30 Fun Things to Do in Costa Rica
If you are looking for activities to make your vacation fun, here is our list of the best things to do in Costa Rica, Central America. From free things to do for budget travelers, adrenaline adventures for thrill-seekers, to family-friendly activities, our travel guide got you covered.
There are so many things to do in Costa Rica that your head might spin after seeing the endless list of possibilities. Costa Rica offers activities for everyone, and we believe that you will have the time of your life while traveling there.
The essential thing to know about activities and things to do in Costa Rica to avoid disappointment is that some are weather and time of the year dependent.
But don't worry, most of the tours and activities are year-round, and you can always find an adequate substitute if your tour is not currently available.
Our comprehensive list includes many family-friendly activities in Costa Rica, which is not that surprising. Costa Rica is the most family-friendly destination in Central America, as it's the safest country in the region.
As traveling around this Central American country can be quite expensive, we've included even some free things to do in Costa Rica for backpackers and broke travelers like ourselves.
The sky is the limit (in our case, it's usually the budget), and you can have some serious fun in Costa Rica if you know where to go and where to look.
Let's dive into it!
EXPLORING BEACHES OF THE PACIFIC OCEAN
Costa Rica is blessed with an abundance of beaches, and the Pacific side never disappoints travelers seeking these stress-free sandy stretches.
The beaches lining the country's western coast are among the most beautiful ones, not only in Costa Rica but also in the entire world.
From busy town beaches to secluded beaches in hidden coves, Costa Rica is sure no short of these natural wonders.
There are tons of free beaches along the Pacific coast, and traveling between beach towns and cities by public transport is one of the most budget-friendly activities to do in Costa Rica.
Remember that the beaches inside the national parks are not technically free, as you have to pay an entrance fee to enter.
On the other hand, if budget is not an issue, you can always stay in one of those upscale resorts featuring hard-to-beat views.
Also, keep in mind that the majority of beaches in Costa Rica are not safe for swimming due to rip currents and undertows.
Still, you can find many safe for swimming, such as Playa Tamarindo and Playa Samara on the Nicoya Peninsula in the country's northwest.
WHALE WATCHING IN BALLENA MARINE NATIONAL PARK
If you haven't heard about it yet, know that Costa Rica is one of the world's best places to go for whale watching.
The west coast is famous for its whale breeding locations, with superb conditions for spotting these marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Ballena means a whale in Spanish, and as the name suggests, Ballena Marine National Park is the premier destination for this activity. Whale-watching tours depart daily in the season, and the chances of spotting these gentle giants are high.
The best time to go to Costa Rica to spot humpback whales arriving from the seas of North America is from December to April. From July to November, you can spot the whales arriving from the Antarctic.
As a result, whale watching in Costa Rica is almost a year-round activity. It's relatively easy to spot whales during peak times, making it an activity no traveler should miss.
As the sea around Costa Rica is rich with life, whales are not the only species you can spot on tour. Bottlenose dolphins are often present, as well as other dolphin species, orcas are super rare, but you can also see plenty of seabirds.
HIKING IN CORCOVADO'S RAINFOREST
Corcovado National Park is a place like no other. It's often regarded as one of the most biologically diverse places in the world, and as a result, it's perfect for jungle hikes and tours.
Wildlife spotting in Corcovado can be the highlight of your entire trip around Costa Rica, and you can see scarlet macaws, tapirs, monkeys, snakes, and other species.
Corcovado is also home to many species that are rare to spot, such as jaguars or Baird's tapir.
Sirena Ranger station is often used as a base for day tours arriving from Drake Bay by water taxi or day hikers from Carate. The 3-day Corcovado tours are pretty hard, and you should be in good physical shape.
Since the rules changed, you must be accompanied by a certified naturalist guide to entering Corcovado National Park.
In addition, knowledgeable guides will help you to understand this fragile environment better while keeping you safe.
For hiking in Corcovado, bring bug repellent, sunscreen, and a headwear. It’s better to be prepared for the tropical conditions.
If you decide to stay in Sirena Ranger station overnight, make sure to have earplugs and sleep mask to get some sleep in the crowded dorms.
