costa rica

Introducing Costa Rica

Costa Rica, a Latin American republic with its capital city of San José, borders the Caribbean Sea to the east and the North Pacific Ocean to the west, boasting a 1,290-kilometer coastline. 40% of Costa Rica's territory is covered in pristine forest, home to a diverse flora and fauna. In recent years, Costa Rica's Tenorio Volcano National Park has become a popular destination for travelers, offering endless scenic views, including its famous waterfalls and blue lagoons, creating a sense of paradise.

Climate and best time to travel

Located in the tropical and subtropical regions, this region has only two seasons: the rainy season from April to December, with heavy rainfall, and the dry season, also known as summer, from late December to April. The average annual temperature in the capital, San Jose, ranges from a low of 15°C to a high of 26°C; coastal areas are relatively warmer.

From December to April of the following year, there is less precipitation;

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 6-day tour

Canas

Located in Costa Rica's northern plains, this town is brimming with charm and unique culture. Visit the beautiful church in the central park. Its colorful mosaics and intricate designs make it one of the most picturesque sights in Cañas. Enjoy a drink in one of the town's bars and enjoy lively folk dancing. A must-see is the Arenal Volcano, where you can marvel at its natural splendor.

Liberia

Liberia is the capital and largest city of Guanacaste Province, known for its stark whitewashed houses. The Guanacaste Museum, located in the heart of Liberia, embodies the legacy of military abolition. Rincon de la Vieja National Park is located in northeastern Liberia. Here, visitors can enjoy volcanic hot springs, admire numerous waterfalls and rivers, and explore the park's hiking trails.

San Vito

San Vito, nestled in the Coto Brus Valley at the foot of the Talamanca Mountains, boasts a unique natural landscape. Visit the Wilson and Las Cruces Biological Stations to see over 1,000 plant species from Costa Rica, encompassing 475,000 hectares of tropical forest. Nearby La Amistad National Park is also a great place to explore. The San Vito Cultural Center offers a glimpse into local culture, and behind it, a bomb-damaged jeep from World War II remains.

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Most Popular FAQs for costa rica

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Costa Rica is known for its rich biodiversity, environmental conservation, and peaceful history as it abolished its army in 1948. It has cultural significance through indigenous heritage, eco-tourism, and natural wonders.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Costa Rica is in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua and Panama. Main entry is via Juan Santamaría International Airport (San José) or Liberia Airport. Local transportation includes buses, taxis, shuttles, and rental cars; public metro exists in San José.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

National parks are generally open from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Best time to visit is the dry season from December to April for optimal weather and fewer rain interruptions.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary by park: Arenal Volcano (~$15 USD), Manuel Antonio (~$18 USD), Tortuguero (~$15 USD). Tickets can be purchased online on official park websites or at entrance booths.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended for popular parks and guided tours, especially during peak season (2–4 weeks ahead).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore major highlights, plan for 7–10 days, including volcanoes, cloud forests, beaches, and wildlife tours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna waterfalls.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for wildlife and canopy tours.
• Manuel Antonio National Park for beaches and animals.
• Tortuguero National Park for river and wildlife excursions.
• Corcovado National Park for rainforest exploration.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in Spanish and English; some eco-lodges offer multilingual guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Arenal Volcano lookout points.
• Monteverde suspension bridges and cloud forest trails.
• Sunset views at Pacific beaches like Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio.
• Tortuguero canals for wildlife photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start in San José, head north to Arenal, then Monteverde, follow with Pacific coast beaches, and end with southern rainforest exploration (Tortuguero or Corcovado).

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, night wildlife tours, guided nocturnal hikes, and turtle nesting tours are available at select parks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Tourist sites are busiest during December–April. Least crowded times are during the green season (May–November), especially weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Major parks provide restrooms, small cafes or kiosks, water stations, and visitor centers; bring extra water for remote areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many national parks have trails with stairs and uneven terrain, limiting accessibility. Some lodges and boardwalk areas are wheelchair-friendly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards are accepted in hotels and major tourist sites; cash is recommended for local markets, taxis, and small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local sodas (small restaurants) serving traditional Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and casado.
• International cuisine in tourist towns like La Fortuna and Tamarindo.
• Cafes in national parks or nearby towns for quick snacks and drinks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, especially in tourist areas; halal options are limited but sometimes available in larger towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Luxury eco-lodges near Arenal and Monteverde.
• Beach resorts in Guanacaste and Manuel Antonio.
• Mid-range hotels and hostels in San José and La Fortuna.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Hot springs and waterfalls near Arenal.
• Canopy tours and hanging bridges in Monteverde.
• Beach day trips from Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio.
• Boat tours in Tortuguero canals.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes; typical souvenirs include handmade crafts, coffee, local chocolate, wood carvings, and eco-friendly products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Domestic flights to quickly reach different regions.
• Rental cars for flexible travel between beaches, forests, and volcanoes.
• Shuttle services and long-distance buses connecting main tourist areas.