Top Costa Rica travel tips

Inspired by photos of Costa Rica's rainforests with exotic flora and fauna, volcanoes and world-class beaches? So are we. If you're dreaming of traveling to this Central American country, this article will help you plan the best Costa Rica vacation.

With Costa Rica making our list of the best places to vacation with kids, as well as our ranking of the world's best adventure vacations, it's safe to say that Costa Rica offers a wealth of experiences for everyone.

But what should you consider before you make the journey? From weather conditions to etiquette, we offer you the most important Costa Rica travel tips.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Costa Rica, your essential Costa Rica travel guide.

1. Plan ahead if your trip falls during the high season

Since many North Americans fly south for the winter, not to mention the locals traveling home, one of the most important Costa Rica travel tips is to book in advance if you want to visit Costa Rica during the high season. There are especially many tourists at Christmas and New Year's.

Hotel rooms and buses can sell out weeks ahead, but by being savvy and using several transport links (such as a private shuttle), it’s possible to make things work. Alternatively, you can hire a car for greater flexibility.

The week leading up to Easter is another pressure point, though the parades and processions that take place during this time are quite unique and well worth seeing.

2. How much time do you need for Costa Rica?

The answer to how many days to spend in Costa Rica depends on how much there is to see and how relaxed your trip will be. With at least 7 days in Costa Rica, you can enjoy a solid mix of beaches, rainforests, and wildlife — perfect for a Costa Rica rainforest tour — though it’s not enough time to see everything this amazing country has to offer.

Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia or Wales, but traveling across it takes time. Expect long bus rides, rental car journeys, or domestic flights to cover the distances.

To see the best of Costa Rica in a more relaxed pace, a 10 day Costa Rica itinerary is ideal. This lets you explore both coasts, visit Arenal Volcano, and trek through Monteverde Cloud Forest. With 2 weeks in Costa Rica, you can hit most highlights and even consider adding nearby Panama or Nicaragua.

If you’re coming from the US, a 5-day trip is doable but rushed. From Europe or the UK? Skip the quick visit - Costa Rica deserves more time.

3. Use caution when it comes to the weather

Costa Rica’s weather likes to keep you on your toes. Even during the dry season (December to April), sudden downpours aren’t unusual in the Central Highlands and along the Atlantic Coastal Plain, so don’t leave your rain gear behind. By May, the rainy season kicks in, and you’ll definitely want to be prepared.

Traveling in late September or October? Keep in mind that many hotels and restaurants along the Pacific Coast close up shop for a quick break before the high season starts. But don’t worry — the Caribbean coast usually has more options open this time of year.

One thing to remember: no matter how sunny the morning looks, rain in the rainforest is always a possibility. Bring waterproof clothing and a dry bag to keep your valuables safe. And if you’ve had enough of the rain, head west to the Pacific slope, where sunshine is usually a sure thing.

4. Take cash and cards with you

When traveling to remote areas of Costa Rica, make sure you carry enough colones (Costa Rican currency) in small denominations. ATMs can be scarce, and stores or locals often don't have change for larger bills.

Don't just rely on cash, however - bring a credit or debit card, as many hotels and restaurants in tourist areas accept them. Keep cash in a money belt and don't bring damaged or worn U.S. dollars, especially $100 bills, as many businesses and banks won't accept them.

5. Don’t overpack

Pack light — seriously. You’ll thank yourself when you’re not dragging a giant suitcase across gravel roads or sandy beaches. A good backpack is all you need, especially if you’re bouncing between spots.

Bring quick-dry clothes, a rain jacket (even in the dry season), and sturdy shoes for hiking. Toss in essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, and a refillable water bottle, and you’re set. Don’t go overboard on toiletries either; you can buy most things there. Trust us, the less you bring, the easier your trip will be.

6. Be prepared to spend some money

Costa Rica is among the most expensive countries in Latin America - and that's not just when compared to neighboring countries. The country can rival the US and the UK for the cost of some supermarket items, such as bottled water and sunscreen.

To save money, eat gallo pinto at small family-run sodas, pay for groceries and other small purchases with local currency - colones rather than dollars - and travel in low season (aka rainy season) when room rates drop. If you eat out, keep in mind that most restaurants add a 10% service charge and 13% tax to the bill, and budget accordingly.

7. What about tips?

As we mentioned above, it is common for a 10% tip in Costa Rica to already be included in your check. However, if you want to leave a tip on top of your check, it is more than welcome. You can also tip your guide or cab driver in USD or colones at your discretion.

8. Do I need to know the language?

You may think that since Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination, you will have no trouble finding locals who speak English, but this is not entirely true. Yes, English is common in Costa Rica, but not all locals know it. And although you can travel around the country without knowing Spanish, one of the best Costa Rica travel tips is to learn at least the greetings and words of thanks.

Knowing basic phrases will not only earn you praise and a warm welcome, but will simply emphasize your respect for the locals.

