Costa Rica Travel Guide

What is Costa Rica known for?

Costa Rica is known for its extraordinary biodiversity, tropical beaches, dense cloud forests, volcanoes, wildlife and national parks.

The country is also famous for Costa Rican coffee and chocolate, outdoor adventure and the welcoming Pura Vida lifestyle.

What are the best places to visit in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica combines cities, volcanoes, rainforests, cloud forests and beaches. The best destinations depend on whether your trip focuses on nature, adventure, wildlife, beaches or cultural experiences.

• San Jose for museums, culture, historic squares and dining
• Arenal Volcano for volcanic landscapes and outdoor activities
• Monteverde Cloud Forest for wildlife, forests and bird watching
• Guanacaste for Pacific beaches and resort areas
• Sarapiqui for rainforest landscapes, wildlife and adventure

How many days should I spend in Costa Rica?

A stay of approximately 7–10 days provides enough time to combine several Costa Rican destinations and experiences.

Tripmasters itineraries are customizable, allowing travelers to select the number of nights, hotels, transportation and activities included in each destination.

What is the best way to get around Costa Rica?

Rental cars are a popular option for travelers who want flexibility to explore Costa Rica independently. A four-wheel-drive vehicle can be particularly useful when visiting rural and mountainous areas.

What currency is used in Costa Rica?

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón. Travelers should have access to local currency, particularly when visiting smaller towns or rural areas.

What language is spoken in Costa Rica?

Spanish is the country’s primary language. English is commonly spoken in many hotels and major tourist areas, although travelers should not expect it to be spoken everywhere.

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a year-round destination and generally experiences two principal seasons: the Dry Season and the Rainy Season, commonly known as the Green Season.

The dry months are particularly attractive for outdoor activities and beaches, while the Green Season transforms forests and mountains into especially lush tropical landscapes.

Is tipping customary in Costa Rica?

Tipping practices vary according to the type of service. Restaurant bills may already include a service charge, so travelers should check the bill before adding an additional tip.

Should I use U.S. dollars or Costa Rican colones?

Costa Rica’s official currency is the Costa Rican colón. Travelers should keep access to local currency, especially when visiting smaller businesses and rural areas.

Gratuities can be used to recognize especially good service, while travelers should always check whether service has already been included in the price.

Read the complete Costa Rica tipping guide