costa rica cost of travel

The Cost of Travel in Costa Rica: A Detailed Budget Breakdown

Costa Rica is a wonderful country.

With the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, you’ve got tropical beaches, national parks, wildlife and adventures waiting to be explored. Our first stop was San José, the capital.

Arriving to sun, pelting rain followed shortly afterwards, before clearing again. Changeable weather can be par for the course depending on the time of year you visit, although you shouldn’t let that put you off.

We only had a short time in San José, but made the most of the cultural city before heading eastwards to the coast.

Being big animal lovers, thrill-seekers, and fans of picturesque beaches, we loved what Costa Rica offered us. From pristine coastlines and zip-lining high up in the canopy to watching sloths hanging out up in the tress, we thoroughly made the most of our stay.

We ended up using a mixture of overland transport, from inexpensive local public buses for short (ish) journeys and more expensive shared shuttles to a coach for onward travel into Nicaragua .

Now, let’s jump into the nitty-gritty detail of our fortnight in Costa Rica.

We chose a mixture of accommodation from hotels to lodges, costing around $40-$100 a room per night for two people.

Similar to other posts such as my Chile budget guide , I’ll reference costs in US dollars (or the native currency). Why? Because the majority of readers are from the States. The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is the official currency – at the time of writing this, $1 equates to around 500 CRC.

As always, I paid for everything myself – this a comp- and press-free budget guide.

My husband and I reached Costa Rica six weeks into a year-long global tour. After hopping on and off the Amtrak across the USA from San Francisco to Chicago and then down to Texas, we left for Central America. There, we spent a couple of months travelling upwards, ending in the Belizean paradise of Caye Caulker before catching a boat to Mexico.

Costa Rica felt like our first proper taste of adventure. Not that we didn’t do tons of cool stuff in the USA, but we’d both holidayed there a handful of times before. Costa Rica was brand new. Here’s a rundown of where we went and for how long:

• San José: 2 nights
• Tortuguero: 3 nights
• La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano National Park): 3 nights
• Santa Elena (Cloud Forest): 3 nights
• Tamarindo: 4 nights

What’s Included in This Post

The budget breakdown you’re about to read covers accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and miscellaneous costs. The two weeks we spent in Costa Rica flew by, and we wished we’d had more time to explore. Nonetheless, what we did fit in was awesome, from nighttime forest walks and animal spotting to taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Cloud Forest.

Read on for where we laid our heads each night.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Costa Rica

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are  hostels . In Costa Rica, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which will usually come in at around  $40-$150 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Cost of Accommodation in Costa Rica

One word: research. It may sound obvious and it’s definitely time-consuming, but we found some gems by trawling hotel websites, other people’s blogs and general Googling. As much as we could, we opted for accommodation with breakfast included in the price (usually super tasty and plentiful) to save a few dollars that way, or else tried to pick somewhere with a kitchen for us to prepare our own food on a budget.

Right, here are the places we stayed in Costa Rica:

San José: Situated just a stone’s throw from sprawling Parque Metropolitano La Sabana in the centre of the city, this comfy and spotless aparthotel with traditional decor offered us plenty, from ‘do anything for you’ staff and an outdoor pool for dipping to an included brekkie. At $121 a night , we both agreed this was value for money, considering the room had air-con and a flat-screen TV. Oh, and for just $7 a night more, we could have had a substantially bigger studio room with a kitchen and dining area – worth keeping in mind if you prefer to cook.

Tortuguero: Surrounded by lush green vegetation less than 50 metres from Tortuguero beach and under half a kilometre from the National Park, this stylish hostel with wonderfully friendly staff cost us $41 a night for a double room. Our spacious digs had a comfy bed and the all-important mosquito net, plus a garden view and terrace. And the communal areas featured a kitchen for whipping up a simple breakfast (it cost $6 a person otherwise) and sheltered outdoor spaces with hammocks for lazing.

La Fortuna: With glorious volcano views from the array of windows, this capacious standalone wooden lodge with air conditioning was a steal for $112 a night with an included breakfast. Located just 2.5 kilometres from Tabacon Hot Springs and eight from La Fortuna waterfall, the scenic spot was also super close to Arenal Volcano National Park.

Santa Elena: We loved this family-run treetop lodge on the outskirts of Santa Elena with oodles of character and a balcony for gazing out to the ever-changing views – mystical clouds one minute, blue skies the next. A colourful bedspread, eyecatching artwork and wooden furniture created a rustic yet charming vibe. Surrounded by greenery, watch out for the monkeys and tropical birds, and make the most of the top-notch included breakfast with plenty of options. We happily paid $120 a night for this property that focused on sustainability and was close to Monteverde, too.

Tamarindo: Green is my favourite colour, so I loved this stylish sage-hued family-owned hotel just a five-minute amble from the beach, with an on-site pool if we fancied a dip before wandering down to the ocean. Each room was individually decorated in pastel shades – ours (Tree House I Studio) came in at $150 a night , which we felt was incredibly well-priced. Breakfast was included in the rate, and our bright and airy room featured air-con, a kitchenette, a balcony with seating, and a large walk-in rain shower to enjoy – bliss. Oh, and the lovely staff offered complimentary use of bikes and surfboards.

The Cost of Transportation in Costa Rica

There was a mixture of transport options in Costa Rica, from flying to local buses. Roads were often bumpy, meaning not particularly comfy journeys, so if you have extra cash, hopping on a plane may be a good option. For example, from San José to Tortuguero you’ll pay around $100 each way with SANSA Airlines and you’re in the air for a mere 30 minutes.

However, we didn’t really fancy forking out that much, so for that journey we took the longer but much cheaper option of several local buses and then a boat (there aren’t any roads in the Tortuguero area, only waterways).

Small shared shuttles were another option – pricier but also more direct than local buses. We chose these on several occasions when we weighed up the length of time it would have taken by local bus and the number of changes.

So, here’s our journey breakdown:

• Local bus from San José airport: $0.75 per person
• Local bus from San José to La Pavona (via Guapiles/Cariari): $6 per person
• Return boat from La Pavona to Tortuguero: $5 each way per person (you may have to pay a bit extra for luggage depending on how much you have)
• Shuttle from La Pavona to La Fortuna: $50 per person
• Jeep – Boat – Jeep from La Fortuna to Santa Elena: $25 per person
• Shuttle from Santa Elena to Tamarindo: $55 per person

OUR TOTAL COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN COSTA RICA CAME TO $293.50. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $19.56 PER DAY, OR $9.78 EACH.

THE COST OF ACTIVITIES AND ENTRANCE FEES IN COSTA RICA

Turtle spotting, jungle scenery, hurtling along a zipline Superman-style, lazy beach days… What a mixture we experienced in Costa Rica. Keen to find out details? Carry on reading for the lowdown.

Tortuguero National Park entry fee: $15 per person. The protected area covered 19,000 hectares/46,949 acres and was a lush mass of flora and fauna. The highest point was Cerro Tortuguero, towering over the rainforest. Known as ‘Land of Turtles’, spot nesting Green turtles from mid-July through mid-October.

Full day tour, Tortuguero National Park: $80 per person. We loved our canoe tour, day walk and nighttime turtle spotting (all guided) and would highly recommend if you want to do a bit of everything. If you’re a fan of turtles but don’t fancy the other aspects, there were dedicated evening tours for around $30 per person.

Arenal Volcano National Park entry fee: $15 per person. Once we were in, it was time to hike. Although we couldn’t scale the volcano or peer into its crater, there were tons of walks to enjoy, from introductory Los Heliconias to moderate Las Coladas which ended at the base of the volcano. Arenal hasn’t been active since 2010, but there were still opportunities to see some amazing sights, from lava strewn viewpoints to an array of birds. Post-visit, we heard about another more strenuous walk we wished we’d done to lesser-known dormant Cerro Chato, complete with a crater and an emerald green lake. Another time…

La Fortuna Waterfall, La Fortuna: $18 per person. Administered by a local non-profit, this more than 200-foot waterfall was a spot for swimming (although pretty bracing), chilling, and taking in the scenery. Note: take proper footwear.

Tabacon Thermal Hot Springs (with dinner), Arenal:  On the outskirts of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal sat this luxe (and sustainable) landscaped jungle resort complete with truly natural hot springs. Our budget wouldn’t stretch to staying there, but we did treat ourselves to a day pass. Other springs in the area were less expensive, but after some research, we splurged at this romantic spot. We spent a lazy day exploring the five springs and thermal river heated by the volcano – temperatures ranged from 77 °F (25 °C) to 122 °F (50 °C). Relaxing isn’t the word…

Selvatura Park Cloud Forest ziplining , Monteverde: $55 per person. What a fab albeit slightly scary tour! High up in the canopy we went, ziplining through the forest, at quite a speed. When I say scary, that doesn’t mean we didn’t feel safe, because we totally did. We went across one line together and horizontally (like Superman) across another. One cable was a kilometre long, and in total across the 13 cables, we ziplined about 3.5 kilometres. A real thrill, and a must for adventurers. Oh, take a ride on the Tarzan swing…if you dare. And definitely wander along the treetop walkways – there, we spotted a coati hunting a tarantula.  

Nighttime Cloud Forest guided walk , Santa Elena Reserve: $100 per person. This was another splurge, but we wanted a private tour just the two of us rather than a group one, so we went for it. Group tours were about half the price. Our guide Henry was ace. He took us through the Cloud Forest and spotted animals and reptiles we never would have seen without him: a grey two-toed sloth hanging from a tree high above, a raccoon poking its head out of a nook, a salamander with big eyes relative to its body, diligent tree cutter ants, a sleeping toucan, kinkajous, scorpions, and a vivid green viper curling down a branch. The forest felt alive and full of noise, and despite the pitch darkness, it wasn’t at all eerie. Perhaps we would have felt differently had Henry not been with us!

We also enjoyed these free activities:

The freebie sights of San José, including colonial-style Casa Amarilla and Parque Metropolitano La Sabana.

Lazing on the tropical paradise beaches of Tamarindo (including the one named after itself and Playa Langosta), swimming, and wandering along the shores. Oh, and we used the complimentary surfboards from our first-rate hotel.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACTIVITIES IN COSTA RICA CAME TO $566. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $37.73 PER DAY, OR $18.87 EACH.

THE COST OF FOOD COSTA RICA

After enjoying an included and filling breakfast at most places we stayed, we only paid for lunch, dinner and drinks. We’re big fans of sampling local food, and being on a budget we did that mainly at street food stalls and ‘sodas’ – dinky family-run gems serving tasty and traditional food at low prices.

Welcoming and comforting, we feasted on authentic plates for $2-3 per person for lunch (usually something like empanadas filled with white Costa Rican cheese). And for dinner, we spent around $7 each (sometimes less). Do try the daily specials, as well as staple dishes such as Gallo pinto (rice, beans, egg and plantain – usually for breakfast but we had it for lunch a few times), casado (rice, beans, salad and meat/fish), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), sopa negra (black bean soup), and sopa mariscos (seafood soup – best eaten in coastal Pacific towns). Everything was hearty, filling, and yummy.

Average daily food cost: $19.00 per day, or $9.50 each

Our beverages of choice were mainly water and beer: simple. The cerveza of Costa Rica? A brew called Imperial. One and a half litre bottles of water from a shop were around $1.50 and half-litre domestic beers were $2-3 a pop in a restaurant (cheaper if we bought them from a supermarket).

Average daily drink cost: $5.50 per day, or $2.75 each

OUR TOTAL COST OF FOOD AND DRINK IN COSTA RICA CAME TO $367.50. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $24.50 PER DAY, OR $12.25 EACH.

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES IN COSTA RICA

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Costa Rica. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL IN COSTA RICA?

Our daily spends per person:

• Accommodation: $32.37 per day
• Transport: $9.78 per day
• Activities: $18.87 per day
• Food and drink: $12.25 per day
• Miscellaneous: $1.23 per day
• Grand total spent in Costa Rica: $74.50 per person per day .

We left the scenic shores of Tamarindo relaxed and revitalised after four nights chilling and catching rays. But Costa Rica is so much more than that, as you’ve no doubt realised by now…

HOW MUCH DID YOU THINK IT WOULD COST TO TRAVEL AROUND COSTA RICA?

Lauren juliff.

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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You have a great site. I love that you keep it simple and that that you don’t accept freebies. After checking out many travel blogs, I feel that I have finally found one that I can trust!

Hi, It is a great post to give a general idea of how much it can cost when you are on a budget. I enjoyed reading it.

However, I think, the trip will be slightly more since there will be cost for local transportation to go to places such as Volcano or night hike etc. I don’t think I saw the expense for your all day Thermal Hot Springs with Dinner which might be $40 or more. And then, there will be cost to go back from the current location to airport. I am assuming, in Tamarindo, you just stayed at the beach. Are there any free things you recommend on any of the locations. Thank you.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

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Costa Rica Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

Costa Rica is one of my favorite countries in the world. It was the first country I ever traveled to — and it was the country that sparked my wanderlust.

These days, Costa Rica is one of the most popular destinations in Central America . It’s popular with expats, luxury travelers, and backpackers alike. While it is on the higher end of the price spectrum for the region, it’s nevertheless a phenomenal country to visit and remains affordable.

I love the never-ending activities, gorgeous beaches, diverse wildlife, delicious food, and friendly people.

The country may be expensive by regional standards but that doesn’t make it any less amazing. The beaches are picturesque, there’s great surfing and amazing diving, and there are plenty of places to get away from the hordes of retired Americans that live here.

This guide to Costa Rica can help you have the trip of a lifetime — and save money in the process!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Costa Rica

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in costa rica.

1. Climb a volcano

Volcanoes are among the country’s top tourist attractions. There are currently 5 active ones and over 60 dormant ones. Arenal is the most popular, famous for its beautiful hikes and scenic views. Irazu is known for its astonishing green-blue lake in one of its craters, while the Poas Volcano is home to a boiling acid lake within its crater.

2. Visit Monteverde

Monteverde is one of my favorite places in Costa Rica. I always found this town to be a nice base to hike the surrounding cloud forest, take canopy tours, and visit coffee plantations. I still dream of the coffee from here — it’s like drinking liquid chocolate! Be sure to take a nocturnal rainforest tour while you’re here — they’re super fun and educational.

3. Explore Tortuguero National Park

This park on the Caribbean coast is regarded as one of the most important breeding grounds for the endangered green turtle. The park also helps protect manatees, sloths, and monkeys. If you like jungles, birds, and quiet, this is a must-see! Admission is $16.95 USD. You can visit as a guided full-day tour from San Jose for $195 USD.

4. Explore Corcovado

Established in 1975, Corcovado National Park is on the remote Osa Peninsula in the southwest. Spanning 424 square kilometers (164 square miles), it’s a rugged, quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination. Here you’ll find pristine jungles, hiking trails, and plenty of diving opportunities. There’s lots of wildlife too, including tapirs, jaguars, pumas, and the rare Harpy eagle. The peninsula is not easy to get to but it’s the highlight of the country for me.

5. Stay in Puerto Viejo

Other things to see and do in costa rica, 1. visit san josé.

Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose is in the center of the country. It’s sort of gritty and there’s not a whole lot to do (the city only requires a few days) but while you’re here, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art & Design to check out the future of Costa Rican art, as well as the magnificent Teatro Nacional to take in its décor. There are also many tour companies that offer day trips to the surrounding jungle for hiking, zip-lining, canopy tours, and more. Most start around $150 USD.

2. Zip through the rainforest canopy

The highest 10% of rainforest is where most activity takes place, filled with squawking birds, slow moving sloths, and monkeys scampering from tree to tree. For an adrenaline-pumping view of these vast, diverse ecosystems, take a zip line tour. There are dozens of companies throughout the country, though Monteverde is my favorite place to do it. Expect to pay around $75-85 USD for a multi-line tour lasting a couple of hours .

3. Explore Baru Wildlife Refuge

With over 330 hectares (815 acres) of land, 7 kilometers (4 miles) of walking trails, and 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) of fantastic beaches, this refuge is another prime example of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Located on the coast south of Manuel Antonio , here you can go birdwatching, take canopy tours, and explore the park via guided tours to see the wildlife. Don’t miss the orchid and butterfly gardens. For something more unique, take a nighttime guided tour to see the region’s nocturnal animals. Self-guided tours cost $15 USD while guided tours start at $35 USD.

4. Go surfing in Jaco

Located on the Pacific Coast west of San Jose, Jaco was once a sleepy resort town whose main attraction was its excellent surfing. Growing tourism has transformed it into a haven of beach parties and nightclubs. Surf lessons and rentals are widely available on the beaches and sport-fishing is also popular here. For a more laid-back visit, head to the nearby Carara National Park to spot scarlet macaws, armadillos, and hundreds of species of birds (admission is $11.30 USD).

5. Learn some Spanish

Costa Rica is one of the most popular countries for learning Spanish due to the country’s easy-to-understand dialect. Programs vary in length and cost, but most offer the opportunity to do an immersive homestay with a Costa Rican family. Expect to spend around $500 USD for a basic week-long homestay language learning program.

6. See La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Located just one hour from San Jose, this makes for a popular day trip. Aside from the many stunning waterfalls throughout the lush cloud forest, here you’ll also find several beautiful gardens, an aviary, a hummingbird garden, a butterfly garden, and a reptile area. Plan to stay at least two hours to see everything. Admission is $50 USD. You can also do a full-day tour to the Waterfall Gardens that includes a visit to a coffee plantation and Poás Volcano for $159 USD.

7. Go fishing

Costa Rica is home to Marlin, Sailfish, Dorado, Snapper, Wahoo, and more. If you love to fish (or just want to give it a try), consider doing a half-day or full-day fishing excursion. A basic group excursion costs around $105 USD and usually includes food, though prices can be ten times as high for multi-day or exclusive charters. A half-day private charter is around $400-600 USD. You can usually find places that can cook your catch as well.

8. Chill out in Santa Teresa

At the bottom of the Nicoya Peninsula is the hippy backpacker town of Santa Teresa. This “town” is really nothing more than a beach with a road lined with eateries, surf shops, and hostels. Not much goes on here as everyone is up early to hit the waves. I enjoyed my time here as it’s a good place to just lay on the beach, hang out with people, and relax. It’s an easy place to fall into and spend weeks. Or, like most people who visit, months.

9. Learn to surf

Puerto Viejo , Cahuita , Manuel Antonio , Jaco, Santa Teresa, or Tamarindo all offer plenty of waves and lots of places to learn to surf. In fact, most travelers come here to surf because the waves are world renowned. If you have never learned but always wanted to try, this is the best place in the region to learn. Group lessons cost around $60 USD and private lessons are around $80-100 USD, while all-inclusive surf camps (including food, accommodation, lessons, and more) can be up to $2,500 USD. Board rentals are usually around $10 USD per day.

10. Walk through the treetops

The Rainmaker Aerial Walkway, located one hour from Jaco, was the first aerial walkway to be built in Central America. Spanning the canopy of a private rainforest, it’s still considered to be one of the top aerial walkways in the region. At the highest point on the walkway, you’ll find yourself 20 stories above the ground, giving you ample opportunities to spot all kinds of birds and monkeys. A self-guided tour is $23 USD, while guided tours start at $74 USD.

11. Wander a coffee plantation

Costa Rican coffee is famous the world over. On a coffee plantation tour you can learn about the entire bean-to-cup process and see it all up close — all while learning about the lives of the local farmers who grow it. While I personally dislike the taste of coffee, the kind I had in Monteverde tasted like chocolate and was delicious! Prices vary but expect to pay around $40-50 USD for a tour.

12. Take a chocolate-making workshop

Cacao is Costa Rica’s other famous bean (also technically a seed). Once widely exported, Costa Rican chocolate is now mostly made in small batches on local artisan farms. There are many places around the country where you can take chocolate making workshops, where you can see the entire process, sample the goods, and try your hand at grinding raw cacao. Tours generally last 2-3 hours and cost around $30-40 USD.

13. Experience the rainforest by night

A guided night walk offers the chance to spot and learn about some of the countless nocturnal animals that call the forest home, including tarantulas, armadillos, and stick bugs. It’s a cool way to see a different side of the jungle as your guide will point out animals, insects, and plants that you might not have noticed otherwise. You can take night walks at national parks and nature preserves around the country. Tours generally last around 2 hours and cost $25-35 USD.

14. Take a cooking class

One of my favorite ways to learn about a new culture is through its cuisine, and taking a cooking class is one of the best ways to do that. Taking home new recipes is also a great souvenir from your trip! In this 3-hour cooking class in La Fortuna, you’ll learn about typical Costa Rican produce and ingredients, and then prepare a few traditional dishes like picadillos (a spicy stew), tortillas, and guisados (a meat dish).

  For more information on specific destinations in the country, check out these guides:

• Arenal Travel Guide
• Manuel Antonio Travel Guide
• Monteverde Travel Guide
• Puerto Viejo Travel Guide
• San Jose Travel guide
• Tamarindo Travel Guide
• Tortuguero Travel Guide

Costa Rica Travel Costs

Hostel Costs – A bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds costs between $15-25 USD per night, while dorms with 8 beds and up can be found for as cheap as $11-14 USD. Private rooms in hostels are usually $35-60 USD.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels also include free breakfast. The majority of hostels around the country also have self-catering facilities too. Many also have bars/restaurants on site. In the beach areas especially, some hostels even have pools.

Budget hotel costs – Budget hotels begin around $50 USD per night but average closer to $65-70 USD.Breakfast is often included and most have basic amenities like AC and TV. Many budget hotels even have pools, especially in beachside towns.

For Airbnb, private rooms start around $40-60 USD per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least $75-125 USD. Prices double when not booked in advance.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is an option all around the country. Most campgrounds usually charge around $10 USD per night for a basic plot without electricity. Avoid wild camping as it is often unsafe and illegal in many areas due to the protection of natural areas.

Food – Costa Rican cuisine is centered around rice and beans, which are usually eaten for every meal. Potatoes, plantain, pork, and beef are also popular. Gallo pinto (rice and bean stir-fry) is the national dish. You’ll find it mixed with eggs for breakfast. Casado is a typical lunch dish, which consists of rice, beans, veggies, fresh salad, and your choice of meat. Generally, the food here is quite mild.

