Costa Rica at a Glance:

• Official Name: Republic of Costa Rica
• Capital: San José
• Largest City: San José
• Official Language: Spanish (many speak english in tourist areas)
• Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC) & USD
• Visa-Free Entry: Many nationalities can enter Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days. Check specific requirements based on your nationality.
• Getting There: Two major international airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. For our trip, we flew into Liberia as this was closer to Rio Perdido.
• Getting Around: Rental cars are popular, especially for exploring beyond major cities. Buses are affordable and reach most destinations. Domestic flights are available. We rented a car, and I would recommend doing this for you as well!
• Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season) is popular, but the green season (May to November) offers fewer crowds and lush landscapes.

Must-See & Do in Costa Rica

Explore Diverse Regions

• La Fortuna/Arenal: Volcano views, hot springs, rainforest adventures (ziplining, hiking).
• Monteverde: Cloud forests, hanging bridges, unique wildlife.
• Manuel Antonio: Beautiful beaches, rainforest trails, abundant wildlife.
• Guanacaste: Dry tropical climate, stunning beaches, surfing, dark skies. The amazing Rio Perdido.
• Puerto Viejo: Caribbean vibes, surfing, sloths, and rainforest.
• San José: Museums, cultural experiences, and bustling city life.

Experience Thrilling Activities:

• Ziplining: Soar through the rainforest canopy. 
• Surfing: Catch waves on world-class breaks.
• White Water Rafting: Navigate exciting rapids.
• Hiking: Explore national parks and reserves.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and more.
• Rio Perdido: Relax in thermal hot springs, explore the Rio Blanco Canyon, wildlife watching, luxury accommodations. 

Indulge in Nature & Relaxation:

• Hot Springs: Unwind in naturally heated mineral waters. Like in Tabacon at La Fortuna, or the Rio Perdido, at Rio Perdido.
• Beaches: Relax on pristine shores.
  • On the Pacific Coast, notable beaches include Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal, Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa, Nosara, Playa Montezuma, Playa Coyote, Playa San Miguel, Playa Junquillal, and Playas del Coco;
  • On the Caribbean Coast, popular spots are Playa Negra, Playa Arrecife, Playa Blanca, Playa Chiquita, Playa Cocles, Playa Grande, Playa Manzanillo, Playa Puerto Viejo, Playa Punta Uva, and Tortuguero Beach.
• National Parks: Discover diverse ecosystems in Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Corcovado National Park, Cahuita National Park, Braulio Carrillo National Park, Tortuguero National Park, Poás Volcano National Park, and Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.

Delve into Costa Rican Culture:

• “Pura Vida”: Embrace the Costa Rican philosophy of enjoying life.
• Coffee Farming: Learn about coffee production.
• Local Markets: Experience the vibrant culture of local markets in whatever area you decide to visit.

Savour Costa Rican Flavours:

• Gallo Pinto: Traditional rice and beans dish.
• Casado: A hearty plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat.
• Fresh Seafood: Enjoy the catch of the day.
• Coffee: Sample locally grown coffee.

Essential Information for Your Trip to Costa Rica:

• Currency: Both Costa Rican Colón (CRC) and US dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Cards are accepted in many places, but I suggest having cash on hand just in case.
• Languages: Spanish is the official language. English is common in tourist areas.
• Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
• Weather: Tropical climate with a dry season (December to April) and a rainy season (May to November). Pack accordingly.
• Safety: Costa Rica is generally safe, but be aware of petty theft, especially in tourist areas. We personally felt safe in both La Fortuna, and Rio Perdido.
• Transportation: Consider renting a car for flexibility. Buses are a budget-friendly option.
• Accommodations: Ranges from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. I have suggestions on places to stay in my Costa Rica Travel Itinerary.
• What to Pack: Lightweight clothing, rain gear (I recommend a heavy duty rain coat like Arc’teryx for heavy duty rains–Callum is the only one who didn’t get soaked, and he was wearing an Arc’teryx rain coat), hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent (mosquitos are a problem. One even bit my eyelid).
• Read: Before going, check out one of these books on Costa Rica, Monkeys Are Made of Chocolate (non-fiction), or Where There Was Fire (historical fiction).

Plan Your Perfect Trip:

• Ready to experience the best of Costa Rica? Purchase my detailed Costa Rica itinerary for a curated adventure!