Looking for a destination filled with diverse activities, varied landscape and amazing natural beauty, then Costa Rica is a standout choice. You can relax deeply as well as get an adrenaline rush. The country has a wide diversity that welcomes a variety of travellers throughout the year from different corners of the planet, making it a must-visit destination. Coffee lovers can make the most out of it, as the country is renowned for its Arabica coffee, so make sure to get the authentic taste of coffee.
When exploring around Costa Rica, you will find the locals living by the motto of Pura Vida, meaning a relaxed living style. The country serves as an ideal destination for those seeking solace amidst nature. It takes approximately 15 hours to 19 hours to fly down from any one of the cities of the UK to Costa Rica. So start planning your trip to this incredible country after attaining insights from this travel guide to Costa Rica.
| Time Zone | GMT-6 |
| Language | Spanish |
| Currency | Costa Rican Colon |
| Nick Name | Tiquicia |
| Capital | San Jose |
| Population | 5.106 million (as of 2023) |
| Provinces | Limon, Cartago, San Jose, Heredia, Alajuela, Puntarenas and Guanacaste. |
Seasons of Costa Rica
Costa Rica trip guide covers mainly of two seasons, namely dry and rainy season. As the country stands at tropical temperature zone, halfway between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, offering high humidity and warm temperatures in most time of the year.
Dry Season (December to April)
Dry season is considered to be the peak season to visit Costa Rica, as there are lesser possibilities of rainfall. You get bright sunshine, allowing you to explore places and also spot wild animals while visiting a jungle or rainforest. Travellers from the European continent find it charming because of its warm weather and as an escape from the chilly winter.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| December | 21° to 29° |
| January | 22° to 31° |
| February | 24° to 32° |
| March | 24° to 35° |
| April | 24° to 32° |
Rainy Season (May to November)
The rainy season, also called the green season, has a vibrant impact with the first rain. August to October is considered to be the rainiest months, when you get heavy discounts on flights and hotels. However, there is a high chance of your itinerary being compromised.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| May | 27° to 29° |
| June | 24° to 31° |
| July | 20° to 28° |
| August | 24° to 29° |
| September | 27° to 31° |
| October | 21° to 29° |
| November | 17° to 26° |
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, when the weather is warm, dry, and sunny, allowing you to indulge in a wide array of outdoor activities.
Top Attractions to See in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers a wide number of tourist attractions dotted around it. You cannot skip the part of visiting the top attractions of the country. Check out the top attractions to see on your trip in this amazing country.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
Visit the natural treasure trove of Costa Rica, which is one of the global leaders in wildlife conservation, allowing tourists to get connected with nature and wildlife. Take a tour of the astonishing rainforest ecosystem and walk over the hanging bridges. You can also indulge in a number of activities such as ziplining, forest tour, hiking, cloud forest tour and many more.
Fortuna Waterfall
Parque Nacional Cahuita
Arenal Volcano
Travel to the majestic Arenal volcano, which is considered to be the most active volcano around the world, however, since 2010, it has entered into a dormant phase. Make sure to enjoy the geothermal springs located at the base of the volcano. Explore the wonderful sights, especially for first-time visitors.
Tamarindo Costa Beach
Spend an amazing beach time at Tamarindo Costa Beach, which is considered to be the developed beach consisting of many restaurants, bars and hotels. If you are into surfing, then you must visit this place, as it offers you high waves. You can also enjoy a stunning nightlife, feeling the music beats and enjoying drinks.
Must-Have Experiences in Costa Rica
Besides exploring the popular tourist places, there are also a number of experiences that will help make your trip to Costa Rica memorable. Here are some of the hand-picked experiences that will help you understand the meaning of the pura vida lifestyle:
- Enjoy zip-lining at Santa Elena, offering you both a thrilling adventure accompanied by captivating vistas.
- Go on an action-packed adventure of river rafting over the rapids of the Pacuare River.
- Set out on surfing, riding over the waves of the Costa Rican coastline.
- Spend an amazing time hiking up to the La Leona Waterfall and then enjoying a refreshing swim in the waters.
- Meet with the wildlife at the Corcovado National Park including squirrel monkeys, crocodiles, tapirs, peccaries and many more.
- Visit the active Arenal volcano and explore its lava pools, heated pools and lava fields.
- Have a breathtaking kayaking experience through the sea caves.
- Enjoy bird watching, witnessing a variety of colorful birds.
- Go around the rainforest enjoying a night tour under the supervision of a local guide to spot animals like tree possum, kinkajou and others.
- Get startled by seeing the bioluminescence at the Coves of Ballena Bay.
- Make sure to explore a family-owned coffee farm and enjoy a hot coffee.
