Know before you go: A basic guide to Costa Rica

Popular destinations

• Nicoya Peninsula: If pristine beaches and rugged coast line are what you're after, the Nicoya Peninsula may just be for you. If you're looking to party and get active doing anything from surfing to ATVing, head to the always sunny town of Tamarindo. If tranquil beach days and horseback riding at sunset are more of your thing, check out the laid-back beaches of Playa Hermosa, Playa Sámara, Playa Grande, Playa Ocotal, and Playas del Coco. While the southern tip of the peninsula was once virtually cut off from the rest of Costa Rica due to the hilly terrain, it has in recent years attracted a very international crowd. For great surfing and tree-lined beaches, head to Santa Teresa. For white sand beaches and nature preserves, check out Playa Montezuma at the tip of the peninsula.

• Central Pacific Coast: Great surfing, beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and nature preserves are characteristic of this stretch of coastline that runs from Jacó to Manuel Antonio and Quepos. If you're looking to surf all day and party all night, plan to stay in Jacó, just southwest of Costa Rica's capital. Manuel Antonio, both a town and a national park, is the place to relax on pristine beaches and spot sloths and monkeys in the trees. Just make sure to keep an eye on your belongings at the beach, as curious monkeys may find their way into your bag.
   
• Northern Lowlands: With cloud forests, rivers, pastures, jungles, and rainforests, this area between the Pacific and the Caribbean is a haven for nature-lovers. Despite the low elevation of this region, it's also home to Volcán Arenal, whose cone dramatically rises from the otherwise flat land. Enjoy some excellent hiking and finish it off by relaxing in the hot springs around the volcano. To really experience the Costa Rican wilderness, head west to Tortuguero, where rainforests and lagoons are teaming with life.
   
• Caribbean Coast: This side of Costa Rica is so different from the rest of the country. Predominantly populated by people of Afro-Caribbean decent, this region has a distinct Rasta vibe with bright colors, reggae music, and delicious coconut flavored dishes. Though less developed than other parts of the country, this coast has some breathtaking beaches. For small island vibes, check out Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, from which you can easily make day trips to the pristine jungle-lined beaches of Cahuita, Punta Uva, and Manzanillo.
   
• Península de Osa: For a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Península de Osa. This is one of the least explored regions of Costa Rica and one of the most biologically diverse places in the world. Though difficult to reach without your own car, if you make it here you'll be greeted with abundant wildlife, dramatic coastline, and some of the best snorkeling and diving in the country. Highlights include Corcovado National Park and Cano Island (located 12 miles off the peninsula).

When to go

High season is December through April, which is considered dry season and sees the least amount of rain. Make sure to book accommodation in advance, especially around Christmas, New Years, and Semana Santa (the week leading up to Easter Sunday).

Low season is August through October during rainy season, which makes some roads impassable. However, the rainfall creates great swells for surfing.

Shoulder season is May through July, and November. This is the beginning and end of rainy season and tourists numbers begin to drop.

Currency exchange rates & affordability
(as of May 2018)

Costa Rican Colón

$1 USD = $565 colones
€1 = $665 colones
£1 = $759 colones
$1 CAD = $440 colones
$1 AUD = $428 colones

Costa Rica is considered one of the most expensive countries in Latin America. With a much higher standard of living compared to other Central American countries like Guatemala and Honduras, Costa Rica is certainly less budget friendly than some of its neighbors. Despite its reputation, we found it is indeed possible to backpack here on a moderate budget, it just requires more planning than a country like Nicaragua. Slow travel, public transit, and eating at local establishments plus cooking with fresh produce make it possible to visit this beautiful country on a small budget. However, expect to pay high prices for shuttle services and tours.

Entry & exit requirements

US residents need a valid passport to enter Costa Rica and are generally granted a stay of up to 90 days. There is no entrance fee, but there is an $8 USD exit fee if leaving by land, or a $29 USD departure tax if leaving by plane.

Getting around Costa Rica

Unlike the chicken buses used throughout most of Central America, Costa Rica's bus system operates more like American buses with scheduled departures and purchasing of tickets before boarding the bus. While many popular tourist destinations are serviced by bus routes, getting to more remote areas of the country (especially national parks) often requires your own vehicle.

Local transportation

Buses operate on local routes in many towns, and taxis are available in most parts of the country. If taking a taxi, make sure to agree on a price beforehand and don't be surprised if it's comprable to taxi prices in big American cities.

Major grocery stores

If you're planning on doing some cooking at home, look for Auto Mercado, Más X Menos, Palí, and PriceSmart. For the best variety and quality of produce for the best prices, visit your local frutería or fería del agricultor (farmer's market).

Staying healthy

It is safe to drink the water in Costa Rica with the exception of the most rural and undeveloped parts.

Mosquitos can transmit illnesses like dengue fever, malaria, Zika, and chikungunya. Discuss your travel plans with a doctor to see if you need to take anti-malarials or need any vaccines. Typhoid fever and Hepatitis A vaccines are usually recommended in addition to routine vaccines. Applying sunscreen, insect repellent, and staying hydrated are always good ideas.