Note: While you can easily pay for tours and entrance fees in USD, in smaller establishments, such as local restaurants, you’ll need colones (CRC). Prices in this section are in CRC to reflect this.

At sodas (cheap local restaurants serving traditional cuisine), expect a filling meal of casado (rice, beans, veggies, and meat) to cost around 3,500-5,000 CRC. You can usually find empanadas and other savory snacks from traditional bakeries for around 2,000 CRC or less.

At a mid-range restaurant or in touristy areas (like right along the beach) expect to pay around around 7,000-8,500 CRC for a fish dish, 6,000-7,000 for a burger or a simple pasta dish, and 9,000-11,000 CRC for a steak dish or large pizza to share. Seafood dishes like lobster start around 12,000-17,000 CRC.

For fast food (think pizza or burgers) or a dish of fried rice at a Chinese takeout place, expect to pay around 4,500-5,000 CRC.

Domestic beer costs around 1,500-2,000 CRC, a glass of wine is 3,000 CRC, a cocktail is 3,500-5,000 CRC, and a latte/cappuccino is around 2,000 CRC. Bottled water is 1,000 CRC. Fruit smoothies, which you can get made either with water or milk, are 2,000-2,500 CRC.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 20,000-30,000 CRC depending on the area. This gets you basic staples like rice, beans, veggies, fruit, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Costa Rica Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Costa Rica, my suggested budget is $50 USD per day. On this budget, you can stay in a hostel, cook most of your meals, have some cheap street food, take public transportation to get around, and enjoy mostly free activities like hiking and the beach.

On a mid-range budget of around $135 USD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at local sodas, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like guided tours, surf lessons, and museum visits

On a “luxury” budget of $250 USD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, rent a car to get around, drink as much as you’d like, and do as many excursions as you want, including diving and canopy tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Costa Rica Travel Guide: Money Saving Tips

Costa Rica is one of the most expensive countries in Central America. Between food costs, accommodation, and activities, there’s a lot of ways to spend money. You can get by on a budget compared to other places in the world but it’s still an expensive place to visit. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save money while you’re here:

• Travel off-season – Late April to November is considered the rainy season and prices tend to be less expensive and the region is less crowded. If you’re on a budget, visit during this time.
• Avoid tour activities – There are a lot of great (but expensive) group activities and tours in the country. Skip them and do free activities like hiking, swimming, and relaxing at the beach instead.
• Eat at the sodas – “Sodas” are small family-run restaurants that specialize in inexpensive yet filling traditional meals, usually costing around 3,500-5,000 CRC. These hole-in-the-wall restaurants offer the best value in the country.
• Go camping – Some hostels let you camp on their property if you have a tent. If not, there are plenty of campgrounds around the country where you can pitch a tent. Usually, this costs around $10 USD per night.
• Visit the Caribbean side – Visiting the cheaper Caribbean side lets you see the beautiful country without the high prices of the popular Pacific destinations.
• Avoid the tourist shuttles – While local buses are a lot slower than tourist shuttles, they are also a fraction of the price (i.e the local bus from San Jose to Monteverde is $6 USD while a shuttle is $60 USD). If you aren’t rushed for time, take the local buses.
• Pack a water bottle – While the tap water is drinkable in most of the country, there are some remote and beach destinations where it’s recommended to drink bottled water. A reusable water bottle with a filter can help you save money (and thousands of plastic bottles) by purifying the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw .

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has lots of fun, social, and affordable hostels. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Costa Rica:

• Arenal Backpackers Resort (Arenal)
• Selina Puerto Viejo (Puerto Viejo)
• Stray Cat Hostel (San Jose)
• Costa Rica Backpackers (San Jose)
• Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio)
• Sloth Backpackers (Monteverde)
• Pura Vida Hostel (Tamarindo)
• Aracari Garden Hostel (Tortuguero)

How to Get Around Costa Rica

Bus – The cheapest and easiest way to get around Costa Rica is by bus. Short bus trips (under 3 hours) are usually around $2-10 USD while longer trips cost $10-20 USD. The Costa Rica tourism board has a comprehensive schedule and guide to help you plan your trip.

Minibus – Private minibuses or shuttles provide an easy way to get around the country, or to and from the airport. They are all over the place and are often quicker and more direct than the public buses (but also more expensive, starting at $50-60 USD). Ask your hotel/hostel staff for the local options as they vary around the country.

Flying – Since the country is so small, air travel within Costa Rica isn’t budget-friendly or efficient. I would skip this method of travel. It won’t save you time or money.

Car Rental – Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Costa Rica. You can rent a car for as little as $30-45 USD per day. However, the roads here are not always great and drivers can be aggressive. Make sure you have insurance if you do rent a vehicle. Most rental companies require drivers to be 25 though some will rent to drivers who are 21. For the best car rental prices in Costa Rica, use Vamos (as a Nomadic Matt reader, you’ll get 5% off by using our link).

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking isn’t common for long-distance rides, however, it’s possible in beach destinations or in remote places with less public transport. HitchWiki is the best website for additional hitchhiking tips and info.

When to Go to Costa Rica

Overall, temperatures and weather vary per region, but most people go to Costa Rica during the dry season, which takes place from December to April. Although it’s peak season and tourism is at its highest, there’s almost non-stop sunshine, ideal for enjoying the country’s beaches and rainforests. If visiting during this time, make all your reservations in advance since things fill up fast.

The rainy season is from May to November. This is when it’s cheapest to visit Costa Rica. It doesn’t rain all the time though and temperatures are still warm. The rain tends to lighten during June and July, making the country’s rainforests burst with life.

If you’re around the Caribbean coast and the Northern Plains, you can expect year-round humidity and temperatures somewhere in the 20s-30s°C (70s-80s°F). It’s not so humid in the North Pacific, but temperatures can get even hotter in this area during the dry season.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries for traveling and backpacking in Central America . Most popular tourist towns are small and with little threat of violence. Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

That said, it’s always good to play it safe. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is one of the most common types of crime here. Don’t flash your valuables and make sure they are always secure while you’re out. When going out for the night, only bring the money you need. Leave the rest of your cash and cards locked up in your accommodation.

There are some common scams here, including a taxi scam where the driver tells you the meter is broken once the drive has begun. For that reason, you should stick to metered taxis or negotiate a price in advance. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight as break-ins do occur. Be mindful of missing road signs and potholes, as well as aggressive drivers.

Costa Rica’s natural wonders can be unpredictable. If you’re hiking in the jungle, always check the weather in advance and never stray from the trail. Doing so disturbs the fragile ecosystems, and opens yourself up to the possibility of encountering poisonous snakes and spiders. When in doubt, hire a guide. If you’re not a strong swimmer, stay out of the water. The currents and waves off the coast can be very strong, so heed signs and local advice on whether it’s safe to swim in a certain area or not.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against unexpected costs due to illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Costa Rica Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Costa Rica Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Costa Rica and continue planning your trip:

The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Costa Rica

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 8 Best Hostels in San José, Costa Rica

Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Costa Rica Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Costa Rica?

• How much does a one-week trip to Costa Rica cost?
• How much does a two-week trip to Costa Rica cost?
• How much does a one-month trip to Costa Rica cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Costa Rica

A trip to Costa Rica for one person usually costs between $47 and $302 per day and $94 to $605 for two people. This is a wide range of costs, and the daily average per person from our data is $119 (₡60,578) per person. This average includes food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses contributed from other travelers. Prices can vary based on travel style and activities. While the overall price for a trip to Costa Rica is dependent on your personal travel style and the specific places you visit, if you book standard accommodation and travel with an average level of convenience, then your budget should be somewhere within this range. Also, the prices for individual destinations such as San Jose, Quepos, and Jaco may vary, but generally fall somewhat close to this range. Below you can find a breakdown of travel expenses by category, plus a comparison of guided tour costs versus traveling independently.

If you're considering an independent trip to Costa Rica, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $47 (₡23,924) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $119 (₡60,578) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $302 (₡153,333), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Costa Rica from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Costa Rica .

How much does a one week trip to Costa Rica cost?

When planning a one-week trip to Costa Rica, most visitors to Costa Rica spend between $330 and $2,117 for their trip, with the average cost falling around $836. This estimate includes essential aspects such as sightseeing, local transportation, food, and accommodations. With a full week, you'll have sufficient time to explore one, two, or possibly three locations within Costa Rica, depending on the amount of time you want to spend in each place. The most popular places worth considering are San Jose , Quepos , and Jaco . Keep in mind that these numbers are based on overall averages and may vary depending on your individual preferences.

How much does a two week trip to Costa Rica cost?

With two weeks, you should budget between $660 and $4,233 for your trip to Costa Rica. The average price for a two week trip is $1,672. Two weeks will allow you enough time to visit between three and five places. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider some of the more affordable places such as San Jose, Santa Elena, and La Fortuna.

How much does a one month trip to Costa Rica cost?

With a month-long trip to Costa Rica, expenses can be anywhere from $1,415 to $9,071 with the average being $3,584. The cost of travel is dependent on your overall style of travel. If you have a full month, you'll likely want to stay at a vacation rental with a kitchen during at least part of your trip so that you can prepare your own meals. Backpackers often prefer hostels for the same reason. Hostels also offer a more social atmosphere at a very affordable price range.

Hostel Prices in Costa Rica

With more than 90 hostels in Costa Rica, the average price is $16 per night for a dorm bed. Hostels are a terrific option for younger independent travelers looking to save money while staying social during their trip. With many types of hostels, it can be overwhelming to sort out the best places, though. Our analysis of the hostels in Costa Rica not only found the average price, but also uncovered some surprises about the overall quality, amenities, and atmosphere of hostels in the region. You can see more details from our analysis about typical hostel prices in Costa Rica here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Costa Rica.

• $12 for a dorm bed at Costa Rica Backpackers in San Jose more details
• $18 for a dorm bed at Room2Board Hostel and Surf School in Jaco more details
• $20 for a dorm bed at CASA PURA VIDA SURF HOSTEL in Tamarindo more details

Hotel Prices in Costa Rica

You'll find a wide range of hotel options across Costa Rica. Below are prices for some of the destinations, and for more details see our analysis of hotel costs in Costa Rica .

Hotel Club del Mar Oceanfront

Hotel arenal kioro suites & spa.

Should you do an organized tour or travel independently in Costa Rica?

When planning a trip to Costa Rica, there are two primary options to choose from: organized tours and independent travel. Organized tours offer a convenient and hassle-free experience, as all the details of your trip are handled by travel experts. Additionally, you'll have the benefit of an expert guide who can provide valuable insights and knowledge during your journey. This option is often favored by travelers who appreciate the convenience and ease it offers, with many tours providing transportation and expert guides to enhance the overall experience.

On the other hand, independent travel provides a different set of advantages. It offers a higher level of freedom and flexibility, allowing you to customize your itinerary and explore at your own pace. This option appeals to travelers who value the ability to make spontaneous decisions and have more control over their travel plans. The independence of traveling on your own can provide a sense of adventure and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture on a deeper level.

Ultimately, the choice between organized tours and independent travel depends on your personal preferences and travel style. Consider your desired level of convenience, the amount of guidance you prefer, and the level of flexibility you seek when making your decision. Both options have their own merits, and the decision should be based on what aligns best with your travel goals and preferences.

Comparing Trip Costs in Costa Rica

When we compare the prices of organized tours to the average costs of independent travelers, we can see that sometimes the prices are fairly even.

Tours vs. independent Travel: Pros & Cons

Organized tours.

• An expert guide familiar with the culture
• Convenient transportation
• Fellow travelers to socialize with
• Well researched activities
• Efficient and thought out itinerary
• The security of have a trip leader if something goes wrong
• Limited options
• Usually not customizable
• The fast pace often means you can’t visit one place in depth
• Usually more expensive than independent travel
• There may be limited time to interact with the local culture and community

Independent Travel

• Completely customizable
• Opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Can fully immerse yourself in the local culture
• Freedom to move at your own pace
• Flexibility to change your itinerary at any time
• More affordable
• Challenging to plan an efficient itinerary
• Transportation may be challenging or inefficient
• Booking and trip planning can be a hassle
• Popular sights may sell out well in advance
• If something goes wrong, you're on your own

Are organized tours more expensive than independent travel in Costa Rica?

Organized tours average $213 per day in Costa Rica, and are generally all-inclusive with one large payment. Independent trips usually average $119 (₡60,578) per day, and include individual payments to hotels, local transportation, food, and sightseeing. When compared, organized tours and independent trips each come with their own set of challenges and benefits. It's important to understand all aspects of both types of trips to make a fair comparison. You can see our thorough analysis of tour prices in Costa Rica here .

Here are a few sample tours in Costa Rica:

• Ultimate Escape ($1,836) 11 days, 8 destinations more details
• Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes (8 Days, Departure Transfer Manuel Antonio To San Jose) ($2,545) 8 days, 7 destinations more details
• Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes (8 Days) ($2,795) 8 days, 6 destinations more details
• Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride ($5,850) 14 days, 10 destinations more details
• Costa Rica Cycling Tour (e-Bikes) ($4,029) 10 days, 9 destinations more details

More for Costa Rica

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Travel Cost: Costa Rica Budget-Friendly Guide

Charting a family voyage and curious about the travel cost Costa Rica entails?

Costa Rica, a treasure of captivating sights, adventure, and tranquility, is ready to welcome you.

But how do you ensure you’re reaping maximum value for your bucks?

That’s where we step in, illuminating all facets of your Costa Rican escapade.

In Costa Rica, you’ll find a spectrum of accommodation choices to cater to every traveler’s preferences, from wallet-friendly lodges to posh beachfront havens.

Wheeling around in a rented car?

Or prefer exploring paradise through public transit?

Whichever your choice, you’ll find that transportation costs are quite reasonable.

Moreover, you can savor delicious local cuisine and embark on thrilling tours without straining your purse strings.

Ready to embark on this adventure?

Keep reading, and discover how to budget your dream Costa Rica vacation smartly.

Key Takeaways

• Learn essential details on the costs of accommodation, transportation, dining, and activities in Costa Rica.
• Discover budget-friendly activities and destinations for a family trip in Costa Rica.
• Plan your dream vacation confidently with tips and guidance, ensuring a memorable and worry-free experience.

Travel Cost: Costa Rica Accommodation

Luxury Hotels

Seeking that extra touch of elegance and comfort during your Costa Rican vacation?

Luxury hotels offer top-notch service, lavish amenities, and exquisite dining experiences.

Plus, many of these hotels are steps away from beautiful beaches or nestled in lush rainforests.

The best all-inclusive family resorts in Costa Rica are perfect for a high-end family getaway.

Mid-Range Options

Or maybe you’re looking for a balance between comfort and affordability.

For that, numerous mid-range hotels, lodges, and rental houses are ready to welcome you.

A week of vacation in Costa Rica costs between $850 and $1,450 for an average traveler staying in these types of accommodations while enjoying standard tours.

Hostels and Budget Lodging

Traveling on a tight budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality.

Costa Rica offers a variety of hostels and budget lodgings that provide a clean, comfortable, and friendly atmosphere.

These options allow you to stretch your dollars while still experiencing the natural beauty and adventure that Costa Rica offers.

Transportation Expenses

First up, airlines. Costa Rica has two main international airports: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.

Depending on where your family is flying from, expect airline costs to range based on the time of year, departure location, and airline chosen.

Your best bet to find the most budget-friendly airfare is to be flexible with your travel dates and book well in advance.

Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a great way to explore Costa Rica at your own pace.

This mode of transportation can be slightly more expensive than public transportation.

Car rentals can range anywhere from $30 to $70 per day, with insurance often doubling the cost.

Remember to take into consideration fuel charges, which can also add up.

When booking a car rental, reserve a vehicle with enough space for your entire family and luggage.

Public Transportation

If you’d rather skip the car rental and immerse yourself in local life, public transportation is a budget-friendly and eco-conscious alternative.

Costa Rica offers a variety of public transportation options, such as buses and shuttles, to help you get around.

Local Buses

Costa Rica’s local buses are an affordable way to get from one destination to another.

For example, fares for local buses can range from $1 to $5, depending on the distance traveled.

While they may not be as fast as a private car, you’ll experience the true Costa Rican culture and interact with locals.

Public Buses

Public buses are another budget-friendly way to explore the country.

These buses are often more comfortable than local buses and include amenities like air conditioning.

Prices can vary, but for an idea of costs, a 4-hour trip from San José to the Caribbean coast can average around $18.

Shuttle Services

Private shuttles are a great option for those who prefer a bit more comfort and convenience.

Typically aimed at tourists, these shuttles can pick up and drop off passengers at hotels or other popular destinations.

Prices range depending on distance and companies.

But for example, a popular route like Monteverde to La Fortuna may cost around $50 per person.

Food and Dining

Traditional food.

When traveling to Costa Rica with your family, you’ll enjoy a variety of delicious traditional foods.

One popular meal worth trying is the casado .

It typically includes rice, beans, vegetables, a protein such as chicken, beef, or fish, and a side salad.

It’s a well-balanced, flavorful meal that you can find in most local restaurants , known as sodas.

Street Food and Fast Food

One of the joys of being in Costa Rica is experiencing its street food culture.

You’ll likely come across various yummy snacks, such as empanadas , a deep-fried pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

They’re an affordable and delicious treat for the whole family.

In addition to street food, you’ll find fast food options from popular international chains throughout Costa Rica.

Just remember to balance those quick bites with some traditional meals too.

If you’re looking to enjoy some adult beverages during your trip, you’ll find that Costa Rica offers a great selection of beers and cocktails.

Local beers like Imperial and Pilsen are very popular and reasonably priced, as are the fruity mixed drinks that you’ll find at many beachside bars.

Don’t forget that Costa Rica also enforces strict drinking laws like many other countries.

Always be responsible, and be sure to follow the local regulations during your trip.

Activities and Excursions

National parks and wildlife.

Costa Rica is home to a stunning variety of national parks and wildlife reserves.

One such gem is Tortuguero National Park , where you can embark on a thrilling boat tour and witness turtles nesting during certain times of the year.

Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park is also a must-do.

It offers pristine beaches, lush forests, and an abundance of wildlife—you might even spot some rare species.

Remember to respect nature and keep a safe distance from the animals.

Beaches and Surfing

Looking for the best beaches in Costa Rica ?

You’re spoiled for choice.

The country boasts a spectacular coastline with sandy beaches and enticing waves catering to beginners and experienced surfers.

Hit the shores of Tamarindo Beach or Santa Teresa for some sublime surfing.

Or simply spread a towel on the sand and soak up the sun.

Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Adventure Activities

Ready for some adrenaline-pumping fun?

Then you’ll love the variety of adventure activities Costa Rica offers.

Conquer your fears on a canopy tour as you zip-line through the forest, feeling the wind whoosh past you as you take in the incredible views.

For a unique jungle experience, try your hand at white-water rafting down exciting rapids, which can cater to varying skill levels.

Popular Travel Destinations

Caribbean side.

The Caribbean side of Costa Rica is a unique blend of rich culture and stunning natural beauty.

Here, you’ll find Puerto Viejo and Cahuita, both perfect spots for your vacation.

Puerto Viejo is known for its laid-back vibe, endless beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

You can stroll around the town, soaking in the Caribbean atmosphere while enjoying delicious food from local vendors.

Cahuita is a small fishing village with a National Park where you can explore lush rainforests and pristine coral reefs.

Think about snorkeling, beaches, and wildlife—some of the best things to do in Costa Rica that await you on the Caribbean side.

Central Valley

Central Valley, home to Costa Rica’s capital San José, offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions.

San José is a bustling city where you can find museums, galleries, and fantastic dining options.

Don’t miss the Jade Museum, which houses the world’s most extensive collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts.

The Central Valley also hosts several majestic volcanoes, like Poás and Irazú, where you can hike and enjoy breathtaking panoramas.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil escape, consider visiting Monteverde.

This misty town is famous for its cloud forests, providing excellent opportunities for bird-watching and zip-lining adventures.

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit, as it’s one of Costa Rica’s stunning wonders.

Guanacaste Region

Guanacaste, a preferred destination for many families, boasts luxurious resorts and secluded beaches.

The region is known for its dry climate, stunning landscapes, and the lively beach town of Tamarindo.

Here, you can enjoy a wide range of activities, including surfing, horseback riding, or simply soaking up the sun.

Within the Guanacaste region, you’ll also find Rincon de la Vieja National Park with its lush forests, relaxing hot springs, and captivating volcanoes.

Travel Budget Tips

Accommodation.

For your accommodations, consider staying at more affordable or even free options like Couchsurfing or Airbnb for a more wallet-friendly adventure.

Be sure to book in advance to grab better deals.

If you’re willing to embrace the backpacker lifestyle, numerous low-cost hostels are also available throughout Costa Rica.

While exploring the country, try to focus on activities that make your travel budget go further.

Luckily, Costa Rica offers a wealth of free and affordable activities such as zip-lining, canopy tours, and hiking.

Befriend the locals and ask them for some insider tips.

They’ll often know about hidden gems and low-cost activities in their area.

When it comes to eating, skip the tourist-trap restaurants and opt for local sodas (small, family-owned restaurants).

Here, you can enjoy traditional, delicious, and affordable Costa Rican meals.

Embrace the “comida típica” like gallo pinto and casado.

Another option to save even more is to cook meals in your accommodation when possible.

Here are some additional ways to save on your family’s travel expenses:

• Travel during the off-peak season, typically between May and November, when prices for flights, accommodations, and activities are lower.
• Use local transportation, like buses or shared shuttles, which are significantly cheaper than renting a car or taking private transfers.
• Look for package deals, combining accommodation and activity options to secure bundled discounts.
• Pack a reusable water bottle and refill it with tap water instead of buying bottled water. Costa Rica’s tap water is safe to drink in most locations.

Related: Do You Tip in Costa Rica?

Parting Words

You’re one step closer to a fun family escapade with a better grasp of the travel cost Costa Rica will present.

Let me assure you, it’s worth every cent.

Costa Rica is a potpourri of experiences designed to enthrall every traveler.

