🇨🇷 6-Day Tailored Itinerary for Costa Rica

• Young Travelers: Explore the lively bars in downtown La Fortuna for a first taste of local nightlife and a cold Imperial beer.
• Seniors: Choose a hotel with a direct volcano view and enjoy a relaxing evening on your balcony, watching the sunset over Arenal.
• Family: Many hotels have pools that are perfect for kids to burn off some energy after the drive.
• With Disability: Pre-book an accessible shuttle service. Many hotels in La Fortuna offer accessible rooms; confirm these details during booking.

• Luxury: Arrive in style with a private, chauffeured transfer. Check into a luxury resort featuring private plunge pools and exclusive volcano views.
• Adventure: If you arrive early, stretch your legs with a short, independent hike on a trail near your hotel.
• Nature: Keep your eyes peeled during the drive; you might spot toucans or other colourful birds from the car.

• Luxury: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
• Mid-Range: Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
• Budget: Selina La Fortuna

For your arrival and transfer to La Fortuna, planning is key. If renting a car, book a 4×4 vehicle in advance. While main roads are paved, having a 4×4 provides peace of mind for exploring side roads and unpaved hotel entrances. Download an offline map of the route, as cell service can be spotty in rural areas. It’s highly recommended to plan your flight to arrive during the day, as driving in unfamiliar, unlit, and winding Costa Rican roads at night can be challenging. If using a shared shuttle service, like those offered by Interbus or Caribe Shuttle, book your spot online beforehand to ensure availability. These shuttles are a convenient, stress-free option. Have some US dollars or Costa Rican Colones on hand for tolls or small purchases along the way. Upon arrival in La Fortuna, orient yourself with the central park and the main road. This preparation is a crucial travel tip for Costa Rica, ensuring a smooth and safe start to your adventure and allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning scenery.

For your travel day, prioritize comfort. Costa Rica is humid, so wear lightweight, breathable clothing. A pair of comfortable trousers, leggings, or long shorts paired with a cotton t-shirt is ideal for the plane and the car ride. It’s always a good idea to have a light sweater or jacket handy, as the plane and air-conditioned shuttles can be cool. Choose comfortable shoes like sneakers or slip-on walking shoes that are easy to manage at the airport and suitable for a short walk upon arrival. Since you’re heading to a rainforest climate, quick-drying fabrics are a smart choice. Have your sunglasses readily available for the scenic drive. There’s no need to dress up; the vibe in La Fortuna is very casual and adventure-focused. This practical approach to what to wear in Costa Rica will ensure you start your trip feeling relaxed and ready for the excitement ahead, blending seamlessly with the laid-back ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle from the moment you land.

For your first meal in La Fortuna, dive straight into the local culinary scene by visiting a “soda.” These small, family-owned restaurants are the heart of Costa Rican cuisine and offer the best value. A must-try dish is the “Casado,” a traditional plate featuring a choice of meat (like chicken, beef, or fish), rice, beans, a small salad, and fried plantains. Soda Viquez, located just off the main square, is a highly recommended spot beloved by locals and tourists alike for its authentic and delicious casados. For something a bit different, Restaurante Don Rufino offers a more upscale dining experience with a modern twist on Costa Rican classics and international dishes in a stylish setting. If you’re simply looking for a quick, casual bite, you’ll find numerous pizzerias and cafes around the central park. Exploring the best restaurants in La Fortuna is a fantastic way to begin your cultural and culinary journey through Costa Rica, tasting the simple, fresh flavors that define the country’s food.

The primary route from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) to La Fortuna is by road. The journey of approximately 115 kilometers (71 miles) typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours. The most popular option for flexibility is renting a car directly from the airport. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for versatility on all types of Costa Rican roads. Several reputable international and local car rental agencies have desks at the airport. Alternatively, for a more relaxed transfer, you can pre-book a shared shuttle service. Companies like Interbus, Caribe Shuttle, and RideCR offer comfortable, air-conditioned vans with direct hotel drop-offs in La Fortuna. This is a great mid-range option. For budget travelers, public buses run from San José to La Fortuna, but this requires taking a taxi from the airport to the bus terminal in downtown San José and the journey is significantly longer. A private transfer offers the most comfort and convenience, though at a higher cost. Regardless of your choice, the scenic drive offers your first glimpse of Costa Rica’s lush, green interior.