RELAXING IN HOT SPRINGS IN ARENAL
Travelers can see the result of Arenal Volcano's dramatic activity in many places; hot springs being one of the finest examples.
For many, the soothing experience of thermals is one of the most convincing reasons why to visit Arenal. So if you can't imagine holidays without soaking up in the thermal pools, then the Arenal area is the place to go.
Most of the hot springs are located on private properties, meaning that there is an admission to enter them.
The hot springs in Arenal range from somewhat budget-friendly ones to luxury (and quite expensive) ones. So choosing where to go for relaxation in Arenal needs some research before your arrival.
Tabacon Hot Springs are the best natural thermal pools in Arenal, thanks to the lovely warm river that runs through the private property, but be prepared to pay extra for this Zen-ish experience.
You can either buy the day pass (includes lunch or dinner) or stay in the pricey Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa to get more privacy after day visitors leave.
It's the only property that has a free-flowing river (and of course, some artificial pools); other places have to pump the water to recreate the effect.
Springs Resort Hot Springs offers a similar experience to Tabacon Hot springs, and it's only on your preferences if you need the natural river for the complete rejuvenation or not.
Baldi Hot springs or Ecotermales Hot springs are in the mid-range category price-wise, while Los Laureles Hot Springs are always a solid choice for budget travelers.
Are you traveling in a rental car (yet on a budget)?
There are free hot springs in Arenal right next to the Tabacon Resort. You can simply park the car there (pay a small fee to the guys watching the cars) and enjoy the river with the thermal water.
Make sure to bring water shoes, and be prepared, that this place gets crowded as it is popular with both tourists and locals.
The majority of the Arenal Combo Tours include the most popular activities in the area, and of course, the hot springs.
ADMIRING THE BLUE WATERS OF RIO CELESTE
When you start feeling confident that nothing surprises you in Costa Rica anymore, Rio Celeste in the Tenorio Volcano National Park will amaze you in the most positive way.
Rio Celeste is one of those places that will take your breath away, and you will need to read the scientific explanation of how the water can be so blue to believe it's even real.
It used to be believed that the sky-blue color resulted from a chemical reaction from the confluence of two rivers upstream; both rivers contained volcanic minerals and bacteria that were responsible for the coloration.
But as it turned out, it's an optical illusion. The scattering of sunlight together with suspension of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen (whitish substance) from the river's bottom causes this phenomenon.
Rio Celeste is the finest example of Costa Rica's diversity, and the well-marked trail takes you along the unique river you won't see almost anywhere in the world.
A bit of warning, during (or after) the rain, Rio Celeste might not be as blue as on the photos.
It's not allowed to swim in Rio Celeste within the limits of Tenorio Volcano National Park, though there is a spot just outside the park where you can swim in Rio Celeste.
Except for the blue river, the Rio Celeste waterfall, wooden bridges, and abundant wildlife are the main attractions of the national park.
As everywhere else, you can hire a local guide to get the most of the Tenorio National Park.
TURTLE NESTING IN TORTUGUERO
Tortuguero National Park is located in the Limon province in the northeast of Costa Rica, and this remote jungle area and its canals offer an Amazon-like experience. The extensive network of freshwater river canals is best explored on a boat with a local guide.
The park offers a huge variety of animal species and is one of the best places in Costa Rica for wildlife spotting.
Yet, the main attraction of Tortuguero is sea turtles best seen on the beaches lining the Caribbean coast.
Hawksbill, giant leatherback, and loggerhead turtles nest here, but the endangered green sea turtles are the reason why so many travelers undergo uncomfortable rides from distant cities.
Not that long ago, egg poachers and meat hunters almost brought the entire population of green turtles to extinction by the 1960s.
Sea turtles are vulnerable on the shore, and hunters exploited their weakness completely for their meat, eggs, shell, or skin.
Tortuguero National Park was established in 1975, and due to the enormous conservation efforts since then, green sea turtles are still present in the area.
Still, the danger to green sea turtles persists, mostly from human activities. The population of turtles suffers from pollution, losing nesting sites due to development, or fishing with nets.
