Costa Rica is a small Central American country with a huge natural wealth. It combines rainforests, volcanoes, cloud forests and beaches on two oceans. Moreover, it protects about a quarter of its land in parks and reserves. So, it is a top destination for wildlife lovers and eco-travellers.
Most first trips start in San José. Then, travellers visit Arenal Volcano, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio.
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Top Places to Visit in Costa Rica
- Arenal Volcano: Hot springs, hanging bridges and waterfalls around a perfect cone.
- Monteverde: A misty cloud forest with quetzals and ziplines.
- Manuel Antonio: Beaches with sloths and monkeys right next to the sand.
- Tortuguero: Canals and turtle nesting beaches on the Caribbean coast.
- Corcovado: One of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
- Poás Volcano: A huge active crater near San José.
- Nicoya Peninsula: Surf towns, yoga retreats and quiet beaches.
Wildlife Watching
Costa Rica holds around 5% of the world’s biodiversity. For example, you can spot sloths, toucans, red-eyed tree frogs and scarlet macaws. Between July and October, sea turtles nest in Tortuguero. Also, whales pass along the Pacific coast. So, a guided night walk is a great way to see more.
A Short History of Costa Rica
First, indigenous peoples left mysterious stone spheres, now a UNESCO site. Then, Spain colonised the region, and independence came in 1821. Remarkably, Costa Rica abolished its army in 1948. Since then, it has invested in education, health and nature protection.
Typical Food
For breakfast, try gallo pinto, rice and beans with eggs. At lunch, a casado combines rice, beans, salad, plantains and meat or fish. Moreover, the coffee is excellent, and tropical fruit smoothies are everywhere.
Practical Tips
- Rent a 4×4: many roads are rough, especially in the rainy season.
- Book a guide: guides spot far more wildlife than you will alone.
- Bring rain gear: even in the dry season, showers are common in the forests.
- Book park tickets online: Manuel Antonio and Poás limit daily visitors.
For more ideas, see the official Visit Costa Rica website.
Basic Words and Expressions to Use in Costa Rica
Many Costa Ricans, called Ticos, speak some English in tourist areas. Still, a few words of Spanish make a real difference. Above all, “pura vida” is used for hello, goodbye, thanks and “all good”.
Finally, Ticos are known for their friendly, relaxed attitude. So, slow down and enjoy the pura vida spirit.
Costa Rica Travel FAQ
We recommend 10 to 14 days for a first trip. That way, you can see Arenal, Monteverde and one or two beaches. With one week, however, choose two regions.
Count $30 to $100 per person per day. Budget travellers stay near the lower end with hostels and local sodas. However, Costa Rica is one of the more expensive countries in Central America, and tours add up.
The best period is December to April, during the dry season. In contrast, May to November is the green season, with afternoon rain but fewer crowds. The Caribbean coast, meanwhile, has its own weather pattern.
Many nationalities can visit visa-free for up to 90 days or more. Still, rules depend on your passport, so always check the latest requirements before you travel.
A 10% service charge is usually included in the bill. So, extra tipping is optional, but tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.
A rental car, ideally a 4×4, gives you the most freedom. Also, shared shuttles link the main tourist areas. Public buses are cheap but slow.
In short, the country offers volcanoes, rainforests, wildlife and two coastlines. So, combine Arenal and Monteverde with a beach. Explore our detailed guides for each destination.