• Young Travelers: Combine the waterfall visit with a canyoning (waterfall rappelling) tour for an extra adrenaline rush.
• Seniors: View the La Fortuna Waterfall from the observation platform at the top to avoid the strenuous steps. Choose a hot springs resort with easy-access pools and handrails.
• Family: At the waterfall, there’s a calmer river area downstream that is safer for younger children to splash in. Many hot springs have dedicated kids’ areas.
• With Disability: The main viewing platform for the waterfall is accessible. Several hot springs resorts, like Tabacón, have worked to make some of their pools and pathways accessible.

• Luxury: Book a day pass at a high-end hot springs resort like Tabacón or The Springs Resort, which includes a gourmet dinner.
• Adventure: After your volcano hike, embark on a guided nighttime wildlife tour to see the rainforest come alive with nocturnal creatures.
• Nature: Instead of the national park, hike the Arenal 1968 trails, a private reserve offering excellent views and a walk across old lava flows.

• Luxury: The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
• Mid-Range: Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa
• Budget: Arenal Hostel Resort

To maximize your day, start early. Arrive at the La Fortuna Waterfall right when it opens to enjoy it with fewer people. The climb back up the 500 steps is strenuous, so take your time and have water with you. For the volcano hike, hiring a guide is highly recommended; their trained eyes will spot wildlife you would otherwise miss, greatly enhancing the experience. Book your national park entrance or tour in advance. When choosing a hot springs experience, there’s a wide range to fit every budget, from the lively, family-friendly Baldi to the romantic, serene Tabacón. The free, local hot spring spot next to Tabacón is an option for budget travelers, but be cautious with your belongings and be aware it’s an unmanaged, natural river. Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day. This is a physically active day, and the Costa Rican heat and humidity can be intense. Following these travel tips will help you safely and enjoyably experience the best of La Fortuna’s iconic natural attractions.

Today’s diverse activities require a versatile outfit. For the waterfall and volcano hike, wear quick-drying activewear. Lightweight hiking shorts or leggings and a moisture-wicking t-shirt are perfect. You will get wet near the waterfall, and you will sweat while hiking. A crucial part of what to wear in the Costa Rican rainforest is your footwear. Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or hiking sandals with good grip. The trail to the waterfall can be slippery. You will need to bring your swimsuit to wear under your clothes or change into at the waterfall. Also, pack a lightweight, quick-drying travel towel. For the evening at the hot springs, you’ll just need your swimsuit, a cover-up, and flip-flops or water shoes. It’s also a good idea to pack a rain jacket in your day bag, as rain showers are common and can appear suddenly. A waterproof bag or dry sack is also useful to protect your electronics and valuables from water and humidity throughout the day.

After your morning waterfall hike, grab a casual and refreshing lunch. Many sodas on the road back towards town offer delicious and affordable options. Try Soda La Hormiga for another authentic Casado experience. In the evening, after relaxing at the hot springs, you have several choices. Many of the larger hot springs resorts have their own restaurants, offering convenience and often a buffet-style dinner included with your entrance fee. If you prefer to head back into town, Restaurante La Parrilla de María Bonita is a fantastic choice for grilled meats and a lively atmosphere. For a unique culinary experience, consider Organico Fortuna, which serves delicious and creative healthy dishes, including many vegetarian and vegan options. For a taste of something different and fun, Pollo Fortuneño is famous for its delicious roasted chicken. Choosing where to eat in La Fortuna allows you to refuel after a day of adventure while continuing to explore the local flavors that are a highlight of any Costa Rica tour.

Navigating today’s activities is best done with a rental car, which gives you the flexibility to move between the waterfall, the national park, and the hot springs at your own pace. All three locations are within a 10-20 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna and are well-signposted. Taxis are also readily available in town, and you can hire one for specific trips or negotiate a rate for a few hours. Another popular and easy option is to book a combination tour. Many local tour operators offer packages that include transportation, a guide, and entrance fees for two or three of these activities in one day. This can be a great value and removes the hassle of individual planning. For example, a popular tour combines the Arenal Volcano hike, La Fortuna Waterfall, and a visit to a hot springs resort, with lunch and dinner often included. This is an efficient way to experience the highlights of La Fortuna, especially if you don’t have your own transportation.