This Tortuguero Tour will show you the best of the park, and includes canoeing, hiking, and turtle watching.
SCUBA DIVING AT CATALINA ISLANDS
Costa Rican seas are rich with marine life, and one of the best ways to explore this hidden world is to take a scuba diving tour.
Scuba diving at Catalina Islands is for both certified scuba divers and people without experience, and most itineraries include two-minute dives during the tour.
You have a good chance to spot whitetip reef sharks, giant stingrays, the eagle rays, and other marine life near the islands.
However, manta rays are the main attraction at Santa Catalina and the reason why scuba diving tours are so popular there.
From our own experience, seeing these incredible fish with a wingspan reaching seven meters in their natural habitat is an unforgettable encounter.
Costa Rican warm tropical waters are a perfect place to also take scuba diving lessons in safe conditions and under the supervision of a certified PADI instructor.
You can have many reasons for learning scuba diving, from trying something entirely new to finding peace and quiet at the depths of the ocean.
Scuba diving is not the only way to explore the underwater world. Not everyone is a certified scuba diver, and snorkeling is always a good way to see the marine environment. Moreover, it's much more affordable.
Either way, don't forget your underwater camera at home!
Always go on Santa Catalina Scuba Diving Tour with a reputable company to stay safe.
WALK TO WHALE'S TAIL DURING THE LOW TIDE IN UVITA
Ballena Marine National Park is already on our list, but whale-watching is not the only activity to do while there.
The park is home to Playa Uvita, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. On top of that, the long sandy strip ends with a rocky tip, and the whole scene strongly resembles a whale's tail.
Although this incredible natural sight is only visible from an aerial view, it doesn't make this place less attractive. Moreover, you can always google aerial photos of Uvita beach later.
You can easily walk to Ballena Marine National Park from Uvita, and during the low tide, you will be able to reach the whale's tail. It's roughly a two-kilometer-long walk from the entrance gate to the tip of the beach, you've been warned.
Remember that you need to pay for the entry (6 USD), as the beach is located within the national park boundaries.
Walking barefoot the entire stretch while the sea is gently splashing your ankles is an incredibly soothing experience, and the shallow sea surrounding the tail is one of the warmest ever.
The low tide also makes the left side of the tail safe(r) for water activities, but always practice caution and read the warning signs.
Except for snorkeling, swimming, and playing in the surf, there is not much else to do.
There are often not many people around, which some visitors might find together with the lack of facilities as the most significant advantage of this place.
Apply sunscreen frequently, cover your head, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated; make sure to carry a reusable water bottle to lower your plastic footprint in Costa Rica and keep the beach as clean as possible.
Before you go, check the low and high tide timetable at your hotel to ensure you reach the tail safely.
NIGHT WALK IN TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Some say that nighttime is the best time to explore the jungle, and we can only confirm this statement. The thing about the night in the jungle is that once the blanket of darkness covers the rainforest, it awakes a whole new world.
A world of animals that were almost impossible to see during the day. Nocturnal animals you can't spot during this period are now active, and the forest is full of sounds and electricity in the air.
Spiders, insects, snakes, frogs, lizards come out of their hideouts to catch some prey, and you have the best opportunity to spot them.
Hiking in the jungle during the night is only safe with a local guide who knows the environment and trails. Take a guided Tortuguero Night Tour, and don't wander in the wilderness after dark alone; it's not worth it.
Make sure to bring your own headlamp, you might also want to wear gumboots, but most companies provide them if needed.
WHITE-WATER RAFTING AT PACUARE RIVER
White-water rafting in Costa Rica is one of the best things to do in the country. The best part about this activity is that plenty of rivers are rated as Class II, Class III, and Class IV rapids making the adventure accessible to almost everyone.
Even the more difficult rapids rated as Class III and IV are considered safe under the supervision of an experienced guide, making it a perfect activity even for families with kids (though the kids must usually be 12 years or older for Class IV rapids).
Class IV rapids are easy to find in Costa Rica, and we might have a perfect place to go.
Pacuare is the most famous river and arguably the best place for white-water rafting in Costa Rica.
