Costa Rica travel tips for first timers: what to know

Inspired by photos of Costa Rica's rainforests with fantastic flora and fauna, volcanoes, and world-class beaches? So are we. If you're dreaming of traveling to this Central American country, this article will help you plan. Here's a roundup of our best Costa Rica travel tips for first-timers. After reading this guide, we hope you'll have everything you need to know before you go.

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

The dry season in Costa Rica, from December to April, is the most popular time to visit. You’ll have sunny days perfect for beach time and wildlife watching, though it’s also the busiest time of year, so expect higher prices and more tourists. 

If you’re looking for a quieter experience, our first Costa Rica travel tip is to consider the green season (May to November). It brings some afternoon rain, but you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices. The rain also brings out the lush beauty of the country, and the sunsets are fantastic. If you’re still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Costa Rica.

Is Costa Rica expensive?

Costa Rica is among the most expensive countries in Latin America - and that's not just when compared to neighboring countries. The country can rival the US and the UK for the cost of some supermarket items, such as bottled water and sunscreen. If you're wanting to make a budget ahead of time, taking a look at a sample Costa Rica itinerary can be a great place to start to see where hidden costs might pop up.

• Budget (₡27,000–₡34,000 / $50–$60 per day): This budget will cover staying in hostels or simple guesthouses, eating at local spots (sodas), and getting around by public transport or shared shuttles. It's totally possible to enjoy your trip without spending too much—just be sure to book your accommodation in advance to keep costs low.
• Mid-range (₡55,000–₡120,000 / $100–$200 per day): With this budget, you'll stay in comfortable hotels or private rentals, eat at a mix of local and tourist-friendly spots, and rent a car to get around. You’ll also have room for some fun activities like zip-lining or boat trips. This is the budget most travelers go for to balance comfort with a little more freedom to explore.
• Luxury (₡150,000+ / $250+ per day): If you want to splurge, this budget covers staying in high-end resorts or private villas, eating at top-tier restaurants, and getting around in style with private transport. You’ll also have the chance to do more exclusive activities, like private tours or yacht charters. It’s the kind of trip that lets you relax and enjoy the country’s beauty at a slower pace.

Is Costa Rica safe for travelers?

Although Costa Rica is generally a very safe country, pickpockets and petty theft can be a problem. By applying basic common sense, you can avoid the hassle of losing your belongings. First, never leave things in plain sight in a parked car. If you're heading to the beach, try to park in a parking lot (some are guarded by enterprising locals) or next to other cars.

Also, be aware that pickpockets operate at bus stations and other crowded places such as markets.  A tip for Costa Rica is to wear a money belt or have an anti-theft bag. And lastly, it may be obvious, but don't leave your bags unattended.

Understanding Costa Rica’s laws

Costa Rica is serious about protecting its environment, so it’s important to follow wildlife regulations and dispose of waste properly to avoid fines. The country is full of protected areas that help preserve its unique biodiversity. It’s illegal to touch, feed, or disturb wildlife, with fines as high as $3,000.

In addition to the basics, Costa Rica has strong regulations in place to manage its national parks and forests. Logging, mining, or construction in protected zones is prohibited, and the country has made great strides in both sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.

Here are a few other key laws to be aware of:

• Drug possession: Possessing any amount of drugs is illegal in Costa Rica, and they have a zero-tolerance policy. It could lead to imprisonment.
• Photography restrictions: Taking photos at airports, government buildings, or military installations isn’t allowed.
• Littering and waste disposal: Costa Rica is serious about environmental conservation, which includes preventing littering and improper waste disposal. The country has implemented strict penalties for littering, particularly in protected areas, national parks, and beaches. Fines for improper waste disposal can vary, and it’s essential to always dispose of trash in the designated bins. 
• Alcohol consumption: In Costa Rica, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. However, there are restrictions on public alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol in public spaces, such as parks, beaches, and streets, is prohibited in many areas, especially in more tourist-heavy regions.
• Smoking and vaping: Costa Rica has a strong stance against smoking and vaping in public spaces. Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places like restaurants, bars, and hotels, as well as in outdoor public spaces such as parks and beaches. Additionally, there are laws regulating where individuals can smoke, particularly around schools, hospitals, and other public institutions.