The land is a canvas of nature’s beauty, with awe-inspiring beaches, mesmerizing rainforests, and adrenaline-pumping activities that are a hit with young and old alike.

Being proactive in planning your trip and considering your budget will ensure you squeeze the best out of your Costa Rican expedition.

But don’t lose sleep over every nickel and dime.

Instead, aim to strike the perfect balance between cost-effectiveness and immersing yourself in the Costa Rican joy ride.

Here’s to crafting timeless memories with your dear ones in this captivating haven.

Related: How Much Money Should I Bring to Costa Rica

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a 2-week vacation in costa rica cost.

Your 2-week vacation in Costa Rica can cost between $1,700 and $2,900 while staying at mid-priced hotels, lodges, or rental houses and taking part in standard tours, assuming double occupancy. Remember that opting for beachfront accommodations and high-dollar activities might significantly increase your budget.

What Is The Average Flight Cost To Costa Rica?

The average flight cost to Costa Rica varies depending on your departure city, time of year, and airlines. In general, expect to pay between $400 and $800 for a round-trip ticket from major North American cities, and sometimes even lower during promotions or shoulder seasons.

What Are The Typical Food Expenses In Costa Rica?

Depending on your dining preferences, typical food expenses in Costa Rica can range from $10 to $40 per day. Local restaurants, called “sodas,” offer traditional Costa Rican cuisine at affordable prices. However, fine dining and international restaurants can increase your daily budget. No worries, there’s plenty of delicious food for every taste and budget.

What’s The Price Range For An All-Inclusive Trip To Costa Rica?

All-inclusive trips to Costa Rica vary depending on the resort, travel season, and length of stay. Expect to pay between $150 and $500 per night per person for an all-inclusive resort, with many packages that typically include accommodations, meals, certain drinks, and on-site activities.

How Can I Enjoy Costa Rica On A Budget With Family?

You can enjoy Costa Rica on a budget with your family by planning, looking for affordable accommodations, visiting outside the peak season, and focusing on low-cost or free activities, such as exploring national parks and enjoying beautiful beaches. Also, eating at local restaurants and traveling via public transportation can save you money while experiencing authentic Costa Rican culture.

Raymond Forbes Photography / Stocksy United

Centering yourself on a surfboard or yoga mat, descending into bat-filled caves or ascending misty volcanic peaks – relax and enjoy the ride of Costa Rica.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Costa Rica. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Teatro Nacional

On the southern side of the Plaza de la Cultura resides the Teatro Nacional, San José’s most revered building. Constructed in 1897, it features a columned…

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Central Valley & Highlands

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Is Costa Rica expensive? The best budget tips to visit the country

The ultimate travel guide to visiting Costa Rica on a budget! You'll fall in love with this gorgeous country in Central America.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

May 24, 2023

Many people wonder: is Costa Rica expensive? It surely can be, but it's also quite easy to travel to Costa Rica on a budget.  This tropical and gorgeous country in Central America is one of the most tourist-friendly countries in the region. 

While it is common to enjoy luxury vacations, all-inclusive retreats, and expensive getaways in Costa Rica where you really treat yourself, you can still visit Costa Rica with little money and have a lot of fun.

In this article, I’ll explain the best budget travel tips for Costa Rica . I’ll cover accommodation, food, activities, and other ways to travel through the country without breaking the bank.

So if you’re wondering if Costa Rica is too expensive for you, this article is for you!

Is Costa Rica expensive?

If you’re wondering “Is Costa Rica expensive?”, the answer is yes and no.

Compared to other Central American countries like Nicaragua or El Salvador, Costa Rica is generally more on the expensive side. It’s pretty well-developed and has a thriving tourism industry, so things do cost more.

But compared to expensive countries like Australia, the UK, or the USA , Costa Rica can be very affordable to visit. 

Following the budget travel tips listed in this article, you can definitely explore this beautiful country without spending much money.

More on budget travel in this part of the world in our guide on  How to travel cheap in the Caribbean .

What's the currency in Costa Rica?

The national currency in Costa Rica is colones. Sometimes you can pay for accommodation and tours in USD, but try to exchange for the local currency just in case. You’ll need local cash to pay at local eateries and such.

1 USD = roughly 600 colones

I recommend not exchanging money at the airport , as they tend to charge higher fees. Wait until you get into San Jose or another city or town and exchange at a local bank. 

Also, consider getting a debit or credit card with no foreign transaction fees so you don’t get a fee when you withdraw foreign currency at an ATM.

Is Costa Rica expensive? Accommodation costs

Accommodation is usually the biggest expense while traveling. But there are plenty of options if you’re wondering where to stay in Costa Rica on a budget.

Experience Costa Rica with a work exchange

First, to save the most money, consider a work exchange . Doing a work exchange allows you to work a few hours a week in exchange for free accommodation, so your living expenses are close to nothing. Some work exchanges include free meals and other amenities as well.

In exchange, you’ll have to work around 20 hours per week. The work is generally pretty low-key and in most cases you don’t need prior experience. 

Especially in Costa Rica, there are lots of cool eco-lodges and retreats that look for volunteers to help with gardening, cleaning, preparing food, and more. You can have an interesting cultural exchange where you get to learn new skills and meet locals.

If you already have skills that hosts are looking for, like social media management  or teaching yoga , there are also lots of cool work exchange opportunities in Costa Rica . 

Are you asking yourself "is Costa Rica expensive?". Consider trying a Worldpackers work exchange to have a fun experience and get free accommodation!

Check out some of the opportunities:

• Volunteer in a hostel in La Fortuna and live in a beautiful relaxing touristy spot  for a while.
• Be part of a community and spiritual / healing sanctuary in Bijagua
• Help, enjoy and learn in a organic farm in Monteverde !

The next cheapest accommodation is hostels. Hostels are fun, social places to stay, especially if you’re a solo traveler in Costa Rica looking to make friends. 

Hostels in Costa Rica cost around 10-15 USD for a shared dorm room. Most dorm rooms have secure lockers where you can store your belongings, as well as friendly staff to help you book activities and plan your stay.

There are also plenty of Airbnbs, guesthouses, and hotels in Costa Rica. But if you're wondering where to stay in Costa Rica on a budget , I would stick with either work exchanges or hostels. 

Costa Rica on a budget: food and drinks 

Another tip for traveling Costa Rica on a budget is being mindful about where and what you eat or drink. The biggest budget travel tip is always: eat and drink like the locals.

Because Costa Rica is quite touristy, there are a lot of westernized restaurants that cater to tourists. They serve international dishes like burgers and pizza, and they are also very overpriced. Ditch these places and try to eat local food instead. You’ll have a more authentic experience, and you’ll save money .

Ask your hostel staff or work exchange hosts about the best local places to eat. You can find delicious local dishes like meat stews, plantains, tamales, and gallo pinto. The latter is a dish of rice and beans that is often eaten at breakfast. 

Also try a casado , which is a traditional plate that includes an assortment of local foods. A soda is a small family-run restaurant that offers these heaping plates of food for the equivalent of around 5 USD.

Dabble in the local produce as well, as you can find fresh coconuts and fruits like papayas and bananas. The local foods are always the freshest and most delicious, and also the cheapest.

The same rule goes for drinking alcohol. On a night out, if you buy cocktails and imported drinks you’ll blow through lots of money. But if you drink the local spirits and beers, you’ll save money. 

Overall, drinking alcohol in Costa Rica is quite expensive. Seek out happy hours if you can, or try to avoid drinking altogether to save money for fun activities!

Is transportation in Costa Rica expensive? 

The cheapest form of transport in Costa Rica is a public bus , as is common in many countries. However, public buses in Central America are very slow and generally crowded. 

If you’re really trying to save money in Costa Rica, take the public buses when you can. It’s also a good way to practice Spanish and to immerse yourself in local culture.

The next cheapest form of transport and probably the most common is a shared van or minibus . Costa Rica is a pretty small country, so you can cover a lot of ground in a shared van. 

The prices are like 20-30 USD for a long journey, which isn’t too bad. The van may also have air-conditioning and will pick you up/drop you off in more convenient locations.

You can take taxis in Costa Rica, but they are more expensive and the rides will add up. Take taxis for short journeys or on a night out partying. 

But for traveling longer distances around the country, I recommend a shared van. If you’re staying in a hostel or doing a work exchange , it is also very easy to find other travelers to share transport with and lower the costs.

Costa Rica on a budget: activities

One of the main reasons I'd say "no" to someone who asks me if traveling around Costa Rica is expensive is that most of the best activities are free.  The country is so rich in natural beauty that all you have to do is explore nature to have an amazing time. 

Here are some of the best things to do in Costa Rica , all of which can be done on a budget:

Visit the Pacific Coast and go surfing at incredible beaches like Playa Avellanas, Playa Negra, Playa Tamarindo, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Langosta . 

Surfing and swimming are free, but if you’re traveling without a board you may have to rent gear. Luckily, that is pretty cheap in Costa Rica. 

For example, in the popular tourist town of Tamarindo , you can rent a surfboard at a local shop for around 5 USD per hour. That is so cheap compared to other countries like the USA and Australia!

Check out which are the best beaches in Costa Rica .

Is it expensive to hike and explore nature in Costa Rica?

Aside from surfing, hiking is one of the most popular activities to enjoy in Costa Rica. Corcovado National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Santa Rosa National Park are some of the best national parks for hiking in Costa Rica. 

Some hiking trails and parks are free, but some charge a fee of around 10-15 USD. But for a stunning location, this is pretty affordable.

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is another one of the most popular places to visit in Costa Rica on a budget. 

You can hike and explore for little money, as the area is packed with walking trails and dense jungle. Walk the Hanging Bridges over the famous suspension bridges, or complete the classic trails like the Cloud Forest Trail or the Swamp Trail.

Also, be sure to visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve to see some of the unique and special wildlife.  

It costs 25 USD to visit the reserve, which is worth it for a full day of immersive exploring. You can also go ziplining for around 50-80 USD. This is obviously more expensive, but it’s an unforgettable experience.

To make sure you get to fully enjoy all that, check how the weather is like at different times of the year in our article about The best time to visit Costa Rica .

Coffee tours

If you’re a coffee-lover, don’t miss out on a tour of a local coffee plantation while visiting Costa Rica. You can learn all about the local beans, farmers, and their coffee-making process. 

Coffee plantation tours usually cost around 30-40 USD, and you can find tours all over the country. Most of them are located near San Jose and the Monteverde Area. 

Also, consider volunteering on a coffee farm to learn even more about the process!

Costa Rica is such a lush country, and there are plenty of waterfalls to see. Waterfalls are usually free to visit , you just have to cover your transport. 

If you’re staying in a hostel or doing a work exchange in Costa Rica , you’re sure to meet other people to share transport with for waterfall day trips.

Some of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica are Llanos de Cortez near Tamarindo, Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall near Arenal Volcano, La Paz Waterfall near San Jose, and Nauyaca Waterfall near Dominical. Seeing stunning waterfalls is a must when visiting Costa Rica on a budget vacation.

Is Costa Rica cheap or not?

After reading this article, what do you think? Would you say Costa Rica is expensive to visit? 

My conclusion is that it's more expensive than other Central American countries, but it's definitely cheaper than most tourist destinations in the Global North. And, like anywhere else, the amount of money you spend varies a lot depending on your travel choices.

There's so much to see and do in Costa Rica for free in this beautiful and diverse country that it's definitely worth a visit. And if you follow these tips, especially volunteering , you'll see it's not too hard to visit Costa Rica on a budget.

Send this article to your friends who are still wondering how expensive is Costa Rica - and invite them to go there with you!

Keep exploring other amazing Central America destinations like  Guatemala  and  Dominican Republic , our read our article  Where to go in Costa Rica: 15 amazing places .

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Write here your questions and greetings to the author

also for saving on atm fees i costa rica i used this app " ATM Fee saver" its super easy and useful, it shows atm around with the lowest fees for withdrawing money :) can recommend it

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Costa Rica Travel Information

1 Week Costa Rica Budget: How Much Our Trip Cost

June 12, 2017 By Sammi 8 Comments

If you’re trying to figure out how much you’ll spend for your one week Costa Rica vacation, this post will help. I will outline how much my 1 week Costa Rica budget was for a trip I took with two friends. We visited Jaco and Playas del Coco, rented a car, stayed in mid-range and budget hotels and did a few tours. We were not on a strict budget but we weren’t looking for luxury either.

If your itinerary sounds a bit like ours or are simply wondering the travel expenses for one week in Costa Rica, you’ll get a great idea from this post. Costa Rica is known for being an expensive country to travel so this will help greatly for getting a travel budget estimate.

All of these prices are in USD, the standard currency in tourism.

Our 1 Week Itinerary Costa Rica Budget

They were visiting for one week so we spent the first 3 days in Jaco , then Playas del Coco for 3 days and the 7th day they flew out of San Jose. We chose these destinations as they are places I’m very familiar with and it was their first time so I could easily take them around.

Even though it’s about a 4 hour drive from Jaco to Coco, I wanted to show them two different coastal areas of Costa Rica. Jaco has a great mix of rain forest and beach whereas Coco has more of the pretty beaches so they were able to experience wildlife, rain forest and beach.

Airfare from Seattle to SJO Airport

My friends flew from Seattle to San Jose (SJO Airport) for around $500 USD per person round trip with Delta. They visited in September which is low tourism season and cheaper than in the summer. Flights can be go around $700-800 USD in the busy months like January – April and July. During Christmas, prices can go up to around $900 USD!

Costa Rica Car Rental Cost

We decided to rent a car for our trip. Since we were going to Jaco and Coco, we rented an automatic sedan (Hyundai Accent), we didn’t need a 4×4. It cost us $350 total ($116 per person) with full insurance. We rented with Adobe Rent a Car who we now have a partnership with.

I highly recommend renting a car for this itinerary so you will have more freedom and flexibility, especially since for a one week trip as you don’t have a ton of time. It was so much fun roadtripping around with my friends!

And now with our partnership with Adobe, we have a discount and extra freebies for our readers so you can explore Costa Rica like we did. Get our car rental discount in Costa Rica here!

Hotel Cost in Jaco

We rented an apartment in a condo complex called Costa Linda for about $100 USD a night on Airbnb (get $40 credit here) for 3 people. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo with security, a pool, washer/dryer in the apartment and walking distance to town. We stayed for 3 nights and the total with taxes came out to be $336 USD for 3 people.

We also booked this place the night before my friends flew out so that was an extra $112 USD so the grand total came out to be $448 USD ($149 USD per person).

Cost of Tours in Jaco

We did 2 tours in Jaco – the Park at Ocean Ranch combo adventure tour and the Rio Tarcoles boat ride. The Ranch Park Pase Especial tour was $120 USD per person but they had a promo going on so it was $100 USD per person. This tour was a full day of ziplining, horseback riding and canyoning.

The river boat tour was $35 USD per person without transportation ($55 USD per person with transportation) and this is a 2 hour boat ride down Rio Tarcoles to see the crocodiles and other birds.

We also spent one day at Manuel Antonio National Park. It’s an hour drive from Jaco and a $16 USD per adult entrance fee. We spent all day at the park and ate lunch at a restaurant outside the national park for about $10 USD a plate.

Cost of Food in Jaco

We ate mostly local in Jaco and since we had a kitchen in the apartment, we cooked a couple times. You can find cheap local places in Jaco ($6 USD a lunch with drink) or more expensive places ($20 USD and up) so there is a good variety. I took my friends out to the local restaurants and meals were no more than $8 each. We also cooked a bit.

You can find good drink specials in Jaco since it’s more of a party town. You can get happy hour beer for $2 USD, cocktails for $4 USD and cheap shots.

Playas del Coco

Hotel cost in coco.

We stayed 3 nights in Toro Blanco , a mid range hotel near the beach in Playas del Coco. A room for 3 people cost $90 USD a night without breakfast, the total was $270 USD ($90 USD per person). This hotel has a nice pool but unfortunately they didn’t include breakfast which is actually fairly standard for most hotels in Costa Rica.

Cost of Activities in Playas del Coco

Since we only had 1 full day in Coco, we decided to take a private boat ride around the Gulf of Papagayo with my friend Marcy who owns a boating company . He took us all around the Gulf, we snorkeled and visited different beaches. For a half day for 3 people, it was $270 USD total.

This is the best way to experience the Gulf of Papagayo since on a private boat tour, you get to go to a lot of different beaches and snorkel spots versus an open catamaran sailing tour.

My friends absolutely love to snorkel so I knew I had to take them on a private tour to have the boat all to ourselves.

The day we drove back to Jaco from Coco, we decided to visit some of my favorite unknown beaches which are all free.

Cost of Food in Coco

We splurged a little bit with food in Coco, mostly because we were so tired from boating. We didn’t feel like looking up places to eat so we went to the Hard Rock Cafe (no longer there). Burgers were around $16 USD which is not too bad, but definitely more expensive than going to a local restaurant.

Total 1 Week Costa Rica Budget

Per person, the total cost of this 1 week Costa Rica trip came out to be around $750 USD including food, gas and souvenirs and this is without airfare. The car rental and tours took up a good chunk of the budget but we did relatively well with our budget. We didn’t stay at any super high end luxury hotels so we didn’t spend more than $40 USD a person a night for lodging and they were all very comfortable and clean places.

The car rental was great for my friends since we also stopped to check out different beaches and beach towns up in the Gulf of Papagayo and different viewpoints from Jaco to Manuel Antonio. It was definitely worth the extra money!

Tips for Saving Money

As you can see, our 1 week Costa Rica budget was not too bad and you could cut it down by not renting a car and taking the bus instead. But in low season (September), the car rental price was not bad.

You can also take out all the tours to save even more money. However, I recommend to book at least one or two tours to add some fun and adventure to your itinerary, especially if you are outdoorsy and active like us.

You can also be more conscious of your food. We didn’t care to stick to the cheapest food, we wanted to eat at some nice places so we did. But if you had to be cheaper, eat at bakeries or the little cafeterias inside supermarkets as those are way cheaper.

As for lodging, we did not want to stay at a hostel. We were super happy paying more for a nice condo with 2 bedrooms and bathrooms. But to save on costs, you can stay in a hostel.

Want to read more Costa Rica travel tips? Check out these posts!

Sample Costa Rica itineraries

Money saving tips : Tips for saving money traveling in Costa Rica

10 mistakes to avoid traveling in Costa Rica

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Home » Travel Planning and Inspiration » Is Costa Rica Expensive? Cost of Traveling to Costa Rica

Is Costa Rica Expensive? Cost of Traveling to Costa Rica

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

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So you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, well this is one of my favorite tropical destinations, so buckle in and I’ll tell you what I know!

The things Costa Rica is famous for include its lush jungles, incredible biodiversity, and stunning white sandy beaches . The country is also known for its relaxed vibe – the Pura Vida! It’s almost like as soon as your plane touches down, all your worries and stress just disappear.

“Is Costa Rica expensive?” is one of the most common questions I get asked. While it’s true that this certainly isn’t the cheapest country in Central America to travel to, it’s totally possible to travel here on a budget.

While it’s not comparable in price to an area such as Honduras where tourism hasn’t quite taken off (yet), traveling in Costa Rica can still be done on a backpacker budget with a bit of planning. 

In this blog, I’ll break down all the costs you can expect from your Costa Rican holiday including the cost of accommodations, food, transportation, and tours.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable holiday or want a luxurious getaway, I’ve put together this expense guide with all you need to know before you leave. You will find specific prices of a few more popular areas as well as some money-saving tips for how you can make the most of your trip.

I hope to make this stunning country a destination that everyone can travel to, regardless of their budget.

What currency do they use in Costa Rica?

The currency used in Costa Rican is the Colón (pronounced like cologne). One Costa Rican Colón is equal to 0.0019 United States Dollars or $1 USD is equivalent to around ₡530 Colón. A Colón is made up of 100 céntimos (think 100 cents in the USA).

Like most places in the Americas, US Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country. But just keep in mind that the further you go from the “tourist areas” the more it will shift to being beneficial to use the local currency. If you try to use USD when something is quoted in Colónes, the merchant will usually give you the short end of the conversion (sometimes upwards of 50%).

Cost of Hotel and Hostel Accommodation in Costa Rica

One of the biggest costs when traveling, besides the cost of flights, is accommodations. Like other places you travel, the cost of staying in Costa Rica will vary greatly based on the level of luxury you expect.

If you compare the cost of accommodations in Costa Rica to nearby countries in Central America, you will notice the prices are very much inflated. While the rise in tourism in this country has driven prices up, the prices are still quite reasonable by North American standards. 

Generally speaking, the most expensive area for accommodations is in the Guanacaste province where you will find the best beaches and premium luxury resorts. If you go to the more rural areas, prices will be substantially cheaper. 

If you are traveling on a backpacker’s budget, you will want to stay in hostels where you can get a bed in a shared room. Dorm beds cost about $15 to $30 USD per night, depending on location and amenities. These rooms will be shared with 3 or more people and are a great way for solo travelers to meet others. 

If you’d prefer private accommodations but still want to keep to a tight budget, you can expect a budget hotel room to cost around $100 USD per night. While these hotels will have basic private accommodations with a bathroom, the level of amenities typically stops there.

If you want a nicer hotel that is closer to the water or with more amenities, you can expect to double that price, paying around $200 USD per night. Luxury hotels on the water and with all the amenities you’d expect such as pools, concierge services, and restaurant/bars on site, will be upwards of $400 USD to more than $1,000 USD per night. 

Another popular option for accommodations is to stay in Airbnb-style hotels or holiday homes. I love staying in holiday homes as they give you an authentic experience staying in local’s homes and often offer you way more bang for your buck. If you are traveling with a group or booking extended stays, booking an entire home can be a very affordable option.

Like hotels, prices for Airbnbs/ holiday homes vary greatly based on the location and extras but also based on the number of people. 

The average price for Airbnb in Costa Rica is between $50 to $400 USD and often comes with full kitchens and on-site laundry services. It’s important to note when booking an Airbnb they will often have hidden costs for cleaning and service fees. These are typically one-time fees, unrelated to the number of nights you spend at a location. If you are planning to change locations nightly, these costs can add up quickly so I only recommend booking Airbnb if you plan to stay at a location for an extended period of time. 

