Costa Rica Itinerary: 5, 7, 10 and 14 days itineraries

updated 19.12.2024

Costa Rica is a dream destination for outdoor lovers and thrill-seekers. With over 800 miles of coastline, 121 volcanic formations (seven still bubbling away), and some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, it’s an eco-adventure paradise. Planning your first trip to Costa Rica? A well-crafted Costa Rica itinerary is key to decide where to start. That’s why we’ve created these tailored itineraries, designed especially for first-time visitors. Whether you’re staying 5, 7, 10, or 14 days, we’ll help you make the most of your trip.

Costa Rica itineraries overview

Costa Rica isn’t just a destination—it’s a playground for adventure, nature, and pure relaxation. Whether you’re zip-lining through cloud forests, spotting sloths in the jungle, or unwinding on golden beaches, this Central American gem knows how to pack a punch. But here’s the thing: with so much to see and do, a well-planned itinerary is your best friend.

To make your life easier, we’ve put together detailed itineraries for every kind of trip. Whether you’ve got five days or two weeks, we’ve got you covered.

  • 5-day itinerary: Perfect for a quick escape. Think volcanoes, beaches, and a taste of pura vida.
  • 7-day itinerary: One week to balance adventure and downtime.
  • 10-day itinerary: More time means more variety—cloud forests, coastlines, and everything in between.
  • 14-day itinerary: Two weeks to fully immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity and culture.
Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica - Aerial Drone shot of Flamingo Beach South Ridge with panoramic View over Playa Potrero © Shutterstock

Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica - Aerial Drone shot of Flamingo Beach © Shutterstock

5 day in Costa Rica itinerary

Five days isn’t a lot of time, but it’s enough to get a solid taste of Costa Rica. On this short 5-day Costa Rica itinerary you’ll get a nice mix of cultural highlights, misty cloud forests, and even take a short volcano hike.

Day 1: San José

You'll begin this trip in Costa Rica’s capital, San José. Start at the National Museum inside the Bellavista Fortress, which has great pre-Columbian artifacts and butterfly gardens. Then, take a  stroll around Central Park to get a feel for the city’ Wrap up at Mercado Central, sampling local dishes like patacones and agua dulce.

Day 2: La Fortuna

On day two, you’ll want to begin early with a scenic drive to La Fortuna through rolling countryside (the drive itself is gorgeous). There are a ton of great hikes in La Fortuna, especially the rainforest trail to La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim in crystal clear waters. This is one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for toucans overhead. After, visit the town center and sample traditional casados at family-run sodas.

Day 3: Arenal Volcano

Start your third day of this short Costa Rica itinerary with a guided hike through Arenal Volcano National Park. The 1968 trail gives you the best volcano views - you'll literally walk on old lava flows. Afterwards, you can relax in the natural hot springs, which are surrounded by tropical gardens and cascading thermal pools. Wrap up the day with a traditional Costa Rican dinner.

Day 4: Monteverde’s Cloud Forest

The journey to  Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve might be bumpy, but being one of Costa Rica’s most unique ecosystems, it’s definitely worth it. This misty forest is home to more than 400 bird species and 100 mammal species, and should not be missed. Take a stroll along the famous hanging bridges for a unique view of the treetops, or, if you’re up for some excitement, go for a canopy zipline tour.

Day 5: Return to San José

With just five days, you'll want to make your last day count. A coffee tour will give you a whole new appreciation for your morning brew - the passion these farmers have is unforgettable. On your way back to San José, make a stop in the artisan town of Sarchí, where skilled craftsmen create detailed wooden pieces and the iconic hand-painted oxcarts.

DayDestinationActivities
Day 1San José
  • Visit National Theatre and Jade Museum
  • Explore Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
  • Stroll through Central Park
Day 2La Fortuna 
  • Explore rainforest and waterfalls
  • Trail to La Fortuna Waterfall
  • Family run sodas
Day 3Arenal Volcano
  • Hike Arenal Volcano trails
  • Relax at hot springs
  • Traditional Costa Rican dinner
Day 4Monteverde’s Cloud Forest
  • Walk hanging bridges for treetop views
  • Try a canopy zipline tour
  • Spot wildlife and birds
Day 5Coffee farm, return to San José
  • Coffee farm
  • Return to San José
  • Sarchi on the way back
Arenal volcano in Costa Rica © Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock

Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica © Shutterstock

7 day in Costa Rica itinerary

Even with just a week to spare, you can really see quite a lot! Here's our favorite 7-day Costa Rica itinerary.