Do you need a visa for Costa Rica?

If you’re coming from North America, the EU, Australia, or many South American countries, you won’t need a visa to stay for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least one day beyond your stay and that you have proof of onward travel. At immigration, you might be asked to show you have enough funds for your stay—generally about $100 per month—and where you’re staying.

Staying longer

If you want to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to leave Costa Rica for at least 72 hours before coming back. For longer stays, check out residency options like the “rentista” or “pensionado” programs, which need proof of steady income. It's best to consult the Costa Rican embassy for the most up-to-date details before you go.
 

How to stay healthy while traveling in Costa Rica?

Healthcare in Costa Rica is solid, but if you're heading to more remote areas, be prepared for fewer options. It’s a good idea to get travel insurance that includes evacuation, just in case, especially if you plan on doing adventurous activities. Pharmacies are pretty common in towns, and the pharmacists can help with minor health issues. For a more thorough health checklist, be sure to see our Costa Rica health travel tips guide.

Are there any vaccinations needed for Costa Rica?

No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica, except if you're arriving from certain countries where yellow fever is present, in which case a yellow fever certificate may be needed.

There are a few vaccinations we recommend, though:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus-diphtheria
• Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
• Updated COVID-19 vaccination
• Rabies (if staying for a while or working with animals)
• Malaria prophylaxis (for extended stays in rural areas)

Food and water safety

Costa Rica generally has good food safety standards, especially in tourist areas. Tap water is safe in most cities and tourist zones, but stick to bottled water if you’re in rural areas or during the rainy season. Street food can be a great option—just look for stalls with a high turnover and proper food handling. 

A tip for Costa Rica: when it comes to fruits, wash them with purified water or peel them before eating. Dairy products are mostly pasteurized, but you might want to double-check if you’re buying cheese from smaller producers.

Mosquito-born illness

A very important tip for traveling in Costa Rica: protecting yourself from insects is a must — mosquitoes here can carry diseases like dengue and Zika. The best defense? An insect repellent with DEET. Make sure to apply it to both your skin and clothing, especially during the rainy season when mosquitoes are everywhere.

On top of that, wearing long sleeves and sleeping under a mosquito net can go a long way in keeping those pesky bugs at bay. Stay prepared, and you’ll avoid spending your trip itching — or worse!

Cultural etiquette to know of before visiting Costa Rica

Costa Ricans live by "pura vida" (pure life), which explains their relaxed attitude toward punctuality—don't expect things to run exactly on schedule. 
Ticos (locals) appreciate basic Spanish phrases, even if poorly pronounced. When entering someone's home, wait to be invited to sit down rather than choosing a seat yourself. 

If someone offers you coffee, never refuse—it’s considered impolite. If you’re photographing indigenous communities, always ask for permission first, and be prepared to pay for the privilege. 
Public displays of affection are mostly accepted, but same-sex couples might want to keep things discreet outside tourist areas. Ticos also tend to stand closer during conversations than many North Americans are used to, so don’t step back. Lastly, a friendly “con permiso” (excuse me) can work wonders in crowded spaces.

Is Costa Rica a good destination for families?

Costa Rica is a great place for families to get outside and explore nature together. Kids can see wildlife up close, swim in warm ocean waters, and walk through cloud forests. 

The country’s focus on safety and environmental education makes it a good choice for families. With activities like ziplines (many with kid-friendly options), animal sightings (think sloths, monkeys, and toucans), and beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip with the whole family, be sure to see our guide to Costa Rica with kids.

Essentials for parents

When traveling with kids in Costa Rica, it’s best to pack light and choose quick-dry clothing. Bring at least two swimsuits per child, and don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen (which can be expensive locally), insect repellent with picaridin (gentler than DEET), and refillable water bottles. 

Another important tip for traveling in Costa Rica: water shoes are helpful for rocky beaches and river activities, and a lightweight rain jacket is a smart idea—even during the dry season. It’s also a good idea to pack familiar snacks, especially in more remote areas where options might be limited. 
 

What are the best places to visit in Costa Rica?

There are truly too many great places to visit in Costa Rica to be able to pack them all into one trip. Here are some quick highlights that you definitely should not miss.