• Young Travelers: The jeep-boat-jeep transfer is a social way to travel and meet other backpackers and adventurers.
• Seniors: A private transfer can offer a more comfortable and direct journey to Monteverde, avoiding multiple vehicle changes.
• Family: Kids will love the boat ride across Lake Arenal. A night walk is an exciting, non-strenuous activity for children who aren’t afraid of the dark.
• With Disability: Some reserves, like the Curi-Cancha Reserve, offer sections of accessible trails suitable for a night walk. Pre-booking a private, accessible vehicle for the transfer is essential.

• Luxury: Stay at a high-end eco-lodge like Hotel Belmar, known for its sustainable practices, farm-to-table restaurant, and stunning cloud forest views.
• Adventure: Choose a night tour that takes you to a more remote, private reserve for a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path experience.
• Nature: The journey to Monteverde is a prime opportunity for birdwatching, especially on the boat crossing of Lake Arenal.

• Luxury: Hotel Belmar
• Mid-Range: Koora, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
• Budget: Selina Monteverde

The “jeep-boat-jeep” (actually van-boat-van) is the most popular and recommended way to travel between La Fortuna and Monteverde. It’s not only scenic but also much faster than driving the entire way around Lake Arenal. Book this transfer at least a day in advance through your hotel or a tour operator in La Fortuna. If you have a rental car, be prepared for the drive. The roads leading to Monteverde are notoriously bumpy and mostly unpaved, making a 4×4 vehicle essential. Drive slowly and allow for extra time. Upon arrival in Monteverde, you’ll notice the temperature is significantly cooler than in La Fortuna, so have a jacket or sweater ready. For the night walk, it’s crucial to book a tour with a certified naturalist guide. Their expertise in spotting camouflaged creatures will make all the difference in your experience. Wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes, and don’t forget your insect repellent. This day of travel and nocturnal exploration is a highlight of any Costa Rica travel guide.

Your attire today should accommodate both travel and a cool-weather forest hike. For the jeep-boat-jeep transfer, wear comfortable clothes like you did on your arrival day. However, it’s essential to have warmer layers accessible. Monteverde’s climate is much cooler and damper than La Fortuna’s. A fleece jacket or a warm sweater is a must. For the evening night walk, long trousers are required to protect your legs from insects and foliage. Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots. A waterproof rain jacket is also highly recommended, as mist and light rain are characteristic of the cloud forest environment. Many tour operators provide flashlights, but bringing your own small headlamp can be useful to keep your hands free. Dressing in layers is the key to comfort in Monteverde’s changeable climate, ensuring you are prepared for the cool mountain air and the unique conditions of a nighttime cloud forest exploration, a key tip for what to wear in Costa Rica’s diverse microclimates.

Upon arriving in Santa Elena, you’ll find a delightful selection of restaurants perfect for dinner before your night walk. For a unique dining experience, head to Restaurante Celajes at Hotel Belmar, which offers a sophisticated farm-to-table menu with ingredients sourced from their own organic garden, along with stunning sunset views. A more casual but equally beloved option is Taco Taco, serving up delicious and fresh Mexican-inspired fare that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. For a classic Monteverde experience, visit Tree House Restaurante & Café, which is famously built around a massive ficus tree. While it’s a bit touristy, the ambiance is undeniably unique. For those seeking authentic local food, Soda La Amistad offers hearty, traditional Costa Rican dishes at a great price. Exploring the different places to eat in Monteverde provides a taste of the local, sustainable food culture that thrives in this mountain community, making it a delicious part of your Costa Rica tour.

The most iconic and efficient way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde is the van-boat-van transfer. This service can be booked easily through hotels and tour agencies in La Fortuna. The process involves a van picking you up from your hotel, a scenic boat ride across Lake Arenal (about 30 minutes), and another van waiting on the other side to take you up the mountain roads to your hotel in Monteverde. This route bypasses a very long and arduous drive around the lake. If you are driving a rental car, a 4×4 is strongly advised. The final stretch of road to Monteverde (Route 606) is largely unpaved, steep, and can be challenging, especially in the rainy season. Allow at least 4 hours for the drive. Once in Monteverde, your night walk tour will almost always include transportation from your hotel to the private reserve where the walk takes place, making the evening’s logistics very simple and hassle-free.

