThis trendy hostel-hotel hybrid offers everything from dorm beds to private rooms near Arenal Volcano. Social spaces include a pool, coworking area, bar, and restaurant. The property organizes tours and provides a great base for budget travelers wanting to explore La Fortuna.
Check rates on Booking.comPerched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, this luxury resort combines tropical elegance with Five-Star service. Features include championship golf, multiple pools, a world-class spa, and access to pristine beaches. Families enjoy the kids' club while couples relax in sophisticated surroundings.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Housed in a restored Victorian mansion, this award-winning rooftop restaurant serves innovative cuisine blending Costa Rican ingredients with international techniques. The romantic setting and impeccable service make it San José's premier fine dining destination.
This beloved San José institution has served authentic Tico food since 1950. Generous portions of casado, gallo pinto, and traditional stews attract locals and tourists alike. The no-frills atmosphere and friendly service embody Costa Rican hospitality.
This lively taco joint in Tamarindo serves creative tacos, burritos, and Mexican-inspired dishes with fresh ingredients. The casual atmosphere, reasonable prices, and late-night hours make it a favorite among surfers and backpackers.
San José's central market offers dozens of sodas serving authentic Costa Rican breakfasts and lunches. Navigate the maze of stalls to find casado, gallo pinto, and fresh fruit juices at rock-bottom prices favored by locals.
This bohemian café in San José's Barrio Amón offers artisanal coffee, creative breakfasts, and light meals in a charming courtyard garden. The artistic atmosphere and quality coffee make it a favorite among locals and expats.
This acclaimed restaurant showcases modern Costa Rican cuisine using locally-sourced, organic ingredients. Chef Santiago Fernández creates innovative dishes that honor traditional flavors while presenting them with contemporary flair in an elegant setting.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10-20 (hostel dorm or budget room) | $40-70 (private room in mid-range hotel or Airbnb) | $150-400+ (luxury eco-lodges, resorts) |
| Food (per day) | $12-18 (sodas, street food, self-catering) | $30-45 (mix of local restaurants and nicer dining) | $80-120 (fine dining, hotel restaurants) |
| Transportation | $3-7 (local buses) | $15-20 (mix of shuttles, taxis, rental car costs) | $50-100 (private transfers, rental car with full insurance, domestic flights) |
| Activities | $10-15 (free beaches/hikes, occasional paid activity) | $15-25 (national parks, some tours) | $70-100+ (private guides, premium tours, spa treatments) |
| Daily total | $35-50 | $100-150 | $300-600+ |
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public
Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs, especially at night
Book accommodations through verified platforms and check reviews
Avoid isolated beaches and trails after dark
Keep car doors locked and windows up in urban areas
Register with your country embassy upon arrival — Costa Rica Ministry of Foreign Affairs website lists all embassies in San Jose.
Use only licensed yellow taxis or Uber and InDriver apps — unlicensed pirate taxis frequently overcharge tourists.
Be cautious on beaches after dark especially in Jaco and Limon where petty theft and assaults are more common.
Carry photocopies of your passport rather than the original when exploring — police accept copies for ID checks.
Costa Rica has strict drug laws despite its relaxed reputation — even small possession amounts can result in arrest.
Rent a 4WD vehicle for remote areas like the Osa Peninsula or Monteverde in rainy season — roads can flood.
Never feed monkeys as they become aggressive, maintain distance from crocodiles, and wear sandals on beaches to avoid stingray stings.
Riptides are common on Pacific beaches — swim only at beaches with lifeguards and heed warning flags.
Costa Rica is one of Central America's safest countries for tourists. Most visits are trouble-free, though petty theft, pickpocketing, and opportunistic crime require standard urban precautions, especially in San José. Emergency services: police at 911 (also for all emergencies), medical at 911 or 128 (Red Cross).
The best time to visit Costa Rica is December to April (dry season). Costa Rica has two main seasons: the dry season (verano, December-April) and the rainy season (invierno, May-November). The country's varied topography creates microclimates ranging from hot, dry Guan
No visa required for stays up to 180 days. Valid passport (minimum 1 day validity), return ticket, and proof of $100/month economic means required. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC) (CRC). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Costa Rica: Spanish, English (widely spoken in tourist areas). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Costa Rica include Arenal Volcano National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Tortuguero National Park, and Poás Volcano National Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
Each region has its own character — coastal, alpine, vineyard, capital. Pick a starting point.
Guanacaste is Costa Rica's sun-drenched northwestern province, celebrated for its pristine Pacific beaches, volcanic landscapes, and thriving wildlife. From the surf town of Tamarindo to the luxury resorts of the Papagayo Peninsula, the region offers an unbeatable blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. It is one of Central America's top beach destinations, known for its dry tropical climate and vibrant Tico culture.
Puntarenas is Costa Rica's largest province, stretching along most of the country's Pacific coastline from the Gulf of Nicoya south to the Panama border. It serves as the gateway to surf towns, national parks such as Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, and island reserves reached by ferry from Puntarenas city.
