Costa Rica Guide: Choose Your Own Adventure

By: Scott Dubois, Fauna Travel Designer

Costa Rica is a diverse natural destination that will appeal to families, honeymooners, and adventure lovers alike. Plus, it’s a short flight from the United States, so you can even go for a long weekend! Still, we recommend staying at least a week to take advantage of everything there is to see. It’s a great destination for first time international travelers looking to spread their wings or seasoned adventurers seeking a getaway.

Where you go depends on the time of year and what type of traveler you are, so we’ve created this short destination guide to get you started.

When to Go

Costa Rica’s dry season runs from December through May, when heavy tropical rains start to set in. This should inform your choices but not deter you; There are also pockets of sunshine in the rainy season. The rains moderate in northern Guanacaste in late July and early August, and in Limon on the Caribbean Coast, the rains slow in September and October. Plus, afternoon showers are great for relaxing at the hotel after a morning on the beach or an outdoor adventure.

Getting There

Costa Rica’s two main airports are San José, the capital in the middle of the country, and Liberia in the north. Generally, you should fly to Liberia for Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa) and Arenal, and fly into San José for the rest of the country. There is also a domestic airline for short-haul flights between the key tourist areas.

Getting Around

Costa Rica is a fun international destination for renting a car and self-driving in the dry season if you have a GPS and are in the mood to explore. However, most clients opt for the simplicity of a private car transfer to sit back and enjoy the views of the countryside. On arrival at your hotel, we can arrange guided excursions, or you can rent a golf cart to drive around town.

Visas and Currency

Travelers from the United States do not need a visa to enter the country. There is a small tourist tax, but this is applied to your airfare. The local currency is the Colon, and we suggest withdrawing these at the airport to pay for restaurants and tip drivers and guides. American dollars are also accepted at many places, but it is more courteous to use colones.

Safety

Costa Rica is one of the safest destinations in Central America, making it an excellent choice for first-time international travelers. Standard travel precautions, such as not flashing money or jewelry, should be followed – especially in parts of San José. The most common crime is car break-ins, so you should always cover your valuables and purchase insurance when renting a car.

Suggested Itineraries

Costa Rica is a small country, but you can’t see it all in one trip. There are different routes to take depending on your interests and budget. Here are some of our favorites:

Boutique Costa Rica: Hot Springs and Surfing

There are many excellent boutique hotels in Guanacaste with great style and a sense of place that will get you away from the crowds. View itinerary…

Classic Costa Rica: Cloud Forests to Manuel Antonio

This classic Western Pacific Costa Rica itinerary is ideal for first time international travelers and others wanting to enjoy some Pura Vida. View itinerary…

Limon Province: Costa Rica Off the Beaten Path

Most travelers to the country head to the western Pacific side, while Limón is quieter and retains the charm of old Costa Rica. It’s quintessential pura vida. View itinerary…

Luxe Costa Rica: Arenal to the Quiet Coast

Guanacaste Province in northern Costa Rica is a perennially popular destination, but it’s possible to find quiet corners away from the crowds to truly enjoy the beautiful scenery. View itinerary…

Wild Luxury: Costa Rica Spa and Rainforest Getaway

If you want the most exclusive experience Costa Rica has to offer, this itinerary is the way to go. It mixes the best spa with the wildest places in Central America. View itinerary…