Day 1: San José

Start your Costa Rica adventure in San José. While not a main attraction, Barrio Amón’s historical buildings and street art are definitely worth checking out. Stop by Plaza de la Cultura, the city’s cultural center. In the evening, head to Barrio Escalante for a taste of the local nightlife and dining scene.

Day 2: Manuel Antonio

On day two, you’ll travel 2.5 hours from San José to Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. EAlong the way, you could stop at Jaco Beach or Playa Hermosa for a quick break. Manuel Antonio and Quepos are former fishing villages now full of modern amenities and are great places to stay, but make sure to book ahead if you’re visiting during high season.

Day 3: Manuel Antonio

On day three of this week long Costa Rica itinerary, you’ll explore Manuel Antonio’s mix of stunning beaches and lush rainforest. Don’t miss Espadilla Sur, Manuel Antonio, and Puerto Escondido beaches. The park also has 12 islands that are bird sanctuaries. You can also go hiking through stunning rainforest trails to spot local wildlife, or take a boat to Damas Island's mangrove swamps.

Day 4: Manuel Antonio

On this day you’ll want to start the day early to catch the sunrise—there’s nothing like it. Spend time relaxing at the park's most beautiful beaches: Playa Manuel Antonio, Playa Espadilla Sur, Escondido, and Playita. If visiting between November-February or July-August, join whale-watching tours to spot humpback and pilot whales. Wrap up the day with a sunset sailing trip.

Day 5: Monteverde

Day 5 takes you to Monteverde Cloud Forest, about 4-5 hours by car. The Monteverde Bridge offers a perfect photo op. Take your pick from several hiking trails, like Sendero Bosque Nuboso (Cloud Forest Trail) or Sendero Pantanoso. Stay in Santa Elena, where you’ll find good amenities and easy access to the forest.

Day 6: La Fortuna

On Day 6, head 3-4 hours to La Fortuna, home to the famous Arenal Volcano. For a scenic route, consider the jeep-boat-jeep option across Lake Arenal. Don’t miss the La Fortuna waterfall— however, be ready for a 200-step descent. The city of La Fortuna is also a great place to take a relaxed stroll. 

Day 7: Arenal Volcano

On your last day, hike through Arenal Volcano National Park’s rainforest circuit, crossing 15 bridges. The miradors (viewpoints) are great for panoramic views of the volcano and Lake Arenal. After all the hiking, relax in one of the natural hot springs, accessible with day passes from local resorts. Perfect for unwinding after a whirlwind trip. 

DayDestinationActivities
Day 1San José
  • Capital city of Costa Rica
  • Features historic Barrio Amón neighborhood known for architecture and street art
  • Cultural center at Plaza de la Cultura
  • Notable Barrio Escalante area for dining and nightlife
Day 2Manuel Antonio
  • 2.5 hour drive to Manuel Antonio
  • Optional stops at Jaco Beach or Playa Hermosa
  • Check into accommodations in Manuel Antonio town or Quepos
Day 3Manuel Antonio
  • Hike through the national park's rainforest trails
  • Visit the park's signature beaches
  • Optional boat trip to Damas Island to see mangroves
  • Wildlife spotting for exotic animals
Day 4Manuel Antonio
  • Optional 5 AM sunrise viewing
  • Beach day at choice of four main beaches
  • Possible whale watching (seasonal: Nov-Feb, July-Aug)
  • Evening sunset sailing trip option
Days 4-5Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
  • Walk across the famous hanging bridges
  • Zipline through the treetops
  • Hike serene trails surrounded by wildlife and plant life
Days 6-7La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano National Park
  • RVisit La Fortuna waterfall
  • 20-minute descent to waterfall base
  • Explore Arenal Volcano National Park
  • Hike the rainforest circuit with 15 bridges
  • Visit various volcano viewpoints
  • Relax in natural hot springs
espadilla beach and Coastline near the Manuel Antonio national park, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

10 day in Costa Rica itinerary

With 10-day Costa Rica itinerary, you'll find you have just enough time to see the country's beaches,  jungles, volcanoes, and thundering waterfalls.

