Costa Rica Travel Guide

Costa Rica lives and breathes the Pura Vida spirit. It is home to tropical rainforests, majestic volcanoes, golden beaches, and exceptional biodiversity. Meet howler monkeys, wander through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and feel the adventure every step of the way. Costa Rica is a land that offers pristine nature and a true sense of freedom.

Top cities to visit

  • City of San José, Costa Rica’s capital, surrounded by mountains and a lush tropical forest, at sunset.

    San José

    San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city not to be missed. It’s home to a wealth of museums, colourful markets, distinctive architecture, and lively cafés that offer travellers a genuine immersion into the country’s rich traditions and culture.
  • Colourful seaside houses in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica’s vibrant Caribbean port city.

    Limón (Puerto Limón)

    Set on the Caribbean coast, Limón enchants visitors with its tropical landscapes, Afro-Caribbean soul, and vibrant energy. Reggae beats, colourful markets, and idyllic beaches give it a unique charm, while, nearby, Cahuita and Tortuguero National Parks showcase unforgettable natural wonders.
  • Bird’s-eye view of Tamarindo in Costa Rica, with its perfect waves and golden sandy beach lined with palm trees.

    Tamarindo

    A coastal town where ocean and jungle meet, Tamarindo is famous for its golden beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Surfers, adventurers, and nature lovers gather here to watch sea turtles nest, dive in waters filled with a rich marine life, or hike through the wild beauty of nearby national parks.
  • Locals and tourists walking and swimming at sunset on the beach in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica.

    Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    This small seaside village on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is a true gem, where golden and volcanic-sand beaches meet lush jungle. Its authentic, laid-back vibe makes it the perfect place to surf, explore Cahuita National Park, or wander through the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.
  • City of San José, Costa Rica’s capital, surrounded by mountains and a lush tropical forest, at sunset.

    San José

    San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city not to be missed. It’s home to a wealth of museums, colourful markets, distinctive architecture, and lively cafés that offer travellers a genuine immersion into the country’s rich traditions and culture.
  • Colourful seaside houses in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica’s vibrant Caribbean port city.

    Limón (Puerto Limón)

    Set on the Caribbean coast, Limón enchants visitors with its tropical landscapes, Afro-Caribbean soul, and vibrant energy. Reggae beats, colourful markets, and idyllic beaches give it a unique charm, while, nearby, Cahuita and Tortuguero National Parks showcase unforgettable natural wonders.
  • Bird’s-eye view of Tamarindo in Costa Rica, with its perfect waves and golden sandy beach lined with palm trees.

    Tamarindo

    A coastal town where ocean and jungle meet, Tamarindo is famous for its golden beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Surfers, adventurers, and nature lovers gather here to watch sea turtles nest, dive in waters filled with a rich marine life, or hike through the wild beauty of nearby national parks.
  • Locals and tourists walking and swimming at sunset on the beach in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica.

    Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    This small seaside village on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is a true gem, where golden and volcanic-sand beaches meet lush jungle. Its authentic, laid-back vibe makes it the perfect place to surf, explore Cahuita National Park, or wander through the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.
  • City of San José, Costa Rica’s capital, surrounded by mountains and a lush tropical forest, at sunset.

    San José

    San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city not to be missed. It’s home to a wealth of museums, colourful markets, distinctive architecture, and lively cafés that offer travellers a genuine immersion into the country’s rich traditions and culture.
  • Colourful seaside houses in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica’s vibrant Caribbean port city.

    Limón (Puerto Limón)

    Set on the Caribbean coast, Limón enchants visitors with its tropical landscapes, Afro-Caribbean soul, and vibrant energy. Reggae beats, colourful markets, and idyllic beaches give it a unique charm, while, nearby, Cahuita and Tortuguero National Parks showcase unforgettable natural wonders.
  • Bird’s-eye view of Tamarindo in Costa Rica, with its perfect waves and golden sandy beach lined with palm trees.

    Tamarindo

    A coastal town where ocean and jungle meet, Tamarindo is famous for its golden beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Surfers, adventurers, and nature lovers gather here to watch sea turtles nest, dive in waters filled with a rich marine life, or hike through the wild beauty of nearby national parks.
  • Locals and tourists walking and swimming at sunset on the beach in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica.

    Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    This small seaside village on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is a true gem, where golden and volcanic-sand beaches meet lush jungle. Its authentic, laid-back vibe makes it the perfect place to surf, explore Cahuita National Park, or wander through the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.