Popular Festivals of Costa Rica
When it comes to festivities, you can find a tapestry of festivals that is being celebrated around the year. Here are some of the popular festivals of Costa Rica, offering you a vibrant atmosphere, filled with colors and performances.
| Name of Festivals | Tenure | Month |
| Fiestas Palmares | 2 weeks | January |
| Envision Festival | 1 week | February to March |
| Fiesta de los | 2 days | November |
| Festival de la Luz | 1 day | December |
| Christmas | 1 day | December |
| Holy Week | 8 days | March to April |
| New Year | 1 day | January |
| Ocaso Underground Music Festival | 2 days | January to February |
| Limon Carnival | 1 week | October |
| Guanacaste Day | 1 day | July |
Getting Around Costa Rica
There are numerous options to explore Costa Rica, whether you’re a luxury traveller or a budget traveller. This Costa Rica vacation guide has covered the transportation part, allowing you to choose a suitable means of transport to travel to different corners of the country.
- You get bus facilities, connecting different parts of the country in both a direct and an indirect manner. This also comes under a pocket-friendly option.
- If you are planning on travelling to remote parts of the country, you may avail yourself of small flights, which may be expensive, but significantly less than a chartered flight.
- One can hire a boat if opting for spending their time far from the mainland, away from the bustling city and skipping the traffic.
- When you are travelling in a group, you can avail for private shuttle services to reach your destinations.
- Taxis are always the easy deal allowing you to choose your drop location and enjoy your ride in a hassle free manner.
- If you carry an international driving license, you can even rent a car, allowing you to travel at your own pace.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica?
If you are worried about your stay, after understanding the places to visit, things to experience and the means of transport available, this Costa Rica travel guide offers you insights on the accommodations as well. You get to choose your stay from a wide range of hotels, up to 5-star, to spend your vacation. There are also a number of homestays, or you can rent a room on a day basis, as per your convenience. There are also options for staying at beach resorts, if you prefer the view of the stunning coastline. If you are into adventure, then you can also opt to stay at tree houses, while feeling the serenity of the surroundings at night.
Must-Try Foods in Costa Rica
Witness a beautiful mix of flavors and ingredients leading to indigenous recipes. Some of the foods that you must try on your trip to Costa Rica are listed below:
- Gallo Pinto
- Chifrijo
- Rondon
- Casado
- Olla de Carne
- Picadillo
- Creole Sponge Cake
- Chorreadas
- Tamales
- Copo
Travel Tips for Costa Rica
- Take care of your belongings when travelling by public transportation.
- Try to learn certain phrases and words of Español, as Spanish is the local language.
- Ensure a written confirmation when confirming your booking.
- Don’t leave your personal belongings in the car.
- If you face issue with your rented car, don’t seek help from random passer-by and instead call the local help line number.
- Get your currency exchanged at the airports to commence your financial operations smoothly.
- Visit local cafes to taste the authentic dishes made of fresh ingredients.
- Carry the necessary medicines to address any emergency situations.
- Carry mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to avoid the heat while exploring the iconic attractions.
- You must carry a valid passport and also grab travel insurance covering your journey.
- Beware of pick-pocketing in bustling areas and avoid carrying valuables.
- Keep your phones and valuables in your front pocket or in a closed bag.
Travel Tips for Solo Travellers
- Try to use official transportation.
- Avoid walking in secluded areas, especially at night.
- Make sure to keep your travel itinerary private and avoid sharing it on social media sites or with unknown persons.
- Keep your friends and family updated about your current location and destination.
- Gather the local helpline number to contact them in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Over the years, Costa Rica has transformed into one of the leading destinations offering adventure travel and ecotourism. Start planning your trip to this amazing country of Central America, which offers thrilling activities, breathtaking vistas, and culinary delicacies. To enjoy the best time, it is advised to visit during the dry season. Considering the travel tips provided in this Costa Rica trip guide, for both group and solo travellers, will help you overcome issues that may ruin your trip.
You can also check our travel packages, which offer the best deals to Costa Rica. You can also contact our travel expert to customise your itinerary based on your budget and preferences.
FAQs
Which is the popular festival of Costa Rica?
The most popular festival of Costa Rica is the Limon festival.
What is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
The best time to visit Costa Rica is between the months of December and April.
What do you mean by Pura Vida?
The term “Pura Vida” directly means pure life, signifying the cheerful lifestyle of the locals.
Is Costa Rica a cheap destination for a holiday?
No, Costa Rica is no longer a cheap holiday destination, but a budget traveller can visit here by opting budget stay, dining and transport.
Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica from the UK?
No, you do not require a visa to visit Costa Rica, up to 180 days, under a tourist visa waiver.