Day 1: San Jose

You'll start this 10 day itinerary in Costa Rica's capital, found right in the Central Valley with volcanic peaks as your backdrop. After you’re settled, you'll want to head straight to Mercado Central - it's where you'll find the best tamales and fresh tropical fruits. Don't miss Parque Central's gorgeous Spanish colonial buildings. Then, relax in Parque Central, surrounded by Spanish colonial architecture and tropical birds flitting through flowering trees.

Day 2: San Jose to Tortuguero

Today, journey through the misty cloud forests of Braulio Carrillo National Park, home to quetzals and toucans. As you head towards Tortuguero National Park, the landscape shifts to Caribbean lowlands. The landscape transforms into Caribbean lowlands before reaching Tortuguero's intricate network of natural canals, what locals call Costa Rica’s Amazon.

Day 3: Tortuguero National Park

Spend day three exploring Tortuguero’s 47,000 acres of protected habitats. Cruise through the canals where caimans sunbathe and tiger herons hunt. Depending on the season, you might be able to catch endangered green sea turtles nesting on the black sand beaches. In the evening, take a nocturnal walk and spot red-eyed tree frogs hiding in the dark.

Day 4: La Fortuna

On day 4, travel 4.5 hours by boat and road to La Fortuna. You’ll travel from Tortuguero’s Caribbean mangroves through banana plantations and cattle ranches, arriving finally in Costa Rica’s volcanic heartland. As you approach La Fortuna, catch your first glimpse of Arenal Volcano’s perfect cone, standing 5,437 feet tall above the rainforest. La Fortuna is nestled in its shadow, surrounded by thermal springs.

Day 5: La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano

Day 5 is when you can experience the rainforest from above with Sky Adventures' hanging bridges tour. You’ll cross hanging bridges suspended 180 feet above the rainforest floor, where capuchin monkeys swing through the canopy. Afterward, hike the Las Coladas trail across hardened lava fields from 1968's eruption, or El Ceibo to see ancient ceiba trees.

Jaco Beach Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Jaco Beach Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Day 6: La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano

On Day 6, descend 500 steps through primary rainforest to La Fortuna waterfall, where 200-foot cascades thunder, and take a dip in the natural pools beneath it. Here you can spot trogons and morpho butterflies along the trail. After, soak in Tabacón's hot springs, where thermal waterfalls flow through gardens of heliconia and orchids. 

Day 7: La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio National Park

Travel 4-5 hours to Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica’s smallest yet most popular park. With incredible biodiversity, you’ll find dense rainforest meeting pristine beaches. This drive is gorgeous — you’ll travel from the volcanic highlands through the Tárcoles River valley, where massive crocodiles gather beneath mangrove-lined banks.

Day 8: Manuel Antonio National Park

Day 8 is spent hiking the accessible Sendero El Perezoso trail, where you may spot sloths and howler monkeys in their natural habitat. Then, relax on the beautiful Playa Manuel Antonio between wildlife sightings. If you’re up for more adventure, try a canopy tour, horseback riding, or even dolphin watching on a sunset catamaran cruise.

Day 9: Jaco Beach

Take a 1.5-hour drive to Jaco Beach, one of the best beaches in Costa Rica. It’s known for its great waves for beginners and experienced surfers alike. While there, check out Rainforest Adventures park for canopy tours, try an ATV ride, or go horseback riding. Be sure to catch a stunning Pacific sunset over the beach to end the day. 

Day 10: Return to San Jose

Wrap up your Costa Rican trip with a final 3.5-hour drive back to San José. The return journey showcases Costa Rica's dramatic elevational changes. Pass from coastal mangroves through coffee-laden highlands of the Talamanca Mountains. Finally, descend into the Central Valley, surrounded by the volcanic peaks of Poás and Irazú. 

Is 10 days enough for Costa Rica?

Ten days in Costa Rica is ideal for a balanced trip. You can explore La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano, hot springs), Monteverde (cloud forests, zip-lining), and the Pacific Coast (Manuel Antonio for beaches and wildlife or Tamarindo for surfing). It’s enough time to see the main highlights without feeling rushed.

