How to plan a trip to Costa Rica

Planning a trip to Costa Rica isn’t just about flights and hotels. It’s about building a travel experience that actually fits you. From rainforests filled with howler monkeys to volcano hikes and slow-paced beach towns, Costa Rica offers more than you can cover in one trip.

This guide will help you focus on what matters, avoid common mistakes, and plan a trip that fits your budget, timeline, and travel style. If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Costa Rica without wasting time or money, start here.

Start with “why”: what do you want from this trip?

Before you start plugging locations into Google Maps, take a minute to think about what you actually want from the trip. Costa Rica is small but incredibly diverse. The experience will look very different depending on your focus.

Are you coming to Costa Rica for adventure? Think ziplining, whitewater rafting, and volcano treks. Prefer wildlife? Explore the best national parks in Costa Rica, like Tortuguero or Corcovado. Need time to relax? Soak in the hot springs near Arenal or surf in Santa Teresa.

When I planned my Costa Rica itinerary, I skipped the cities entirely. San José isn’t the reason people visit Costa Rica. If you’re looking for colonial charm or nightlife, Nicaragua is a better bet. Costa Rica is about the outdoors: rainforests, beaches, and wildlife, not city tours.

Your first step in learning how to plan a trip to Costa Rica is to decide what kind of trip you actually want. Write down your top experiences and build the rest around that.

When to go: during the dry season or the green season?

Costa Rica has two main travel seasons. The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular. It’s sunny, easy to get around, and ideal for hiking and beach days. The downside? Higher prices and bigger crowds.

The green season, from May to November, brings daily rain but also lush landscapes, quieter trails, and better deals. May and June are especially good months to travel. Rain showers usually come in the afternoon and don’t last long. September and October are the wettest months, unless you’re heading to the Caribbean coast, where the weather can actually be better during that time.

If you're wondering about the best time to visit Costa Rica, it depends on your priorities. Want dry trails and guaranteed sun? Aim for December to April. Looking to save money and avoid the crowds? Try late May or early June.

How long should you stay?

You could spend three months in Costa Rica and still feel like you missed something. But most travelers don’t have that luxury. What you can see really depends on how much time you’ve got, and being realistic about that is key to planning a stress-free trip.

• 5 days in Costa Rica: Stick to one area. Choose either the Pacific coast (like Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio) for beaches and surf, or the Arenal region for volcano hikes and hot springs. Don’t try to do both.
• A week in Costa Rica: You can squeeze in a mini loop. Arenal, Monteverde, and a beach stop like Playa Hermosa or Uvita make a good mix of nature, activity, and downtime.
• 10 days in Costa Rica: This is the sweet spot for a balanced trip. You can explore volcanoes, cloud forests, and the coast without racing through them. Add Tortuguero or spend more time relaxing on the Nicoya Peninsula.
• 2 weeks in Costa Rica: Now you’ve got breathing room. Go slower, add more remote areas like the Osa Peninsula or Río Celeste, or spend a few days truly unwinding somewhere quiet.

I stayed just under a month and still left wanting more. But I didn’t rush, and that made all the difference. Costa Rica rewards slow travel. One of the biggest lessons in how to plan a trip to Costa Rica is this: go deep, not wide.

Budgeting: what you will actually spend

Costa Rica is not a bargain destination. It’s safe, clean, and well-organized, but those perks come with a higher price tag than in most of Central America.

Here’s a realistic mid-range daily budget:

You’ll likely spend $150 to $200 per day. Backpackers can go lower, especially by using public transport and skipping guided tours, but even budget trips add up fast.

Remember to factor in:

• National park fees (usually $10-20)
• Rental car insurance
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Occasional splurges (surf lessons, canopy tours, hot springs)

Where to go: the best places to visit in Costa Rica

Once you have decided how much time you have and what your budget is, you can start mapping out where to go. Costa Rica is packed with national parks, beaches, volcanoes, and remote towns, but trying to do it all will leave you tired and spending more time in transit than in nature.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for:

For adventure and volcano hikes:

• La Fortuna / Arenal: Iconic volcano views, waterfall hikes, and relaxing hot springs.
• Rincón de la Vieja: Less crowded, with mud baths and off-grid adventure.
• Turrialba: Known for its whitewater rafting and quiet trails.

For wildlife and jungle:

• Tortuguero National Park: Boat tours through canals and sea turtle nesting (July-October).
• Corcovado National Park: Wild, remote, and home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest: Misty forests, birdwatching, and ziplining in the treetops.

For beach time and surf:

• Santa Teresa: A stylish surf town with yoga, nightlife, and oceanfront cafés.
• Tamarindo: More built-up, beginner-friendly, and easy to access from Liberia.
• Puerto Viejo: Caribbean culture, laid-back beaches, and reef snorkeling.

For relaxing and wellness:

• Nosara: Yoga retreats, jungle villas, and long, peaceful beaches.
• Uvita / Dominical: A quieter stretch of the Pacific, good for whales, waterfalls, and slow travel.

