The Ultimate Costa Rica Travel Guide

Which International Airport to Fly Into

Costa Rica has two main international airports. It’s best to choose the closest airport to your destination. Unfortunately, both airports aren’t in great tourist zones. Juan Santamaría International Airport tends to have cheaper flights, but its

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) – Located near the capital city of San José, this is the busiest and most popular airport for international travelers. It’s a good choice if you plan to explore central Costa Rica, the Pacific coast, or the northern regions. It’s about 2.5 hours away from La Fortuna and 4 hours away from Tamarindo.

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) – Located in Liberia, in the Guanacaste province, this airport is ideal if you’re heading to the northwestern region of Costa Rica, including popular beach destinations like Tamarindo and the Nicoya Peninsula. LIR is a little over 1 hours from Tamarindo and 2.5 hours from La Fortuna.

Do You need a Visa for Costa Rica?

It depends on your passport. Visa requirements for Costa Rica is based on nationality but here’s a quick summary:

1. No Visa Required (90-Day Stay): Citizens from countries like the United States, Canada, European Union member states, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan can enter Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days. A valid passport and proof of onward travel are required.
2. No Visa Required (30-Day Stay): Citizens from some countries in Latin America, Asia, and other regions can stay visa-free for up to 30 days.
3. Visa Required: Citizens from certain countries, primarily in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, need to apply for a visa before traveling to Costa Rica. This can be done at a Costa Rican consulate or embassy.

Before planning your trip to Costa Rica, it’s essential to check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality.

When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is mid-December to April. This is the dry season, which usually makes the weather perfect with low chances of rain.

If you’re looking to save money, consider the rainy season, which runs from May to November.

Hurricanes aren’t common in Costa Rica, but the Caribbean side gets more rain from June through November.

The Best Area of Costa Rica to Visit

Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna

La Fortuna is probably one of the most visited places in Costa Rica. There is a volcano, rainforests, and lots of hot springs. The good hotels book up quickly, and the cheaper hotels often cause you to pay a lot more on Ubers and transportation.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is located on the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica in the Guanacaste province. It’s a popular coastal town, popular with surfers and those love the beach. Tourists often head to Playa Grande to catch the sunset.

It’s a great place for surfing due to its consistent waves and variety of surf breaks. You can also zip-line in the forest or see crocodiles at the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge.

You’ll find many things to do if you’re an outdoor lover. The Marino Las Baulas National Park is a key nesting site for leatherback turtles, and you can join a guided tour during the nesting season to witness these incredible creatures.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

If you love nature and ecotourism, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is where you want to be. It’s commonly visited after the more popular Arenal, but you’ll need a 4×4 or shuttle to make it up there.

It’s located in the Tilarán Mountains, where locals and tourists come for peace and tranquility. Monteverde Cloud Forest is best for those who appreciate slow travel and the outdoors. It is home to hundreds of species of birds, amphibians, and plant life. If you’re afraid of small animals or bugs, it might not be the best fit for you. It’s very common to see monkeys, pumas, and sloths.

Plus, it’s a popular hiking destination with more than ten trails to choose from. Sendero Pantanoso or the Swamp Trail is one of the most popular ones but make sure to pack the right shoes.Don’t leave without exploring the hanging bridges for the ultimate rainforest experience.

If you’re interested in sustainability, visit a local coffee plantation to see how coffee is grown and processed.

Cahuita

Cahuita is where you want to visit if you love the Caribbean vibe. It’s located on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast and known for its amazing beaches and rich Afro-Costa Rican culture.

Beach wise, I must admit that if you’re looking for clear water, stick to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. The beaches in other places are great for scuba diving but might not be the best for snorkeling and crystal clear water activities.

While in Cahuita, check out the Cahuita National Park for gorgeous hiking trails and the chance to see monkeys and sloths. Another popular activity is kayaking at the nearby Gandoca Lagoon, where you can paddle through mangroves and while bird-watching.