Nature and adventure

Most who travel to this country do so to see some of the unique natural sites that can be found here.

• Manuel Antonio National Park: Despite being Costa Rica’s smallest park, Manuel Antonio is packed with Costa Rica wildlife. The Perezoso (Sloth) Trail is an easy walk that gives you a good chance to spot sloths, while the Punta Catedral Trail is a bit more challenging and has amazing ocean views. If you want to avoid the crowds, head out early in the morning, especially during weekdays (7-9am), when you’ll have a better chance to see wildlife without the big groups.
• Arenal Volcano National Park: Arenal Volcano is one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. There’s so much to do here, from the Observatory Lodge Trail, which brings you close to the volcano’s crater, to the Peninsula Trail, which offers scenic views of Lake Arenal. While the lava flows stopped in 2010, if you’re lucky, you might still catch a glimpse of glowing rocks on clear nights. This is home to some of Costa Rica’s best waterfalls.
• Corcovado National Park: If you want to experience Costa Rica’s remote wilderness, Corcovado is the place to go. The Los Patos to Sirena Trail takes you through diverse ecosystems, where you can spot animals like tapirs, while the San Pedrillo Trail runs along the coast and is great for birdwatching. This park requires permits and guided tours, so be sure to book at least three months in advance if you want to stay overnight at the Sirena Ranger Station. Some of the best hikes in Costa Rica can be found here. 

Cities in Costa Rica

Cities are great because they make a great base for getting around Costa Rica and also have within them so much to see.

• San José (Chepe): San José has a lot to offer in terms of culture and local flavor. Barrio Amón is a great spot to explore, with its colorful mansions and a real sense of the city’s history. The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum is also worth a visit, and the local markets are perfect for getting a taste of everyday life. There’s plenty to see near by with many San Jose day trips worth going on.
• Puerto Viejo (Talamanca): This small Caribbean town has a relaxed, laid-back vibe, influenced by Afro-Caribbean culture. It’s a fantastic spot for reggae music, great surfing at Salsa Brava, and checking out craft shops and plant-based cafés. 
• Monteverde (Monte Verde): Known for its cloud forests and stunning mountain views, Monteverde is a top destination for nature lovers. The hanging bridges give you a great look at the forest canopy, and if you want to avoid the crowds, the Children’s Eternal Rainforest is a quieter spot that’s equally beautiful. Don’t miss the Monteverde Cheese Factory, which has been making cheese using traditional methods since the 1950s.

Beaches in Costa Rica

Truly, you could plan a trip to just the coasts alone. Here are some quick favorites, but if the waves are calling your name, be sure to see what made our list of the best beaches in Costa Rica.

• Nicoya Peninsula: This area is home to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. Playa Santa Teresa is a favorite for surfers, and Playa Montezuma is perfect if you enjoy dramatic cliffs and calm swimming spots. Playa Tambor is great for families, thanks to its gentle tide pools. The dry season from December to April is the most popular time to visit.
• Southern Caribbean Coast: This Afro-Caribbean-influenced coastline has a strikingly different vibe from the Pacific side. Cahuita has beautiful black sand beaches, Puerto Viejo has golden sands, and Punta Uva has perfect, quiet white sand coves. The waters here are calm, making it ideal for snorkeling, especially around the coral reef near Manzanillo. The weather on this side tends to be drier when the Pacific coast is getting more rain.
• Manuel Antonio: Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio area is blessed with an abundance of beautiful beaches. See more in our guide to Manuel Antonio’s best beaches. 
   

How long to spend in Costa Rica?

The answer to how many days to spend in Costa Rica depends on how much there is to see and how relaxed your trip will be. With at least 7 days, you can enjoy a solid mix of beaches, rainforests, and wildlife — perfect for a Costa Rica rainforest tour — though it’s not enough time to see everything this amazing country has to offer.
Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia or Wales, but traveling across it takes time. Expect long bus rides, rental car journeys, or domestic flights to cover the distances.

To see the best of Costa Rica in a more relaxed pace, a 10 day Costa Rica itinerary is ideal. This lets you explore both coasts, visit Arenal Volcano, and trek through Monteverde Cloud Forest. With 2 weeks in Costa Rica, you can hit most highlights and even consider adding nearby Panama or Nicaragua.