Alternatively, you can use Booking.com to also search for entire apartments and holiday homes. In Costa Rica, you will find plenty of holiday homes advertised on Booking.com, and these come without any hidden cleaning fees and usually free cancellation – bonus! We always book on Booking.com as we find it to be better priced and better service. You can search for apartments on Booking.com here , and for holiday homes/villas here !

Cost of Food and Drink for Travelers in Costa Rica

Local Costa Rican cuisine typically consists of fresh fruits and vegetables and rice with beans and a side protein. Regional cuisine is generally quite affordable, especially given the quality of food you can expect with most fruits and vegetables being grown organically.

If you want to keep prices as low as possible, opting for local food will be the cheapest way to go, with eating at local restaurants (called Sodas) will become your go-to. 

Eating local is the most affordable, and most authentic with prices between $2 to $12 USD for Arroz con Pollo (chicken and rice). Casado, a favorite buffet-style rice and beans platter served up with fresh picadillo, costs around $5 to $12 USD. If you are wanting a lighter meal of fresh fruit, heading to a local market will be the cheapest place.

Restaurants

If you spend your time in tourist-style restaurants serving up western cuisines such as pizzas, pasta, and hamburgers, you can expect to pay substantially more than at restaurants serving up local cuisine.

Costa Rica, in an effort to keep things local, has substantial import fees making imported food cost a lot more. Tourist restaurants, especially ones attached to fancy hotels, will be your most expensive form of cuisine ranging from $10 to $50 USD per meal. 

Alcohol and drinks

The legal drinking age in Costa Rica is 18 years old. Alcohol is one of those tricky budgetary items where you will want to indulge but it can cripple your food budget quickly.

If you plan to buy the majority of your alcohol from restaurants, you can expect to spend far more than if you purchase from a grocery store or liquor store. If you buy alcohol from a grocery store, bottles of wine cost around $13 USD, and around $2 USD for a half liter of beer. 

If you’re going to buy alcohol at restaurants, local beer, such as Imperial or Guaro, will be your cheapest option coming in at around $2 to $4 USD. Imported beers will come with a much higher price tag.

Wine will cost about $5 to $10 USD per glass while cocktails will be closer to $12 USD. Many tourist-focused restaurants will offer happy hour deals where you can enjoy 2-for-1 cocktail options – a great deal for the budget-minded traveler looking to have some fun! 

Related Read: For awesome local drinks, check out the top breweries in Costa Rica !

Cost of Transport in Costa Rica

There are lots of different options for getting around when in Costa Rica. There are two international airports: San Jose International Airport (SJO) and Liberia Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR).

The country does have some trains, however, these are mostly commuter trains rather than longer cross-country trains so I don’t recommend using them. The most common forms of travel are taking a local public bus, hiring a private shuttle, or my favorite way: renting a car !

One of the more comfortable ways to travel is to charter a shuttle bus in Costa Rica . These are shared private transportation options that are more direct and offer the incredible luxury of air conditioning for a break from the heat.

Costs for private shuttles are around $55 USD per trip. These are ideal as they will take you on a more direct route rather than stopping constantly on public buses. You’ll also get picked up/dropped off at convenient locations, with most shuttles offering door-to-door hotel pick-up and drop-off.

There are five different shuttle bus companies in the area to choose from: Gray Line, Interbus, Monkey Ride, Easy Ride, and Tropical Tours. All these companies are quite similar in cost and amenities. 

The best way we’ve found to book shuttle rides is through the website Bookaway . Just type in where you’re starting and where you want to go and a handy list of all your shuttle options pops up! You’ll be able to easily compare prices and routes, and book with a credible company.

If you are looking for the most affordable transportation, taking local buses is it! While these are certainly crowded and a little more time consuming, they are generally reliable and easy to use.

Local buses typically cost around $1 USD for short trips and up to $15 USD for longer out-of-city trips but do note that they do NOT have air conditioning.

There are two types of local buses to choose from. Directo buses, as the name suggests, don’t have many stops and generally go straight from point A to B. Collectivo buses on the other hand stop frequently and can take much longer to get to your destination. The only problem you may encounter is that both of these buses aren’t the most reliable with their timing and can often run quite late. 

Unless you have a lot of time to spend in Costa Rica, I would advise against taking local buses on longer routes as you can easily waste an entire day getting from point A to point B – whereas a shuttle might only take a couple of hours.

Renting a car in Costa Rica is one of the most affordable ways to get around without the hassle of trying to navigate public buses or find taxis. 

Having your own vehicle also gives you the freedom to get off the beaten path to some of those hidden gems that you don’t want to miss out on. If you only have a limited amount of time to explore Costa Rica, renting a car means you’ll reach destinations a lot quicker too.

You will need mandatory liability insurance to drive in Costa Rica . This may be included in your rental price, but it’s often a hidden fee that catches renters by surprise. You should expect to pay around $15 to $30 USD per day for this insurance. This is despite any kind of travel insurance or credit card insurance you might already have. 

If you are only planning on visiting the main tourist destinations, you can save money by renting a regular car and even more money if you opt for a manual instead of an automatic. However, if you’re going to more rural areas where roads are … ahem … bumpy (to say the least!), it’s worth the extra money for a four-wheel drive.

Monteverde  and  La Fortuna are super hilly and you will definitely appreciate having a 4×4, especially in the rainy season. However, in areas like  San Jose , Quepos, and  Jaco  you could easily drive around in a normal car and save yourself a good amount of money! 

Renting from the airport cities of  San Jose  and  Liberia  as well as popular tourist locations like  Jaco ,  Manuel Antonio , and  Tamarindo  can actually save you money. A lot of the smaller towns that don’t get as many customers will often have extra hidden fees and might require you to drop your vehicle back to that location. 

The cost of a car rental in Costa Rica depends on the season. In the low season, you can hire a basic two-wheel drive car for as little as $5 USD a day! However, in high season these can go up to as much as $165 USD without the added insurance and deposit. 

For a four-wheel drive car, you expect to pay upwards of $160 USD a day in high season but sometimes in low season, you will be able to find one for around $20 USD a day. Again, insurance and a deposit would be on top of this.

Some rental companies we recommend: 

• Discover Cars  – pick up points in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, San Jose, and Quepos (to name a few). 
• Alamo  – Pick up points in San Jose, Limon, Uvita, Tamarindo, Liberia, La Fortuna and Jaco. 
• Vamos  – Pick-up points in San Jose and Liberia airports. 
• Wild Rider Costa Rica Budget 4×4 Rental  – Pick up available in Alajuela

For parking, luckily there’s a lot of free parking scattered around and at national parks and shopping centers, it’s typically only $1 to $4 USD.

Fuel is also quite expensive at around $1 USD a liter and larger vehicles will undoubtedly cost a lot more to fill up, so this is worth considering when choosing your rental. 

Related Read: Have you been wondering if Costa Rica is safe? Check out all our travel safety tips here .

Cost of Tours and Activities in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a wide variety of tours and activities you can choose from. Most tourist attractions will have a fee associated with them, so be sure to bring some cash with you while you explore.

If you’re looking to chase waterfalls , you should expect to pay around $10 to $15 USD to enter while Costa Rica’s National Parks usually have a $10 to $20 USD entry fee. If you’re wanting to get the most out of your experience, you can hire an expert local tour guide for around $80 USD on average.

The company we’ve had the best experience with for tours is Viator . We recommend searching the locations you’ll be at ahead of time. There are often quite a few tour choices – whether you’re looking for transportation, a guide, or a full-day experience to multiple locations. You can also read other travelers’ reviews and know you’re booking with a legitimate company.

Viator is great because you can usually cancel and get a full refund as long as it’s at least 24 hours in advance of the tour. This means if your plans change, the weather doesn’t look great, etc, it’s simple to rebook.

Note: There have been recent reports of scams when it comes to booking tours in Costa Rica. Tourists pay a “tour company” in cash for a tour, and then never get picked up or go on the tour. The tour company disappears and becomes unreachable. Booking with a legitimate company like Viator can protect you and prevent this from happening to you!

The Most Expensive Places to Visit in Costa Rica

Santa teresa.

Santa Teresa is a small town on the west coast of Costa Rica on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula .

This spot has some of the best things to do in Costa Rica for all travelers looking for adventure, surfing, or chilling. Most of the streets here will be dirt and traveled by motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle (ATV), or rental cars (which can be expensive when compared to other places).

It is a 112 miles/180 km drive west from the capital of San Jose which will include an hour and 35-minute ferry ride through the Gulf of Nicoya. The trip will take around 5 hours in total and includes toll roads.

The remote location of Santa Teresa just means the price of things is generally higher. We found food and accommodation to be priced here than other destinations in Costa Rica.

Hotels in this area range drastically in price, starting at around $80 USD per night all the way up to $1,000 USD. Proximity to the beach and ocean will usually increase the cost per night. For our picks for all different price ranges, check out our guide on where to stay in Santa Teresa .

Nosara is a village north of Santa Teresa. It’s about the same time to travel from San Jose to Nosara as it is to Santa Teresa, around 5 hours, but you will skip the ferry ride.

This town is known for yoga retreats and amazing wildlife rescue centers that have animals like white-faced monkeys and coatimundi. There are also some really great beaches like Guiones Beach and Playa Rosada. Playa Pelada has a beautiful coral reef and a tidal blowhole to explore as well.

If you are wanting to stay in Nosara , you can expect hotels to run from around $50 USD for a hostel to $1,000+ USD per night. The average hotel price in this area is around $320 USD per night.

Continuing even further north in the Guanacaste Province is the town of Tamarindo . This place is well known for some of the most beautiful beaches in the area and excellent places to spot turtles – including the giant leatherback turtles.

This town nestled on the Pacific coast, is about a 4.5-hour drive from San Jose and is a really cool place to explore. There are many places to surf and learn to surf in Tamarindo , with some of Costa Rica’s best surfing spots nearby. If you’re more of a feet-on-land kind of person there are national parks to explore along with a great night market.

Hotel prices per night widely vary in price in this area. Even though you may be able to find a 2-star hotel for around $50 USD per night, the average hotel will cost around $150 USD to well over $1,000 USD per night. For our personal recommendations, we break down the top spots to stay in Tamarindo here !

There are also plenty of different tours to choose from in Tamarindo including some fantastic scuba diving experiences , but they can be pricey and generally cost over $100 USD per person.

Related Read: Even though this can be an expensive place, there are still plenty of free and cheap things to do in Tamarindo !

If you’re looking for a great place to surf that also has some nightlife, Jaco is right for you. It’s closer to San Jose and will only take around 2 hours to drive. It’s further south than Santa Teresa and is located in the main part of Costa Rica (rather than the peninsula).

There is a long stretch of black sand beach that is great for surfers. Hermosa Beach is located just south of Jaco and is a surfers’ paradise. It has a long beach that has many areas to surf along with shopping and restaurants. There are also waterfalls, hiking trails, and excursions available in this area .

If you are looking to stay in the vibrant town of Jaco, you can expect a nightly accommodation price between $70 USD to $600+ USD. The average place to stay in Jaco is around $125 USD per night and our top Jaco hotel picks for all budgets are here .

Related Read: For a free activity near Jaco, check out the famous Crocodile Bridge !

Manuel Antonio

If you’re wanting to visit Costa Rica and still enjoy the modern-day comforts of home, Manuel Antonio is the place for you. It sits on the doorstep of the breathtaking  Manuel Antonio National Park , but it’s also a fun tourist town with lots of things to do. There are many resorts, restaurants, malls, and excursions to keep you entertained. 

Manuel Antonio is located further south than Jaco along the western coast of Costa Rica. It’s a 3.5-hour drive southeast of San Jose with part of the drive along the scenic coastal Highway 34.

You really can’t come all this way without seeing the epic national park here and luckily, tours are pretty affordable. This small-group guided tour  gets you an expert guide to help you find even the best-camouflaged creatures. Plus you’ll get a spotting scope for a close-up view of monkeys, tropical birds, and more! It’s only $28 USD per person – on top of the $18 USD park entrance fee.  

Hotels in this part of the country run between $60 USD and $450 USD per night. The average hotel in Manuel Antonio is around $185 USD. If you’re planning a trip here, check out all our recommendations on where to stay in Manuel Antonio .

The Cheapest Places to Visit in Costa Rica

Obviously, off-the-beaten-track small local towns will be the cheapest places to visit in Costa Rica . But when it comes to destinations that are popular tourist destinations, the below places should be at the top of your list!

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo (also known as Puerto Viejo de Talamanca) is located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica just above the border of Panama. It’s a 4.5-hour drive southeast of San Jose. It’s a seaside town known for its stunning beaches, incredible food, and chill vibe that is perfect for a relaxing vacation.

If you’re a surfer and looking for a challenge this is the place you want to go. It’s home to the largest waves and some of the nicest beaches in Costa Rica .

Keep in mind there are two Puerto Viejos in Costa Rica which can confuse you. One is called Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui which is more north and inland. If you’re looking to take a bus to this town, make sure to clarify which location you’re looking to travel to.

There is the Limon International Airport around 34 miles (55 km) north which makes travel to this place easier. This affordable town typically has accommodations between $35 to $150 USD per night with an average of around $100 USD. It’s why we love staying in Puerto Viejo !

Related Read: Try those fresh Caribbean flavors at the tastiest restaurants in Puerto Viejo !

Uvita is a small town located on the  Pacific Coast of Costa Rica , around 4 hours south of San Jose. Within a few miles of the town, you have access to a stunning national park, beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and of course, all the wildlife you’d expect to see in Costa Rica. 

Without a doubt, the number one thing to do in Uvita is visit Marino Ballena National Park  and enjoy a walk out to the famous “Whale Tail”. The shape of the sandbar in the park is completely natural and very fitting to the area considering Uvita is one of the best places to go whale watching in Costa Rica . With an aerial view at low tide, you can see this sandbar looks exactly like a whale’s tail – hence the name.

For affordable whale watching tours in Uvita , I have to say this incredible tour tops our list. For over 3 hours, you’ll explore the coastline and along the way, you’ll have great chances at spotting whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles. You’ll also snorkel and visit sea caves! It’s $99 USD per person.

Nightly costs to stay in Uvita run between $30 to $150 USD per night, so overall very affordable.

Related Read: Off the coast of Uvita is one of the best snorkeling spots in the ENTIRE country – the stunning Caño Island !

Dominical is located a short 11 miles (18 km) north of Uvita on the coast. This is a small town that offers more in the way of natural beauty than it does in modern amenities. Imagine gorgeous beaches, lush jungles, organic food, and talented musicians. Dominical has everything a hippie town needs and more! 

The area is popular amongst surfers as it has large waves all year long. This laid-back town has a yoga retreat, dive shop, and surf school as well as a few great restaurants and adventure companies to choose from with everything from hiking, kayaking , snorkeling, and even whitewater rafting !

There are a few hotel options in Dominical ranging from around $50 to $150 USD per night. When staying here, you have to decide if you prefer a place close to the ocean or in the mountains surrounded by the rainforest. Staying close to the beach can actually be cheaper as there are some nice hostels and then you won’t need a rental car to get around.

If you’re wanting to stay on the Nicoya Peninsula but don’t want to pay the typical high cost, Montezuma might be for you. It’s located on the southern tip of the peninsula and offers much of the same beauty as the higher-cost places in this area.

It’s just 11 miles (18 km) or around a 40 minutes drive to Santa Teresa. From San Jose, you’ll take a similar route to get to Santa Teresa including the ferry and toll roads, and takes around 5 hours to drive.

This area is an outdoor lovers’ paradise! There are beaches, the dramatic Montezuma Waterfalls , and rivers to explore along with the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve .

Hotels in Montezuma range from $50 USD to $150 USD per night depending on proximity to the water. 

San Jose is located nearly in the middle of Costa Rica. It’s the capital of the country as well as the largest city. It’s home to the country’s largest international airport Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) where most international tourist will start their journey in Costa Rica.

Even though this city is located inland, there is still loads to do and see. You can take day trips out of San Jose to see volcanoes , zipline adventures , or even check out some of the many museums in the area.

This specific tour to Poas Volcano  is one of our favs. It guarantees you skip the long lines at the volcano. On top of that, all your transportation and your entrance fee to Poas Volcano are included and organized for you.

You will be able to find a place to stay in San Jose for around $30 to $300 USD with the majority of the hotels in the $100 USD range.

Costa Rica Travel Budgets

Alright, so now we’ve broken down some of the specific costs, but if you’re looking for one figure to base your budget on, I’ve run some basic budget estimates. I’ve divided it into the three most common types of travelers to Costa Rica – backpackers, general tourists, and luxury travelers.

These prices are estimates and will vary based on where you choose to stay, how much daily travel you intend to do, and what types of tours you choose. Keep in mind, on heavy travel days you will be less likely to indulge in tours – so account for some rest time!  

Backpackers

Those that are looking to travel on a backpacker budget with cost top of mind, can expect to spend around $80 USD per day in Costa Rica.

This cost includes hostel-style accommodation (around $20 USD a night), street food or local cuisine ($25 to $30 USD a day), entrance to a waterfall or other affordable tours ($15 USD), alcohol bought from a grocery store ($10 USD), and local transportation on public buses ($2 to $5 USD). 

For the average tourist coming to Costa Rica looking for a mix between budget-friendly and luxury, the cost will be slightly higher with the majority of the added cost being in private accommodations. This type of tourist can expect to spend around $235 USD per person per day, based on a 2-person occupancy in the hotel room. 

• A mid-range hotel with private accommodations will average around $150 USD per night depending on where you go. The occupancy for these rooms will be between 2-4 people, so based on 2 people that will average around $75 USD per night. 
• Food, considering a mix of local food with a predominant focus on restaurants will total around $90 USD per day based on 3 meals a day at around $30 USD a meal, including alcohol.
• Tours will average around $50 USD a day and allow you ample opportunity to explore national parks, and waterfalls and take the odd adventure tour.
• A transportation budget of around $20 USD a day allows you to use a mix of local buses and private transportation. 

Luxury Traveler

For the luxury traveler where budget is not an issue, the daily cost in Costa Rica can easily total around $1,000 USD per day. This is especially true if staying in beachside accommodations and partaking in luxurious tours such as private fishing, scuba diving , and yacht adventures. 

• Accommodations for this type of traveler can range between $400 USD to well over $1,000 USD per night, again with an occupancy rate of between 2 to 4 people. 
• Food and alcohol bought primarily at resorts can easily run upwards of $300 USD per day, based on 3 meals a day with ample alcoholic beverages. 
• Tours for this type of traveler, including sea-doo rentals, chartered boat tours, and more can account for around $100 to $400 USD per day. 
• This type of traveler will also likely prefer private transportation which can run between $50 to $150 USD per day. 

Tips to Save Money while Traveling Costa Rica

While Costa Rica has become one of the most expensive countries to travel to in Central America, there are ways to explore the area while sticking to your budget. A lot of this depends on what time of year you visit Costa Rica . With a little bit of pre-planning, you can enjoy a week in Costa Rica on any budget!

Travel in the low season

Every country has a high tourist season and a low tourist season. Typically, these seasons are aligned with favorable weather in the area. As a general rule for savvy travelers, learning when the “low season” is for a country is the best way to save money when traveling. Just be sure to adjust your expectations in terms of weather and pack appropriately.

Costa Rica receives the bulk of its tourism between late November and April. That means if you travel between May and early November you will be lucky enough to benefit from a lot of great savings.

Not only will accommodations and activities typically come in at a fraction of the cost, but you will likely have a much more authentic experience escaping the crowds of tourists. Keep in mind that the wettest months in Costa Rica are September and October so be sure to either avoid these months or pack a good amount of rain gear. 

Next to flights and accommodations, food is one of the most expensive parts of traveling. A lot of travelers fall habit to three meals a day in an expensive restaurant – something that can blow your travel budget right out of the park.

One of the best ways to save money when traveling is to pass by tourist-focused restaurants and eat where the locals eat. These restaurants often won’t have all the bells and whistles, and may even be a few blocks away from the “downtown hot spots”, but they are there, and they offer delicious food at a fraction of the cost.

One of my favorite ways to eat local is by indulging in delicious local food from “sodas”. Not only is this an affordable way to eat, but it’s a great way to try authentic local cuisine. The local food in Costa Rica is not only safe to eat, but it is some of the best food I had while traveling the country. You can also feel good about it as you’ll be helping the local economy by putting money directly into the hands of the locals who live there. 

Book in advance

If you browse around my blog, you’ll notice I often pick out the best tours in an area. I do this because it is one of the best money-saving tips when traveling – booking in advance. Not only will this ensure that you get to do everything you want to, but it will also save you money and a lot of time. 

Booking accommodations ahead of time is a great way to save money as well. This is especially true if you are booking multiple nights at a specific destination. Lots of times, booking a few nights in advance will give you a discounted rate for the  bulk  purchase. 

Buy alcohol from the grocery store

Dreaming of margaritas or an ice-cold beer on the beach? When traveling, much like at home, you can expect to pay about 5 times more for alcohol bought at a restaurant and double at a corner store, than you would at a grocery store or dedicated liquor store. You don’t have to give up drinking to stick to your travel budget, you just need to know where to go. 

Stopping at a local grocery store for snacks and alcohol is a great money saver. My recommendation is to book a hotel with a fridge or opt for an Airbnb so that you can buy a big pack and keep them cold in your fridge. While this works best for pre-canned alcohol such as beer, ciders, and some mixed drinks, bringing an extra water bottle to mix drinks (like margaritas) is always a good idea. 

Book holiday homes

Booking Airbnbs/holiday homes for traveling has recently gotten a lot of attention, and for good reason. Booking an entire home, especially when traveling with a big group, is a great way to get more authenticity from your trip, taking you out of large hotel chains and straight into the homes of locals in the area.

While the recent popularity of this type of travel has made it so your accommodation price may not be cheaper, it is a great way to save money by having a full kitchen to work with. 

Holiday homes often have full kitchens and all the comforts you’d have at home. This will allow you to shop at grocery stores for meals and make them in the comfort of your own place, rather than relying on restaurants for every meal. Many also often have laundry facilities on-site – a welcomed luxury when you’ve been traveling for a while. 