Useful information

Official language(s)

Spanish is the official language of the country and is spoken by more than 95% of the population.

Flight duration

Direct flight: Approximately 6h 
Connecting flight: 9h to 12h (depending on connection times)

Time zone difference

Costa Rica time zone: UTC-6
1h behind Quebec (EST)
2h behind Quebec (EDT)

Currency

Costa Rican colón (CRC) 

Credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas. US dollars are also commonly used, but paying in colones is recommended for taxis, local markets, and small rural towns.

Tips

A 10% service charge is typically included in restaurant bills, so there’s no need to add an extra tip. However, leaving 5%–10% for drivers or tour guides is appreciated, and rounding up taxi fares is a common and courteous practice.

Safety

Travellers should stay alert while visiting Costa Rica. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist areas. It is best to keep valuables out of sight. 

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s Costa Rica Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.

Top things to do and see

  • Discover Tortuguero’s mangroves, beaches, and sea turtles.

  • Walk across the ancient lava flows of the iconic Arenal Volcano.

  • Unwind in natural hot springs at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

  • Stroll above the canopy and admire the magical Monteverde Cloud Forest.

  • Discover Tortuguero’s mangroves, beaches, and sea turtles.

  • Walk across the ancient lava flows of the iconic Arenal Volcano.

  • Unwind in natural hot springs at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

  • Stroll above the canopy and admire the magical Monteverde Cloud Forest.

  • Discover Tortuguero’s mangroves, beaches, and sea turtles.

  • Walk across the ancient lava flows of the iconic Arenal Volcano.

  • Unwind in natural hot springs at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

  • Stroll above the canopy and admire the magical Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Hidden gems to discover

  • Rincón de la Vieja National Park

    Rincón de la Vieja National Park invites travellers on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the tropical rainforest. This pristine reserve is a land of active volcanoes, steaming hot springs, majestic waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.

  • Playa Ocotal

    Playa Ocotal, a peaceful, pristine beach on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is known for its volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. Quieter and more intimate than nearby beaches, it is perfect for swimming, relaxing, and snorkelling. 

  • Tirimbina Biological Reserve

    Located in the heart of Costa Rica’s tropical rainforest, Tirimbina offers a truly immersive nature experience. Walk along trails through dense jungle, cross hanging bridges above the canopy, and spot monkeys, tropical birds, sloths, and much more.

  • Rincón de la Vieja National Park

    Rincón de la Vieja National Park invites travellers on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the tropical rainforest. This pristine reserve is a land of active volcanoes, steaming hot springs, majestic waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.

  • Playa Ocotal

    Playa Ocotal, a peaceful, pristine beach on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is known for its volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. Quieter and more intimate than nearby beaches, it is perfect for swimming, relaxing, and snorkelling. 

  • Tirimbina Biological Reserve

    Located in the heart of Costa Rica’s tropical rainforest, Tirimbina offers a truly immersive nature experience. Walk along trails through dense jungle, cross hanging bridges above the canopy, and spot monkeys, tropical birds, sloths, and much more.

  • Rincón de la Vieja National Park

    Rincón de la Vieja National Park invites travellers on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the tropical rainforest. This pristine reserve is a land of active volcanoes, steaming hot springs, majestic waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.

  • Playa Ocotal

    Playa Ocotal, a peaceful, pristine beach on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is known for its volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. Quieter and more intimate than nearby beaches, it is perfect for swimming, relaxing, and snorkelling. 

  • Tirimbina Biological Reserve

    Located in the heart of Costa Rica’s tropical rainforest, Tirimbina offers a truly immersive nature experience. Walk along trails through dense jungle, cross hanging bridges above the canopy, and spot monkeys, tropical birds, sloths, and much more.

Highlights

  • Remarkable biodiversity.
  • A pioneering destination in ecotourism and sustainability, leading the way in responsible travel.
  • The Pura Vida philosophy reflects Costa Rica’s spirit of joy, optimism, and simple living.

Keep in mind

  • Costa Rica transitions between dry and rainy seasons. Before you go, check the weather and pack clothing suitable for both conditions.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in tourist areas throughout the country.
  • Plan extra time for your trips because the roads can be bumpy and travel duration may be longer than anticipated.
Top pick

“My favourite memory from Costa Rica was sleeping in a lodge at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. It was an unforgettable moment, surrounded by lush rainforest and waking up every morning to the calls of toucans, monkeys, and parrots—an experience forever etched in my heart.”