• Young Travelers: Many adventure parks combine hanging bridges with zipline tours for a full day of adrenaline.
• Seniors: The hanging bridge trails are generally well-maintained and not overly strenuous. A coffee tour is a relaxed and fascinating cultural activity.
• Family: Kids love the interactive nature of the coffee and chocolate tours, especially the tasting parts! The hanging bridges give them a safe sense of adventure.
• With Disability: The hanging bridges at Selvatura Park are wide and sturdy, and some parts may be manageable with assistance. Many coffee tours have accessible paths through their main demonstration areas.

• Luxury: Book a private guided tour of the hanging bridges to go at your own pace and gain deeper insights from a naturalist guide.
• Adventure: After the bridges, try the Tarzan swing or bungee jump at one of the adventure parks for an extreme thrill.
• Nature: The cloud forest is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Join a specialized early morning birding tour before your other activities to try and spot the Resplendent Quetzal.

• Luxury: Senda Monteverde Hotel
• Mid-Range: El Establo Mountain Hotel
• Budget: Monteverde Backpackers

For the best hanging bridges experience, go early in the morning when the forest is most active and there are fewer crowds. The clouds and mist are often thicker in the morning, creating a wonderfully atmospheric walk. Book your hanging bridge and coffee tours in advance, especially during the high season, as they are very popular. Most tour operators offer combination packages that can save you money. When you’re on the coffee tour, don’t be shy about asking questions; the guides are passionate and knowledgeable. Also, these tours offer a great opportunity to buy high-quality coffee and chocolate directly from the source to take home as souvenirs. Remember that Monteverde’s weather can change in an instant, so even if the day starts sunny, it’s wise to carry a rain jacket. Following these travel tips for Monteverde will ensure you have a fantastic day exploring both the natural canopy and the rich cultural heritage of this unique region of Costa Rica.

Similar to the previous day, dressing in layers is the best strategy for Monteverde. For your morning walk on the hanging bridges and your afternoon coffee tour, wear long trousers to protect against insects and the cool air. A comfortable t-shirt with a fleece or warm sweater over it is ideal. A waterproof rain jacket is essential, as misty conditions are what define a cloud forest, and showers are frequent. Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots with good traction, as the trails can be damp. While exploring the forest canopy and the plantation, you will be on your feet for extended periods, so foot comfort is paramount. This advice on what to wear in the Costa Rica cloud forest will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy the day’s activities without being distracted by the elements. A small backpack is useful for shedding layers if the sun comes out, and for carrying any coffee or chocolate you purchase.

Today offers a great chance to explore more of Monteverde’s dining scene. For lunch between your activities, the cafes at the adventure parks or coffee plantations are convenient options. Alternatively, head back into Santa Elena for a wider selection. The Open Kitchen is a popular choice, offering a varied menu of delicious, freshly made dishes from pasta to burgers and local fare in a modern, open-concept space. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience for a truly unique and romantic evening, where you dine in a private glass box suspended in the forest. For a more down-to-earth and cozy atmosphere, Morpho’s Restaurant is a family-run gem known for its friendly service and tasty, well-prepared Costa Rican and international food. As you decide where to eat in Monteverde, you’ll find that many restaurants emphasize fresh, local ingredients, reflecting the area’s strong connection to nature and agriculture, a key feature of the Pura Vida lifestyle.

Most major tour operators for hanging bridges and coffee tours include transportation from your hotel in Monteverde or Santa Elena. This is the most convenient and hassle-free way to get to these activities, as the adventure parks and plantations are located a short drive outside of town. When you book your tour, confirm that hotel pick-up is included. If you have a rental car, you can easily drive to the locations yourself. They are well-signed, and there is ample parking available. This gives you more flexibility to explore the area before or after your tour. Taxis are also available in Santa Elena and can take you to the various attractions, but this can become more expensive than a tour that includes transport. For a day combining two major activities, booking a combo tour that handles all the logistics is often the most efficient and economical choice, allowing you to relax and enjoy your Monteverde adventure.