While you can use the popular site Airbnb , we prefer booking with Booking.com (yes, they have a huge selection of holiday homes in Costa Rica!) They typically have better policies, including no hidden fees as well as free cancellation. You can browse entire apartments on Booking.com here , and entire holiday homes/villas here .

Stay in a hotel with a free breakfast

If you’re going to stay in a hotel in Costa Rica , opting for one that offers a free breakfast is a great way to save money while traveling. If you take the time to look, you can often find hotels offering free breakfast around the same price as ones that don’t.

This added perk can add up to saving you A LOT of money. Indulging in a big breakfast will not only give you a good amount of energy during the day but can also significantly reduce your food budget.

Reusable water bottles

When traveling, especially in a hot climate like this, you will want to consume a lot of water. Having a reusable water bottle will make a huge difference in terms of your footprint, especially in a place as environmentally focused as Costa Rica. Not only will it make Mother Nature thank you, but it will also make your wallet appreciate you as well! 

If you count that every bottle of water in Costa Rica costs about $0.80 USD and you drink about 2 a day, that can add up quickly. Most of Costa Rica’s tap water is safe to drink, especially in busy tourist areas. Lots of hotels also offer filtered drinking water for free.

Unless you’re traveling to very rural areas, such as on the Caribbean coast, you will be fine refilling your reusable water bottle with tap water or a water bottle refill station located around the country. 

Tipping in Costa Rica

If you’re traveling from other parts of North America where tipping is more of an expectation than a sign of appreciation, you may be wondering what the standards around tipping are in this country.

Costa Rica generally has a policy where tipping is not expected but is very much appreciated. As your first stop may be the hotels, the tip may be associated with the status of your hotel. If you are staying at higher-end hotels, tipping $1 USD per bag to the concierge and $2 USD per day to the housekeeper, is appreciated.  

In Costa Rica, all restaurants automatically apply a 10% gratuity to the bill as a tip. You may be more accustomed to tipping between 15-20% at home so if you have it in your budget and the service provided was excellent, adding a bit more to the automatic 10% will always be appreciated.

If you are taking taxis, it is generally appreciated to round up to the nearest dollar. If the trip is a long one, you may want to add between $2 to $5 USD more. 

Tours are another common place where you may be wondering about tipping. If you are using a tour guide, we typically recommend tipping about $5 to $15 USD. This will depend on the number of people in your group and how good your tour guide was. For larger tour trips, where a group of tour guides or crew members worked to make your trip an unforgettable one, such as a multi-day guided tour , you may want to tip between 15-20% of the cost of your tour. 

The BEST Things to do in Costa Rica

While there are so many fun things to do in Costa Rica , a couple of specific attractions and activities stand out amongst the rest. They are:

Explore Volcanoes

There are some impressive (and beautiful!) volcanoes that you’ll want to check out while you’re here.

Poas Volcano is known for its bright blue crater lake. Poas Volcano is most commonly visited on a day trip from San Jose. This Poas Volcano tour from San Jose is one of the best you can do since it also includes a visit to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens as well as a coffee farm.

Arenal Volcano is also one of Costa Rica’s top attractions. Arenal Volcano is located closest to the town of La Fortuna. You can book this full-day tour from La Fortuna that takes you to the volcano to hike, the famous La Fortuna Waterfall and even a hanging bridge – it’s a full day of adventure!

Chase Waterfalls

La Fortuna Waterfall is one of our favorite waterfalls in all of Costa Rica. You can easily visit it on this full-day tour in La Fortuna that also visits hot springs.

Rio Celeste is another beautiful waterfall that is famous for its bright blue water. Rio Celeste is a popular attraction to visit from Guanacaste Province and this particular tour includes transport from there. Alternatively, you can book this tour from La Fortuna or this tour from San Jose .

See the wildlife

Costa Rica is the place for wildlife lovers! One of the best places to see lots of animals in their wild habitat is at Manuel Antonio National Park . With the help of a guide you will see plenty of birds, monkeys, and even sloths! This particular tour is super popular and also has amazing reviews, so you really can;t go wrong.

There are also lots of wildlife rescue centers around the country that are worth visiting. The Jaguar Rescue Center in Puerto Viejo is one of our favorites as well as Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in San Jose where you can book this private tour.

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

Thanks for reading!

I hope all these tips help you explore Costa Rica, no matter your budget! In recent years, this stunning country has gotten some well-deserved buzz which has increased tourism and therefore increased the cost associated with traveling here. While it is no longer that “shoestring” budget-friendly destination …. if you plan properly, you can still explore the country affordably!

After visiting Costa Rica, we loved it so much, we decided to move here for a while! Let us help you plan your ultimate Costa Rican getaway with our guides on popular activities, hidden gems, and places to stay, eat and explore.

Where to see sloths in Costa Rica + Facts and tips!

COMPLETE guide to visiting La Leona Waterfall

Things to KNOW before visiting Monteverde Cloud Forest

Friday 15th of March 2024

my relative with 20 other college aged students went to costa rica for about 12 days and wrote this. Can this be TRUE?? I kid you not eggs were 8$ Then for 6 nights didn’t have a kitchen and in order to eat breakfast/dinner was around 60$ a day

Costa Rica Travel Life

Sunday 17th of March 2024

Hey Lawrence,

It totally depends on where you go and what you eat. There are some expensive places in Costa Rica but generally speaking, you can get eggs and meals much cheaper than that.

Thanks Daniel

Vacations in Costa Rica

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Most popular costa rica flight and hotel deals, all inclusive vacation packages to costa rica, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in costa rica, tips for finding costa rica package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Costa Rica and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $503; Family vacation $474; Romantic vacation $673; Luxury vacation $480; Budget vacation $378.

Why should you book a vacation package to Costa Rica?

When booking your vacation in Costa Rica, you can save money by booking flights, lodgings and transfers in a single package. Visiting in the off-season is cheaper than during peak times and gives you the opportunity to snag hotel accommodation bargains.

When should you book a vacation package to Costa Rica?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the off-peak season. The weather is cooler and the school holiday crowds have left. Rates are generally cheaper for flights, hotels and rental cars.

Where should you stay in Costa Rica during your vacation?

For any vacation type in costa rica:.

The Intercontinental Costa Rica is one of the region's most popular hotels. This urban hotel is located in central Escazú -San Jose's most opulent suburb. It is located in a Multiplaza Mall complex allowing access to shops and restaurants.

The Sheraton San Jose Hotel is a great choice for a city hotel. Located on Route 27, in the upmarket suburb of Escazú, the hotel is close to the landmarks and attractions in the CBD, but just 3 miles west of Sabana Park. There is a restaurant for meals and a bar. Airport transfers can be arranged.

For family vacations in Costa Rica:

The Best Western Jaco Beach Resort is a great family hotel. This all-inclusive resort offers beach volleyball or the chance to snooze in the sun. You can go surfing and boogie boarding nearby. El Puerto restaurant serves international cuisine.

La Mariposa Hotel is also a great family location. This stunning hotel provides an airport shuttle for guests who can relax with hot stone massages, detox body wraps and lunch or dine at Le Papillon. Four outdoor pools and two poolside bars complete the package.

For romantic vacations in Costa Rica:

The Double Tree Hotel by Hilton Cariari is a wonderfully romantic hotel in a beautiful natural setting. The hotel is located only five minutes from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), this San Jose hotel can be a haven or starting point for adventure activities. The lush gardens provide a restful aspect.

The Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort offers couples 4-star accommodation in a relaxed and beautiful beachfront setting. Guests can spend time at the beach sipping drinks or diving. There are outdoor pools for swimming and an on-site spa. The Matapalo serves international cuisine.

For luxury vacations in Costa Rica:

The Barceló San Jose Palacio Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel that was chosen as the best business hotel in Costa Rica. It has a conference center which seats 1,000 people and a spa. There is a transfer to the Juan Santamaria International Airport.

The 5-star Barceló Tambor Beach Hotel has been voted the best beach hotel and is located on Playa Tambor. It's the ideal location for water activities and there is on-site surfing/boogie boarding and windsurfing. Guests can swim in the pool or visit the spa for aromatherapy, hot stone massages and healing wraps. There's a nightclub and a free kid's club. Airport transfers can be arranged.

For budget vacations in Costa Rica:

The KC Hotel San Jose is a great option when it comes to affordability. This 3-star hotel offers close proximity to the airport, which is less than 4 miles away. Meals are served at the Green Restaurant. Transport to the hotel is by shuttle, taxi or rental car.

The Holiday Inn San Jose-Aurola Hotel is located close to the heart of the city, making it a great choice for a business trip. A business center and meeting rooms seat 350 people. It's located within easy driving distance of the government offices.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

Costa rica vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to Costa Rica, where “Pura Vida” is a way of life, sloths swing among the rainforest treetops, coconuts rattle in the wind, and baby turtles make their way to the sea for the first time. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to enjoy Costa Rica, home to epic national parks, great surfing, beautiful beaches, and exotic wildlife found around every corner. Life is vibrant in this wonderful country – ready to be enjoyed in this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary!

Ultimate Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica has really got it right when it comes to protecting nature and wildlife . The government is doing its absolute best to ensure that animals are protected and species preserved, making it one of the best countries to visit for animal lovers! There’s nowhere quite like it, somewhere you’ll hear toucans in the early morning and monkeys howling at night on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

Looking for a different itinerary? Read our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary or 3-week Costa Rica itinerary .

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to visit all the top spots, whether it’s waterfalls and hot springs and volcanos in La Fortuna or the cloud forests of Monteverde . Enjoy this ultimate Costa Rica travel guide.

Did you know? Costa Rica generates more than 99% of its electricity using renewable energy!

Day 1: San Jose (arrival)

On day 1, you’ll likely fly into San Jose , Costa Rica’s capital city and one of two major airports in the country. Because of all the fantastic nature spots, you need to see on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, we recommend only staying in San Jose for a day. This amount of time gives you a chance to see a few city sights and recuperate from your journey.

Read: Things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica .

San Jose is not a pretty city but it is home to some nice gardens, museums, and a food market. Other than that we don’t recommend spending much time in this city. Join a food tour to learn a little bit about the city and Costa Rican food.

Where to stay in San Jose

The neighborhood of Amón in San Jose has some nice buildings to see and restaurants to visit; like Cafe Rojo and De Acá.

Hotels in San Jose 😴

Day 2: San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Wake up and enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast (Gallo Pinto!) before embarking on your journey to Puerto Viejo. If you’re renting a car in San Jose, your journey will take around 4 hours. Alternatively, book a shuttle or a tour, or take the local bus directly to Puerto Viejo. Once you arrive in Puerto Viejo, book your tours or activities for the next day. For example, rent a bike, surfboard, kayak, or go on a chocolate tour.

If transport might be an issue you can also visit Santa Teresa instead.

How to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is about 4 hours drive from San Jose on good roads. Because of this, you don’t necessarily need a car with higher clearance from the ground (or a 4×4), although you might consider renting one for other destinations in Costa Rica. 

We recommend to rent a car in Costa Rica through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

By bus or shuttle:

The public buses (MEPE) leave from San Jose to Puerto Viejo about 5 times a day and take roughly 4.5 hours. It’s the cheapest way to travel with tickets starting from around 10 USD. If you want to be picked up from your hotel, and have a slightly more comfortable journey, opt for a shared shuttle with other travelers. This price starts from around 50 USD and takes approximately 5 hours (it’s a bit longer because of hotel pickups).

Book a bus or shuttle to Puerto Viejo

Where to stay in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo has an entertaining atmosphere throughout the day and night. If you don’t mind a little bit of noise and music, stay in the center of town, so you’re close to all the amenities. If you want more of a tranquil experience, choose accommodation along the coast between Playa Cocles or Manzanillo.

Hotels in Puerto Viejo 😴

Day 3 – 4: Puerto Viejo

Enjoy your days in beautiful Puerto Viejo! This laidback little beach town is home to vibrant Caribbean vibes, friendly locals, and beautiful palm-tree-lined beaches. There is not a huge amount to do in Puerto Viejo ; it’s more about absorbing the atmosphere, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying cute cafes. There are also some great outdoor activities, from cycling to surfing and kayaking. 

Make sure also to visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, a home for injured and orphaned animals. You can join an educational tour and learn all about these beautiful animals, whether it’s Sloths or Margay Cats!

Read: 10 best things to do in Puerto Viejo

Day 5: Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

Head north to La Fortuna, a tropical town famous for its hot springs and volcanic activity. The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is relatively long if you travel by public transport. If you’re driving, leave in the morning and aim to reach La Fortuna for lunch. This gives you some time to refresh and cool down in the spray of the La Fortuna waterfall or the pools under the El Salto rope swing.

More time available? Visit the waterfalls of Bajos del Toro on your way to La Fortuna!

How to get from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna should take around 4.5 hours on well-paved roads. However, to avoid pothole damage, we recommend hiring a car with a bit more clearance from the ground. 

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is fairly long and not super accessible by public transport. You’ll need to transfer buses in San Jose, which means the journey can take around 8-9 hours.

If you don’t have a car, the best option is to take a shared shuttle bus that leaves in the morning and takes around 6 hours. The cost of this is about 60 USD, but it’s far less hassle than the public bus.

Book a bus or shuttle to La Fortuna

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

La Fortuna has excellent accommodation for all types of budget. However, you’ll find the best accommodations and campsites just outside La Fortuna if you have your transport. If hot springs play a big part in your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary, consider staying in a hotel with hot springs that are also included in the nightly price. ( Here are all your hotel options ) 

Hotels in La Fortuna 😴

Day 6 of 2 weeks in Costa Rica: La Fortuna

Spend one of the most magical days in La Fortuna, enjoying nature’s very own playground! Wake up early and head for Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the country’s most active volcano! Don’t worry, though, rangers make sure to monitor the activity and close trails accordingly so you’re always safe.

Explore La Fortuna’s waterfalls, hot springs, and vulcanic landscapes on this day tour

Choose from one of the many trails and hike to some incredible volcano viewpoints. When you’re done, head back down into La Fortuna to take advantage of the geothermal activity in the area – yes, there are plenty of hot springs to enjoy! 

Read: Best Things To Do in La Fortuna

Day 7: La Fortuna to Monteverde

Today is the day on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary to head to the luscious green landscapes of Monteverde! Monteverde is stunning, but the journey to get there is also exceptional, as you drive around the peaceful Lake Arenal that sits in the shadow of the volcano.

On your way, stop at Mistico Hanging Bridges, which are about a 30-minutes drive from La Fortuna. This fantastic jungle trail is about 3 km long and includes six adrenaline-pumping hanging bridges. From a height of 45 meters, you’ll have the opportunity to walk across bridges suspended between the treetops, gaining the unique chance to see an abundance of wildlife. Don’t forget to look out for the elusive red-eyed tree frog, an icon of Costa Rica!

How to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde

Although La Fortuna and Monteverde look close on the map, the mammoth Lake Arenal separates the two villages. This means you need to drive around its parameter, which takes around 3 hours. However, luckily, it’s a stunning drive, perhaps one of the nicest on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary! 

The roads around the lake to Santa Elena (Monteverde town) are all well-paved. Still, we recommend having a slightly more powerful car for the steep hills. (no 4×4 needed to visit Monteverde).

Buses leave from La Fortuna to Monteverde, but they take around 7-8 hours. Additionally, you won’t be able to visit the Mistico Hanging Bridges when traveling by bus. Alternatively, get a shared shuttle van for around 50-60 USD.

Book a bus or shuttle to Monteverde

Small ferries cross Lake Arenal, but they don’t take transport. If you are traveling without transportation, this can be an excellent option to get to Monteverde. The journey takes around 2 – 2.5 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy a trip across the lake with beautiful views of the volcano; it’s a unique way to travel! Prices start from 25 USD.

Where to Stay in Monteverde

Monteverde offers numerous accommodation options, from cabins in the forest to hotels in Santa Elena. ( See all your hotels options here )

Hotels in Monteverde 😴

Day 8: Monteverde

Welcome to Monteverde (Green Mountain), home to unique and rare cloud forests. In fact, cloud forests only make up 1% of all forests worldwide! These beautiful areas are given their name because of their high altitude, which causes mist and low-lying clouds to appear through the trees.

Explore the Monteverde or Santa Elena cloud forest trails, looking out for frogs, butterflies, insects, and monkeys (you can even see beautiful hummingbirds at a nearby cafe!). Take part in the exhilarating night walk experience at night, led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Once you’re done exploring the cloud forests, enjoy more adventures among the beautiful Monteverde nature, from ziplining and canyoning to coffee tasting .

Read: Top things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Day 9: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Spend your morning enjoying the colorful butterfly garden at Monteverde before starting your trip south to Manuel Antonio. Manuel Antonio is a lovely coastal town surrounded by pristine, white-sand beaches, beautiful blue ocean, and lush jungle. Most importantly, it’s home to Manuel Antonio National Park, known as one of the most beautiful in the world! Spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans in the wild by joining a tour of the National Park.

How to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

It is an easy 4-hour drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. However, all the roads are good, and you will not need a 4×4 car. About halfway, make a quick stop at the famous Crocodile Bridge , where you have a good chance of spotting crocodiles. Please do not buy any meat from the sellers because this interferes with the crocodile’s natural feeding habits. Plus, according to Costa Rican Law, you are prohibited from feeding wildlife.

Read:   Things to know about wildlife tourism

By bus or shuttle :

Unfortunately, there’s no direct bus from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. Instead, take the Santa Elena ( Manuel Antonio ) to Puntarenas bus and change bus to Quepos. Once in Quepos, change buses to Manuel Antonio. The total journey will take about 6-8 hours and cost about 10 USD. 

Alternatively, book a direct shuttle between both destinations. ( See the shuttle options here )

Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio

The closer your accommodation is to Manuel Antonio National Park, the more expensive it gets. Therefore, we recommend staying between Quepos and the national park if you have your own transport. ( See all your hotel options here )

Hotels in Manuel Antonio 😴

Day 10: Manuel Antonio

Spend your day in Manuel Antonio National Park , one of the most beautiful natural areas in the world! Although it’s home to hundreds of different species, it’s also one of the smallest national parks, making it easy to explore on a day trip. Buy a ticket to enter the park and hike one of the many trails, looking for exciting animals like macaws, iguanas, sloths, and squirrel monkeys. We recommend taking a guided tour so you can get to learn heaps more about the diversity of the wildlife, flora, and fauna in this area.

Once you walk through the jungle trails, you’ll arrive at the paradise Manuel Antonio Beach (many people buy a ticket to enter the park just to spend the day here). Because these beaches are protected, they’re absolutely pristine, with the whitest sand and bluest water. Relax on the beach, listening to the sound of coconuts in the breeze while you spot iguanas roaming freely across the sand.

More about   Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica

Day 11: Manuel Antonio to Uvita

On day 11 of your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, head to the beautiful town of Uvita, famous for whale watching and its backpacker atmosphere. 

Leave Manuel Antonio and stop at the Nauyaca Waterfalls on your way to Uvita. The entire journey takes about 1 hour but you should add 30 minutes to go off the beaten track to the waterfalls. Here, you’ll find two powerful falls with many gorgeous natural pools. Stop here for a swim and enjoy the power of nature! 

Read more about the Nauyaca Waterfalls

Once you arrive in Uvita, watch the sunset from Uvita Beach or Gusto Italian, which looks down onto Playa Hermosa. Alternatively, book a horseriding experience on the beach, galloping in the breeze as you watch the sun go down.

How to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita

The journey from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is very straightforward, directly on the highway and taking only 1-1.5 hours. However, if you want to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls , add an extra half an hour.

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If you’re traveling by public transport, you will not be able to make a stop at Nauyaca Waterfalls . However, they are just a short journey from Uvita and can be visited on a day trip while you stay there. Buses leave from Quepos (near Uvita ) around 4 times a day and take approximately 2 hours, costing around 5 USD. You can take regular public buses to Quesos (from Manuel Antonio), which take about 30 minutes.

The shuttle bus is a more comfortable option that allows you to be collected directly from your hotel in Manuel Antonio, saving you the trip to Quepos. It’s a bit faster, taking 1.5 hours and costing around 40 USD per person.

Where to Stay in Uvita

Uvita town is split into two parts: the main town near the beach and the upper town across the highway towards Uvita Waterfall. When staying in the main town , hotels are more expensive, but you’re always walking distance from the beach and mostly surrounded by lush green. Alternatively, camp at one of the nearby sites or go glamping!

Hotels in Uvita 😴

Day 12 – 13: Uvita

Visiting Uvita between January – March or July – October? This is the best time to see the majestic humpback whale ( join a whale watching tour here )! As a happy coincidence, there is also a beautiful part of the beach called Marino Ballena (whale tail). At low tide, this sand passage is created in the shape of a whale’s tail, which is a beautiful thing to see on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary. 

Read about the best beaches in Costa Rica .

There are many other things to do in Uvita , whether it’s surf lessons, visiting Uvita Waterfall, or a mangrove tour. The mangrove tour is exceptional, providing the opportunity to see tropical birds, crocodiles, and turtles in the protected wetlands. Mangroves are also vital for the environment; they protect the shoreline, prevent erosion, and act as a habitat for many animals.

Read: Best Things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica

Day 14: Drive back to San Jose (Departure)

After an amazing 2 weeks in Costa Rica, it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful country, taking with you all the fantastic memories of your adventure. On the last day of your Costa Rica itinerary, make your way back to SJO airport (a 3.5-hour drive from Uvita). Alternatively, if you have a flight late in the day, you could visit one more waterfall (like La Paz, which is an hour north of the city).

If you need a hotel close to the airport , stay at Alajuela instead of San Jose.

How to Visit Costa Rica in 2 Weeks

Costa Rica has unlimited treasures that could take months to explore. However, 2 weeks in Costa Rica is a good amount of time to see some of the greatest highlights. This Costa Rica travel guide provides various activities, destinations, and transportation options.

Getting to Costa Rica

There are two international airports in Costa Rica: San Jose International Airport and Roberts International Airport in Liberia. Most international flights arrive in San Jose, where your Costa Rica itinerary starts. Keep in mind that it is common that immigration that extremely long.