If you’re coming from the US, a 5-day Costa Rica trip is doable but rushed. From Europe or the UK? Skip the quick visit - Costa Rica deserves more time.

What’s the best way to plan a Costa Rica itinerary?

How to plan a trip to Costa Rica? You don’t need to have everything locked in right away, but it's a good idea to create a “wish list” of places you want to see and get a sense of how far apart they are early on. Start by picking a couple of “must-haves,” then, as you go, we can fill in the days in between.

Factor in travel time

Getting around Costa Rica’s hotspots can take longer than you'd think, especially with the mountains and unpredictable road conditions. Public buses are affordable but infrequent, and they might take twice as long as driving. 

Shared shuttle vans are a good option for door-to-door service, connecting major tourist spots for $50-70 per ride. If you’re aiming for destinations like Tortuguero or the Osa Peninsula, domestic flights with Sansa or Costa Rica Green Airways can save a lot of time. Just book in advance—these flights are limited, especially in high season. 

If planning these kinds of details gives you a headache, another option is to hire a travel guide, like our Costa Rica travel experts, to help create your dream itinerary for you.

Can I drive in Costa Rica?

Renting a car in Costa Rica gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially if you want to visit some less-traveled spots. Keep in mind, though, the roads can be tricky, with unmarked routes, aggressive driving, and lots of potholes. A 4WD vehicle is a must for places like beach towns and cloud forest areas, especially during the rainy season when river crossings are common. GPS won’t always help in remote areas, so it’s smart to download offline maps. Also, be prepared for a mandatory daily insurance fee of $15-25, regardless of your credit card coverage.

Book essentials first

Getting to Costa Rica is pretty easy. From the U.S., there are direct flights to San José (SJO) and Liberia (LIR) from major cities like Miami, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York. Airlines like American Airlines, Delta, United, Alaska, JetBlue, and Southwest have regular routes to Costa Rica.

From Europe, you can fly direct from Amsterdam to San José with KLM, or from Madrid with Iberia or Air Europa.

A Costa Rica travel tip: during high season (December to April), it’s best to book accommodations 3 to 4 months in advance for popular spots like Manuel Antonio, Arenal, and Tamarindo. If you’re visiting less crowded areas, booking 1 to 2 months ahead should be enough.

Some smaller or boutique accommodations may not list online, so it’s worth reaching out directly via email or phone to check availability and possibly get a better rate. If you’re planning a longer stay, especially during the green season (May to November), some properties may offer discounts for extended bookings.
 

How to slow travel in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has been a leader in ecotourism and is increasingly focusing on slow travel, which encourages you to really immerse yourself in a few destinations rather than rushing around to see as much as possible. You can get involved in the "volunteer vacation" trend by helping with sea turtle conservation in Ostional or participating in sustainable farming projects in San Isidro. There are also community tourism options, like staying at the Juanilama agro-ecological farm near La Fortuna, where you can engage in local life and contribute to sustainable efforts. Coastal towns like Santa Teresa and Puerto Viejo are great for digital nomads, with reliable internet and coworking spaces.

Local experiences

Costa Rica’s culture is rich and goes far beyond the postcard-perfect views you’ll see at the popular tourist spots. In the Talamanca mountains, you can join indigenous Bribri families for a day of cacao cultivation and chocolate making, using traditional methods passed down through generations. This practice ties into their creation myths and shows how they sustainably manage the forest. To arrange this, contact the ATEC association in Puerto Viejo.

In Guanacaste, near Guaitil, you can learn about pre-Columbian pottery techniques with local Chorotega artisans. They use natural clay and pigments to create pottery with designs inspired by wildlife and mythology. If you visit between January and April, you’ll catch the clay harvesting season, which is the best time for workshops. The Guaitil Artisan Association is the place to book this experience.

Along the coast in Puntarenas, you can spend a day with Puntarenense fishermen, learning about traditional cayuco (wooden canoe) fishing. This activity focuses on sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations. You’ll help set the nets in the early morning and learn how to prepare the day’s catch. The Tarcoles Fishing Cooperative can help arrange this for you

How to handle money and payments in Costa Rica?