National Geographic rated Pacuare as one of the best river adventures in the world, and that statement needs no further explanation.
Unfortunately, there are no Class V white-water rafting tours in Costa Rica (this doesn't mean that there aren't any, it's just that they are not run commercially).
CANYONING IN JACO
Jaco is a developed town on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, mostly known for the beautiful beach and great tourist infrastructure.
Spending your free time on the city beach while enjoying the perks of developed infrastructure with a coconut drink in your hand is very appealing.
But if you leave the city and drive a bit inland, a completely new world opens up. A world of canyons, waterfalls, and rivers hidden from the curious looks by dense rainforest.
The adventure tours vary, and it's only on your preferences which tour you will choose in the end.
Our canyoning tour in Jaco included rappelling, ziplining, hiking, wildlife spotting, and some jumping into natural pools.
But again, the variety is wide, and although getting out of your comfort zone is always thrilling, you can find the tour that offers a bit less adrenaline-rushing experience.
The best part is that most tours don't require any previous experience making this adrenaline activity accessible to almost everyone.
Furthermore, the expert guides take safety very seriously and use only high-quality gear, but please book the Canyoning Tour with a reputable company.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
VISIT A CHOCOLATE FARM IN MANUEL ANTONIO
Are you looking for a family-friendly activity in Costa Rica, or want to leave the stress behind? Or just really love chocolate?
Visit an organic farm in Manuel Antonio (or anywhere else) to learn everything about chocolate, other local plants, and herbs.
Seeing the whole process from planting to harvesting is an incredible experience under the tuition of a knowledgeable guide, and the final chocolate tasting will make you want to stay forever.
On top of that, you will also try to create your own chocolate to make this activity even more memorable.
Although the tours revolve around chocolate, you will learn so much more as you walk around the tropical garden. Everything is connected, and you might be surprised what it takes to grow chocolate in the tropics.
This Chocolate Tour in Manuel Antonio has excellent reviews, is entertaining, and tasty!
ZIP LINING IN ARENAL'S RAINFOREST
Discovering the rainforest from above is one of the most popular things to do in Costa Rica. Most ziplining tours are family-friendly and well-designed to introduce this activity to beginners.
The tours usually start with a series of shorter and easier lines, and you gradually get to longer and more exciting lines as you progress through the area.
Even though you can try ziplining in many tourist places all over Costa Rica, we believe that Arenal offers the best experience.
Arenal region is known among adrenaline seekers as the place to go to have fun, and ziplining is included in most combo tours, or you can try a ziplining tour solely focused on this activity.
Ziplining is also a lot about trust and safety, so choosing a reputable company with experienced guides is a crucial step to have the time of your life.
It's common that Arenal Ziplining Tours include hiking through the forest and climbing to the platforms, so leave flip-flops behind and make sure to wear proper shoes.
Some tour operators in Costa Rica offer canopy tours and some ziplining tours, which leads to confusion in the real world.
There is practically zero difference between canopy and ziplining tours in Costa Rica; basically, it means the same thing.
SUNSET SAILING IN PLAYA FLAMINGO
Sailing into the sunset is often considered very romantic and something many people dream of during the year while sitting stuck behind the desk at their job. And Costa Rica is a perfect place to fulfill your dreams.
There are many fascinating things to know about Costa Rica; and the Pacific Ocean having incredible sunsets is one of them.
The Nicoya Peninsula in Guanacaste province is known for some finest Costa Rican beach destinations, and you can take a sunset sailing tour from pretty much every coastal town.
Sunset tours range from leisure boat cruises with cocktails and snacks or party boats with a well-stocked bar to more active tours featuring snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming with sunset watching as the icing on the cake.
Sunset is not the only thing you can watch during the cruise, as you will have plenty of time to spot dolphins, turtles, or even whales.
The typical Sunset Sailing Tour uses engine-powered catamarans that can carry up to 30 passengers, but you can always take more intimate private sailing tours, though they cost a lot more money.
VISIT NICARAGUA
Once you get enough of the beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula, the chances are that you will drive back through Liberia.