If you do fly to Liberia instead of San Jose, you can still do this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary. However, the drive from Liberia to your first stop (Puerto Viejo) is around 8 hours, quite long. Instead, consider stopping at San Jose on the way to break up the journey, as there are lots of incredible natural sights to see just outside the city. 

Find the best flights to Costa Rica here

Getting Around on Your Costa Rica 2-Week Itinerary

The easiest way, by far, to get around Costa Rica is with a rental car . You’ll get the freedom to stop anywhere you like, at your own pace, which gives you the flexibility to complete your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary. It’s also far more comfortable than traveling by public bus (especially as on some routes you’ll have to change). 

Be aware that car rental prices can double in the high season and that it can be useful to book in advance.

Driving in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a reputation for having some pretty treacherous roads. However, these days, that’s not the case at all! Now you’ll find well-paved roads that are in good condition for all types of vehicles. The only unpaved road you might encounter on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary is if you take the wrong road from La Fortuna to Monteverde . Because of this, always use the Waze app in Costa Rica to find the right roads.

Tip: Some locals work as parking attendants and may walk up to you and ask for a very small payment to watch your car. This is a good service in general – just make sure they’re not overcharging you. Best is to ask your accommodation for the average rate in the area.

Do I need a 4×4 in Costa Rica?

You might have needed a 4×4 to drive in Costa Rica in the past. However, if you follow the main roads, you no longer need a 4×4. But to avoid any pothole damage, we recommend renting a car with some clearance from the ground. 

Renting a 4×4 can also be helpful in the rainy season when unpaved roads can get very muddy, especially if you’re planning on traveling to more remote areas too.

By Jeep with Tent or Campervan

For an unforgettable adventure, rent a 4×4 jeep in Costa Rica ! This is the most incredible experience, as you sleep under the stars, moving from place to place, and finding some gorgeous hidden spots. 

Best of all, renting a 4×4 jeep gives you the option to drive through national parks and cross rivers in Corcovado and Guanacaste areas. Although the rental price might seem expensive, it’s worth remembering that this is your accommodation, transport, and kitchen all in one. Because of this, your trip might actually end up cheaper! 

Read: Camping in Costa Rica – Everything you need to know

Traveling by local buses in Costa Rica is the cheapest way to get around, and many services are traveling to major destinations all over the country. However, it will take quite a bit longer. This is because the bus routes avoid highways and make stops instead of traveling direct. Plus, some routes will require changes, for example, the route from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna.

Tip: bus timetables often change, so check times in advance.

Shuttles (12-seaters vans) are convenient to travel door to door in Costa Rica. Interbus is the largest shuttle operator and drives between all major destinations, offering you a more comfortable way to travel on your Costa Rica itinerary.  

These shuttles can be booked in advance, and it is recommended to do so, especially during the high season. We didn’t book in advance, which left us with no other option than to take an expensive taxi ride (oops!).

Find shuttles to all destinations in Costa Rica

Our Favorite Accommodations

There are many fantastic options when it comes to accommodation in Costa Rica. It might be camping on the edges of the rainforest, a beach bungalow, an artsy boutique hotel, or a backpackers hostel. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Costa Rica. Below are our favorites for each destination on this Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

• San Jose: Casa 69 , Grano de Oro Hotel , and Escalante Hostel
• Puerto Viejo: Le Cameleon , Shawandha Lodge , and Pagalu Hostel
• La Fortuna: Casa Luna , Sangregado Lodge , and Poshpacker Hostel
• Monteverde: Los Pinos Lodge , Chira Glamping , and Outbox Hostel
• Manuel Antonio: The Falls Hotel and Teva Hostel
• Uvita: Seren Glamping , Karandi Hostel , and Uvita Paradise

How much do 2 weeks in Costa Rica Cost?

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world! It contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity, something that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is also known as the ‘Switzerland of Central America’ because of the high prices that come with the country’s beauty. 

Costs of Traveling in Costa Rica

Travel on a budget in Costa Rica, from $340 − $940 USD weekly per person, mid-range $950 − $1950 USD, and high-end from $1960 − $2650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $150 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $60 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $80 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $30 USD
• Activities: $15 − $40 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit: Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

The best time to travel to Costa Rica is from mid-December to April. This is the time with the most sunshine (between 15-30 degrees) and dry days (although you might experience a small rain shower in the afternoon). Because of the weather, this is the most popular season to visit Costa Rica, making it busy and expensive. 

The end of April to the end of November is the rainy season, with the most rain in October. However, don’t let this affect your choice as it never rains for long, only a few short rain showers each day. The rain also makes nature incredibly luscious! In addition, this period is much cheaper; you could even save a third of your total budget by traveling during this time.

Tip: Puerto Viejo is on the Caribbean coast and has slightly different seasons. August to October are generally dry, unlike other parts of Costa Rica.

Do I Need a Visa for 2 Weeks in Costa Rica?

Most passport holders do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. However, you will need a valid passport and an onward plane ticket to prove that you will exit Costa Rica within 90 days.

Check here if you need a visa to enter

Is Costa Rica Safe?

Costa Rica is very safe for tourists, with some of the friendliest locals globally. It also has the lowest rate of violent crimes in all of Central America. However, like most countries in Latin America, it does have a few problems with drug trafficking, poverty, and pickpockets. Always keep your belongings within eyesight and exercise caution. This way, you’re unlikely to experience any issues.

Read: Tips on how to travel Travel Safe

Travel Insurance Costa Rica

Even if you’re only traveling in Costa Rica for 2 weeks, we recommend purchasing single-trip travel insurance. Although the country itself is safe, there is potential for accidents – for example, an injury after surfing, a canceled flight, or lost baggage.

Costa Rica Entry Requirements: Covid-19

At the moment, you need to complete this health form within 72 hours before you enter Costa Rica. However, you do not need to be vaccinated and do not require a negative PCR test. Despite this regulation, if you are not vaccinated, you will need to purchase a travel policy for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica. Be aware that the policy should cover up to 50,000 USD of medical expenses and 2,000 USD of accommodation expenses. ( Read the specifics here )

What to Pack for a Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica is an incredibly diverse country with differing scenery, wildlife, and micro-climates. Because of this, the weather can change from a sunny 30 degrees to 18 degrees and rainy within a few hours. As such, we recommend taking layers and clothing that is quick-dry. 

Costa Rica Packing List

• Take layers – Layers of clothing are essential to add or remove items when the temperature changes.
• Quick-dry clothing – You can be almost certain to have a little bit of rain during your trip to Costa Rica. Take clothing made of fabrics that dry quickly because items take very long to dry due to the humidity.
• Microfiber towel – Like quick-dry clothing, it’s beneficial to take microfiber towels as they dry much faster and are incredibly lightweight.
• Waterproof backpack – Keep your valuables dry in a waterproof backpack or a rain cover that comes with your bag. 
• Raincoat – The final item for rain is a waterproof jacket/raincoat. Some can also be easily folded into a package that you can take anywhere.
• Hat – Luckily, there are also a lot of sunny moments. For that, take a hat/cap to protect against the sun for the hikes you will be doing. 
• Long socks & trousers – For some hikes, night walks, or evenings outside, you might also want to take long socks and trousers to cover your legs and prevent being bitten by mosquitos.
• Good footwear – Good walking shoes/sneakers/sandals is an absolute must. Hikes can be somewhat challenging with muddy or rocky paths. It’s not wise to wear flip-flops here. 
• Earplugs – Your nights can be disturbed by animal sounds, music, or when camping in Costa Rica , the sound of the waves. Earplugs save your night’s rest. 
• Camera – Capture memories of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica with a waterproof camera like a GoPro, or get good protection gear for your camera so you won’t have problems during an unexpected shower. 
• Power bank – For the long hikes, power outages, or moments in the jungle, it’s helpful to have a power bank to recharge your phone. ( Get one here )

Packing Sustainable Items

• Insect repellent – Bring an insect repellent but get a non-toxic product to prevent harming nature or animals.
• Sunscreen – An obvious addition to that is also sunscreen. We recommend a product without toxic ingredients, so it doesn’t harm the environment. ( Read about non-toxic sunscreens here )
• Refillable water bottle – Water is drinkable from the tap in almost all of Costa Rica except secluded locations like Tortuguero. No need to buy plastic bottles; refill instead!
• Stainless steel straw – Coconuts are available everywhere in Costa Rica. Carry a stainless steel straw with you and avoid plastic or single-use straws. Pro-tip: With stainless steel, you can scrape out the delicious inside of the coconut too.
• Reusable bag – Don’t take plastic bags when purchasing fruits or other items. Instead, carry your own!

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Costa Rica Itinerary: Ultimate 7-day Travel Guide

11 best things to do in costa rica in 2024, costa rica 3-week itinerary: the complete travel guide.

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Hey lovely. Aw hope you both had the most incredible time! :-) Your trip sounds thrilling! So excited to plan for this one.

Thank you for your advice hun. I was actually really keen on the campervan idea, having the option to be able to sleep in the wild etc. Will bring the cost right down, by not staying in hotels too :-)

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Costa Rica

Best hotels, best things to do, best restaurants, best time to visit.

• How to Get There

Places to Know

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Costa Rica literally translates to "rich coast,” and it’s easy to see how it got its name. In addition to world-class beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific, this peaceful paradise boasts some of the most bio-diverse ecosystems on Earth. In fact, scientists say five percent of the world's species are found here. For reference, the country is only as big as West Virginia. 

The unparalleled wildlife watching includes encounters with slumbering sloths, majestic scarlet macaws, tree frogs as pretty as they are poisonous, and endangered nesting sea turtles. With dogged determination, they survive, symbiotically, in the shadow of some of the world's most active volcanoes. 

Whether you want to hike in a cloud forest at 10,000 feet above sea level or you dream of riding horses on a white sand beach, it’s never been easier to reach the rich coast. There are nonstop flights to Costa Rica from more than a dozen U.S. cities. Come in winter; the country is one of the best places to visit in January . Or, plan a trip for the summer months when hotel rates drop as temperatures rise. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Nayara Springs: Soak in your villa’s private plunge pool fed by mineral hot springs.  
• Zip lining: Feel the cloud forest come alive as you soar through the canopy. 
• National Parks: These 28 protected areas are Mother Nature at her finest. 
• Restaurant Silvestre: Taste an award-winning chef’s contemporary interpretation of Costa Rican cuisine.
• Limón: Experience the country’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. 

W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal 

With its audacious architecture and cheeky decor, W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal stands out on a coast filled with cookie cutter beach resorts. Rooms run the gamut from traditional queens with balconies and ocean views to treehouse suites with private plunge pools. The property has a spa, 18-hole golf course, beach club, adults' and kids' pools, and five restaurants.

Nayara Springs 

This adults-only oasis was voted one of Central America’s best resort hotels by T+L readers. “From the moment you arrive you feel pampered,” Erica Linares, a Latin America specialist at Kensington Tours told Travel & Leisure. She’s a fan of the welcome drink, Costa Rica’s answer to the Bloody Mary. Meanwhile Emmanuel Burgio , a T+L Top Travel Advisor specializing in Central America, praises the private plunge pools.

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

Located four miles from San José's airport, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring the capital. That said, it feels a world away from all things urban thanks to its valley views and meticulously manicured gardens and outdoor spaces, including several pools and a coffee plantation.

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo

This family-friendly resort is one of Travel + Leisure' s top 500 hotels in the world . “It commands one of the best locations in Costa Rica and offers easy access to the country’s most beautiful beaches,” James Kaiser, author of “ Costa Rica: The Complete Guide ” told Travel & Leisure. His pro tip is to bring binoculars to spot the humpback whales migrating offshore in winter.

Lapa Rios Ecolodge & Wildlife Reserve

Also voted one of the best resorts in Central America by T+L readers, this luxurious ecolodge on the Osa Peninsula is the perfect place to immerse oneself in nature. In addition to proximity to wildlife, Burgio loves the waterfront location. “The bungalows boast terraces with ocean views and outdoor showers, and the shared outdoor pool overlooks the Pacific.” 

National Parks

Between its diverse flora, fauna, and geothermal features, Costa Rica is a nature-lover's paradise . A quarter of the country is set aside for conservation, and there are 28 National Parks to choose from. “Plus, unlike Colombia or Brazil, you can visit multiple ecosystems in one day,” said Kaiser. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Between Costa Rica's 300 beaches there are waves for diehards, beginners, and everyone in between. One of the best places to practice is Tamarindo, where Iguana Surf's instructors are as passionate about teaching as they are pipelines. As you improve, try the Nicoya Peninsula. According to Linares, “It’s known for its powerful waves and the town of Santa Teresa has a very relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.” 

Wellness is a way of life in Costa Rica – it's home to one of the world's five blue zones – so it seems sacrilegious to not get a spa treatment while in town. Vida Mía Healing Center & Spa sits atop a "high vibrational crystal mountain" and was named "Best Spa in the Americas."

Often considered to be the birthplace of ziplining, Costa Rica offers canopy tours almost everywhere there are trees. Hanging bridges are usually an option, too. At Selvatura Park in the Monteverde cloud forest, there are nearly two miles of treetop walkways.

The Pacuare Region

If you ask Burgio, one of the most under-the-radar experiences you can have is a private hike through the Talamanca Mountains with a guide from the indigenous Cabécar community. According to Burgio the Pacuare River is also the best place in Central America for whitewater rafting. 

Restaurante Celajes (Organic)

With its insect hotel, working farm, coffee plantation, and sugar cane fields, Hotel Belmar takes farm-to-table to a whole new level. As a result, its pride and joy – Restaurant Celajes – is so well-respected diners drive from as far away as San José just for dinner.

Lidia’s Place (Caribbean) 

According to Kaiser, the country’s best food is found on the Caribbean coast where “ the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture spices things up.” Lidia’s Place is where he goes for the best Caribbean chicken. A small, family-owned establishment, don’t be surprised if Lidia stops by to say hola. 

Sano Banano (Healthy)

Translating to healthy banana, Sano Banano serves feel-good food – breakfast, lunch and dinner – in an open-air restaurant. Enjoy seating on the back patio or front porch overlooking Montezuma's lively main street and don’t miss the artisanal chocolates for sale by the cash register.

Don Rufino (Costa Rican) 

Choose from prix-fixe menus, a la carte, or a five-course tasting tour at this Arenal landmark where Linares says the dishes are delicious and the ambiance is just as memorable. Grandma’s roasted chicken, served wrapped in banana leaves, has a cult-like following, so order it before it sells out. 

Restaurante Silvestre (Experiential) 

This San José institution is famous for its edible experiences derived from “unorthodox and avant-garde culinary techniques.” Since it’s deemed one of the best restaurants in Central America, reservations are a must. And because the chef-driven tasting menu knows no bounds, it’s not ideal for picky eaters. 

The best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your goals. If you're looking to snorkel in clear Caribbean waters, opt for the dry season which on the Caribbean side, is mid-May through mid-December. Meanwhile, in the rest of the country, the dry season is the opposite. It runs from December to May. This is when everything is open and roads are passable. If you want to take advantage of low season rates and avoid crowds, visit during the wet season (which is marketed as the green season). 

For the best cultural events , visit during January for Palmares (basically Carnival) or Easter week. As a Catholic country, many of Costa Rica's biggest holidays correspond with the Church's. Regardless of when you visit, you can always watch sea turtles nest and hatch, go zip lining (they do it rain or shine), and learn how to surf.

Related : The Ultimate Costa Rica Packing List

How to Get There 

Costa Rica has two main airports: Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. SJO is your best bet if you’re visiting Manuel Antonio, Limón, Arenal, or the Osa Peninsula. It also tends to have the cheapest flights. For trips to Guanacaste and Alajuela, you’ll probably want to fly into Liberia. Both airports offer rental cars. 

Of course, it’s possible to fly into one airport and out of the other. And transferring between the two is easy thanks to public buses and shared shuttles. The trip takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic. Driving to Costa Rica is not recommended as you’ll have to pass through countries with civil unrest and border crossings can be complicated.

There are seven provinces in Costa Rica, and each has its own distinct vibe. Here are three we recommend starting with. 

San José : The capital boasts the best souvenir shopping and has many cultural institutions including the Museum of Costa Rican Art, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and the National Museum of Costa Rica. It’s also where you’ll find the country’s best culinary offerings.

Alajuela : Alajuela is popular with adrenaline junkies as it’s home to Arenal Volcano National Park where you can zipline, hot springs hop, and hike in a cloud forest all in 24 hours. The province is also where you’ll find one of the world’s largest craters in Poas Volcano National Park (reservations required). 

Limón : Limón is located on the Caribbean side and highlights include Tortuguero National Park and the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge. This province is also where you can experience the country’s incredible Afro-Caribbean culture . Approximately eight percent of Costa Ricans are of African descent.

Trains and Buses: Costa Rica is rebuilding its train infrastructure, damaged during the 1991 earthquake. For now, buses are the best public transportation. While most are privately owned, fares are low. For example, a four-hour ride might cost $10. "Directo" buses offer nonstop service. "Colectivos” stop pretty much everywhere.

Taxis and Shuttles: Costa Rica's official taxis are red or orange (the only cabs licensed for airport pickups) and all have a yellow triangle emblem. It's also easy to pre-book private car services or shuttles online. 

Rideshare: Although it’s technically not legal, Uber has been operating in Costa Rica since 2015. However, it's limited to major cities and tourist hotspots. DiDi is also an option, but it’s also not that reliable in remote areas.

Car Rentals: Car rentals are cheap and plentiful, but keep in mind that most cars are manual, and Costa Rica’s roads don’t have the best reputation (during the wet season, many roads turn into rivers). Try to get a high-clearance SUV with AWD, and if you need extras like a roof rack for surfboards, carseat for kids, cell phone for navigation, or additional drivers, book with Vamos . It’s the only company that offers all of the above for no fee.

Why Costa Rica Is the Perfect Wellness Destination

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I Traveled to Costa Rica With 17 Family Members

Frames, Stamps: Getty Images; Photos: Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

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Adventure-lover's paradise, whether you seek an adventure, a family-friendly retreat, or a romantic getaway for two, you'll find it in costa rica..

Incredible wildlife, thick jungles, laid-back beaches, and magnificent volcanoes are just a few things that set Costa Rica apart. Spend the day on a scenic excursion, then return to your resort and relax on the beach as the sun dips below the horizon. Awaken refreshed and embark on another adventure. Costa Rica is waiting.

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The laid-back people and their Pura Vida lifestyle add to the warm and inviting allure of Costa Rica. The country offers miles of beaches and fantastic national parks, allowing endless opportunities to take in the wildlife. Here, tourists can enjoy river rafting, surfing, and zip lining while hanging out with macaws, sea turtles, and sloths.

You will also find various accommodation options that fit your vacation desires. You can choose to stay at a hotel, an all-inclusive resort, or a boutique eco-lodge in the mountains. Around every corner is something to be discovered, creating memorable moments for guests. A vacation to Costa Rica is an experience just waiting to start.

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Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 78° to 80° (Winter)
• March through May: 82° to 82° (Spring)
• June through August: 81° to 81° (Summer)
• September through November: 80° to 79° (Autumn)

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Tropical Costa Rica

About this tour.

Lush forests and stunning waterfalls… rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines… Costa Rica is a paradise teeming with exotic plants and incredible animals. Enjoy the tranquil views of Arenal Volcano from your hotel. Explore part of the 20,000-acre nature preserve of Cano Negro on a riverboat adventure. Spend two nights in Monteverde’s lush cloud forest. Experience the forest canopy on your choice of a hanging bridges nature walk or an exhilarating zip lining tour. Luxuriate at a resort for two nights at Playa Carrillo, Guanacaste, known for its breathtaking beauty and fine sandy beaches. You will find a slice of paradise and so much more.

Your Tour Includes

• 4 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Coffee Plantation
• Arenal Volcano
• Cano Negro Refuge

Your Tour at a Glance

8 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $55.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding Arenal Volcano.

Spot indigenous wildlife while on a Cano Negro riverboat cruise.

Cultural Experiences:

Take your journey to new heights and explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest from the elevated treetop canopy.

Put your feet up and relax during a 2-night stay in Guanacaste known for the country’s most beautiful beaches.

Culinary Inclusions:

Discover the history of coffee in Costa Rica during your visit to a coffee plantation.

Learn about local farming practices and learn to make tortillas while having lunch at Don Juan Finca Educativa.

• Lake Arenal Cruise
• Farm Tour and Lunch
• Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Choice on Tour

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Enjoy an exciting soft-adventure jungle extension in Tortuguero, the Amazon of Costa Rica, in search of wildlife such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, falcons and other native species. Depart your San Jose hotel via private transportation. Arrive at a dock where you board an open air boat with other travelers as you journey into Tortuguero’s unspoiled paradise. During a memorable 2-night stay at your eco-lodge, you will be surrounded by the beauty of a tropical forest and amazing wildlife right outside your door. Experience a spectacular boat cruise through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats and caimans, as well as exotic flora. Collette travelers will be accompanied by a private local guide on this extension. Your other option is to book a pre night? Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city for an overnight stay.
• San Jose - Tortuguero National Park
• This morning set out for an exciting soft-adventure jungle experience in Tortuguero, the Amazon of Costa Rica, in search of wildlife such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, falcons and other native species. Depart your San Jose hotel via private transportation for a transfer to the dock where you board an open-air boat with other travelers to journey into Tortuguero’s unspoiled paradise. Check into an eco-lodge built in harmony with nature using the best sustainability practices – where fans create breezes instead of air conditioning and meals feature locally sourced ingredients prepared with Caribbean flair.
• Tortuguero National Park
• An early morning bird watching excursion* is offered so you may learn about the variety of local species and migratory birds that flock to this area. Join your fellow lodge guests on a spectacular boat cruise through the various canals and be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats and caimans, as well as exotic flora. Tortuguero National Park is a study in rainforest, freshwater, and marine biology. It protects over 350 species of birds and mammals including green macaws; 57 species of amphibians; 111 species of reptiles; and 60 mammal species, including 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered species including jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters and manatees.
• Tortuguero National Park - San Jose
• Depart Tortuguero National Park today to return to San Jose. Upon arrival, meet your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for the start of your Tropical Costa Rica tour.

