Costa Ricatravel guide
⌖ 9.7° N · 84.2° W · CAPITAL: SAN JOSÉ
First impressions
Know before you go.
Welcome to Costa Rica, a tropical paradise known for its wildlife, breathtaking natural beauty and eco-friendly culture. Costa Rica offers travelers the chance to explore an extraordinary array of ecosystems, from misty cloud forests to lush rainforests, from active volcanoes to stunning beaches.
One of Costa Rica's most distinctive features is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The country boasts a remarkable network of protected areas, accounting for over 25% of its land area. Here you can marvel at endangered species like toucans, sloths, and the elusive jaguar in their natural habitats.
Adventure seekers will be thrilled with the wide range of outdoor activities available in Costa Rica. From zip-lines that have sprung up around the country to white-water rafting down the thrilling rapids of Pacuare River, there is something for everyone here.
La Fortuna (Arenal) and Santa Elena (Monteverde) are very popular, but their nature is not unique. If you have a rental car, don't be afraid to wander off the beaten track instead - less visited places still have great tourist infrastructure and offer a better nature experience, with less crowds and lower prices.
Entry card · CR
- Currency
- Costa Rican colón (₡)
- Exchange rate
- US$1 = â‚¡453.51
- Language
- Spanish
- English
- Moderate
- Capital
- San José
- Population
- 5 million
- Drives on
- right
- Plugs
- A, B
- Time zone
- Central Standard Time (UTC-06:00)
01 · The seasons
When to go.
- December to AprilHigh Season - Dry Season
- May to NovemberLow Season - Rainy Season
02 · Daily fares
What it costs.
Est. daily fares
COSTA RICA · US$1 = ₡453.51
- Hostel DormUS$12
- Takeaway MealUS$7
- Public transportUS$2.5
- Long-distance busUS$20
- Entrance FeeUS$20
- BeerUS$2
Daily totalUS$43 (â‚¡ 19,501)
Money field notes
Cards
Cards are accepted at most places
ATM Fees
Most ATMs charge fees, but you can find fee-free ATMs
Free ATMs
Banco de Costa Rica
ATMs to avoid (high fees)
BAC Credomatic
THIS TRAVEL GUIDE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS
03 · The shortlist
Best experiences.
04 · At the table
Eat like you live here.
Menu
TASTE OF COSTA RICA
- Gallo PintoMUST TRY
- CasadoMUST TRY
- CevicheMUST TRY
- Olla de CarneMUST TRY
- Sopa NegraMUST TRY
Before you go
At the border.
Customs declaration · Travel etiquette
Declare
- respect the environment and practice sustainable tourism.
- explore the country's natural attractions.
- learn some basic Spanish phrases.
Do not bring
- forget to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?
What's the best way to get around in Costa Rica?
What are some popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica?
What are some essential phrases in Spanish to know when visiting Costa Rica?
Are there ATMs without a fee in Costa Rica?
05 · The flight plan
Itineraries.
Alternative Costa Rica (3 weeks)
- 1Rincon de la ViejaRincon de la Vieja National Park is known for its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems. It offers hiking trails, hot springs, and stunning waterfalls. For thrill seekers, the adventure day pass by Hacienda Guachipelin is highly recommended - their river tubing, zipline and hot springs are all among the best on Costa Rica.
- 2Nauyaca WaterfallsNestled in the rainforest, these are probably the prettiest waterfalls in Costa Rica. It features two stunning waterfalls and offers activities like swimming, hiking, and horseback riding.
- 3Corcovado National ParkCorcovado National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and macaws. If you have less budget or time, Manuel Antonio National Park is a great alternative to see wildlife, although much more touristy.
- 4Los Quetzales National ParkA great alternative to more crowded Monteverde, Los Quetzales National Park is a mountainous region known for its cloud forests and stunning landscapes. It is home to the rare resplendent quetzal bird and offers hiking opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
- 5Orosi ValleyOrosi Valley is a picturesque region with lush green landscapes. It is famous for its coffee plantations, hot springs, and historic churches.
- 6Tortuguero National ParkTortuguero National Park is a remote and unique destination known for its turtle nesting sites, but even out of turtle season the cute Caribbean village Tortuguero is a must-visit. It is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and boat tours.
- 7ManzanilloLess crowded than nearby Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Manzanillo is a small fishing village located in the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. It boasts beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere. It is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the local Caribbean culture.
06 · The community