More Information on Traveling to Costa Rica
Key experiences on a Costa Rica holiday
Wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys and colorful toucans in the lush rainforests of Costa Rica. Hike through misty cloud forests in Monteverde, where hummingbirds dart between orchids. Feel the heat of Arenal’s volcanic hot springs as you soak in mineral-rich waters surrounded by jungle. Ride the waves on Tamarindo’s golden beaches or kayak through Tortuguero’s winding canals, spotting sloths and caimans along the way. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, zip-line over dense canopies or raft down the wild rapids of the Pacuare River. As the sun sets, unwind with a fresh coconut on the shores of Manuel Antonio where the jungle meets the sea in perfect harmony.
Top destinations to visit in Costa Rica
This little slice of paradise has everything from misty cloud forests to sun-kissed beaches. Arenal Volcano steals the spotlight with its towering peak, natural hot springs, and adrenaline-pumping activities like waterfall rappelling. Monteverde’s cloud forest is a dream for nature lovers, with hanging bridges, hidden trails, and the chance to spot the elusive quetzal. For beach bliss, Manuel Antonio offers pristine shores and a national park teeming with playful monkeys and sloths. On the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo brings reggae vibes, palm-fringed beaches, and incredible snorkeling in Cahuita National Park. And if you are chasing raw wilderness, Corcovado National Park is where jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws roam free.
For more detailed information, check out our guide on places to visit in Costa Rica.
Top tour activities in Costa Rica
Adventure is around every corner, whether you are soaring through the treetops or diving into the deep blue. Zip-lining tours in Monteverde take you high above the cloud forest, offering a bird’s-eye view of lush greenery and hidden waterfalls. In La Fortuna, a canyoning tour lets you rappel down roaring waterfalls near Arenal Volcano. Wildlife lovers can hop on a boat safari through Tortuguero National Park, spotting crocodiles, manatees and nesting sea turtles. Surfing lessons in Tamarindo are perfect for beginners, while experienced surfers chase waves in Santa Teresa. For a more laid-back experience, a coffee plantation tour in the Central Valley reveals the secrets behind Costa Rica’s world-famous beans—complete with fresh brews, of course.
For more information, check out our guide on things to do in Costa Rica.
Best time to travel to Costa Rica
The best time to visit Costa Rica is December to April for sunny skies and perfect beach days. The green season (May to November) offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds and great wildlife spotting. For drier Caribbean weather and sea turtles nesting, visit in September or October.
For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Costa Rica.
Optimal duration to visit Costa Rica
A 10 to 14-day trip is ideal for experiencing Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes. Spend a few days exploring the lush rainforests of Arenal and Monteverde, relax on the Pacific or Caribbean beaches, and visit wildlife-rich national parks like Manuel Antonio or Tortuguero. Adventure seekers can add whitewater rafting, zip-lining, or volcano hikes for a well-rounded trip.
For more duration-related information, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Costa Rica.
Packing essentials for a trip to Costa Rica
Pack light, breathable clothes, a rain jacket, and sturdy hiking shoes. Sandals are great for beaches, and bug spray plus reef-safe sunscreen are essentials. Bring a reusable water bottle and a dry bag for adventures. Skip heavy jackets unless visiting Monteverde’s cool cloud forests.
Sustainable travel practices when visiting Costa Rica
You can always make sustainable choices while traveling in Costa Rica, like supporting local eateries, avoiding single-use plastics, and using reef-safe sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Choosing eco-friendly travel partners like Bookmundi, which offsets carbon emissions for every tour, also makes a difference. Flying with sustainable airlines and supporting local conservation groups, such as the Costa Rica Wildlife Foundation and the Rainforest Alliance, helps protect the country’s rich biodiversity and communities.