Hotel-Doubletree Cariari Hotel

Hotel-Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows

Explore the cloud forest reserve in the heart of Monteverde from up above as you walk among the treetops with a local expert. Embark on a guided walking tour high above the forest floor on a leisurely paced “Hanging Bridges” tour and gain a different perspective of the cloud forest’s unique ecosystem, its mammals, birds, plants and flora. Admire the forest floor bursting with natural wonders, wildlife, and take in the amazing vistas. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to get up close to the indigenous wildlife in their natural habitat as your local expert shares stories of this incredible landscape and the ecology of the cloud forest.

Experience the unique sensation of flying through nature! For nature lovers, the greatest adventure of all is to take a Zip Line Canopy Adventure Tour. Selvatura Adventure Park and Canopy Tour is one of the best soft adventures in Costa Rica. Canopy Tour guides start by outfitting you with the appropriate equipment; then they take you through each of the 12 cables and 19 platforms and through the Tarzan Swing (optional). Selvatura Park is one of the longest Canopy Tours in Costa Rica, and is the only zip line canopy tour located inside the actual virgin cloud forest of Monteverde. Feel pure adrenaline and excitement of flying up to 35 miles per hour, viewing magnificent landscapes. Zip lines ranging from 120 to more than 2,000 feet in length and 60 to 400 feet in height let you experience the cloud forest from a whole new perspective. The tree top canopy tour not only offers a great adventure but also an opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Trained personnel (accredited by the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism) accompanies you throughout the tour. If you are looking for a fun adventure and amazing rides, this canopy tour is your best choice.

Get a different perspective of the Costa Rican wildlife when you venture into the natural habitat of a dolphin family. With a guide, get a firsthand look at these elegant creatures and watch as they play along the water’s surface. Home to an abundance of animals, keep an eye out for other creatures as well. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some whales or turtles! Afterwards, try your hand at fishing as you cast your line into the blue waters of the Pacific. You’ll also get a chance to swim and snorkel in the warm waves along the coast, getting a closer look at the sea life.

Branches reaching out into the swamp, creatures bustling through the undergrowth, and long-necked birds wading into the cloudy water. The mangroves of Costa Rica are not only essential to the larger ecosystem but also function as an ethereal waterway that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to another world. Mangrove trees live in swamps where salt water meets fresh water, creating a flourishing home for a wide variety of animals. On your kayak, discover an intimate look at the local wildlife as you gently paddle six miles down the Ora River. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys and explorative iguanas scurrying up the trees. Follow your guide as you coast along the water, making your way along the winding river and taking in the nature all around you.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Doubletree Cariari Hotel From $65 per night

Doubletree Cariari Hotel

Mountain paradise hotel, nammbu beachfront bungalows, stay longer.

Post Night: Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows From $75 per night

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Costa rica - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to  crime .

Country Summary:  While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica. The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources in areas frequented by tourists.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Costa Rica.

If you decide to travel to Costa Rica:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook,   Twitter, and Instagram .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Costa Rica.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Length of stay.

1 page per entry stamp.

Not required for stays less than 180 days, but return ticket required.

Yellow fever, if arriving from certain countries in South America or Africa .

10,000 USD.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy san josé.

Calle 98, Via 104 Pavas San José, Costa Rica Telephone: + (506) 2519-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (506) 2220-3127 Fax: + (506) 2220-2455 Email:   [email protected] Routine American Citizens Services appointments available online .

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

See the Embassy of Costa Rica’s  website  for the most current visa information.

Requirements for Entry:

• Passport  valid for duration of stay. Immigration may deny entry if passport is damaged.
• Return ticket  or proof of onward travel to another country.
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination  if you are arriving from  certain countries  in South America or Africa.
• Proof of funds  for at least $100 USD per month of proposed stay.

Tourist stays up to 180 Days:  Authorities may permit stays up to 180 days without a visa but are not required to do so. Be sure to leave by your required date of departure. Immigration authorities may levy a fine on foreigners who overstay their visas. Even a short overstay may result in significant delays, deportation, and/or denial of entry to Costa Rica in the future.

Exit tax:   Check with your airline to see if the $29 USD exit tax was included in the cost of your ticket. For more information, visit the  Costa Rican Immigration Agency website.

Entry and Exit for Minor Children:  All children born in Costa Rica acquire Costa Rican citizenship at birth and must have an exit permit issued by  immigration authorities  in order to depart the country. Non-Costa Rican minor children who are ordinarily resident in Costa Rica may also be subject to this requirement. This is strictly enforced.

Though not required, parents traveling with minor children may consider carrying notarized consent for travel from the non-present parent. Parents of minors with Costa Rican citizenship should consult with  Costa Rican immigration authorities  prior to travel to Costa Rica.

Indebtedness:  If you owe money in Costa Rica, authorities may prevent you from leaving. This includes unsettled injury claims from vehicular accidents and unpaid medical bills. U.S. citizens owing child support in Costa Rica may be required to pay 13 months of support in advance before being allowed to leave Costa Rica.

Documentation Requirements:  Carry copies of identification and immigration status at all times. During routine checks for illegal immigrants, authorities may ask to see the original passport and papers.

Local authorities have the right to detain United States citizens until their identity and immigration status have been verified.

HIV/AIDS restrictions:  The United States Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Costa Rica.

Find information on  dual nationality,   prevention of international child abduction , and  customs information  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime: In areas frequented by tourists, including national parks, theft and pickpocketing are the most common crimes targeting United States citizen travelers. More violent crimes, including sexual assault and murders, have occurred. Armed assailants usually target victims for their smartphones, wallets, or purses. If confronted by someone with a weapon, it is best not to resist.

Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach, in an unattended vehicle, or in an unlocked room. Even a locked vehicle in an area with parking attendants may be broken into. Avoid isolated areas when on foot, especially after dark. Maintain situational awareness and secure your valuables out of sight.

The Embassy is aware of reports of robbery of isolated rental properties. Research any rental homes to ensure they have adequate security and remember to properly secure all doors and windows.

See the Costa Rica Country Security Report (osac.gov) for an overview of crime in Costa Rica. For information about international financial scams, see the Department of State and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  United States citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the United States Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the United States Embassy at +506 2519-2000 or [email protected]. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. Authorities will only investigate and prosecute a crime if the victim files a police report (denuncia). The Costa Rican Investigative Police (OIJ) is responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes that occur in Costa Rica.

To file a police report : Visit the local office of the OIJ. You can find the closest location by calling 800-800-3000. The Tourist Police can also take reports at the following tourist destinations:

• Puerto Viejo
• El Coco See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

U.S. Embassy San Jose can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys 
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S .
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

A police report with a case number is necessary for case follow up, insurance claims, and waiving of rebooking fees on certain airlines. Check with airlines regarding their rebooking policies.

Beach Safety : Swimming areas at some popular beaches around Costa Rica can have dangerous rip currents. Some beaches lack lifeguards or warnings of unsafe conditions. United States citizens have died in Costa Rica due to these dangers. Check the Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) website, or with your hotel or relevant tour operator to request current information on local swimming and surf conditions. You can read more about staying safe on Costa Rican beaches in this ICT pamphlet, which is in English and Spanish . Please be aware that the Costa Rica Tourism Institute confirms that there are trained lifeguards at the following beaches:

Pacific Coast:

• Manuel Antonio Beach Caldera Beach
• Esterillos Oeste Beach
• Bahia Ballena Beach
• Ventanas Beach
• Tamarindo Beach

Caribbean Coast:

• Cocles Beach
• Manzanillo Beach
• Negra Beach (Limon)

The Oceanographic Information Module at the Center for Research in Marine Sciences of the University of Costa Rica provides public information regarding wind and wave forecasts, including warnings of hazardous conditions. You can learn more about the dangers of rip currents and how to avoid them from the NOAA National Weather Service's Rip Current webpage.

Do not dive into water of unknown depth. Do not swim alone, especially at isolated beaches. Avoid the consumption of alcohol while swimming.

Tourism : The Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) website maintains a list of Certified Tour Guides . You can also find valuable tourism safety and security information for Costa Rica in these English and Spanish language pamphlets provided by ICT .

Adventure Sports:   Some tour operators take risks, and government regulation and oversight of firms that organize sporting activities may not always adhere to international standards and best practices. United States citizens have died in Costa Rica while participating in adventure sports. Use caution and common sense when engaging in ALL adventure sports, such as bungee jumping, sky diving, hiking, rappelling, climbing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, etc. Make sure your medical insurance covers your sport. See our section on Medical Insurance under “Health” below. The Ministry of Health maintains a list of authorized Adventure Sports operators.

Never participate in adventure sports alone. Always carry identification and let others know where you are at all times. Before kayaking and rafting, check river conditions and wear a life jacket and helmet. Even popular rafting locations such as the Rio Naranjo near Quepos can become extremely dangerous in flash flood conditions. When hiking, rappelling, or climbing, carry a first aid kit and know the location of the nearest rescue center. Observe all local or park regulations and exercise caution in unfamiliar surroundings.

Domestic Violence:  United States citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Students and Volunteers:  Violent assaults, rapes, and deaths have occurred involving students and volunteers. Ensure that your organization provides safety and security information on the area where you will stay. See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips . To register complaints: Contact Costa Rica’s Tourism Commission  or by phone at 800-TURISMO from Costa Rica or 011-506-2299-5800 from the United States. Email:   [email protected]

Potential for Natural Disasters:  Costa Rica is in an active earthquake and volcanic zone.  

• Three volcanoes , two near San Jose and one in the northwest, have become more active in recent years. Ashfall due to volcanic eruptions from Turrialba can disrupt air traffic and cause or aggravate respiratory issues. Visitors should monitor and follow park service guidance and alerts regarding volcanic activity. Never attempt to climb or gain unauthorized access to an active volcano.
• Tsunamis  may occur following significant earthquakes.
• Flooding  occurs during the rainy season, typically from April until October, in the Caribbean Province of Limon and the Pacific Provinces of Puntarenas and Guanacaste.
• Flash floods and severe landslides  occur in many parts of Costa Rica, depending on the time of year and rainfall. Do not drive into water of unknown depths.

For information concerning disasters, see:

• U.S. Embassy Costa Rica website . The Embassy also sends out emergency information via e-mail, text, and/or Radio Dos (FM 99.5) or Radio Columbia (FM 98.7.)
• U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  provides general information about natural disaster preparedness 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding disease.
• U.S. Geological Survey  provides updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity.

Additional information regarding volcanic activity and other natural disasters in Costa Rica may be obtained from the following Spanish-language Costa Rican websites:

• Costa Rican National Emergency Commission
• Costa Rican Volcanic and Seismic Observatory

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Strikes may affect transportation, fuel supplies, and other public services. Local law prohibits foreigners from participating in public demonstrations, and violators may be subject to detention or deportation.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Hiking : When visiting national parks, abide by signage and stick to marked trails. First responders have limited ability to locate missing persons in remote areas.

To hike in national parks, you must:

• Register with the park
• Obtain an entry permit
• Consider using a certified tour operator. The Costa Rican Tourist Institute (ICT) has contact information for Certified Tour Guides .

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules are regularly enforced. Inspections take place on a regular basis; however, some lapses may occur in businesses that are not properly registered. Hazardous areas or activities are not always identified with appropriate signage. Professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is available but may be delayed due to road and traffic conditions as well as physical distances. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. United States citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

The Embassy is aware of isolated reports of uniformed officers or impostors demanding a bribe. Should you be confronted for a bribe, do not argue. Note the name of the officer and any identifying numbers on the uniform or vehicle and report the incident by calling “ 911 .”

Ayahuasca/Kambo/Hallucinogens:  Traditional hallucinogens, often referred to as ayahuasca or kambo, are often marketed to travelers as part of a “ceremony” or “spiritual cleansing.” Such substances typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong hallucinogen that is illegal in the United States and many other countries.

• Intoxicated travelers, including United States citizens, have been sexually assaulted, injured, or robbed while under the influence of these substances.
• Health risks associated with ayahuasca are not well understood, and, on occasion, United States citizens have suffered serious illness or death after taking these drugs.
• These incidents often occur in remote areas far away from modern medical facilities, increasing the risks.

Alcohol/Drugs:  Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe, including long jail sentences and heavy fines. The possession, purchase, and sale of marijuana and marijuana related products are illegal in Costa Rica

Prostitution/Sex Tourism:  Local law forbids promoting or facilitating the prostitution of another person. Local laws regarding human trafficking and child exploitation carry extremely harsh penalties, including large fines and significant jail time, including for first-time offenders.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the United States Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

The law permits pre-trial detention of persons accused of serious crimes. Due to overcrowding in local prisons, courts may instead use an “exit impediment.” Individuals subject to these measures cannot depart Costa Rica, must be able to support themselves, and must check in with judicial authorities on a regular basis. Defendants have the right to a public defender and an official translator for important hearings. 

Judicial Process:  Due to differences in legal systems and case backlogs, local criminal and civil judicial processes can move slower in comparison to their United States equivalents. Civil suits on average take over five years to resolve. Some United States firms and citizens have satisfactorily resolved their cases through the courts, while others have seen proceedings drawn out over a decade without a final ruling.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Costa Rica. See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Accessibility and accommodation are limited. Many buildings remain inaccessible and the Costa Rican Ombudsman’s Office has received several noncompliance reports regarding accessibility or malfunctioning of hydraulic wheelchair lifts for public transportation. 

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Residency:   United States citizens seeking to live or reside long-term in Costa Rica should consider seeking local legal counsel for guidance on the requirements to obtain  legal residency . Local authorities have imposed limited entry permits or deported United States citizens suspected of improperly using their tourist status to live in Costa Rica.

Real Estate:  Be extremely cautious when making real estate purchases or investments, consult with reputable legal counsel, and thoroughly review the contract. There is little the United States Embassy can do to assist United States citizens who enter into land or business disputes; you must be prepared to take your case to the local courts.

Civil archives recording land titles are at times incomplete or contradictory. Coastal land within 50 meters of the high tide line is open to the public and therefore closed to development. The next 150 meters inland (“Maritime Zone”) cannot be owned by foreign nationals. Land in this zone is administered by the local municipality. Expropriation of private land by the Costa Rican government without compensation considered adequate or prompt has affected some United States investors.

Property owners are encouraged to maintain security and access controls on any private property.   Organized squatter groups have invaded properties, taking advantage of legal provisions that allow people without land to gain title to unused property. Victims of squatters have reported threats, harassment, and violence.

Check the  Embassy’s website  for a list of local lawyers. 

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Costa Rica, dial  911 . 

• Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below United States standards. 
• Medical care in San Jose is generally adequate, but services can be limited in areas outside of San Jose. In remote areas, basic medical equipment may not be available. Ambulances may lack emergency equipment. 
• Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are available; however, some United States citizens travel regularly to the United States to fill prescriptions that are unavailable locally. Bring a supply of your medications and carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that United States Medicare/Medicaid does  not  apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do  not  accept United States health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 
• Costa Rican immigration authorities reserve the right to prevent departure of those international travelers with unpaid or disputed medical bills.
• The United States Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals on our  Embassy website . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 
• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Costa Rican Ministry of Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Costa Rica. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Proof of yellow fever vaccination must be presented upon arrival for all passengers coming from  certain countries in South America or Africa .

Medical Tourism:  Confirm that: 

• Facilities and professionals will be able to provide an acceptable level of care 
• Your insurance will cover any associated or emergency costs 
• You understand the terms of payment and costs for treatment 

For clinics offering alternative medical treatments, thoroughly research these clinics and their providers. The Embassy has received reports of hospitalizations as a result of clients at so-called wellness centers undergoing medically unverified “alternative treatments.” 

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. An air ambulance flight can cost $25,000 to $50,000 USD and will often take place only after payment has been received in full. 

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC) 

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

  Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout Costa Rica but health care in rural areas may be below United States standards. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. 
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:  United States   citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling.
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Costa Rica. 
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Costa Rica. 
• Although Costa Rica has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Costa Rica, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. 

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, be the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

• United States Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.
• Costa Rica does not allow the importation of most medications through the mail, even with a prescription. Travelers entering Costa Rica may carry personal medications with them and in suitcases, but also should carry a copy of the prescriptions. Medications should be in original packaging, and quantities should correspond to the prescription. Please review Costa Rica’s rules on importing medication at the  Ministry of Health website .

Alcohol: If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill. There have been reports of individuals falling ill or dying after consuming alcohol tainted with methanol. Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health has advised any persons presenting health issues after consuming alcohol, such as severe vomiting, agitation, disorientation, blindness, or any other adverse reactions, to immediately call 911. Ministry of Health authorities are asking people to report any instances of the sale of unregulated alcohol or alcohol adulterated with methanol to the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) confidential line at 800-8000-645, or by email to [email protected], or by calling the National Center for Intoxicants at 2223-1028 or 800-INTOXICA (4686-9422). Additionally, if you feel you have been the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation, you should notify the American Citizen Services unit at the U.S. Embassy in San Jose at +506-2519-2000. You may also contact the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:  If you are considering traveling to Costa Rica to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 

Water Quality:  In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. 

Adventure Travel:  Visit the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel . 

General Health Language:  The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• HIV/AIDS: Follow all standard procedures for protection against the spread of HIV/AIDS.
• Visit the UUnited States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in Costa Rica

Air Quality:  The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• People over 65 years of age 
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. 
• People with heart disease or diabetes 
• People who work or are active outdoors 

Travel and Transportation

The Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT) provides an English and Spanish language pamphlet with tips for safe driving in Costa Rica .

Road Conditions and Safety:  Take extra care when driving. Roads are often in poor condition, lack clearly marked lanes, and have narrow shoulders and large potholes. Signage can be inadequate. Visibility at intersections is often limited by hedges or other obstacles. 

• In the event of car trouble or a flat tire, look for a well-lit, populated area such as a gas station to pull over. Be wary of unsolicited offers of assistance from strangers, particularly in less populated areas.
• Main highways and principal roads in the major cities are paved, but some roads to beaches and other rural locations are not. Many destinations are accessible only with four-wheel drive vehicles with high ground clearance.
• Exercise extreme caution when driving across moving water, especially through riverbeds and over hanging bridges. Even a few inches of water could destabilize your vehicle.
• Landslides are common. Some roads, even those leading to major population centers, may be temporarily impassable during the rainy season. When staying outside of urban areas, call ahead to hotels regarding the current status of access roads.
• Avoid driving at night outside urban areas.  
• Expect traffic jams in and around San Jose.
• Motorcyclists often drive without respect to rules of the road, passing on the right, or weaving in and out without warning. Buses and cars frequently stop in travel lanes, even on expressways.

Bridges:  Bridges, even on heavily traveled roads, may be only a single lane. Rural roads sometimes lack bridges, compelling motorists to ford waterways. Do not drive through water.

Traffic Laws:   Drivers will need a valid passport and valid United States driver’s license or an international driving permit.

• Fines for routine traffic violations can be upwards of $500 USD.
• Laws and speed limits are often ignored, turn signals are rarely used, passing on dangerous stretches of highway is common, and pedestrians are not given the right of way.
• In the event of a traffic accident, do not move the vehicle. Both the traffic police and an insurance investigator must make accident reports before the vehicles can be moved. Drivers using rental cars should clarify their company’s policy in the event of accidents. Rental companies may levy additional charges on drivers for failing to file a report.
• There is a high fatality rate for pedestrians and those riding bicycles or motorcycles. In the event of a traffic fatality, a judge must arrive at the scene to pronounce a person dead, which could take several hours. If there is an ongoing investigation of a vehicular accident resulting in death or injuries, you may not be allowed to leave the country for several months.

Public Transportation:  United States citizens have reported having items stolen while using public transportation across Costa Rica. United States citizens should take care to maintain awareness of their surroundings and avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry, and should always keep bags and other personal items under their personal control. United States citizens are strongly discouraged from using public buses, where pickpocketing is common. United States citizens should take only licensed taxis or familiar ride share services and should never accept rides from unlicensed or “pirate” vehicles.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Costa Rica’s  national tourist office  and national authority responsible for road safety.

Unpaid traffic tickets:   United States   citizens have occasionally reported to the Embassy that charges for unpaid traffic tickets have appeared on the credit card that was on file with their rental car company. The Embassy cannot intervene in such cases.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Costa Rica’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Costa Rica’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Costa Rica should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Costa Rica was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Costa Rica . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Costa Rica Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Costa Rica. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in the Americas April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.), Uruguay

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Costa Rica.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Costa Rica. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Costa Rica.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Costa Rica take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Costa Rica.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Costa Rica is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Included in this requirement are travelers arriving from Tanzania and Zambia, and designated areas of: Colombia (the entire country, except the cities of Barranquilla, Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena, and Medellín, and the archipelago department, San Andrés and Providencia); Ecuador (the provinces of Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbíos, and Zamora-Chinchipe, and excluding the rest of the country); Paraguay (the entire country, except the city of Asunción); Peru (the entire country, except the cities of Cusco and Lima, the regions of Cajamarca, Lambayeque, Piura, and Tumbes, and the highland tourist areas of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail); Trinidad & Tobago (the entire country, except the urban areas of Port of Spain; travelers with itineraries limited to the island of Tobago, and travelers with airport transits or layovers are also exempt from this requirement). Travelers arriving from Argentina and Panama are exempt from this requirement.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Costa Rica, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Costa Rica. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Costa Rica include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Costa Rica’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Costa Rica may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Costa Rica, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Costa Rica, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Costa Rica .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Costa Rica for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Requirements

• Planning Your Trip
• Entry Requirements

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Requirements to enter the country.

Entry to Costa Rica has been opened to tourists from all countries.

All tourists must comply with the immigration processes established in the General Immigration and Aliens Act (Ley General de Migración y Extrangería).

During your visit in Costa Rica, you are required to comply with the health protocols put in place by private companies when participating in any tourism activities in the country.

