Costa Rica Trip: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers

Costa Rica has two main seasons:

Dry Season (December to April): Best for sunny beach days, hiking, and easy travel. It’s also peak tourist season, so prices are higher.

Rainy Season (May to November): Also called the “green season.” It rains in the afternoons, but mornings are usually clear. Prices are lower, and landscapes are lush and vibrant.

Local tip: As someone who lives here, I recommend May, June, and November. These are shoulder months—less crowded, lower prices, and still great weather.

At least 7–10 days to explore both volcanoes and beaches.

Most visitors from the US, Canada, and Europe do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.

Yes, it’s considered one of the safest countries in Latin America.

December–April for dry season, May–June and November for fewer crowds and lush landscapes.

Budget travelers: $60–80/day, mid-range: $100–150/day, luxury: $250+/day.

Costa Rica isn’t the cheapest destination in Central America, but it can be adapted to any budget.

Accommodation: Hostels ($15–25), mid-range hotels ($60–120), resorts ($200+).

Transportation: Car rentals ($40–70/day), public buses (cheap but slow), shared shuttles ($40–60 per route).

Food: Local sodas ($5–8 per meal), mid-range restaurants ($15–25), high-end dining ($50+).

Activities: National park entrance ($15–20), tours ($40–100), adventure sports ($50–120).

Insider advice: Don’t overschedule. Pick 2–3 regions max. Distances look small on the map, but travel times can be long.

Tap water is safe to drink in most areas.

A Costa Rica trip is more than just a vacation—it’s an experience that stays with you. Between the stunning landscapes, the wildlife encounters, and the Pura Vida way of life, it’s no wonder people keep coming back.

As a local, I can tell you: Costa Rica has something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, surfing waves, exploring jungles, or just sipping coffee while watching toucans fly by, you’ll leave with memories that feel magical.

So pack light, bring your adventurous spirit, and get ready to fall in love with Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is often called the “Switzerland of Central America” thanks to its safety, political stability, and natural beauty. But it’s much more than that.

Nature and Biodiversity: With 5% of the world’s biodiversity packed into such a small country, you’ll encounter sloths, toucans, monkeys, and sea turtles in their natural habitats.

Friendly People and “Pura Vida” Culture: Locals greet each other with Pura Vida, a phrase that means much more than “pure life”—it’s a philosophy of enjoying the present and staying positive. As a local, I can tell you that this is more than a slogan, it’s our lifestyle.

Accessibility: The country is compact, which makes it possible to explore mountains, rainforests, and beaches all in one week.

If you’re craving both relaxation and adventure, a Costa Rica trip strikes the perfect balance.

Spanish is official, but most people in tourism speak English. Learning a few phrases like gracias (thank you) or por favor (please) goes a long way.