DayDestinationActivities
Days 1-2San José
  • Shop and sample local food at Mercado Central
  • Visit the National Museum and National Theatre
  • Explore colonial neighborhoods and vibrant arts scenes
Days 3-4Tortuguero National Park
  • Explore canals and lagoons teeming with wildlife
  • Spot monkeys, toucans, caimans, and river turtles
  • Witness sea turtles nesting (July–October)
Days 5-6La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano
  • Hike trails around Arenal Volcano
  • Take in stunning rainforest and volcano views
  • Relax in the region’s hot springs
Days 7-8Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
  • Walk canopy bridges for treetop views
  • Zipline through the misty cloud forest
  • Visit the hummingbird gallery
Days 9-10Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Lounge on golden sand beaches
  • Snorkel in turquoise waters
  • Spot monkeys, iguanas, and sloths on forest trails
Bridge in Rainforest - Costa Rica - Monteverde  © Shutterstock

The famous bridge in Monteverde Cloud Forest © Shutterstock

14 day Costa Rica itinerary

With this Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, you'll get a relaxed yet exciting tour of Costa Rica. We tried to build this itinerary to be well rounded with iconic destinations you’ll not want to miss and more lesser-known spots to give you a unique trip to this beautiful country.

Day 1: San José

You’ll start this two week itinerary in San José, the capital. It’s set at 3,800 feet in the Central Valley, meaning you’ll get spring-like weather year-round. Head to the National Museum in an old fortress for a peek at pre-Columbian artifacts, then grab dinner in Barrio Escalante, where you’ll find great food in a trendy neighborhood.

Day 2: San José

On Day 2, you’ll dive into the Mercado Central, a bustling market that’s been around since 1880. You’ll find traditional sodas (local diners) here serving hearty breakfasts. Afterward, check out the Teatro Nacional, built in 1897. The guided tours here show off the neoclassical architecture and stunning interiors.

Day 3: Tortuguero National Park

On Day 3, it’s time to head to Tortuguero National Park, known as "Costa Rica’s Amazon." You can only get here by boat or plane, so it’s a unique spot. Once there, you’ll explore by canoe or boat, cruising through canals surrounded by lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, toucans, and even caimans. The park protects over 20 miles of Caribbean coastline. 

Day 4: Tortuguero National Park

The next morning, you’ll want to get up early for the best canal tours. The wildlife is more active in the mornings, so you might spot river otters, caimans, and herons. The village is car-free, and everyone either walks or gets around by boat. Hiring a local guide is a great idea as they know the best spots and can point out animals you might miss — they'll spot sloths you'd walk right past.

Tortuguero canals, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Tortuguero canals, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Day 5:  Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

On day 5, head to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast. This laid-back village blends Afro-Caribbean and indigenous cultures, creating a unique vibe. The local Creole language, Patois, reflects that rich mix. You’ll find contrasting beaches here—black sand Playa Negra and the coral-white Playa Cocles. Don’t miss the Jaguar Rescue Center, where they rehab injured wildlife and do amazing work.

Day 6: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

On day 6, make sure to try some traditional Caribbean chocolate. The indigenous Bribri people have been cultivating cacao for centuries and still make it the traditional way. If you can, visit their community to learn about local medicinal plants and traditional customs.

Day 7: Cahuita National Park

At the end of week one, make your way to nearby Cahuita National Park. The park’s coral reef stretches 600 meters offshore, and the best snorkeling is around Punta Cahuita. You’ll see colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and possibly nurse sharks. Take the beach trail to get there—sloths often hang out in the trees along the way.

Day 8: Cahuita National Park

On your second day in this infamous park, you’ll want to get up early for a morning hike. The park is known for its wildlife, and mornings offer the best views. Keep an ear out for howler monkeys—they’re among the loudest animals you’ll hear. The park protects over 35 coral species and 500 fish species, and a local guide will help you spot medicinal plants you’d otherwise miss.

Day 9: La Fortuna

That Arenal Volcano view will stop you in your tracks – it's perfectly cone-shaped and dominates the landscape. Your first stop should be the La Fortuna waterfall, which drops 200 feet into an emerald pool. At night, take a guided walk to see red-eyed tree frogs, sleeping toucans, and glowing bioluminescent fungi. The town’s central park also offers stunning views of the volcano.

Day 10: Arenal Volcano

On day 10, visit Arenal Volcano. The lava flows from ancient eruptions created caves and unique rock formations. Nearby hot springs, heated by volcanic activity, offer a relaxing soak with the rainforest as your backdrop—some pools even reach 105°F (40°C). Keep an eye out for emerald basilisk lizards—they can run across water, earning the nickname "Jesus Christ lizard."

