Travel Guide to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a small Central American country that punches far above its weight in natural beauty and biodiversity. Despite being roughly the size of West Virginia, it contains about 5% of the world's biodiversity. From active volcanoes and cloud forests to both Pacific and Caribbean coasts, from adventure sports to wildlife watching, Costa Rica embodies the "pura vida" lifestyle – pure life.

Most trips to Costa Rica naturally revolve around several themes: wildlife and nature, adventure activities, beaches, volcanoes and hot springs, and eco-tourism. The fun is in how you combine these elements across the country's compact but diverse geography.

Costa Rica is one of the world's top destinations for wildlife viewing and nature lovers. The country's incredible biodiversity is accessible and easily viewed.

• Rainforests – multiple rainforest regions with distinct ecosystems
• Cloud forests – Monteverde and other mountain areas with misty, unique forests
• Beaches – both Pacific and Caribbean coasts with distinct characters
• Volcanoes – several active and dormant volcanoes to explore
• Waterfalls – countless waterfalls throughout the country
• National parks – 28 national parks protecting diverse ecosystems

Costa Rica protects over 25% of its land in national parks and reserves, making wildlife viewing and nature access exceptional. Animals are accustomed to humans, making encounters frequent and relatively easy.

With a good guide and some patience, you're likely to see: - Sloths – both two-toed and three-toed species - Monkeys – howler, spider, capuchin, and squirrel monkeys - Birds – toucans, scarlet macaws, hummingbirds, and over 900 other species - Reptiles – iguanas, crocodiles, caimans, snakes - Sea turtles – nesting on both coasts (seasonal) - Insects – incredible butterflies, leaf-cutter ants, and more

The variety and frequency of wildlife encounters often exceeds expectations, even for seasoned nature travelers.

Costa Rica pioneered adventure eco-tourism and offers world-class activities:

• Zip-lining – invented here, with dozens of canopy tours throughout the country
• White water rafting – Pacuare and Sarapiquí rivers offer Class II-IV rapids
• Surfing – excellent breaks on both coasts for all skill levels
• Waterfall rappelling – canyoning down waterfalls and through rivers
• Hiking – trails through every ecosystem from cloud forest to volcano
• Diving & snorkeling – especially on Caribbean coast and around Coco Island
• Stand-up paddleboarding – popular on both coasts
• Mountain biking – trails in various regions

La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano is the adventure capital, offering almost all activities in one area.

Costa Rica has both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, each with distinct character:

• Pacific Coast:
• Guanacaste** – drier, more developed, excellent surfing (Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa)
• Nicoya Peninsula** – mix of upscale resorts and laid-back surf towns
• Central Pacific** – Manuel Antonio combines beaches, jungle, and wildlife
• Southern Pacific** – more remote, wild (Uvita, Dominical, Osa Peninsula)

• Caribbean Coast:
• Puerto Viejo** – Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae, laid-back vibe
• Cahuita** – national park with beaches and snorkeling
• Manzanillo** – remote, pristine beaches
• Tortuguero** – sea turtle nesting, accessed only by boat or plane

The Pacific tends to be drier with bigger waves and more development, while the Caribbean is lush, less crowded, and culturally distinct.

Costa Rican culture embodies "pura vida" – a phrase meaning "pure life" that reflects the laid-back, appreciative approach to living.

Costa Ricans call themselves "Ticos" (males) or "Ticas" (females), derived from their use of diminutives. Key cultural aspects:

• Peaceful society – no military since 1949, resolves conflicts through diplomacy
• Environmental consciousness – pioneer in eco-tourism and conservation
• Friendly and welcoming – tourism-friendly culture with genuine warmth
• Relaxed pace – "Tico time" means things happen when they happen
• Family-oriented – strong family bonds and community connections

The absence of military culture and emphasis on education and healthcare have shaped a peaceful, progressive society.

Tico cuisine is simple, fresh, and focused on rice, beans, and local ingredients:

• Gallo pinto – rice and beans mixed together, breakfast staple
• Casado – traditional lunch plate with rice, beans, protein, salad, plantain
• Ceviche – fresh fish marinated in citrus juice
• Patacones – fried plantain slices
• Tres leches cake – sponge cake soaked in three types of milk
• Coffee – world-renowned Costa Rican coffee
• Imperial beer – national lager

Caribbean coast has distinct Afro-Caribbean cuisine with coconut rice, jerk seasoning, and Caribbean flavors.

