Overview
Costa Rica, located in Central America, is a country renowned for its natural beauty and biodiversity. From lush rainforests and pristine beaches to towering volcanoes and abundant wildlife, Costa Rica offers travelers a wide range of experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking for adrenaline-filled activities like zip-lining and white-water rafting or a nature lover wanting to explore the country’s national parks and protected reserves, Costa Rica has it all. With a laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals, it’s an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Quick Facts
- Language: Spanish (official), English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC), U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted
- Climate: Tropical, with a wet season (May to November) and dry season (December to April)
- Best Time to Travel: December to April for dry weather and beach activities; the wet season is great for fewer crowds and lush landscapes
- Visa: U.S. and many other nationals do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days
- Power Plugs: Type A, B, 120V
- Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST), UTC -6
Where to Fly Into
San José International Airport (SJO) is the main international gateway to Costa Rica, located in the capital. Other airports include Liberia International Airport (LIR) in the Guanacaste region, ideal for those heading to the Pacific coast.
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget accommodations range from $15-40 per night, mid-range hotels from $50-100, and luxury resorts start at $150+ per night.
- Food: Local meals can cost $5-10, with casual dining averaging $10-20. Fine dining can range from $25-50 per person.
- Transport: Public buses are affordable, with short trips costing around $1-5. Taxis and car rentals are more expensive, with prices varying by region.
Climate
Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two primary seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November). Coastal areas tend to have milder temperatures, while the mountains can be cooler year-round.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F)
- Summer (June to August): 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 23°C to 33°C (73°F to 91°F)
Safety
Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America. However, like any destination, it’s essential to stay cautious in urban areas and tourist hotspots. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas, but overall, Costa Rica is friendly and welcoming to tourists.
Top 10 Things to Do in Costa Rica
- Visit Arenal Volcano: One of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes, Arenal offers hiking, hot springs, and stunning views.
- Relax at Manuel Antonio National Park: This park is famous for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife, including monkeys and sloths.
- Zip Line through Monteverde Cloud Forest: Known for its biodiversity, Monteverde is a popular destination for zip-lining through the forest canopy and exploring hanging bridges.
- Go White-Water Rafting on the Pacuare River: One of the best rivers for rafting in the world, the Pacuare River offers thrilling rapids and breathtaking jungle scenery.
- Explore Tortuguero National Park: This remote park is accessible only by boat or plane and is famous for its sea turtle nesting sites and abundant wildlife.
- Visit the Nicoya Peninsula: Known for its idyllic beaches, including Santa Teresa and Playa Tamarindo, the Nicoya Peninsula is a paradise for surfers and beach lovers.
- Take a Sunset Cruise in Papagayo Bay: Enjoy a relaxing evening on the water with beautiful sunset views and the chance to spot dolphins and whales.
- Hike to the Montezuma Waterfalls: Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Montezuma Waterfalls is a series of stunning cascades surrounded by lush jungle.
- Visit the National Museum in San José: Costa Rica’s National Museum offers a great insight into the country’s history, culture, and natural environment.
- Relax on Playa Conchal: Known for its white sand made of tiny crushed seashells, Playa Conchal is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.