Costa Rica pioneered eco-tourism, and the country remains the gold standard. Nearly 30% of the land is protected. Sloths hang from trees; howler monkeys wake you at dawn; scarlet macaws fly overhead. The biodiversity is staggering, and the infrastructure makes it accessible without sacrificing authenticity. Beyond wildlife, Costa Rica offers adventure: zip-lining through cloud forests, white-water rafting, surfing Pacific breaks, and volcano hikes. Beaches range from Caribbean calm to Pacific surf. And "Pura Vida" (the national motto) captures a genuinely relaxed approach to life. Flight deals to San Jose and Liberia appear regularly from US cities.
Best Time to Fly to Costa Rica
Peak Season
December through April is dry season with sunny weather and peak prices. Christmas, New Year's, and US spring break fill popular destinations. January-February is busiest.
Off Season (Best Deals)
May through November is green season (rainy) with lower prices and lush landscapes. September-October is wettest. Mornings are often clear; afternoon rain is predictable.
Dry season (December to April) brings sunny weather at 70-85°F. Green season (May to November) has rain (usually afternoon) at similar temperatures. Caribbean coast is wetter year-round. Highlands are cooler; coasts are hot.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season. Green season offers 20-40% savings with surprisingly good weather. May and November are sweet spots.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Costa Rica
Cheapest Months
September, October, May
Most Expensive
Christmas/New Year, February, Spring break
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Must-Try Foods in Costa Rica
Casado
Costa Rica's quintessential meal: rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and protein (chicken, fish, beef, or pork). It's served everywhere from sodas (local eateries) to restaurants. Simple, satisfying, and deeply Costa Rican. Every soda has its version.
$5-12
Gallo Pinto
The national breakfast: rice and beans fried together with Salsa Lizano (Costa Rican Worcestershire). Served with eggs, plantains, and sour cream. Every Costa Rican has opinions about the right way to make it. It's morning fuel for the entire country.
$4-10
Fresh Seafood
Both coasts deliver excellent ceviche, grilled fish, and Caribbean-spiced preparations. The Caribbean side uses coconut and spice; the Pacific is simpler. Puerto Viejo and Manuel Antonio have particularly good seafood scenes.
$15-35
Top Attractions in Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Costa Rica's most famous volcano offers hiking trails and jungle-heated hot springs. The volcano isn't erupting anymore, but the area is gorgeous. Hot springs resorts (Tabacon, Baldi) let you soak with volcano views. La Fortuna is the base town.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
This high-altitude ecosystem hosts extraordinary biodiversity: quetzals, hummingbirds, and jungle canopy. Walk hanging bridges, take zip-line tours, or join guided wildlife walks. The mist adds atmosphere; mornings are best for wildlife.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica's most visited park combines beautiful beaches with abundant wildlife. Sloths, monkeys, and iguanas are easily spotted. The beaches are swimmable and stunning. It's touristy but delivers the Costa Rica experience in compact form.
Daily Costs in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is moderate to expensive for Central America. Tourist areas cost more. Tours and activities add up quickly. Local sodas offer cheap eating. Budget $80-150 daily for comfortable travel.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$40-80
Mid-Range
$100-200
Airbnb
$60-150
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$5-12
Restaurant
$15-35
Coffee
$2-4
Transport
Local Transport
$1-20/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$80-180
Getting Around Costa Rica
From the Airport
San Jose Airport (SJO) is the main hub; Liberia (LIR) serves Guanacaste beaches. Taxis from SJO to downtown San Jose cost $25-35. Uber works. Shuttles to popular destinations cost $30-60.
Getting Around
Renting a car gives the most flexibility; roads vary from excellent to challenging. Shuttle services connect major destinations reliably. Public buses are cheap but slow. Domestic flights save time between distant areas. Many roads require 4x4 in rainy season.
Tips
- •Rent a 4x4 if driving in rainy season or visiting remote areas. Many roads are unpaved and river crossings exist.
- •Shuttle services (Interbus, Grayline) are reliable and affordable between major destinations. Book in advance.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica
La Fortuna (Arenal)
The volcano area has hot springs, adventure activities, and easy access to wildlife. It's Costa Rica's most convenient introduction. Most travelers spend 2-3 nights here. The town is small but has good restaurants and services.
San Jose / Tamarindo
San Jose has Costa Rica's best dining and nightlife. Tamarindo on the Pacific is the beach party town with surf culture, bars, and restaurants. Both offer active evenings; the rest of Costa Rica is quiet after dark.
Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo)
The Caribbean side has Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae vibes, and laid-back atmosphere. Puerto Viejo has the best scene. It's different from Pacific Costa Rica: more colorful, more relaxed, better food. Beach and jungle combine beautifully.
Smart Travel Tips for Costa Rica
FAQs About Flights to Costa Rica
Costa Rica is moderate to expensive for Central America. Hotels cost $100-200, meals $10-35, and tours $50-150. Budget travelers can manage on $80-100 daily; comfort requires $150+. It's pricier than neighbors but more developed.
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