La-Fortuna-waterfall-Arenal-volcano-Costa-Rica-shutterstock_634125518

La Fortuna Waterfall - a must on any Costa Rica itinerary © Shutterstock

Day 11: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

On this day of this Costa Rica itinerary, you’ll head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, perched on the Continental Divide. The constant mist created by Pacific and Caribbean winds gives the forest an ethereal feel. Some trees here host up to 200 plant species. Take a walk across the suspended bridges, some stretching 300 feet and rising 180 feet above the forest floor.

Day 12: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Spend another day in this iconic cloud forest to take more of it in (it is one of the most beautiful parks in Costa Rica after all). Here you can witness up to 14 different species of hummingbirds, and if you're lucky, the resplendent quetzal feeding on wild avocados. At night, go on a tour to see sleeping birds, active sloths, and glowing fluorescent scorpions. Don’t miss the local cheese factory, known for its excellent artisanal cheeses. 

Day 13: Manuel Antonio National Park

On your second to last day, you’ll make your way to Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s smallest but most biodiverse parks. You’ll often see three-toed sloths feeding in beach almond trees and white-faced capuchin monkeys, known for swiping unattended bags. Head to Cathedral Point for panoramic views of the Pacific—well worth the hike.

Day 14: Manuel Antonio National Park

Finally, explore the four stunning beaches within walking distance of each other. Tidal pools here are home to colorful starfish and hermit crabs. Keep an eye out for squirrel monkeys, which are found only in this region of Costa Rica, especially at sunset. The park’s hiking trails are perfect for wildlife viewing, no matter your fitness level.

Is 14 days enough for Costa Rica?

Fourteen days in Costa Rica gives you the full experience. You can cover the highlights—La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio—while also venturing to lesser-visited spots like the Osa Peninsula (wildlife haven) or Puerto Viejo (Caribbean beaches and culture). With two weeks, you can explore at a relaxed pace and dive deeper into the country’s diversity.

DayDestinationActivities
Days 1-2San José
  • Explore colonial and modern architecture
  • Visit the National Museum and Central Market
  • Sample traditional dishes like casado and arroz con pollo
Days 3-4Tortuguero National Park
  • Explore the canals by canoe or boat
  • Spot wildlife: monkeys, sloths, toucans, and caimans
Days 5-6Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
  • Surf or relax at Playa Cocles
  • Enjoy Afro-Caribbean cuisine, like coconut rice and beans
  • Relax on palm-fringed beaches
Days 7-8Cahuita National Park
  • Snorkel or dive the coral reefs
  • Spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and reef sharks
  • Hike rainforest trails and watch for howler monkeys
Days 9-10La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano
  • Hike the trails around Arenal Volcano
  • Explore nearby waterfalls
  • Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by rainforest
Days 11-12Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
  • Walk along hanging bridges for treetop views
  • Zipline through the cloud forest
  • Visit the hummingbird gallery and butterfly garden
Days 13-14Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Relax on pristine beaches
  • Snorkel in crystal-clear waters
  • Hike forest trails to spot sloths and monkeys
Playa Negra - black beach at Cahuita, Limon - Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Playa Negra at Cahuita, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

How many days do you need in Costa Rica?

It depends on how much you want to see and how relaxed you want your trip to feel. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Is 7 days in Costa Rica enough? With 7 days, you can cover the highlights, but it’ll feel fast-paced. Start with a couple of days in La Fortuna to explore Arenal Volcano, soak in the hot springs, and maybe hike to La Fortuna Waterfall. Then, head to Monteverde for a day or two of cloud forest adventures like zip-lining or a canopy walk. Finish your trip with some downtime at Manuel Antonio, where you can spot monkeys in the national park and relax on the beach.
    • La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio. Fast but doable.
  • Is 10 days in Costa Rica enough? If you’ve got 10 days, things feel more balanced. This gives you time to enjoy La Fortuna and Monteverde without rushing, plus a few days to unwind on the Pacific Coast. You could choose between Tamarindo (great for surfing and nightlife) or Santa Teresa (more offbeat and chill) for beach time, or stick with Manuel Antonio if you want wildlife and beaches in one spot. You’ll also have time for a few extra activities like white-water rafting or a visit to a coffee plantation.
    • Adds Pacific Coast beaches or extra activities, with a more relaxed pace.
  • Is 14 days in Costa Rica enough?  With 14 days, you can fully experience Costa Rica’s diversity. You’ll have enough time for the classic stops—La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio—but can also add less-touristy spots like Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast (think snorkeling and reggae vibes) or the Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. You’ll also have more flexibility for cultural experiences, like visiting local farms or spending a night in a small village.
    • Full experience, including off-the-beaten-path spots like Puerto Viejo or Osa Peninsula.