Elise Gauthier Travel Counsellor, Pointe-Claire Travel Centre

Local food and gastronomy

  • Casado

    Casado is a classic Costa Rican dish meaning “married” because it combines several foods on one plate—rice, black beans, salad, crispy plantains, and meat or fish. Served for lunch or dinner, it is a generous, flavourful meal that truly captures the warmth and hospitality of the local culture.

  • Tamales

    This dish, wrapped in a banana leaf, is made from a corn dough filled with meat, rice, vegetables, and spices. Steamed and traditionally served during celebrations and gatherings, it offers a burst of authentic flavours.

  • Patacones

    Patacones are slices of green plantains that are flattened and then fried. Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, they are served as a side dish or snack, often accompanied by local sauces and toppings.

  • Chorreador coffee

    A chorreador is a traditional handcrafted coffee maker consisting of a wooden stand and a cloth filter. This brewing method relies on slow, gravity-based infusion, which brings out the smooth and delicate flavours of Costa Rican coffee.

  • Queque de zanahoria

    A moist carrot cake, delicately spiced, often topped with cream cheese frosting and a drizzle of dulce de leche. This dessert is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of chorreador coffee.

  • Casado

    Casado is a classic Costa Rican dish meaning “married” because it combines several foods on one plate—rice, black beans, salad, crispy plantains, and meat or fish. Served for lunch or dinner, it is a generous, flavourful meal that truly captures the warmth and hospitality of the local culture.

  • Tamales

    This dish, wrapped in a banana leaf, is made from a corn dough filled with meat, rice, vegetables, and spices. Steamed and traditionally served during celebrations and gatherings, it offers a burst of authentic flavours.

  • Patacones

    Patacones are slices of green plantains that are flattened and then fried. Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, they are served as a side dish or snack, often accompanied by local sauces and toppings.

  • Chorreador coffee

    A chorreador is a traditional handcrafted coffee maker consisting of a wooden stand and a cloth filter. This brewing method relies on slow, gravity-based infusion, which brings out the smooth and delicate flavours of Costa Rican coffee.

  • Queque de zanahoria

    A moist carrot cake, delicately spiced, often topped with cream cheese frosting and a drizzle of dulce de leche. This dessert is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of chorreador coffee.

Good to know

  • The average daylight hours are from 6a.m. to 6p.m. Days are fairly short, so plan your activities accordingly.
  • Unlike in many Central American countries, tap water is generally safe to drink.
  • Never feed wild animals!

What to bring back?

  • A hand-carved wooden toy

  • Coffee and a wooden chorreador

  • Hand-painted artisanal porcelain items

  • A handwoven hammock

  • A hand-carved wooden toy

  • Coffee and a wooden chorreador

  • Hand-painted artisanal porcelain items

  • A handwoven hammock

  • A hand-carved wooden toy

  • Coffee and a wooden chorreador

  • Hand-painted artisanal porcelain items

  • A handwoven hammock

Frequently asked questions

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the winter months, from December to April. It is the dry season, with sunny weather across most of the country, temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C, better road conditions, and fewer mosquitoes. It is best to avoid the monsoon period, from May to November, because it is the rainy season in Costa Rica.

In Costa Rica, the most efficient way to get around is by car—ideally a rented 4x4—to enjoy greater freedom. Take a few precautions to avoid theft: do not leave valuables in plain sight, opt for secure parking areas, always lock the doors, and choose a good insurance plan. Public buses, taxis, and Uber are also great options for getting around in the cities. In some regions, such as Tortuguero or the Osa Peninsula, boats are commonly used.

10 to 15 days. 

It is the ideal amount of time for exploring the country at a comfortable pace because the country offers an incredible diversity.

  • Fiestas de Palmares, in Palmares, Alajuela Province—This is Costa Rica’s biggest celebration, held every January. Expect lively horse parades, carnivals, concerts, fireworks, and much more.

  • Envision Festival, in Uvita—Taking place from late February to early March, this unique festival blends music, art, wellness, sustainability, and spirituality. The event is set in a stunning location that spans both jungle and beach.

  • Carnaval de Limón, in Puerto Limón—Held in October, this vibrant week-long celebration highlights Afro-Caribbean culture with music, dancing, local traditions, and parades.

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Getting ready for your trip

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