The ultimate Costa Rica travel guide

Visit Costa Rica, a lively country in Central America well known for providing a wide range of experiences for all types of travellers. From gorgeous beaches and lush rainforests to active volcanoes and lovely towns, this stunning country is the ideal vacation for adventure, leisure, and cultural immersion.

This travel guide will help you plan your dream trip to Costa Rica. We’ll cover important tips, must-see attractions, and unique cultural experiences that you won't want to miss. So, pack your bags and prepare for an incredible adventure in paradise.

• Manuel Antonio National Park: In this picturesque park, visitors will encounter monkeys, sloths, and a variety of colourful birds. Take one of the many hiking trails that wind through the jungle, leading to isolated beaches and spectacular views.
• Jaco: Jaco is a surfer's paradise, attracting aficionados from all over the world. Beyond the surf, the town has a thriving nightlife scene with various pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Adventure travellers can go zip-lining, white-water rafting, and on ATV rides.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest: This park is nestled high in the misty mountains of Costa Rica., Its unique ecosystem is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, including exotic orchids, vibrant birds, and elusive mammals like the quetzal. Visitors can check out the cloud forest on fun guided tours, zip-line through the treetops, or just kick back and enjoy the chill vibes.

• Puerto Viejo: This vibrant Caribbean coastal town has a laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and a unique blend of Afro-Caribbean, Bribri Indigenous, and Latino cultures. It’s well-known for its relaxing ambiance, delicious seafood, and world-class surfing, making Puerto Viejo a dream destination.
• Cahuita National Park: This national park has spectacular coral reefs and lush rainforests, where tourists can snorkel, scuba dive, and explore rich aquatic life. The park also has a variety of terrestrial animals, such as sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds. Hiking trails running through the rainforest lead to isolated beaches and spectacular views.
• Tortuguero National Park: Visitors can enjoy the park's beautiful system of freshwater canals and wetlands by going out on a boat, canoe, or kayak. It's a great chance to spot amazing animals like jaguars, tapirs, and manatees. The park also hosts the Sea Turtle Conservancy, which works to protect green sea turtles and their nesting areas.

• San José: Costa Rica's vibrant capital offers a remarkable blend of urban charm and cultural richness. Visit the magnificent National Theater, a neo-Renaissance architectural marvel, or the National Museum to learn more about the nation's history. For a taste of local life, wander through the vibrant Central Market, where you can sample delicious street food and shop for unique souvenirs. And don't miss the opportunity to visit the Jade Museum, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts.
• Arenal Volcano: This beautiful stratovolcano dominates La Fortuna. It is a magnificent sight with its flawless cone shape and sporadic plumes of smoke. While taking in breathtaking views of the volcano, visitors can trek or zip-line through the verdant jungle canopy, or soak in natural hot springs.

Immerse yourself in Costa Rica's rich cultural tapestry, which includes folk music and dance, stunning art, and delectable cuisine.

• Costa Rican Cuisine: For a genuinely local authentic culinary experience, visit a local “soda”, a tiny, family-run eatery. Traditional Costa Rican dishes such as tamales, casado (a substantial portion of rice, beans, meat, and salad), and gallo pinto (rice and beans) are readily available in these places.
  
  Remember to sample the delectable fresh fruit juices called “aguas frescas.” Some of the most famous sodas are Los Pelones (Playas del Coco), Tipica Las Palmares (Montezuma), Tapia (San Jose), Brasilito (Brasilito), Rustico or Marea Baja (Jaco), and La Tiquicia (Santa Teresa).
• Music and Dance: Local festivals and events often host performances showcasing the country's rich musical heritage, where tourists can take in lively marimba music and traditional dances like the Punto Guanacasteco.
• Souvenirs and Crafts: Discover local craftsmen and their unique creations. You can also find vibrant oxcarts (a popular craft in Costa Rica), exquisite jewelry made from natural materials such as jade and sea glass, and Costa Rican coffee beans that promise to improve your daily brew. To bring a taste of Costa Rica home, stock up on native spices and sauces, such as the tangy and tasty salsa lizano.
  
  Some of the best places to buy souvenirs and crafts in Costa Rica include the artisan town of Sachi with its hundreds of family-owned stores and shops, The Central Market in San Jose, and Tamarindo Night Market in Tamarindo, which opens every Thursday night.

• For Costa Rica’s tropical climate, choose clothing with wrinkle-resistant and quick-drying fabrics. Be sure to bring rain gear in case of unexpected tropical showers.
•  Bring comfortable shoes for everyday wear and durable hiking boots for outdoor excursions.
• Remember to bring insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and pests, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the intense sun.
• Bringing a reusable water bottle allows you to stay hydrated and cut down on plastic waste.
• Purchase a basic kit that includes painkillers, bandages, and antiseptic.
• To charge your devices, pack a travel adapter plug.

• Learn about the destination and become acquainted with local laws, customs, and safety guidelines to stay safe.
• Steer clear of walking alone in poorly lit locations, particularly in urban areas.
• Only choose authorized tour companies or taxis.
• Keep valuables hidden and use secure locks.
• Pay attention to your surroundings by always being on the lookout and following your gut.

• The Costa Rican Colón is the country's official currency.
• Local banks typically offer the best exchange rates. When out and about, you can pay in USD and get change in Colones in most places. Just be cautious and verify the currency rate that these locations are using.
• Although tipping is not required in Costa Rica, it is typically given for excellent service, particularly in tourist areas. The standard tip is 10%.

• Travel vaccines: To determine the recommended immunizations, visit the Government of Canada Travel and Advisory website.
• Malaria: Although the risk of contracting Malaria is low to moderate, take precautions, particularly in some areas.
• Water Safety: Choose bottled water instead of tap water.
• Altitude Sickness: If you intend to go to higher altitude areas, take the appropriate safety measures and be mindful of the possible symptoms of altitude-related sickness.

• A rental car can be cheaper than shuttles over longer distances and allows more flexibility.
• Unless you plan on staying near San Jose or directly on the coast, a 4-wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended.
• Renting a car during the dry season (December-April) is more expensive due to peak tourist season activity
• Opt for rental car companies whose quotes include mandatory insurance, taxes, and any other surcharges, like airport tax. This way, you may avoid surprise costs when you land and start your travels.