For a quick trip, a week is fine, but if you can spare 10–14 days, you’ll get a much richer taste of what Costa Rica has to offer.

A large coastal wave crashes on the reef. Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica, Drake Bay © Shutterstock

A large coastal wave crashes on the reef. Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica, Drake Bay © Shutterstock

Where to go in Costa Rica

All regions of Costa Rica offer a wealth of natural attractions, from the jungle-covered Osa Peninsula to the turtle-nesting beaches of Tortuguero National Park. Less-visited places to see wildlife wonders are in Los Quetzales National Park, and the Nicoya Peninsula is a remote spot for kayaking in the company of monkeys and sloths - traveling Costa Rica at its most exciting.

Rough Guides tip: the key is knowing where to go and how to plan a trip to Costa Rica.

Places and regions

  • San José and the Central Valley: Costa Rica’s capital, San José, has a thriving arts scene, while the surrounding Central Valley is home to the steaming Poás Volcano and the otherworldly, cratered Irazú Volcano.
  • Arenal Volcano and the Northern Zone: The plains of the Northern Zone are dominated by the iconic Arenal Volcano. Nearby, the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, close to the Nicaraguan border, is a haven for birdwatchers and basking caimans.
  • Osa Peninsula and the Southern Zone: For off-the-beaten-path travelers, Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica’s tallest peak, rises above the plains of the Southern Zone. Don’t miss Corcovado National Park, widely considered the country’s top hiking destination.
  • Guanacaste Province: Guanacaste is home to some of Costa Rica’s best beaches. Head to Sámara and Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula for beautiful coastlines with fewer crowds.
  • Limón Province: Limón is rich in Afro-Caribbean heritage, with roots tracing back to the late 19th century. It's star attraction? Sea turtles nesting along the beaches of Tortuguero National Park.
  • Monteverde and Manuel Antonio: Near the Pacific, Monteverde harbors one of the Americas’ last high-altitude cloud forests. Further south, Manuel Antonio National Park offers rainforest trails and idyllic beaches.

Top attractions

  • Arenal Volcano and hot springs: Hike around this iconic volcano, then soak in natural hot springs fed by its geothermal activity.
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Walk among the treetops on hanging bridges and spot rare wildlife in this magical high-altitude ecosystem.
  • Manuel Antonio National Park: A mix of rainforest and pristine beaches, perfect for wildlife spotting (hello, monkeys and sloths!) and a refreshing swim.
  • Tortuguero National Park: Glide through jungle canals and watch sea turtles nest on its protected Caribbean beaches.
  • Corcovado National Park: Dubbed the most biodiverse place on Earth, this remote park is a paradise for hiking and wildlife enthusiasts.
Click to activate the map
The Valle Central and the highlands
The Valle Central and the highlandsCosta Rica
The Central Pacific and southern Nicoya
The Central Pacific and southern NicoyaCosta Rica
The Zona Sur
The Zona SurCosta Rica
The Zona Norte
The Zona NorteCosta Rica
Limón Province and the Caribbean coast
Limón Province and the Caribbean coastCosta Rica
Guanacaste
GuanacasteCosta Rica
San José
San JoséCosta Rica

When's the best time to visit Costa Rica

If you're asking, "What's the best month to go to Costa Rica?" the answer depends on what kind of experience you’re after. For most travelers, November, April, and early May are ideal months. 

  • November marks the start of the dry season, with lush green landscapes left over from the rains, while April and early May offer plenty of sunshine before the rainy season fully sets in.
  • Costa Rica’s dry season runs from mid-November to April, bringing warm temperatures and clear skies — perfect for beach days, volcano hikes.

Rainy season

The rainy season, from May to mid-November, has its perks too. While September and October are the wettest months (making travel tricky in some areas), the rest of the green season is quieter, and afternoon showers often mean mornings stay bright and sunny.

If you want great weather without the crowds, plan your Costa Rica itinerary just before Easter or in early November.

Find out more about the best time to visit Costa Rica.

