Costa Rica Travel Advice

When it comes to traveling sustainably, travelers often think about the obvious tropes of green travel, such as traveling in eco-friendly vehicles and avoiding the use of plastic water bottles. But there are more ways to reduce a carbon footprint and become a responsible traveler. Welcome to Costa Rica, home to the world’s most enthusiastic tree planters and one of the first countries in the world to promote responsible travel. Costa Rica knew about eco-tourism even before it was cool, so take notes! This country is serious about its efforts for sustainability. Eco-tourism in Costa Rica doesn't just mean staying in eco-lodges and taking nature walks in its conservation areas, but also supporting local farmers growing indigenous plants or whale watching through tour operators that support marine conservation. While the rest of the world looks for ways to undo the damage it has done to the environment, this Central American destination is already ten steps ahead. En route to becoming the first carbon-neutral country by 2021, this vibrant destination with a flourishing democracy utilizes eco-tourism to supercharge its economy. If you’re out to experience eco-tourism while on a trip to Costa Rica, you’re in for a treat — there are so many ways to travel sustainably in this gorgeous slice of Central American paradise! Listed here are ten of our favorites.

Costa Rica boasts diverse rainforests, dramatic volcanoes and some of the world's most beautiful beaches. With five percent of the world's biodiversity, it's no surprise this tiny country is a pioneer of eco-tourism. If you’re looking for sustainable places to stay when on a Costa Rica trip, there is a wide range of options. From working farms where you can see sustainability in practice to eco-luxe resorts where you can enjoy an indulgent break, there are lots of places where you can rest your head without harming the planet. Eco-lodges in Costa Rica can vary in terms of price and amenities. To help you choose something that suits you and your budget, here is a selection of the best sustainable stays the country has to offer.

The rain-forested canopies and the remarkable volcanic terrain of Costa Rica are amazing to behold, but these regions offer more than just paradisiacal tourist spots. From the cloud forest highlands down to the coastal towns, guests can revel in the country’s delicious cuisine that proudly displays its Caribbean and Latino roots. To satisfy your sense of taste, we bring you the best Costa Rican food you absolutely must try while on a trip to Costa Rica.

One of the Costa Rica’s best-loved protected areas is Arenal Volcano National Park. It’s home to the mighty cones of two dormant but still venting volcanoes, crystal-clear lakes, and thundering waterfalls, all amid a lush jungle. To get there, you’ll first need to make the journey from the cultural wonders of Costa Rica’s capital San Jose, to La Fortuna, the small town gateway to the Arenal Volcano National Park.

Lush rainforest, mountain streams loaded with natural geothermal springs and an active volcano, this is what travellers to Arenal Volcano National Park will be thrilled to see. Throw in some stellar wildlife from three-toed sloths to howler monkeys to hundreds of bird species and you might just think you found paradise. Arenal Volcano National Park is a special place to visit on a Costa Rica trip and this destination can make many of your adventure dreams come true. Choosing the right environment to holiday in is important and finding the perfect hotel in Arenal is easier than you thought. There are plenty of choices from hostels to luxury resorts and everything in between that can fit into any traveller’s budget. It should come as no surprise that you are thinking about where to stay in Arenal. We have pared down your selection to the six best Arenal hotels that fits every budget.

Costa Rica is well-known as the 'treasure' for travel in Central America, and with good reason. Few other destinations pack in quite so much in so little area. Costa Rica tours cover the slopes of the Arenal Volcano to the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula as well as the wetlands of Tortuguero National Park. The only difficulty in planning a trip to Costa Rica is managing to fit in all the things to do! Let us help with this guide to planning the perfect Costa Rica escape!

In recent years, Costa Rica has established itself as one of the world's great destinations, offering the ultimate blend of stunning scenery, rich culture, and legendary hospitality. Adventure tourists and eco-tourists alike are enthralled by this small country's range of activities, sights, and attractions, not to mention its excellent infrastructure and delicious cuisine. From the mighty Arenal volcano to the cloud forests of Monteverde and the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio, there is no shortage of action and adventure! That said, traveling to any developing country can bring its own challenges, and Costa Rica is no exception. As such, we’ve put together our very best Costa Rica travel tips to help you get to the very most out of your Costa Rica tour.