In accordance with Article 42 of the General Law on Immigration and Aliens (No. 8764) and Article 30 of the Immigration Control Regulation (Executive Decree No. 36769-G), foreign nationals intending to enter Costa Rica must provide:

• A valid passport or travel document. Passports and travel documents will only be accepted if they can be read electronically in line with the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must be valid for the period set forth in these guidelines.
• Visa, if required under these guidelines.
• Proof of economic means, with a minimum of US$100.00 (one hundred US dollars) per month or partial month of legal stay in the country.
• Return ticket to the country of origin or plan of onward travel that includes the next destination.
• No impediment to entering Costa Rican territory.

MAXIMUM STAY:

The maximum legal stay for foreign nationals will be determined by the immigration agent upon their entry into the country.

Countries in the first group: UP TO 180 CALENDAR DAYS, NON-EXTENDABLE 

Countries in the second group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS

Countries in the third group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS, EXTENDABLE

Countries in the fourth group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS, EXTENDABLE

Please remember:

• In order to enter Costa Rica, you will need a ticket for a return flight, which the immigration official will ask to see when you arrive. It is recommended that you make a photocopy of your passport with the entry stamp, which you should carry with you at all times during your stay.
• The number of days you are permitted to stay in Costa Rica will depend on the group your country of origin belongs to.
• The immigration official may ask you to demonstrate that you have the funds needed for your stay in the country.
• The immigration official may indicate in your passport that your permitted stay will be for a different amount of time.
• Visitors to Costa Rica must have a valid passport and proof that they will be leaving the country before their visa or entry stamp expires.

All travelers must therefore have a ticket for return or onward travel.

Non-residents must have a ticket for return or onward travel if they:

Are arriving on a one-way ticket.

Are entering the country with a return ticket that is more than 90 days after their date of arrival.

Are flying to Costa Rica and flying out of a different country.

By law, a return or onward travel ticket may be on one of the following means of approved commercial transportation:

• A pre-purchased bus ticket out of the country.
• A pre-purchased flight out of the country.
• Proof of passage on a cruise ship.

Obligatory declarations when entering or leaving Costa Rica:

When entering or leaving a port of entry to Costa Rica, if you are carrying an amount equal to or greater than US$10,000 in cash or securities, or its equivalent in other currencies, you must request and complete the form designated for this purpose in the immigration checkpoint and present it to the Customs Authority for verification. The declaration must be made before finalizing the corresponding immigration procedures.

Failure to follow the provisions of Costa Rican law (No. 8204, Article 35) will result in the immediate forfeiture of the money.

What kind of vaccines do visitors to Costa Rica need?

As of July 30, 2007, Costa Rican authorities require all travelers from the following countries to have a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador, as well as the Republic of Guyana.

If you need more information, please click here

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Planning your Trip to Costa Rica

Suggested itineraries

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Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit in 2024? Travel Crime Advice

One of the most common questions we get asked is, “Is Costa Rica safe to visit?” The short answer is, “usually”.

We started this website to give you all the most genuine information about Costa Rica travel and we take that responsibility very seriously. 

However, one thing I didn’t consider when we started this site is how responsible I would end up feeling for your safety while you are in Costa Rica. I genuinely want you to have the best trip here possible and that means that you should feel secure while traveling.

Crime in Costa Rica is an ever-evolving issue. In general, this is a very safe country. The most common crime is petty theft. Violent crimes targeting tourists such as armed robberies, sexual assault, or homicide are very very unusual. In general, you will likely meet wonderful people and have the vacation of a lifetime. 

However, because we feel responsible, here are all our tips about safety in Costa Rica. Please read through them and please contact us if you have any safety questions.

Our Perspective on Crime in Costa Rica

Thomas and I agree that in general, we feel secure in Costa Rica. 

We, fortunately, have never had any crimes committed against us in our several years of living here. 

That being said, we also use extreme caution and I sometimes feel it is exhausting to maintain our level of security. 

Although nothing has happened to us, that doesn’t mean that we haven’t heard of crimes being committed against friends. This has always been theft in various forms.

We have had friends leave things out visible in their car and their car has been broken into, a friend got robbed walking alone at night, a friend had their house broken into, and another friend was robbed in their driveway. 

Keep in mind that these incidents have been over about 8 years of living here. This is not an everyday occurrence.

But, yes, crime happens and it can be very scary. 

However, even if you are extremely cautious sometimes you just never know. We had a crime committed against us once in Europe in a very safe neighborhood. So, unfortunately, bad things can happen anywhere.

As of now, we still feel 100% secure in recommending that you visit Costa Rica.  It is a beautiful country and in general, the threat against tourists is low. 

If at any point we feel that the security level in this country is too unstable, we will update this to reflect that. 

​How the Costa Rican Government Protects Tourists

Tourism is the biggest industry in Costa Rica. With that in mind, the government works hard to make this the safest destination for tourists as possible. 

In recent years there has been an increase in homicides. This is largely due to drug trafficking and gangs. I have read a lot of articles about it in the news recently. It seems that the government is taking action to alleviate the situation. Although, it is hard to say exactly what is being done. 

Crime rates against tourists have remained somewhat steady. However, the president of Costa Rica along with the Ministry of Public Security (MSP) are making it their mission to lower these rates.

One way they are doing that is by identifying crime hot spots. They are now working to increase police presence in these areas. 

Sometimes I wonder if this is just talk to keep tourists coming here and feeling safe, but I really don’t think it is. 

I have noticed an increase in police presence in some areas and I have even been stopped by a police officer on the beach to tell me that there had been a few robberies there recently and to keep an eye on my stuff. 

How to Protect Yourself in Costa Rica

Here are all the safety tips I suggest doing to protect yourself while traveling in this foreign country. 

Pre-Trip Preparation

Here is what you need to do before you even leave home. 

Register With STEP

If you’re a United States citizen,  enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

This program allows the US government to notify you regarding potential security threats in the area you are visiting, get in contact with you regarding  natural disasters , and give family and friends a way to contact you in the case of emergencies.

If you are from another country. see if your government offers a similar program. 

Check Embassy Warnings:

The US government has a whole  page dedicated to the safety in Costa Rica . 

Make sure to check it our before you travel so you can be aware of any areas to avoid or current crime situations.

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance  has multiple benefits. Not only will it help you out in case you get hurt, but it is also great if one of your belongings is stolen. 

Get your travel insurance quote from Heymondo here .

Give Travel Plan to Trusted Person

Inform a trusted person of your travel plans and keep them updated. I like to write out a document with all hotel info, any preplanned activities, flight info etc. for my mom.

I then update her on my license plate number if I have rented a car once I arrive in a destination.

I usually also try to check in once a day and just send her a quick message of my plans.

That way, if I go missing, somebody has a record of my intended movements. 

Travel Tip : If you are an iPhone user you can turn on “share your location” with a trusted family member or friend. That way, someone always knows exactly where you/ your phone is.

Rent Your Car Directly from a Company

Third party sites often have car rental deals that seem too good to be true…they are. These rates don’t include any added taxes, fees, or mandatory rental insurance. Check out our  guide to rental scams for more info .

We work exclusively with our favorite local rental company, Adobe Rent-a-Car.  You can get a 10% discount plus other great perks here.

Make a Photocopy of Your Passport

I suggest making one or two copies of your passport to bring with you while traveling.

Then, while in Costa Rica you can leave your passport in your hotel safe and only carry the paper copies with you. 

Get an eSIM Card

It is a good idea to always be able to stay connected and have a working cell phone.

We suggest getting an  eSIM card from Airalo  for this.

However, you can  check out our guide to SIM cards in Costa Rica  for all the different ways to stay connected. 

Purchase Security Products

This is not absolutely necessary, but there are a few products I really like for keeping me and my stuff safe while traveling. 

• Doorstop : Put this under your door at a hotel. When someone tries to open the door the alarm will sound.
• Money belt : Helpful for walking around towns so that your money, cards, etc are hidden. This one is also RFID blocking so nobody can scan your cards.
• Safety Alarm :  Carry on your keys. Presd the button to activate the alarm if you are attached.
• Headlamp : It gets dark very early here. If you plan to walk around at night it is a good idea to have a headlamp.

Monetary Theft

Here are some of the ways you can protect yourself from being scammed or robbed while in Costa Rica. 

Pay with Credit Card Instead of Debit Card

Credit cards make it easier to refute fraudulent charges than debit cards. I suggest checking your credit card account after any transactions to make sure that the amount is correct. 

Travel Tip: I t is a good idea to get a credit card that is made for travel so you will not pay a percentage on every transaction.

Keep Money in Several Locations

Don’t put all your money in your pocket or purse. It’s best not to carry much money at all, but if you have to, divide it up.

I put some in my shoe, some in my bra, and some in each of my pockets.

That way if I am robbed they hopefully won’t find all of the money and I can just give them my wallet and move on.

If you need more info on whether you should carry money or use credit cards in Costa Rica, we have a full post on  currency and paying .

Only Change Currency at Banks

The currency exchange places at the airport will give you a very bad exchange rate. Don’t use them!

Also, there are often people exchanging currency on the Nicragua or Panama border. Don’t use them either.

Instead, you will get the best exchange rate directly at a bank. 

Check All Receipts

After any payment, check the receipt to make sure the amount adds up correctly. Often in Costa Rica store employees need to manually enter the total on a credit card machine.

It is so easy to accidentally (or purposely) add an extra “0” and overcharge a customer.

We’ve had it happen to us. Luckily, the employee noticed it when he charged us several hundred dollars instead of about $50 for gas.

He was so embarrassed and pointed out his mistake to us and fixed it.

So, just double-check. 

Personal Safety and Awareness

Here are all the things you should do to protect yourself.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When you are traveling it’s easy to get distracted by all the beautiful new sights, but you need to also be aware of the people around you.

Look around often and avoid standing in large crowds.

If you feel uncomfortable in a situation or place, just leave.

If you take money out of the bank pay attention to who is around and watching you.

Dress Like You Belong

We get it, you are on vacation and probably want to wear all your nice warm weather clothing.

However, in Costa Rica it is best to blend in.

Leave the nice jewelry or flashy items at home and dress in a relaxed way.

Don’t Walk Around Alone at Night

Unfortunately, it  gets dark by 6pm  in Costa Rica year round. 

As I mentioned above, it is a good idea to have a headlamp if you plan to walk around after dark.

Also, it is best to never go out alone.

Trust Your Instincts

If you feel hesitant about a person or a location, trust yourself. Your gut instinct is usually right. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Don’t Leave Your Stuff Unattended

If you plan to go to the beach it is never a good idea to leave your personal belongings unattended while you are in the ocean or taking a walk. 

​Keep Stuff Secure at Restaurants

A lot of restaurants in Costa Rica are open air. This means it is easy for anyone from outside to walk by your table and swipe something.

Don’t leave your cell phone, wallet, keys, etc just sitting on the table.

Also, don’t just put your purse or backpack on the back of your chair. I always put mine on the floor between my legs with one strap under my leg so it can not be taken. 

Know Your Hotel Location

If you get lost, your phone dies etc. it is good to know the place you are staying in your mother tongue and in Spanish.

In Costa Rica this is difficult because there are no addresses. It’s strange but true.

Instead, make sure you know the name of your hotel and any landmarks that are located nearby the place you are staying.

Keep Personal Info Private

People in Costa Rica generally really enjoy talking to tourists and they are usually extremely nice and welcoming.

However, to stay safe in Costa Rica you should still be cautious. Don’t reveal too much.

If you are a  solo traveler , NEVER tell anyone that you are by yourself. I always just say I’m with my husband and he is on his way to meet me.

I also never say which hotel I am staying in.

Lock Everything

When going out make sure you lock your car, hotel room etc.

Also, don’t leave anything of value in your rental car. It is not unheard of for windows to be smashed and things stolen.

When driving, lock your doors and use the AC instead of rolling down your windows.

We have heard stories of people getting robbed while waiting at traffic lights.

Because of this I always keep my purse on the floor between my feet while in the car.

Don’t Leave Your Drink Unattended

If I feel a bit sketched out by a place I always order bottled beer and keep my finger over the opening when I’m not drinking it.

Tell Someone Where You’ll Be 

In order to stay safe in Costa Rica, you should always tell someone where you’ll be when going out.

Even when traveling alone just send someone from home a quick message telling them where you are going that day.

Keep Your Room Secure

Try to get a room  not  on the first floor of a hotel (they are the most likely to be broken into).

I always put the “Do Not Disturb” sign on my door even when I’m not there, so it looks like someone is in the room.

Transportation Safety

Here is how you can protect yourself from transportation-related crimes.

Be Wary of Rental Car Issues

We have heard recently about  a travel scam  in which people are slashing tires at traffic lights and then conveniently pulling up when you pull off to the side of the road.

They will then rob you.

If you can, always drive to a gas station or another populated place before fixing your tire.

Check out our  guide to driving in Costa Rica  for more info.

Only Use Registered Taxis

Make sure to only use official taxis while in Costa Rica so that you do not get scammed out of a lot of money.

You can tell an official taxi because it will be red (or orange if coming from the airport) with a yellow triangle on the drivers and passenger side door (or green triangle from the airport). 

We wrote a complete  guide to using taxis and Uber here in Costa Rica . I suggest reading that to help you stay safe in taxis.

Be Cautious in Public Transportation

If you opt to take a public bus it is best to keep an eye on any belongings you put on the shelf above your seat.

Always make sure you keep your passport and valuables physically on you.

We have heard about people having their bags stolen while they were sleeping on public buses. 

Walk Facing the Traffic

If you walk facing traffic, motorcyclists will not be able to drive up behind you and grab your bag.

Walking facing traffic also means you will see any cars coming and are much less likely to get hit (and people drive like maniacs here sometimes).

Don’t leave Your Rental Car in a Remote Place

Sometimes cars are broken into when left in remote places.

At most public places there will be a guard watching cars. You can (usually) trust them to keep a good eye on your car.

However, we still strongly suggest that you never leave anything of value in your car and definitely don’t leave anything of value visible.

What to Do if a Crime Happens in Costa Rica

If someone robs you, let them. It’s better to have to cancel your credit cards and lose some money than to fight back and get attacked. It’s just not worth it.

If something happens to you and you need to call the local authorities just dial 9-1-1. There should be at least one person at the police station who speaks a little bit of English.

Also, it is best to contact your embassy as soon as possible. They can assist you in whatever you need as a citizen. Contacting the embassy is also important because it can help future travelers. Most embassies will then update their safety pages accordingly.

If you are a United States citizen the US embassy is located in the Pavas / Rohrmoser neighborhood of San José. The phone number is (506) 2519-2000.

Dangerous Areas

Here are some areas that are sometimes considered unsafe. In general, the larger cities such as San Jose, Alajuela, Puntarenas, and Limon tend to have a higher crime rate. 

San Jose  is the capital city of Costa Rica. This is where we live and I feel mostly safe here during the day.

However, you need to stick to exploring the downtown area or reputable neighborhoods.

If you plan to stay downtown I suggest Barrio Escalante or the area near the stadium at La Sabana Park.

Petty theft during the day is very widespread here. It is a good idea to have a secure backpack and hide stuff in a money belt.

In downtown  Alajuela , you should use increased caution.

However, above the city in the beautiful rural areas you should feel very safe.

Tamarindo  is a popular destination for families, surfers, and backpackers. It is a larger town, so mostly due to its size there tends to be more crime.

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa  is one of our favorite places in the country. It is a beautiful remote Pacific Coast surfing town.

However, because it is so remote it seems to be a hot spot for criminals to hide out in.

This doesn’t just mean Costa Rican criminals. I also mean shady people from around the world who have committed crimes tend to hide in this area.

For example, I just watched  this episode of 48 Hours  recently about a woman from the US who murdered another woman and was hiding out in Santa Teresa. 

Anyway, during the day you should be completely fine here, but use more caution at night. This especially applies to walking alone or if you plan to enjoy the nightlife scene. 

Panama Border on Osa Peninsula

This area is mostly safe for tourists. However, this is where a lot of drugs pass through from Panama into Costa Rica. So, use caution if in very remote areas.

Other Safety Concerns

It’s impossible not to fall in love with Costa Rica, but sometimes I feel like this country is slowly trying to kill me in a million ways.

From poisonous animals, earthquakes, erupting volcanoes, weird illnesses, a crazy high UV index, etc.

So, crime is not the only thing you need to think about in regards to safety here. A few other tips to stay secure from just this crazy tropical country as a whole are…

• Always Stay on Marked Trails : This will help keep you away from some potential wildlife threats like snakes. 
• Don’t Swim in Weird Bodies of Water : This should go without saying, but it is easy to get weird rashes and skin issues from unclean water. Check out our  guide to safety from environmental issues  for more info.
• Only Drink Bottled Water : In most towns, it is fine to  drink the tap water  here. However, because you are not used to the water it is best not to risk your vacation. Just buy bottled water so you don’t end up with stomach illnesses. I like to bring my refillable water bottle from home and buy several-gallon jugs while traveling. 
• Avoid Street Food : It is a good idea to be cautious of food safety so that you don’t get sick while visiting. The best way to do that is by only eating at reputable restaurants or cooking your own food. 
• Trust Your Instincts During Activities : If participating in day tour or activities with reputable companies you can generally expect a high standard of safety. However, if something feels unsafe to you, trust yourself. It is best not to risk your security. 
• Be Cautious of Flooding During the Rainy Season:  It is not unusual for there to be flash floods or road flooding.
• Be Aware of Natural Disasters : There are five active volcanoes in Costa Rica. That doesn’t mean that they are all actively erupting, but some are actually active at the moment. Earthquakes occur pretty much every day. Again, that doesn’t mean that you will actually feel them. Usually they are so minor that you won’t even notice. For more info,  check out our natural disaster guide . 
• Wear Bug Spray : The mosquitos here are generally not a problem during the day, but once the sun goes down they come out in full force.  Mosquitos here  can carry dengue, zika, and more. So, always load up on bug spray to avoid mosquito bites.
• Wear SPF 50+ Sunblock : One of your biggest concerns here needs to be the sun. Costa Rica is not THAT far from the equator.  The UV index is really high . Bad sunburns are often the number one medical issue that travelers face when visiting. 
• Be Aware of Entry Requirements : Check out our  guide on entry requirements  to stay up to date on things like Yellow Fever vaccine requirements, how long you can stay in the country, etc.

It’s Not All Bad

I know this post is a lot of doom and gloom. But, in reality, Costa Rica is an amazing travel destination filled with friendly people. In general, Costa Ricans are welcoming, kind, and peaceful. 

When we first moved here after living in Europe for four years we were so caught off guard. Several people that we had never met before went out of their way to help us find a place to live, help us buy furniture, gave us things, helped us adjust to the lifestyle etc. 

We turned down a lot of help because we felt like we would then owe them something. 

It took us a while to realize that no, people here are just very kind-hearted. The country operates a lot based on helping out your friends, family, and neighbors when you can with the mindset that someday they might need help and you can step in. 

Also, a lot of people work in tourism. They want to make sure that tourists feel welcome here.

Conclusion: Safety in Costa Rica

In conclusion, there are several things that can happen while traveling in Costa Rica, but with common sense and some caution, you should find that Costa Rica is a safe place.

Overall this is a peaceful country filled with beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and kind people. 

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• A Bevy of Luxury Resorts Is About to Transform This Quiet Costa Rica Province

A Waldorf, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a Six Senses, and more than a dozen others are transforming the nation's once sleepy Gold Coast into a scene out of St. Tropez.

Melinda fulmer.

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When Chris Ingham Brooke, a digital publishing entrepreneur, first came to Nosara, Costa Rica in 2016 it was just a sleepy little surf town, with one main drag and jungle stretching to the sand.  

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“It had become really vibrant and interesting,” he said. Still, there weren’t many options when it came to luxury family-friendly accommodations.  

He bought a commercial lot and three years later, in March, opened Silvestre—a boutique resort with nine, 1,000-square-foot residences, a rooftop bar, a yoga studio, and a surf “concierge.” Located steps from the beach path to Playa Guiones, Silvestre sits on one of the most consistent surf breaks in the world. 

International visitors to Costa Rica jumped 17 percent last year from 2022, and the number of visitors this January was up 59 percent from January 2023 with new direct flights being added from Los Angeles, Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, and Houston, according to the Costa Rican Tourism Board.    

While Costa Rica’s draw is not its amenities or nightlife (although they are improving), the year-round warm weather makes it a polestar for outdoors addicts, with perfect conditions for surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and mountain biking. The jet set here are more likely to gather to watch sunsets than disco. It’s much-touted Blue Zone wellness culture and unspoiled beaches and forests are bait for chakras that are better aligned. 

What’s coming to Guanacaste

An incredible 18 properties are slated to open by 2025, including two new luxury properties that will hit the market at the end of this year: Nekajui, a Ritz Carlton Reserve Hotel and Residences and Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique. A Six Senses Resort and Spa Papagayo is expected to open in late 2025. 

The Waldorf Astoria, located 30 minutes from the Liberia Airport, will have 188 guest rooms and suites and 41 residences built into the hillside with its own sandy beach, signature restaurants, cenote-themed spa, teen center, and kids club, including eco-tourism experiences in the surrounding área. 

“We won’t just take care of the kids at the club, we will help them experience different things about the country,” said Valeria Nowotny, vice president of operations for Hilton’s resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. “Visitors here are looking for a nature experience, mixed with a little local culture.”

For luxury travelers that have struggled to find a resort in the right location with the right amenities and polish, these properties will provide new reasons to return to Guanacaste, with expanding infrastructure and more paved roads making it easier to get from place to place. 

And, despite the construction boom in the Papagayo Peninsula, the área is unlikely to be overbuilt anytime soon, thanks to the vast Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) , a UNESCO World Heritage site protecting wildlife on 400,000 acres from the shore of the Pacific surrounding these hotels to the lowland rainforests in the Caribbean basin. And while many locals complain that the nearby city of Tamarindo is becoming more like Cancun, there are limits to access on water rights to restrict development here and across Costa Rica, said Wagner Loria, an agent with Keller Williams Tamarindo.

Further south, in Nosara there are also protections that keep developers from building directly on the beach, leaving views pristine. 

“There’s a very powerful community here that’s very protective of the town,” said Brooke. “When you look back from the beach, all you can see is jungle. That makes it a very special place.”

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• Ritz-Carlton Hotels
• Six Senses Resorts and Spas
• waldorf astoria

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