9. Respect the country’s sustainability credentials

Costa Rica continues to lead the way in sustainability, with ambitious goals to maintain its position as one of the world’s greenest countries. To support its ongoing environmental efforts, stay at locally owned ecolodges and choose operators that prioritize sustainable tourism.

Need help sorting the eco-friendly from the greenwashing? The Costa Rica Tourism Institute’s Certificate of Sustainable Tourism (CST) ranks businesses from levels one to five, based on their commitment to sustainability. Look for the CST rating when booking — it’s your guide to choosing responsible travel options.

10. Is Costa Rica safe?

Although Costa Rica is generally a very safe country, pickpockets and petty theft can be a problem. By applying basic common sense, you can avoid the hassle of losing your belongings. First, never leave things in plain sight in a parked car. If you're heading to the beach, try to park in a parking lot (some are guarded by enterprising locals) or next to other cars.

Also, be aware that pickpockets operate at bus stations and other crowded places such as markets. And lastly, it may be obvious, but don't leave your bags unattended.

11. Have bug spray on hand - one of the most important Costa Rica travel tips

In Costa Rica, protecting yourself from insects is a must — mosquitoes here can carry diseases like dengue and Zika. The best defense? An insect repellent with DEET. Make sure to apply it to both your skin and clothing, especially during the rainy season when mosquitoes are everywhere.

On top of that, wearing long sleeves and sleeping under a mosquito net can go a long way in keeping those pesky bugs at bay. Stay prepared, and you’ll avoid spending your trip itching — or worse!

12. Don't be afraid of tap water

The good news is that in most parts of Costa Rica, tap water is safe to drink. The country has a robust water purification system, so you can fill your bottle straight from the tap without worry. Not only will this save you money, but it will also help reduce plastic waste - a big plus for an eco-friendly destination like Costa Rica.

However, in more remote areas, such as the Osa Peninsula or rural mountain villages, it's better to double-check with locals or make do with bottled water. If in doubt, bring a portable water filter or purification tablets to stay safe and stay hydrated.

13. Rent a 4x4 and remember to be cautious on the roads

If you're planning to self-drive in Costa Rica, you need to consider a 4x4. Although some of the main roads have been paved, many others are still nothing more than dirt trails. If you add heavy rains to the mix, you'll have a muddy mess to navigate. To ensure a smooth experience, it's best to rent a car in Costa Rica from a reliable provider that offers vehicles equipped for these conditions.

Even if the weather is dry, keep your eyes peeled for potholes and unpainted speed bumps which can cause car problems. Keep water and snacks in your car in case of breakdowns, and try to bring a cell phone so you can contact the car rental company if necessary.

14. Swap the Pacific coast for the Caribbean coast

One quick solution to escape the crowds of tourists in Costa Rica is to head east instead of west. Because Liberia's international airport is so close to the Pacific Coast, it's an easily accessible beach destination. The Caribbean coast beaches are much harder to get to, so this region is also much less developed. If you're looking for a vacation away from civilization, you'll love exploring the Caribbean coast.

15. What to skip in Costa Rica

Not everything in Costa Rica lives up to the hype, and skipping a few places can save you time and money. San José, for example, isn’t much more than a transit hub. Unless you’re spending a night before catching a flight, it’s better to head straight to Costa Rica’s beaches or national parks.

Another place to avoid is Jaco. Overcrowded and overdeveloped, this beach town feels more like a hangout point than a natural spot. If you're not looking for nightlife, you're better off heading to more scenic spots like Manuel Antonio or Uvita.

Guided tours are another thing to think about. While some tours are worth it - such as night walks in Monteverde or birding excursions with local experts - many national parks, such as Cahuita or Manuel Antonio, are easy (and much cheaper) to explore on your own. However, if you want to go on an adventure tour in Costa Rica, for example, it is better to rely on a guide for your safety.

16. Choose between adventure gateways

Monteverde and La Fortuna are two favorite backpacker destinations in northern Costa Rica, and both are great for outdoor activities. However, getting between the two can be a long process, and much of the adventure offerings are similar.

If you don't have time for both resorts, one of the top Costa Rica travel tips is to choose Monteverde, as it has the advantage of a drier climate and the bohemian charm of the hills.

• For couples: La Guayaba Monteverde
• For unity with nature: Los Pinos Cabins & Reserve
• For stunning views: Hotel Flor de Bromelia

Find more accommodations to stay in Monteverde

17. Add a neighbor to your Costa Rica itinerary

Although the countries of Central America are closely adjacent to each other, each boasts its own character, attractions, and heritage. The neighboring countries of Nicaragua and Panama are the easiest and most obvious additions to a Costa Rica itinerary.

Nicaragua is a more “raw” destination best suited for adventurous and frugal travelers while Panama offers a cosmopolitan capital city as well as plenty of rural adventure.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Costa Rica without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

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Header image: Sunrise Arenal volcano in Costa Rica, Central America © Antonio Fernandez Dieguez/Shutterstock