Costa Rica Tourism

Things to do: Explore diverse national parks including Manuel Antonio and Tortuguero, witness wildlife in their natural habitats, hike around Arenal Volcano, relax on pristine beaches, zipline through cloud forests, and experience local culture in small towns and bustling San José.

Pre-trip Planning: Research attractions based on wet/dry seasons, book popular lodges in advance (especially during high season), secure rental cars early, check visa requirements (most countries need only a passport), and consider travel insurance for adventure activities.

Packing Essentials: Bring lightweight, quick-dry clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, biodegradable sunscreen, rain gear (even in dry season), binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a reusable water bottle for sustainable travel.

Onground Tips: The local currency is the colón (though US dollars are widely accepted), Spanish is the official language but English is common in tourist areas, and tap water is generally safe to drink in most developed regions.

Currency & Payment: Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the official currency; credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas but carry cash for small towns; ATMs are available in most populated areas; and tipping 10% is customary for good service.

Transportation Guidelines: Rent a 4x4 vehicle for exploring rural areas and unpaved roads, use public buses for budget travel between major destinations, consider domestic flights to save time, and book shuttle services for hassle-free transfers between popular tourist spots.

Cultural Respect: Learn basic Spanish phrases to connect with locals, ask permission before photographing people, dress modestly when visiting rural communities, and embrace the relaxed "pura vida" philosophy that defines Costa Rican culture.

Food & Dining: Try local sodas (small family restaurants) for authentic and affordable meals, sample tropical fruits at local markets, enjoy farm-to-table experiences at eco-lodges, and be adventurous with regional specialties like patacones and chifrijo.

Health & Safety: Apply insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses, stay hydrated in tropical climate, heed warning signs at beaches regarding currents, secure valuables, and follow guide instructions during adventure activities.

Communication: Spanish is the official language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas; cell service is good in populated areas but may be limited in remote regions; free Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations and restaurants.

Accommodation Cost: Options range from budget hostels ($10-30/night), mid-range hotels ($50-150/night), to luxury eco-lodges and resorts ($200-500+/night), with prices higher during the dry season (December-April).

Activities: Most guided tours range from $30-100 per person; national park entrance fees average $10-20; adventure activities like ziplining or rafting cost $50-100; and wildlife tours typically run $40-80 depending on duration and location.

Shopping Tips: Negotiate politely at local markets but respect fixed prices in established shops; look for "hecho en Costa Rica" (made in Costa Rica) labels; and purchase coffee directly from farms or cooperatives for freshness and fair pricing.

Personalized Recommendations: Visit during shoulder seasons (May-June or November) for fewer crowds and lower prices; allow at least 7-10 days to experience multiple regions; and consider splitting time between cloud forests, volcanoes, and beaches for diverse experiences.