Costa Rica

Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Select Month

plan my trip
Trustpilot:
4.8 Excellent

Why Costa Rica?

Discover what makes Costa Rica unforgettable

rainforest-thrills
Rainforest Thrills
volcanic-wonders
Volcanic Wonders
beach-bliss
Beach Bliss
pura-vida
Pura Vida
rainforest-thrills

Venture into Costa Rica’s lush jungles, alive with toucans, sloths, and howler monkeys. Zipline above the treetops, hike misty trails to hidden waterfalls, or float down rivers surrounded by vibrant greenery. It’s like stepping into a real-life nature documentary—adventure and awe in every moment.

rainforest-thrills
volcanic-wonders

Explore the fiery heart of Costa Rica at Arenal or Poás Volcano. Soak in natural hot springs heated by volcanic activity, trek lava trails, and gaze into crater lakes. The dramatic landscapes and geothermal energy will leave you amazed at nature’s raw power.

volcanic-wonders
beach-bliss

Costa Rica’s beaches are pure paradise. From surfing Pacific waves at Tamarindo to spotting baby turtles on Caribbean shores, there’s a beach for everyone. Think golden sands, swaying palms, and sunsets that light up the sky—it’s the ultimate escape.

beach-bliss
pura-vida

More than a phrase, "Pura Vida" is Costa Rica’s way of life—simple, joyful, and deeply connected to nature. Join locals for coffee on a sunny veranda, practice yoga by the ocean, or just embrace the slow pace. It’s a mindset that’ll stay with you long after your trip.

pura-vida

Travel tips

Plan with confidence

How many days to spend in Costa Rica?

Discover the best itineraries

Costa Rica itineraries

Unlock Costa Rica with local insights

Meet the experts who make your journey special

See all Costa Rica local experts →
Roberto
Verified by Rough Guides
Roberto
Active online: 7h ago
20Years in
tourism
890Offers
created
5600Happy
travellers
Carolina
Verified by Rough Guides
Carolina
Active online: 6h ago
3Years in
tourism
357Offers
created
840Happy
travellers
Jean Carlo
Verified by Rough Guides
Jean Carlo
Active online: 5h ago
3Years in
tourism
44Offers
created
630Happy
travellers
Mariana
Verified by Rough Guides
Mariana
Active online: 8h ago
3Years in
tourism
5Offers
created
380Happy
travellers
Daniela
Verified by Rough Guides
Daniela
Active online: 7h ago
2Years in
tourism
14Offers
created
288Happy
travellers
Adriana
Verified by Rough Guides
Adriana
Active online: 10h ago
7Years in
tourism
296Offers
created
1320Happy
travellers
Marisol
Verified by Rough Guides
Marisol
Active online: 7h ago
4Years in
tourism
11Offers
created
380Happy
travellers
Zianny
Verified by Rough Guides
Zianny
Active online: 17h ago
15Years in
tourism
76Offers
created
9870Happy
travellers

Best places in Costa Rica to visit

From icons to hidden treasures

Click to activate the map
The Valle Central and the highlands
The Valle Central and the highlandsCosta Rica
The Central Pacific and southern Nicoya
The Central Pacific and southern NicoyaCosta Rica
The Zona Sur
The Zona SurCosta Rica
The Zona Norte
The Zona NorteCosta Rica
Limón Province and the Caribbean coast
Limón Province and the Caribbean coastCosta Rica
Guanacaste
GuanacasteCosta Rica
San José
San JoséCosta Rica
See all Costa Rica places

FAQ for your Costa Rica travel guide

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a year-round destination, but the dry season from December to April is the most popular. The green season from May to November offers fewer crowds and lush landscapes, which are ideal for wildlife and rafting. July and August offer a break in the rains. Our Costa Rica travel guide explains the seasonal pros and cons, and our experts can help plan the perfect trip at any time of year.

Find out more about the best time to visit Costa Rica.

Where to go in Costa Rica?+
What are the top things to do in Costa Rica?+
How to get to Costa Rica?+
How to get around Costa Rica?+
Is Costa Rica safe for travel?+
How many days do you need in Costa Rica?+
What is a typical Costa Rica itinerary?+
What should I pack for Costa Rica?+
Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?+