Costa Rica is small, safe and full of nature: cloud forest, volcanoes, wildlife and two coastlines within a few hours of each other. It is one of the easiest places to plan an adventure trip.
Quick facts
- Getting there: most visitors fly into San Jose (SJO) or Liberia (LIR) for the Pacific beaches.
- Best months: December to April is the dry season. May to November is greener, cheaper and quieter, with afternoon rain.
- Time needed: 8 to 12 days.
- Currency: Costa Rican colon (CRC). US dollars are widely accepted.
A simple first route
- La Fortuna (3 nights): Arenal volcano, hot springs and waterfalls.
- Monteverde (2 nights): cloud forest walks and hanging bridges.
- Pacific coast (3 to 4 nights): surf and beaches near Manuel Antonio or Guanacaste.
Money-saving tips
- Costa Rica is not the cheapest in Central America, so travel in the green season for lower prices.
- Shared shuttles between towns cost much less than private transfers.
- Eat at local “sodas” for filling set meals.
- Book wildlife and volcano tours with licensed guides, and compare before you pay.
- Get mobile data before you land for maps and rides.
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Always confirm with airlines, hotels and official sources before booking.