• Young Travelers: After the park, explore the vibrant backpacker scene and nightlife in Quepos or along the main road in Manuel Antonio.
• Seniors: The main trail in Manuel Antonio National Park is flat and relatively easy to walk. Stick to the main beaches for easy access.
• Family: The calm waters of the park’s beaches are perfect for children to swim and play safely. The abundance of monkeys provides endless entertainment.
• With Disability: Manuel Antonio National Park has a universal accessible trail, making it one of the best options in Costa Rica for travelers with mobility issues to experience the rainforest and beach.

• Luxury: Embark on a sunset catamaran cruise along the coast, which often includes snorkeling, snacks, and drinks, offering a luxurious view of the coastline.
• Adventure: Try a surf lesson on the main public beach, Playa Espadilla Norte, which has waves suitable for beginners.
• Nature: The sheer concentration of wildlife in Manuel Antonio makes the entire day a nature-lover’s dream. A private guide can offer a more in-depth ecological tour.

• Luxury: Parador Resort and Spa
• Mid-Range: Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio
• Budget: Selina Manuel Antonio

The drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio is on mostly paved roads once you descend from the mountains. A shuttle is a convenient option if you don’t have a rental car. Crucially, Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your itinerary accordingly. You must purchase park entrance tickets online in advance from the official SINAC government website, as they are not sold at the park entrance and tickets sell out. Be wary of unofficial guides selling tickets on the road to the park. To get the most out of your visit, hire a certified guide near the entrance or as part of a pre-booked tour; they carry high-powered spotting scopes that allow for incredible close-up views of wildlife. Do not bring single-use plastics, snacks like chips, or nuts into the park, as they are prohibited to protect the wildlife. Pack water, fruit, and sandwiches in reusable containers. The monkeys are bold and will try to steal food, so never leave your bags unattended, a key travel tip for this popular Costa Rica destination.

For your travel and park exploration day, dress in light, comfortable clothing. A t-shirt and shorts are perfect for the warm, humid coastal climate. As you will be hiking and then heading to the beach, wearing your swimsuit under your clothes is a practical idea. Bring a lightweight cover-up or sarong for when you’re not swimming. Sturdy walking sandals or sneakers are fine for the park’s well-maintained trails. Don’t forget your sun protection essentials: a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen (to protect the park’s marine ecosystem). A small backpack is necessary to carry your reusable water bottle, towel, sunscreen, and camera. Insect repellent is also highly recommended. This simple and practical advice on what to wear in Manuel Antonio ensures you’ll be comfortable transitioning from rainforest hike to beach relaxation, fully prepared for a day in one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and popular national parks.

Manuel Antonio and the nearby town of Quepos offer a fantastic range of dining options with stunning ocean views. A famous and unique spot is El Avión, a restaurant built around a converted C-123 Fairchild cargo plane, offering good food, cocktails, and incredible sunset views over the Pacific. For a more upscale dining experience with a romantic ambiance, consider La Luna Restaurant at Gaia Hotel & Reserve, known for its creative international cuisine and impeccable service. If you’re looking for delicious, fresh seafood in a more casual setting, head down to the marina in Quepos, where you’ll find places like Gabriella’s Steak Seafood & Pasta. For a budget-friendly and authentic meal after your park visit, the sodas near the main beach offer great casados and fresh fruit smoothies. Exploring where to eat in Manuel Antonio is a treat, with many restaurants perfectly positioned to provide a spectacular sunset backdrop for your evening meal, a perfect end to a day on your Costa Rica holiday.

The journey from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio takes approximately 4-5 hours by road. If you have a rental car, the drive is scenic and becomes much easier once you reach the main paved highways. Shared shuttles are a very popular and convenient option, providing door-to-door service between hotels in both locations. Book these shuttles in advance online. Once in the Manuel Antonio area, a public bus runs frequently along the main road (Route 618) between the town of Quepos and the entrance to the national park. This bus is an easy and very cheap way to get around if you don’t have a car. Taxis are also readily available. To enter Manuel Antonio National Park, you must walk to the official entrance. There are parking lots near the entrance, but be prepared to pay and be wary of unofficial attendants. As tickets must be bought online in advance, having your digital ticket ready on your phone will make for a smooth entry process.