Do you need a visa?

For most travelers, Costa Rica has a pretty laid-back entry policy. Here’s what you need to know:

  • No visa required for stays up to 90 days if you’re from the US, UK, Canada, EU countries, Australia, or New Zealand. Just show a valid passport (make sure it’s valid for at least six months after arrival) and proof of onward travel, like a return ticket or a flight to another country.
  • Proof of onward travel is non-negotiable. Airlines might even ask for it before boarding.

Planning to stay longer? You’ll need to apply for an extension with Costa Rican immigration while you’re there. It’s doable, but involves a bit of paperwork—and patience.

Punta-Uva-limon-costa-rica-shutterstock_430399933

Punta Uva, Limon, Costa Rica @ Shutterstock

How to get to Costa Rica

Costa Rica has two international airports. Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), located just outside San José, handles most of the country’s international flights. Meanwhile, Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), near Liberia in Guanacaste, is growing in popularity and offers an increasing number of flights from the US, Canada, and the UK.

If you're already traveling within Central America, Costa Rican airlines like Sansa and Nature Air offer regular flights connecting San José with neighboring countries like Nicaragua and Panama.

More detailed info can be found on our guide how to get to Costa Rica.

How to get around in Costa Rica

Traveling around Costa Rica is relatively straightforward, and there are options to suit every type of traveler, whether you're looking for convenience or budget-friendly choices. From buses to rental cars, here's what you need to know.

Renting a car in Costa Rica

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Costa Rica at your own pace, especially if you’re visiting places off the beaten path, like Monteverde or the Osa Peninsula. However, it’s not for the faint-hearted. Mountain roads in the highlands can be narrow and steep, with sheer drops, while rural areas often feature pothole-filled dirt roads. A 4x4 is essential if you’re heading to more remote regions, particularly during the rainy season. Be prepared for unpredictable road conditions — and for the occasional cow crossing!

Using shuttle buses

If you're wondering how to travel around Costa Rica on a budget, buses are an excellent choice. The public bus network is affordable, reliable, and surprisingly extensive — even reaching remote towns and villages. For a bit more comfort, shared shuttle buses are a great middle-ground option. These minibuses run between popular destinations like La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde, and they’re a convenient choice if you don’t want the stress of driving.

Learn more about transport and how to get around Costa Rica.

Tropical beach in Tortuga island, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Tropical beach in Tortuga island, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

What to pack for a Costa Rica vacation itinerary

  • Sturdy hiking boots: A must-have for tackling Costa Rica’s rugged trails and fully enjoying its top travel experiences.
  • Binoculars: Essential for spotting Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife, from elusive birds to sleepy sloths hiding in the treetops.
  • Sunscreen and a hat: The tropical sun is no joke — protect yourself while exploring beaches or hiking trails.
  • Mosquito repellent: Crucial, especially if you’re staying in or near forests where the bugs can be relentless.
  • Lightweight rain gear: Keep dry during those sudden tropical downpours — short and intense in the dry season, and longer if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
  • Headlamp or flashlight: A lifesaver if you’re staying off the beaten path, where power outages can be common

Is Costa Rica expensive?

Costa Rica is the most expensive country in Central America, so be prepared for higher prices across the board. Everything from ice cream and groceries to hotels and car rentals will likely cost more than you’d expect. On a bare-bones budget, you’ll need at least $50 per day to cover basic lodging, three meals, and local bus fares.

If you’re planning to stay in mid-range accommodations and enjoy a few excursions, your daily expenses could easily top $130. At the luxury end, Costa Rica can be downright pricey — some upscale hotels charge over $500 a night.

The silver lining? Bus travel is always affordable. Local buses cost around $1.50, while longer-distance routes will only set you back $5–$7.50, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Is Costa Rica safe?

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America, but you should still take precautions. Pickpocketing and luggage theft are the most common issues, particularly in San José and other large cities. Be extra careful in crowded places like bus terminals and markets. Car-related crime, especially targeting rental vehicles, is also on the rise — always park in secure locations and avoid leaving valuables inside your car.

For the latest information on safety and travel requirements, check government guidelines before your trip. US travelers can consult the State Department’s travel advisory for Costa Rica, while UK nationals should refer to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office for updates.

Playa Ocotal Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Playa Ocotal Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

  • Central America & the Caribbean
  • Costa Rica
  • San José
Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 19.12.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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