Start here · Step 1 of 4
Is Costa Rica right for you?
Whether you’re picturing volcano views, jungle lodges, or long beach days, this is where every great trip begins.
We’re Sarah and Thomas. We moved to Costa Rica in 2016, have explored every corner of the country, and built Costa Rica Vibes to help travelers plan trips that feel good, not overwhelming.
Start here: your Costa Rica planning path
Step 1 · You are here
Dreaming
Is Costa Rica right for you?
Book with confidence
Planning to go? Start with these
Travel insurance
Heymondo
Medical care, adventure sports, lost bags, and delays.
Pura vida
Why travelers fall in love
Costa Rica is one of those places where everything feels so alive. Mornings start with howler monkeys acting as a 5:30 a.m. alarm clock (so be prepared), days end with Pacific sunsets, and in between you can hike volcano trails, swim under waterfalls, and sip cocktails by the beach.
It’s also easy to visit: great infrastructure, friendly locals, and direct flights from the U.S. and Europe. It fits every travel style, from budget backpacking to five-star eco-luxury.
The motto here is “pura vida,” and the country runs on that mindset. Slow down, smile more, stress less.
From us
What surprised us most
We moved to Costa Rica in 2016 with no real expectations. If you’re trying to decide whether it’s worth the trip, these are the two things that blew us away, and still do.
“We’ve traveled a lot since moving here, and the wildlife is the one thing that really stands out.”
Sarah & Thomas
Surprise #1
The wildlife is insane
Sloths and monkeys are just part of everyday life here, and it honestly made us a little jaded.
Now when we visit family back home and go for a hike, we’re like, “Wait, where are the sloths and monkeys? We’re just… hiking?”
Surprise #2
How nice everybody is
People here are so kind, for the most part. It’s one of the things that surprised us most when we first arrived.
It’s a big part of what makes a trip here feel so easy and welcoming.
Quick gut check
Is it your kind of place?
Costa Rica is relaxed, outdoorsy, and full of surprises. Here’s how to know if it’s a fit.
You’ll love it if…
It might surprise you if…
Good to know
💬 Sarah & Thomas tip
We find it works best to go in expecting that something might not go as planned. Things run on “pura vida” time here, and usually it ends up as a funny story you look back on.
What you can do here
Just a few of the experiences waiting
Rio Celeste
This bright blue river is called Rio Celeste, and yes, the water really is that blue. Seeing it for the first time will take your breath away.
Arenal Volcano
A clear view of Arenal never gets old. One of our favorite ways to enjoy it is from a natural hot spring.
Wildlife around every corner
You look up from breakfast and there’s a sloth in the tree. Or you’re walking to the beach and a troop of monkeys swings by.
Two different coastlines
The Caribbean is calm, colorful, and slow-paced. The Pacific brings big sunsets, long beaches, and surf towns.
Cloud forest magic
Monteverde feels like another world: cool air, mist drifting through the trees, and hanging bridges above the canopy.
Adventure everywhere
Rafting, zip-lining, canyoning, surfing, snorkeling, ATV tours, waterfall hikes. It’s all here.
Chilled-out coastal living
Some of our favorite moments are the simple ones: a cold drink on the beach, warm wind, and no rush.
Eco-friendly and easy
Clean tap water in most places, friendly people, good roads, and tourism set up for visitors. Fly in, pick up a car, and go.
Amazing national parks
Costa Rica protects over 25% of its land, and every park feels completely different.
When to visit
There’s no bad time to go
Every season brings its own pros and cons.
Dec to Apr
Dry season
Sunny, perfect beach weather on the Pacific. Also the most expensive and popular time to travel.
May to Aug
Green season
Fewer crowds, lush forests, and afternoon showers.
Sep to Oct
Rainiest months
Rainiest on the Pacific, but the best time for the Caribbean coast.
At a glance
The basics
Location
Central America, between Nicaragua and Panama
Language
Spanish (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
Currency
Costa Rican colón (CRC). USD widely accepted
Time zone
UTC-6, no daylight saving time
Budget
What does a trip cost?
Costa Rica is one of the more expensive countries in Central America. The higher prices often reflect the country’s safety, clean water, strong infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability, and we think a great trip is possible on almost any budget.
Budget
$80 to $200
average daily budget (USD)
Local guesthouses, shared shuttles, casual meals, and a few tours.
Mid-range
$200 to $450
average daily budget (USD)
Rental car, boutique hotels, guided tours, and a mix of local and upscale dining.
Luxury
$450+
average daily budget (USD)
Private transfers, resorts or villas, spa days, fine dining, and custom experiences.
How we can help
Planning feels like a lot? We’ve got you
Free tool
Costa Rica Trip Planner
Answer a few questions and get a personalized route with hotel picks, built from our years of experience.
$27
7-day itinerary
Our done-for-you plan covering beach, rainforest, and volcano highlights.
Done for you
Custom trip planning
We partner with a trusted local travel planner who designs your route, books hotels, arranges drivers, and handles every detail.
Free planning checklist
Feeling overwhelmed? We’ll break it down
Sign up for free, step-by-step planning emails and get our printable Costa Rica checklist right away.
FAQ
Dreaming of Costa Rica FAQ: your questions
How long should we visit Costa Rica for?
We suggest at least 7 days if you can swing it. That gives you time for one jungle area (like La Fortuna or Monteverde) and one beach town without feeling rushed. With 10 days you can comfortably do a classic volcano, cloud forest, and beach loop. With 2 weeks or more, add the Caribbean coast, the Osa Peninsula, or more off-the-beaten-path towns.
Is it safe to visit Costa Rica?
In general, yes. Petty theft does happen, so keep an eye on your belongings and leave overly expensive items at home. More: Is Costa Rica safe?, 16 common scams, and natural disasters.
Is Costa Rica expensive?
It’s considered the most expensive country in Central America, but you can stick to a budget by traveling at off-peak times, choosing simpler hotels, and doing budget-friendly activities like exploring beaches and national parks. See our budget guide and cheap flights tips.
Which towns do you recommend for a first trip?
For one week, pick one beach town and one jungle town. Popular beach towns include Manuel Antonio, Uvita, Santa Teresa, Nosara, Sámara, Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and Puerto Viejo. The most popular jungle towns are Monteverde and La Fortuna.
What is the best way to get around Costa Rica?
We like a rental car for the most flexibility, but domestic flights, shared and private shuttles, and public buses all work. See our transportation guide, and book your rental car through us for 10% off plus other perks.
What are some must-do activities in Costa Rica?
On the coast: surfing, catamaran tours, snorkeling, fishing, and beach bars. In the jungle: white water rafting, zip lining, national parks, ATV tours, and volcanoes. See all things to do.
Is Costa Rica good for families?
Yes. There’s plenty to do, lots of family-friendly resorts and hotels, and most families feel safe here. See our guide to Costa Rica with kids.
Next step
Does Costa Rica feel like a fit?
Next, let’s map your route, choose your stays, and start making that trip real.
