Image: The Arenal Volcano is one of the great natural treasures of Costa Rica. Its protected areas offer multiple activities to visitors. (Photo via Costa Rica Tourism Board).
Image: The Arenal Volcano is one of the great natural treasures of Costa Rica. Its protected areas offer multiple activities to visitors. (Photo via Costa Rica Tourism Board).
Costa Rica Today: November 27, 3:40 AM 83°F Overcast Clouds

Costa Rica Travel Guide 

Small in size and big in attributes, Costa Rica in South America offers visitors a tropical holiday destination with immense diversity.

Wet habitats of clouds and rainforests are home to hundreds of species of wildlife that will wow nature lovers. Warm turquoise waters offer idyllic scuba diving and surfing; the more adventurous can explore waterfalls or hike an active volcano. 

If holidaying in one of the most biodiverse places on earth appeals to you, Costa Rica should be on your list of destinations.

We found that driving is the most convenient way to get around Costa Rica for freedom and flexibility. However, car rentals are costly, and you must establish whether you need a 2wd or 4wd. Reserve your car rental well in advance due to limited availability and high demand.

There are shuttles available for those who do not want to drive. They offer door-to-door service, and it's faster than taking a bus. Shared shuttles have up to 15 passengers. Private shuttles are for your group's exclusive use.

Taking a bus is the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but it's also the most time-consuming. Bus transportation is perfect if you visit popular tourist destinations and major areas. However, if you deviate from the main routes, you may have to take more than one bus to your destination. 

Flying on a domestic flight is a quick and easy way to get around the country, but it is expensive. There are a couple of local airlines that fly countrywide.

Important Things To Know

Currency

The currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón ₡. 

National Languages

The official national language of Costa Rica is Spanish, and it has been since the Spanish colonization in the 16th century. English is widely spoken but not all Costa Ricans speak English.

There are also five indigenous languages spoken in Costa Rica as part of the Chibcha language family.


Costa Rica has natural reserves with a great diversity of endemic and migratory birds. (Photo via Provided by Collette).

Costa Rica has natural reserves with a great diversity of endemic and migratory birds. (Photo via Provided by Collette).

Climate And Weather

Costa Rica is an equatorial country and experiences a tropical climate with little difference in temperature between summer and winter. 

Temperatures are warm, averaging between 73 and 90 °F (23 and 32 °C), and there is slight variation in daylight hours.

Costa Rica typically has a dry season from the end of December through the end of April and a rainy season from May to November.

 

 

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When To Visit Costa Rica

En Costa Rica uno elige el tipo de actividad y escenario, ya que se pueden hacer por cielo, mar, tierra y ríos.
En Costa Rica uno elige el tipo de actividad y escenario, ya que se pueden hacer por cielo, mar, tierra y ríos. (Photo Credit: CWW México e ICT)

We’ve found that any time is a good time to visit Costa Rica. However, note that there are two distinct seasons.

If you’re visiting Costa Rica to escape a dull winter, December through the end of April are your best months. This is the Costa Rican “Summer.” It is also peak tourist season so expect crowds and high prices. Book accommodation, car rentals, and tours at least 2-3 months before your trip. 

The dry months are the best for scuba diving and catching sight of the giant oceanic manta rays. It is also the best time for bird watching - especially in the cloud forests such as Monteverde.

Costa Rica’s rainy season, or “winter,” is from mid-May to the end of November. Visitor numbers and tourist prices drop. We discovered that planning outings during the rainy season was no problem. Rain typically falls at the same time every day so it’s fairly predictable. 

In our opinion, it is well worth experiencing some rain to see the rivers run higher and even the dry forests turn lush green! 

 

Best Places To Stay In Costa Rica

Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica World Nature (Photo Credit: Provided by Collette)

  • San Jose, the capital and largest city in Costa Rica, is known for its world-class parks, museums, and theaters. The city is filled with beautiful architecture and an array of activities. The Municipal Rose Garden blew us away. With over four thousand rose shrubs, we saw colors and combinations we could never have imagined.
  • Manuel Antonio is the place to head if you’re looking for stunning white sandy beaches and a pristine national park sure to please visitors of all ages.
  • Monteverde boasts one of the best ecotourism destinations in the world. The elevated hanging rope bridges of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. In our opinion, the canopy tours are an unmissable experience, especially for bird lovers. 
  • Puerto Jiménez is the main gateway to the Corcovado National Park. This somewhat hidden tourist destination offers day trips to archeological spots, whale and dolphin watching tours, and sport fishing.

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Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

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Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

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Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me