Costa Rica is famous for high-quality coffee. Many regions offer coffee tours where you learn about growing, harvesting, and processing. Popular coffee regions include: - Central Valley around San José - Monteverde mountain area - Tarrazú region south of San José - Orosi Valley

Coffee tours often include tasting and opportunities to purchase beans directly from producers.

Costa Rica's small size belies its extraordinary natural diversity.

Costa Rica sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire with several active volcanoes:

• Arenal Volcano** – Most famous, conical shape, near La Fortuna with hot springs
• Poás Volcano** – Accessible crater with turquoise acidic lake
• Irazú Volcano** – Highest volcano, can see both oceans on clear days
• Rincón de la Vieja** – Active volcano with geothermal features, mud pots, and hiking

Hot springs abound near volcanoes, especially around Arenal, offering natural thermal pools in beautiful settings.

Costa Rica's mountain cloud forests are unique ecosystems draped in mist:

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve** – Most famous, excellent trails and wildlife
• Santa Elena Cloud Forest** – Less crowded alternative to Monteverde
• Hanging bridges** – walkways through forest canopy
• Unique ecosystem** – endemic species found nowhere else

Cloud forests are cooler than lowlands, offering refreshing escape from heat.

Multiple rainforest regions protect incredible biodiversity:

• Tortuguero National Park** – Caribbean coast, accessible only by boat, sea turtle nesting
• Corcovado National Park** – Osa Peninsula, called "most biologically intense place on Earth"
• Manuel Antonio National Park** – Combines beaches and rainforest, very accessible
• Sarapiquí region** – lowland rainforest with chocolate tours and rafting

Costa Rica has hundreds of waterfalls, many easily accessible: - La Fortuna Waterfall near Arenal - Nauyaca Waterfalls near Dominical - Rio Celeste waterfall with bright blue water - Llanos de Cortez near Liberia - Montezuma waterfall on Nicoya Peninsula

Many offer swimming holes at the base.

Costa Rica has two main seasons that dramatically affect travel experiences.

Dry season (December–April) is high season: - Minimal rain, especially on Pacific coast - Sunny days perfect for beaches and activities - Highest prices and largest crowds - Book accommodations well in advance - Dust and brown grass by March/April - Excellent wildlife viewing near water sources

• Peak weeks:** Christmas/New Year and Easter week see the highest prices and crowds.

Green season (May–November) brings afternoon rains: - Lower prices (30–50% less than dry season) - Fewer crowds, especially May–June and September–October - Everything is lush and green - Afternoon rains, but usually mornings are sunny - Some roads challenging, especially in rainy periods - Waterfalls at their most impressive - Sea turtle nesting season on both coasts

Despite rain, green season is increasingly popular with budget travelers and those who don't mind afternoon showers.

Some activities work well year-round: - Wildlife viewing (animals don't care about rain) - Zip-lining (often operates in light rain) - Hot springs (rain adds atmosphere) - Surfing (waves year-round) - Caribbean coast (different rain patterns than Pacific)

Costa Rica is paradise for active travelers.

• Zip-lining – dozens of canopy tours throughout the country, invented here
• White water rafting – Pacuare River is world-class, Class III-IV rapids
• Surfing – breaks for all levels on both coasts
• Waterfall rappelling – descend waterfalls on rope (canyoning)
• Hiking – trails through every ecosystem
• Snorkeling & diving – Caribbean coast, especially Cahuita and Manzanillo
• Kayaking – sea kayaking and river kayaking
• Stand-up paddleboarding – popular on calmer beaches
• Horseback riding – trails in countryside and mountains
• Mountain biking – various trails and tours

La Fortuna concentrates many activities in one area, making it easy to do multiple adventures from one base.

Accommodation prices vary significantly by season and location. Most businesses price in US dollars. Colones (₡) are local currency.