Although the city doesn't offer many things to do, and international visitors usually only use it as an overnight stop before venturing forth, there is a surprising reason to stay there one more day.
As Liberia is only an hour and a half ride from the Penas Blanca border crossing to Nicaragua, visiting this exotic Central American country might be an interesting idea.
Nicaragua is one of the less-visited countries in Central America, but we absolutely loved our time there and can only recommend it to you.
Day tours departing from Liberia to Nicaragua allow you to get a taste of a different culture with a local guide.
Most of the Nicaragua Tours include a colonial town of Granada and an active Masaya Volcano where you can see the lava churning in the crater; the rest of the itinerary depends on the tour operator.
Be prepared for a long day on the bus, and don't forget to take your passport with you!
TREKKING TO MOUNT CHIRRIPO
Rising 3821 meters above sea level, Mount Chirripo is the highest mountain in Costa Rica and the fifth tallest mountain in Central America.
The mountain is a magnet for outdoor lovers but requires some serious trekking in order to get there.
Cerro Chirripo is a three-day hike that will show you the diversity of Costa Rican highlands and the best of Cerro Chirripo National Park. The peak can be reached by a strenuous hike on a well-marked path across diverse terrain with an elevation gain of approximately 2500 meters.
High altitude makes things even more challenging; therefore, it's recommended to stay at Crestones base camp overnight. Acclimating your body is essential on this trip, especially when departing from the lowlands.
If you leave the accommodation while it's still dark, you can catch the sunrise.
The reward for reaching the peak is sweet, though. On an exceptionally clear day, you can see the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the summit.
Cerro Chirripo is not the only peak you can climb on this trip, but you would need at least one or two more days to explore the trails in the national park.
Make sure to bring a down jacket as the temperature can drop below zero Celsius and the weather and climate is very different from coastal areas.
Carrying your own (warm) sleeping bag might also be worth it if you don't want to use the gear provided at the Crestones base camp. Or at least a silk liner if you are worried about cleanliness.
Trekking poles will help you with the climb up and also when going downhill.
RIDE AN ATV TO PLAYA BRASILITO
Hate it or love it, ATV tours are among the most popular adventures you can try in Costa Rica. ATV tours are super popular in coastal areas due to warm weather, beaches, and accessible trails.
There are plenty of places in Costa Rica where you can book an ATV Tour, with Jaco and Tamarindo being among the most popular ones.
Riding an ATV without any previous experience in terrain requires some skill, so you should always follow the tour leader's advice to stay safe. Drive slowly, wear a helmet, listen to the guide, go with a reputable company.
We met a guy who had some bruises and cuts as he fell from the ATV (admittedly, he didn't really follow the safety tips).
SURFING IN TAMARINDO
Surfing and the Pacific ocean; name a more iconic duo. The consistent swell, variety of breaks, and great waves create perfect conditions for this water activity along the western coastline.
The result is far from surprising; Costa Rica is simply one of the best places to surf in the world.
The Pacific coast stretches in Costa Rica for more than 1000 kilometers and features hundreds of beaches scattered along this side. You can find some of the best surfing spots that each year attract surfers from all over the world.
Due to the perfect conditions, Tamarindo Beach is often considered one of the best surfing places in Costa Rica, ideal for beginners and intermediates, though even advanced surfers will not get bored here easily.
There are plenty of things to do on the Nicoya Peninsula, but taking a Surfing Lesson at Tamarindo is a must.
The list of Costa Rica surfing destinations is quite long, and you can always try Playa Jaco, Playa Grande, Boca Barranca, or Playa Santa Teresa.
If you travel long term around Central America and surfing is your thing, make sure to stop at San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua and El Tunco in El Salvador.
DRIVING TO POAS VOLCANO
Rising to 2708 meters, Poas Volcano offers incredible views of Costa Rican highlands. The journey from San Jose is quite intriguing, and it's only up to you, whether you decide to go there by car, bus, or take a tour.
Poas Volcano is a perfect example of the incredible Costa Rican diversity and volcanic activity. On a clear day, the area offers a hard-to-beat travel experience.