Choose two or three regions and build your route around them. More than that, and you’ll be spending your time in vans instead of the rainforest.

Arrival in Costa Rica: airports and transfers

Costa Rica has two international airports, and where you land will shape your entire trip.

• San José (SJO) is the better option if you’re heading to Arenal, Monteverde, Tortuguero, or the southern Pacific coast.
• Liberia (LIR) is ideal for exploring Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, including some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, like Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa.

Both airports have direct flights from major US cities. If your itinerary starts in one region and ends in another, consider flying into one airport and out of the other. It’s a smart way to cut down on long overland travel.

Once you land, pre-booking your airport transfer is a simple way to start your trip smoothly. After a long flight, the last thing you want is to negotiate taxi fares at the curb.

Here’s how to avoid that headache:

• Book a private transfer through your hotel or a service like Welcome Pickups.
• In San José, Uber and Grab are available in some areas.
• If you take a local taxi, confirm the fare upfront.

Planning your arrival is one of the most overlooked steps in how to plan a trip to Costa Rica. But get it right, and you start your trip relaxed and ahead of the curve.

Transportation planning: how to get around Costa Rica

Costa Rica is relatively easy to navigate, but it’s not always quick. Winding roads, river crossings, and unpredictable weather can slow you down, especially in rural areas or the rainy season.

When it comes to getting around Costa Rica, you’ve got a few solid options, and the best one depends on your route, budget, and comfort level with driving.

• Rental car: The most flexible option, especially for remote destinations like Nosara or Río Celeste. Choose a 4x4 if you're heading into the mountains or planning to visit multiple national parks. Book early in high season.
• Shuttle buses: A popular middle ground. They're easy to book, comfortable, and often include hotel pick-up and drop-off. Great for main tourist routes like Arenal-Monteverde-Manuel Antonio.
• Public buses: Cheap and reliable, but slow. Timetables can be vague, and transfers are often required. Best for travelers with time to spare and a flexible plan.
• Domestic flights: Useful for long distances, such as San José to the Osa Peninsula. They're not cheap, but they save a lot of time.

Most travelers find that a mix of car rental and shuttle transfers works best, drive where it makes sense, and leave the trickier routes to someone else.

What to book in advance

Not everything needs to be booked before you arrive, but some things do sell out, especially in the dry season from December to April. If you already know your route and dates, it’s worth securing a few key experiences early. You’ll save money, avoid stress, and make the most of your time on the ground.

What you should book early:

• National park entry: Manuel Antonio and Corcovado have strict daily limits, and tickets can run out days in advance.
• Guided tours and activities: Many of the most popular things to do in Costa Rica involve local guides, especially in places like Monteverde or Tortuguero. Booking early gives you access to the better tours and times.
• Hikes in Arenal Volcano National Park: The trails around La Fortuna are some of the most visited in the country. For ranger-led walks, night hikes, or combo packages with hot springs, booking ahead is smart.
• Shuttle transfers between destinations: Routes like La Fortuna to Monteverde or San José to Santa Teresa fill up fast in high season.
• Accommodation in high-demand areas: Places like Nosara, Santa Teresa, and La Fortuna can sell out quickly during peak months or holiday weeks.

What you can book on the go:

• Restaurants and cafés: Reservations aren’t usually necessary unless you’re targeting a high-end spot in a tourist-heavy area.
• Independent hikes in lesser-known parks: Trails in places like Cahuita or Tenorio are usually open-access and easy to explore without a guide.
• Transport during the green season: From May to November, there’s more flexibility for last-minute bookings, especially for buses or local transfers.

If chasing waterfalls is on your list, it’s also worth planning. Many of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica, including La Fortuna Waterfall, Nauyaca Falls, and Llanos de Cortés, have entry limits or require transport that can’t always be arranged at the last minute.

Booking the key parts of your trip ahead of time gives you the freedom to enjoy Costa Rica without constantly checking availability. It’s one of the most useful steps in learning how to plan a trip to Costa Rica that actually runs smoothly.

Mistakes to avoid

Planning a trip is part of the fun, but a few classic mistakes can turn your pura vida into pura stress. Costa Rica is easy to travel in, but it has its quirks. Knowing what to avoid can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

Overplanning

Costa Rica looks small on the map, but travel here is slower than you’d expect. Mountain roads, sudden rainstorms, and traffic jams can easily double your journey time. Trying to fit in San José, Arenal, Monteverde, Tortuguero, Tamarindo, and Manuel Antonio in ten days is a recipe for burnout. Pick fewer destinations, stay longer in each, and actually enjoy them.

Packing too much

Every traveler makes this mistake once. Lugging a 20-kilo suitcase down a dirt road in Santa Teresa or trying to squeeze it into a small boat in Tortuguero is not fun. Go for quick-dry, lightweight clothes and re-wear them. Nobody cares if you’re in the same shorts two days in a row, except maybe your Instagram feed.