• Hostel dorm beds: $12–$25 per night
• Private rooms in hostels: $30–$60 per night
• Budget hotels and cabinas: $40–$80 per night
• Basic guesthouses: $35–$70 per night

• Standard hotels: Double rooms around $80–$150 per night
• Boutique hotels: $100–$200 per night
• Beachfront hotels: $120–$250 per night
• Eco-lodges: $100–$250 per night, often include meals

• High-end resorts: Rooms $250–$500 per night; suites $500–$1,000+
• Luxury eco-lodges: $300–$800+ per night, usually all-inclusive
• Beachfront luxury resorts: $400–$1,200+ per night
• Private villas: $500–$2,000+ per night

• Peak season (December–April): 50–150% higher than green season
• Christmas and Easter weeks: Dramatic increases, book far ahead
• Green season (May–November): Best value, 30–50% less
• Shoulder periods: Best balance of price and weather

Citizens of most countries receive 90-day visa-free entry: - US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand citizens receive 90 days - Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity - Return or onward ticket required - Proof of sufficient funds ($100 per month of stay recommended) - No visa fees for tourist entry

• Initial 90-day stay can be extended once for 90 more days
• Apply through immigration office
• Requires proof of financial means
• Many visitors do "border runs" to Nicaragua or Panama instead

For stays longer than 180 days: - Pensionado visa – retiree visa with proof of pension income - Rentista visa – requires proof of monthly income - Work visa – requires employer sponsorship - Most long-term visas require proof of comprehensive health insurance

Costa Rica has good healthcare by Central American standards. Public system (Caja) for residents and private hospitals for tourists.

• Private clinic visit: $50–$100
• Emergency room visit: $150–$400
• Hospital stay: $800–$2,500 per day
• Emergency surgery: $5,000–$25,000+
• Ambulance: $100–$300
• Prescription medications: $10–$60

• San José area has excellent private hospitals (CIMA, Clínica Bíblica) meeting international standards
• Tourist areas (La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo) have clinics for basic care
• Remote areas have limited facilities
• English-speaking doctors available in private facilities
• Medical tourism is popular – quality care at lower prices than US

Many private hospitals in San José accept international insurance directly or offer package rates for procedures.

For serious conditions in remote areas: - Helicopter evacuation to San José: $3,000–$8,000 - International evacuation to US: $30,000–$100,000

• No required vaccinations for most travelers
• Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine vaccinations
• Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya – mosquito-borne diseases present, use repellent
• Tap water – generally safe in most areas but bottled water recommended
• Food safety – generally good, use caution with street food

Given adventure activities, potential health issues, and relatively high medical costs, comprehensive travel insurance is recommended for Costa Rica trips.

• Medical Coverage
• Recommended minimum: $50,000 medical coverage
• $100,000+ recommended for adventure activities
• Confirm coverage in Costa Rica specifically
• Verify prescription medication coverage

• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• Look for at least $100,000 in evacuation coverage
• Important for remote areas (Osa Peninsula, Tortuguero, etc.)
• Ensure coverage includes helicopter evacuation if needed

• Adventure Activities Coverage
• Standard policies often exclude zip-lining, rafting, surfing
• Verify coverage for specific activities you plan
• May require additional premium
• Essential given Costa Rica's adventure focus

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption
• Weather can disrupt travel plans in green season
• Flight delays and cancellations happen
• Protect non-refundable bookings
• Consider CFAR (Cancel for Any Reason) for flexibility

• Theft & Personal Belongings
• Petty theft common in tourist areas
• Car break-ins happen at beach parking areas
• Ensure adequate coverage for electronics and valuables
• Keep valuables in hotel safe when possible

• Adventure activity injuries: zip-lining accidents, surfing injuries, rafting incidents
• Illness: traveler's diarrhea, dengue fever, dehydration
• Theft: car break-ins, pickpocketing in cities, theft at beaches
• Trip delays: weather disruptions, flight cancellations
• Minor injuries: cuts, scrapes, sprains from hiking and activities

When comparing policies, focus on: - Medical coverage adequate for Costa Rica ($50,000 minimum, $100,000+ for adventure) - Adventure activity coverage for specific activities you'll do - Evacuation coverage ($100,000 minimum) - 24/7 assistance available in English - Reasonable deductibles - Clear claims process

For most visitors doing adventure activities, a policy specifically designed for adventure travel with strong medical coverage and activity inclusion is ideal.

Costa Rica offers an extraordinary combination of biodiversity, adventure activities, beautiful beaches, friendly culture, and accessible nature experiences. The "pura vida" lifestyle and commitment to conservation create a destination that's both thrilling and responsible.

With thoughtful planning around seasons, safety precautions, adventure activities, and comprehensive travel insurance, you can maximize your Costa Rican experience. Whether you're zip-lining through cloud forests, watching sloths in Manule Antonio, surfing Pacific breaks, soaking in volcanic hot springs, or simply embracing the pura vida lifestyle, Costa Rica is a destination that rejuvenates and inspires.