When traveling to remote areas of Costa Rica, make sure you carry enough colones (Costa Rican currency) in small denominations. ATMs can be scarce, and stores or locals often don't have change for larger bills.

Don't just rely on cash, however - bring a credit or debit card, as many hotels and restaurants in tourist areas accept them. Keep cash in a money belt and don't bring damaged or worn U.S. dollars, especially $100 bills, as many businesses and banks won't accept them.

What are the most common scams?

Costa Rica’s tourism boom has brought with it a few scams targeting unsuspecting visitors. One of the most common is the “flat tire scam.” Criminals puncture your rental car tire, then approach you posing as helpful locals. While you’re distracted, they swipe your belongings. To avoid this, always lock your valuables in the trunk and stay alert if strangers approach your vehicle about any car issues.

Another thing to watch out for is card skimmers at ATMs. These devices can steal your card details. Stick to using machines inside banks during business hours for better security.
Taxi rides can also be tricky—some drivers take longer routes or claim their meters are broken in an effort to overcharge you. Always insist on using the meter (the “maría”) or agree on a fare upfront.

Be cautious of “tour guides” offering steep discounts for national park entries. They may lead you to unofficial park entrances where robberies are common. And when booking accommodations, double-check rental listings on official websites, as fake listings are popping up more often on social media platforms, especially targeting last-minute bookers.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica continues to lead the way in sustainability, with ambitious goals to maintain its position as one of the world’s greenest countries. To support its ongoing environmental efforts, stay at locally owned ecolodges and choose operators that prioritize sustainable tourism.

Need help sorting the eco-friendly from the greenwashing? The Costa Rica Tourism Institute’s Certificate of Sustainable Tourism (CST) ranks businesses from levels one to five, based on their commitment to sustainability. Look for the CST rating when booking — it’s your guide to choosing responsible travel options.

To support local communities, buy directly from artisans at their workshops instead of at gift shops. In particular, seek out indigenous Boruca masks or Sarchí oxcarts. You can also stay at places like Posada Rural Janetta in Santa María de Dota, where tourism dollars help local coffee-farming families. Opt for community-based tour operators like ACTUAR, which uses their profits to fund local conservation projects. And for meals, try dining at "sodas" (family-run eateries) that serve traditional dishes like casado, where your spending directly benefits local families.

How to pack for Costa Rica?

Pack light — seriously. You’ll thank yourself when you’re not dragging a giant suitcase across gravel roads or sandy beaches. A good backpack is all you need, especially if you’re bouncing between spots.

Bring quick-dry clothes, a rain jacket (even in the dry season), and sturdy shoes for hiking. Toss in essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, and a refillable water bottle, and you’re set. Don’t go overboard on toiletries either; you can buy most things there. Trust us, the less you bring, the easier your trip will be. 

Language barriers in Costa Rica

You may think that since Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination, you will have no trouble finding locals who speak English, but this is not entirely true. Yes, English is common in Costa Rica, but not all locals know it. And although you can travel around the country without knowing Spanish, one of the best Costa Rica travel tips is to learn at least the greetings and words of thanks.
Knowing basic phrases will not only earn you praise and a warm welcome, but will simply emphasize your respect for the locals.

What to skip in Costa Rica

Not everything in Costa Rica lives up to the hype, and skipping a few places can save you time and money. San Jaco, for example, could maybe be skipped. Overcrowded and overdeveloped, this beach town feels more like a hangout point than a natural spot. If you're not looking for nightlife, you're better off heading to more scenic spots like Manuel Antonio or Uvita.

Guided tours are another thing to think about. While some tours are worth it - such as night walks in Monteverde or birding excursions with local experts - many national parks, such as Cahuita or Manuel Antonio, are easy (and much cheaper) to explore on your own. However, if you want to go on an adventure tour in Costa Rica, for example, it is better to rely on a guide for your safety.

Swapping the Pacific coast for the Caribbean coast

One quick solution to escape the crowds of tourists in Costa Rica is to head east instead of west. Because Liberia's international airport is so close to the Pacific Coast, it's an easily accessible beach destination. The Caribbean coast beaches are much harder to get to, so this region is also much less developed. If you're looking for a vacation away from civilization, you'll love exploring the Caribbean coast.