Relying only on ATMs

Many rural areas are cash-only, and ATMs aren’t always reliable. Sometimes they’re out of cash, sometimes they’re broken, sometimes they just don’t exist. Bring a mix of cash and cards, and keep a backup credit card in a separate bag.

Ignoring local holidays

Semana Santa (Easter week) and Christmas are huge in Costa Rica. Hotels book out months in advance, buses are packed, and beaches overflow with families. If you travel during these times, book well ahead, or avoid them altogether.

Forgetting proper rain gear

Even in the dry season, Costa Rica doesn’t guarantee sunshine. If you’re heading to Monteverde or planning a volcano hike, pack a waterproof jacket, not just an umbrella. Wet clothes and jungle humidity are a miserable combo.

How to stay connected in Costa Rica

Going offline sounds romantic, until you are lost in the rainforest with no map, or you need to confirm a shuttle pick-up that never shows. Costa Rica’s coverage is surprisingly good for such a wild country, and staying connected makes traveling smoother.

• SIM cards: The main providers are Kolbi, Claro, and Movistar. You can buy SIMs at the airport or in most towns. Prices are reasonable, and data coverage works in most tourist regions.
• eSIMs: If your phone supports them, eSIMs are the easiest option. Install before you arrive, and you’re online as soon as you land.
• Offline apps: Even if you plan to disconnect, download Google Maps or Maps.me for offline navigation. For buses and shuttles, Bookaway and 12Go are useful. And don’t forget WhatsApp, everyone from tour guides to taxi drivers uses it.

Do you need constant internet?

Not at all. But having the option means you can book last-minute tours, check the weather before a hike, or find the best soda (local restaurant) in town. That balance between flexibility and peace of mind is worth it.

Learn the local culture

You don’t need a phrasebook to enjoy Costa Rica, but a little effort goes a long way. Learning “hola,” “gracias,” and “por favor” is polite, and locals will always appreciate it.

More important than language is the mindset. Costa Rica lives by pura vida. It’s more than a phrase; it’s a philosophy. It means slowing down, letting go of stress, and appreciating simple joys.

This has real implications for your trip. Buses might not run on time. A tour guide might arrive twenty minutes late. A restaurant might be out of what you wanted to order. The pura vida way is to shrug, smile, and enjoy what’s in front of you.

Costa Ricans are famously friendly and welcoming. Respect their pace, show patience, and embrace the laid-back rhythm. The less you fight it, the more you’ll enjoy your trip.

People Also Ask

If you’re searching for even more Costa Rica travel tips, you might be wondering about practical details that go beyond planning your route and budget. Here are some of the most common questions travelers ask when organizing their trip.

What should I pack for Costa Rica’s climate?

Costa Rica’s climate shifts dramatically between beaches, cloud forests, and volcanoes. You’ll need lightweight clothes for hot, humid days, plus layers for cooler mountain nights. A rain jacket is essential in every season, as are quick-dry shoes or sandals that can handle muddy trails.

Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan on hiking, bring proper footwear and a small daypack.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Costa Rica?

In many parts of Costa Rica, especially cities and larger towns, tap water is safe to drink. However, in remote or rural areas, it’s better to stick to filtered or bottled water. Carrying a reusable bottle with a built-in filter is a smart option, as it cuts down on waste and keeps you safe no matter where you travel.

If your stomach is sensitive, err on the side of caution. Clean, safe water is widely available, so it’s not something to worry about.

What’s the tipping culture like in Costa Rica?

Tipping in Costa Rica is straightforward. Most restaurants include a 10 percent service charge on the bill, so you don’t need to add much extra unless the service was exceptional. For guides, drivers, and hotel staff, tipping is appreciated and fairly standard.

A few dollars per person for a day tour or shuttle ride is customary. Always carry small bills for this purpose. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a meaningful way to show gratitude for good service, especially in a tourism-driven economy.

How is traveling in Costa Rica with kids?

Traveling in Costa Rica with kids is rewarding, but it requires planning. Many destinations are family-friendly, with safe beaches, easy hiking trails, and wildlife that children will love. National parks like Manuel Antonio or La Paz Waterfall Gardens are great for spotting animals without long treks.

Factor in slower travel times, build rest days into your itinerary, and choose hotels with kid-friendly amenities like pools. Pack plenty of snacks and sun protection. With preparation, Costa Rica is one of the easiest Central American countries to explore as a family.

Do I need vaccinations to travel to Costa Rica?

There are no compulsory vaccinations for most travelers to Costa Rica, but some are strongly recommended. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are common suggestions, as both can be contracted through food or water. If you’re arriving from a country where yellow fever is present, proof of vaccination may be required.

Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and Zika exist, so bring repellent and cover up in rural areas. Always check with your doctor before traveling, ideally six weeks before your trip, to confirm what’s best for you.