Costa Rica packs volcanoes, misty cloud forests, rainforests full of sloths and toucans, and beaches on two oceans into a country smaller than many US states. It is safe, welcoming, and easy to travel around, and its "pura vida" spirit is contagious. This Costa Rica travel guide covers the best time to visit, the top places to go, the best beaches, bucket list experiences, and practical tips for getting around.
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
The dry season, from December to April, brings sunny skies and is the most popular and expensive time to visit, especially on the Pacific coast. The green season, from May to November, brings afternoon showers, lush landscapes, and lower prices. July and early August often have a drier spell called the veranillo (little summer), and September and October are usually the wettest months, except on the Caribbean coast, where they are often among the driest. See our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica.
Top Places to Visit in Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna
The near-perfect cone of Arenal Volcano erupted almost continuously from 1968 to 2010 and is now quiet. Hike the trails across old lava flows in the national park, swim below the La Fortuna Waterfall, cross the hanging bridges through the rainforest canopy, and relax in the region's natural hot springs. Look out for sloths, howler monkeys, toucans, and tree frogs.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
High in the mountains, Monteverde's cloud forest is wrapped in mist and home to orchids, hummingbirds, and, with luck, the resplendent quetzal. Walk the trails of the reserves, cross the hanging bridges, try a zipline over the canopy, and join a night tour to see tarantulas, frogs, and sleeping birds. It is also a great place for coffee and chocolate tours.
Río Celeste and Tenorio Volcano National Park
The Río Celeste glows an unreal shade of sky blue, created by minerals mixing where two rivers meet. Hike through the rainforest to the river's blue waterfall, the confluence, and bubbling hot springs. Swimming is not allowed inside the park, but some nearby lodges have access to the river.
Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica's most famous small national park combines rainforest trails with white-sand beaches. Spot sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and colorful crabs with a guide, then swim at Playa Manuel Antonio. Outside the park, Playa Espadilla is popular with beginner surfers, and Playa Biesanz is good for snorkeling. The park is closed on Tuesdays, and daily visitor numbers are limited, so book online.
Tortuguero
Reached only by boat or small plane, Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast is a maze of jungle canals and a key nesting site for green sea turtles, which come ashore from about July to October. Explore by canoe to see caimans, monkeys, and birds.
The Nicoya Peninsula and Guanacaste
The northwest has the country's driest climate and many of its best beaches, from surf towns such as Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa to quiet bays.
Costa Rica Beach Guide
- Santa Teresa: A laid-back surf and yoga town with spectacular sunsets.
- Tamarindo: A lively surf town with waves for beginners and good restaurants.
- Playa Conchal: Sand made of crushed shells and clear, calm water.
- Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste): Dark sand and calm water, good for families.
- Punta Uva: A calm Caribbean cove with excellent snorkeling.
- Playa Negra (Puerto Viejo): A long black-sand beach on the Caribbean coast. Check conditions before swimming, as currents can be strong.
Many Costa Rican beaches have strong rip currents. Swim near lifeguards where possible, and ask locals about conditions.
Costa Rica Bucket List Experiences
- Learn to surf on the Pacific coast.
- Join a guided night walk in the rainforest.
- Zipline through the canopy in Monteverde or Arenal.
- Take a coffee and chocolate tour.
- Soak in volcanic hot springs near Arenal.
- Watch sea turtles nest in Tortuguero, with a licensed guide.
- Go white-water rafting on the Pacuare River.
- Go whale watching at Marino Ballena National Park.
Costa Rica Travel Tips
- Language: Spanish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Useful phrases include hola (hello), por favor (please), muchas gracias (thank you very much), and pura vida, used as a greeting, a goodbye, and a way of saying all is well.
- Currency: The Costa Rican colón (CRC). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, and cards work almost everywhere. Carry some colones for buses, small shops, and rural areas.
- Plugs: Type A and B plugs, 120 V, the same as in the United States.
- Getting around: Renting a 4x4 gives the most freedom, as many rural roads are rough and unpaved. Public buses are cheap but slow, and tourist shuttles connect the main destinations. Use licensed red taxis or ride-hailing apps in cities.
- Entry requirements: Many nationalities can visit without a visa. You may be asked to show proof of onward travel. Check the latest rules for your passport.
Plan your trip with our Costa Rica packing list and our guide to a family trip to Costa Rica.
Stay Connected in Costa Rica
You will rely on your phone for navigation on winding rural roads, shuttle bookings, and wildlife tour meeting points. An egoViet Costa Rica eSIM installs before you fly and connects as soon as you land, with no roaming fees. Compare plans in our Costa Rica eSIM guide. Planning to stay longer? Read about the Costa Rica digital nomad visa.
FAQs: Costa Rica Travel Guide
How many days do you need in Costa Rica?
Ten days to two weeks lets you combine Arenal, Monteverde, and a beach region. With one week, choose Arenal plus one coast.
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?
Generally, yes. Take normal precautions against petty theft, never leave valuables in a car, and be careful of strong ocean currents.
Do I need a 4x4 in Costa Rica?
Not always, but a 4x4 is recommended for rural roads, river crossings, and the green season.
Can I use US dollars in Costa Rica?
Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but you may get change in colones. Local buses and small shops prefer colones.