• Young Travelers: Grab a final “batido” (fruit smoothie) from a beachside vendor for a refreshing taste of the tropics.
• Seniors: Enjoy a relaxed, final Costa Rican coffee at a quiet café before the drive back to the airport.
• Family: Build one last sandcastle on the beach or look for shells before heading off.
• With Disability: Enjoy a final breakfast at your accessible hotel before your pre-booked accessible transfer to the airport.

• Luxury: Enjoy a final gourmet breakfast at your resort before a comfortable, private transfer directly to the airport.
• Adventure: If you have an evening flight, you could fit in a quick morning activity like a mangrove kayak tour on the Damas Island estuary.
• Nature: Take an early morning walk around your hotel grounds; you’re likely to spot monkeys or exotic birds one last time.

On your final night, you would have stayed at your chosen Manuel Antonio hotel from Day 5.

Plan your departure logistics carefully. The drive from Manuel Antonio to San José Airport (SJO) takes about 3 hours without traffic. However, traffic heading into San José can be heavy, especially on weekday afternoons, so it’s wise to add at least an extra hour to your travel time. If you have a rental car, there are several gas stations along the main highway to refuel before returning the vehicle at the airport. If you’re taking a shuttle, ensure it’s booked for a time that gets you to the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight. It’s always better to have extra time at the airport than to be rushing. You can have lunch at one of the many restaurants along the route; a popular stop is the Tárcoles River bridge, where you can often see massive crocodiles sunbathing on the riverbanks below (but be mindful of your belongings in this tourist-heavy spot). A stress-free departure day is the perfect end to a wonderful Costa Rica vacation.

For your departure day, comfort is the top priority. Choose a relaxed outfit that is suitable for a potentially warm morning and then a long car ride and a cool airplane. Lightweight trousers or comfortable shorts paired with a simple t-shirt is a great choice. Keep your light sweater or jacket easily accessible for the air-conditioned car and airport. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take on and off for airport security, such as slip-on sneakers or comfortable sandals. This is your last chance to soak in the tropical vibe, but practicality should guide your clothing choice for a smooth travel experience. This approach to what to wear on your last day in Costa Rica ensures a comfortable journey home, letting you focus on your happy memories rather than your clothes. Keep your essential documents, wallet, and phone in a secure and easily reachable bag.

Enjoy your last Costa Rican breakfast in Manuel Antonio. Most hotels offer a lovely breakfast spread, often including “gallo pinto,” the traditional rice and beans dish, and an abundance of fresh tropical fruit. For lunch, you can stop at a restaurant along the route back to San José. A fun and popular option is to stop in the town of Jacó, a lively surf town about halfway through your drive, which has numerous cafes and restaurants. Alternatively, for a unique roadside experience, stop at one of the restaurants near the Tárcoles “crocodile bridge,” like Restaurante Nambi, which offers good local food with the added excitement of seeing crocodiles from a safe distance. This final meal is a great chance to have one last Casado or enjoy some fresh ceviche, providing a perfect culinary farewell to the flavors of Costa Rica and the Pura Vida lifestyle.

The journey from Manuel Antonio to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is a straightforward drive of about 160 kilometers (100 miles) that takes roughly 3 hours. If you have a rental car, you will primarily travel on Route 34 and then Route 27, a modern toll highway. Be sure to have some cash (either Colones or small US dollar bills) for the tolls. Car rental return centers are located conveniently near the airport. For those without a rental, pre-booked shared shuttles are the most convenient option, offering hotel pick-up and direct drop-off at the airport terminal. Public buses also run from Quepos to San José, but this is a slower option and requires a taxi from the San José bus terminal to the airport. For ultimate convenience, a private transfer can be arranged. Regardless of the method, planning your departure time with a generous buffer for potential traffic is the key to a stress-free journey to the airport for your flight home.

Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” ethos and stunning natural landscapes make it a world-class destination for yoga and wellness retreats. The country’s lush rainforests, tranquil beaches, and focus on holistic living provide the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation. You can find retreats scattered throughout the country, with popular hubs in the serene Nicoya Peninsula (a designated “Blue Zone” where people live longer, healthier lives), the spiritual highlands near Monteverde, and the relaxing coastal areas of the Caribbean and Pacific. These retreats often feature daily yoga and meditation sessions, farm-to-table organic meals, and workshops on mindfulness and healthy living. Many programs are integrated with nature, offering guided jungle hikes, surf lessons, and holistic spa treatments using local ingredients like volcanic clay and tropical fruits. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a beginner looking to unwind and reconnect, Costa Rica offers a diverse range of sanctuaries designed to restore balance to your mind, body, and spirit, making it an ideal choice for a transformative wellness journey.

Packing for Costa Rica means preparing for a variety of microclimates. The key is lightweight, quick-drying layers. For warm, humid areas like La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio, pack shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and a swimsuit. For the cooler, misty cloud forest of Monteverde, you will need long trousers, a fleece or warm sweater, and a reliable rain jacket. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable; waterproof hiking shoes are ideal. Also, pack a pair of walking sandals or flip-flops for beaches and relaxing. Sun protection is crucial everywhere, so bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen. A quality insect repellent is also a must-have. Other essentials include a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, a small backpack for daily excursions, a portable power bank, and a waterproof dry bag to protect electronics from rain and humidity. With this packing list, you’ll be prepared for any adventure, from hiking a volcano to lounging on the beach, ensuring a comfortable and well-equipped Costa Rica tour.

Shopping in Costa Rica is a great way to support local artisans and bring home a piece of the Pura Vida spirit. While you won’t find large shopping malls outside of San José, you will discover charming boutiques, roadside stalls, and vibrant local markets. The most popular souvenir is, without a doubt, high-quality Costa Rican coffee. You can buy it directly from plantations you visit for the freshest beans. Handcrafted wooden items, such as bowls, masks, and jewelry made from sustainably sourced wood, are also beautiful and unique. Look for colourful, hand-painted oxcarts in the artisan town of Sarchí, or pick up locally made leather goods. In coastal towns, you’ll find plenty of sarongs, handmade jewelry, and surf-inspired clothing. Don’t forget to check out the local “supermercados” (supermarkets) for Salsa Lizano, a slightly sweet and tangy sauce that is a staple on every Costa Rican table and makes for a perfect, authentic culinary souvenir. Most vendors in tourist areas accept US dollars, but paying in the local currency, the Colón, often gets you a better price.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April. This period offers the sunniest weather for beaches and hiking. However, the “green season” (May to November) offers lusher landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices, with rain often falling in predictable afternoon showers.

The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). However, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, especially for tours and hotels. It’s a good idea to have smaller US bills or some Colones for smaller purchases at local sodas and shops.

Costa Rica is generally considered one of the safest countries in Central America. The U.S. State Department advises exercising increased caution due to petty crime. Tourists should be aware of their surroundings, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and not leave belongings unattended, especially in cars or on beaches.

Citizens of the USA, Canada, the UK, and most European countries do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 or 180 days. However, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Always check the current entry requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in most cities and tourist areas, such as San José and La Fortuna. In more remote or coastal areas, it is often recommended to stick to bottled or filtered water to be safe, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

While not strictly necessary if you stick to main tourist routes and use shuttles, renting a 4×4 is highly recommended for flexibility and peace of mind. Many roads to hotels, eco-lodges, and attractions can be unpaved, steep, and bumpy, especially in areas like Monteverde.

Pura Vida, meaning “pure life,” is the national slogan of Costa Rica. It’s used as a greeting, a farewell, and an expression of a relaxed, happy, and optimistic way of life. It embodies the friendly and easygoing culture you’ll experience throughout the country.

English is widely spoken in the tourism industry, including hotels, restaurants, and tour companies in popular destinations. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), and “Pura Vida” will be greatly appreciated by the locals.

By law, a 10% service charge (“servicio”) is already included in all restaurant bills, so additional tipping is not required but is appreciated for exceptional service. It’s customary to tip tour guides and drivers if you are happy with their service, typically around $5-20 per person per day depending on the service.

Costa Rica uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets, the same as in the United States and Canada. The standard voltage is 120V. Travelers from these regions will not need a voltage converter or a plug adapter.