Top Things to Do in Costa Rica

There’s a reason thousands of Americans are choosing to retire in Costa Rica. The way of life is slower, but there are endless activities to choose from. If you love nature, adventure, or ocean activities, this is the ideal destination.

Adventurous travelers can zip-line through the canopy, go white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, or explore the vibrant underwater world with a scuba diving or snorkeling tour. Costa Rica’s diverse offerings make it an ideal destination for a memorable and enriching experience.

Traveling In Costa Rica

Traveling throughout Costa Rica is convenient and offers several options depending on your budget, time, and preference for adventure or comfort. Here are some popular ways to get around:

Rental Car

Renting a car is one of the most flexible ways to explore Costa Rica, allowing you to travel at your own pace and access remote areas. The country’s main roads are generally in good condition, but be prepared for some unpaved roads in rural areas, especially if you plan to visit national parks or beaches off the beaten path. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for such routes. I found the road from Guanacaste to Arenal to have so narrow spots that I would be afraid to drive in when its raining.

Public Buses

Costa Rica has an extensive public bus system that connects most towns and cities. Buses are affordable and have frequent routes to popular tourist destinations. While they are slower than private transport, buses offer an authentic way to experience local life and see the countryside. Long-distance buses are available for travel between major cities like San José, Liberia, and coastal towns.

Shuttle Services:

Shared shuttle services are a convenient option for travelers who prefer not to drive but still want direct and comfortable transportation between destinations. Shuttles are usually air-conditioned and offer door-to-door service, making them a great option for getting to and from hotels. Private shuttles are also available if you prefer a more personalized experience.

Domestic Flights:

For those looking to save time, domestic flights are a quick way to travel between popular destinations like San José, Liberia, Tamarindo, and Nosara. Costa Rica has several small regional airports, and airlines like Sansa and Nature Air offer flights that can significantly cut down travel time, especially if you’re visiting more remote areas.

Taxis and Uber:

Taxis are widely available in Costa Rica’s cities and tourist areas. Red taxis are official and metered, while airport taxis are orange. Ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in some parts of the country, including San José and the surrounding areas, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

Foods to Eat in Costa Rica

Gallo Pinto

Gallo pinto literally means “spotted rooster,” and it’s a dish that you’ll find everywhere. It is a traditional Costa Rican dish of rice and black beans, typically cooked with onions, bell peppers, and garlic. The ingredients are mixed and fried together, often with a touch of Salsa Lizano, a popular Costa Rican condiment that adds a tangy and slightly smoky flavor. Gallo pinto is usually served for breakfast alongside eggs, fried plantains, cheese, tortillas, and sometimes a side of avocado or sour cream.

Casado

A traditional lunch dish, the Casado is a hearty plate that includes rice, beans, a choice of meat (chicken, beef, pork, or fish), salad, and fried plantains. The name “Casado” means “married,” referring to how all the different foods on the plate complement each other.

My Favorite Desserts

I have a major sweet tooth, so I had to try everything! There are also lots of bakeries and chocolate shops in most major cities. Chocolate Fusión is a popular chocolate shop in La Fortuna’s town center. They have hot chocolate, a wide array of chocolate candy, and even chocolate pastries. If you only have time to visit one dessert shop, it must be Chocolate Fusión.

Alfajores are cookie sandwiches filled with dulce de leche. I had my first one at my hotel in La Fortuna and instantly fell in love. The inside is sweet and creamy, and the outside has the perfect texture. Then, they spring sweetened coconut on top.

Fresh Fruits

There’s a reason why health-conscious people love Costa Rica. This tropical paradise has so many fresh fruits and vegetables. My favorites are mangos, pineapples, and custard apples (also called sugar apples). A few lesser-known fruits you should try are passionfruit, dragonfruit, and tamarind, which are commonly enjoyed at breakfast. You can find affordable smoothies everywhere and even a few vegan-friendly restaurants.

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