The clouds cover the peak of Poas Volcano regularly, and sometimes even checking the weather forecast before your trip won't help.
Poas Volcano is now open but was closed for a couple of years before due to the seismic activity. However, this might change in the future again.
The seismic activity doesn't take regard for human's vacation plans, and the Costa Rican government can close these places anytime for safety reasons.
Always have a backup plan in case you won't be able to visit the volcano.
From San Jose, you can also visit Irazu Volcano National Park. Irazu Volcano is 3400 above sea level, and you can get there by car, with a tour, or by taking a public bus from San Jose.
It's often windy and chilly at the top, so bring at least a windbreaker to stay warm.
WALKING IN THE TREETOPS IN MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST
The cloud forest in Monteverde is often rainy, damp and cold, and almost always shrouded in clouds. The higher elevation of the Monteverde region creates one of the most fascinating forested areas in Costa Rica that's best explored via one of the hiking trails.
The cloud forest is rich with flora and a perfect place for bird watching, though it's not that easy to spot some species by yourself, so you should hire a local guide to get the most of the area.
Monteverde offers plenty of adrenaline activities, though you can find a better selection in places such as Arenal.
We really enjoyed our time in Monteverde as it was so different from the rainforests in the lowlands, and we could once again admire the incredible diversity of Costa Rica.
Furthermore, walking across suspension bridges in Monteverde Cloud Forest in complete silence and awe while watching quetzals and other bird species is one of our most cherished memories from Costa Rica.
Hanging Bridges are not only exclusive to the Monteverde area.
Arenal is an even more popular destination, and if you can visit only one place and decide to travel to this region, make sure to include Arenal Hanging Bridges Tour on your itinerary.
SEEING AMERICAN CROCODILES AT RIVER TARCOLES
Do you remember that we promised a cheap activity to do in Costa Rica at the beginning of this article? Well, now is the time to fulfill that promise.
Seeing wild American crocodiles is always exciting, and the bridge over Tarcoles River allows you to do this activity from a safe distance. The chances to see these dangerous predators here are high, and that's what makes this stop so popular.
Even though this is only a really quick stop, and the experience can't match when seeing crocodiles from a boat elsewhere in the jungle, it would be a shame to skip.
Always stay on the bridge; the river shores are not safe for exploration, and watch for cars when getting around the area.
You can get to Crocodile Bridge at River Tarcoles by bus from Jaco, or you can just drive there with your rental car.
As the visit to this place won't take much time, stop there on the way to your next destination (Puntarenas, San Jose, etc.)
Driving around Costa Rica can be tiring, so stretch your legs, buy some refreshments, and admire the crocodiles.
Moreover, only two minutes drive from here is the entrance to Carara National Park, another must-visit place in Costa Rica.
KAYAKING IN MANGROVES OF DAMAS ISLAND
Travelers often overlook mangroves as inhospitable and hard-to-get places. The truth is that mangroves are an essential part of the world's ecosystems that benefit all of us.
Although everyone is heading out from Quepos to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rican Damas Island is a place not many people visit.
Mangroves are wildlife hotspots, and with an experienced and knowledgeable guide, you can spot sloths, toucans, monkeys, snakes, and even crocodiles.
We believe that kayaking is a better way to explore mangroves than boat tours.
First, you can squeeze in narrow channels resulting in getting closer to the animals, plus paddling is always fun, and physical activity is often needed after long and tiring sitting time on the bus when getting around the country.
If you take the Kayak Mangrove Tour directly from Quepos, the travel time on the bus is roughly twenty minutes each way, making the tour even more appealing, as you don't need to spend hours on the road just to get there.
If you prefer to stay on the ground the whole time, you shouldn't miss this Wildlife Spotting Tour in Manuel Antonio National Park.
CRUISING TO TORTUGA ISLAND
Tortuga Island, located near the Nicoya Peninsula in the Pacific Ocean, is home to azure sea waters and a beautiful sandy beach. A day trip to Isla Tortuga is a true tourist event with all the pros and cons you would imagine under this term.
There are plenty of things to do in Tortuga Island ranging from snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking to good old sunbathing.
On top of that, you can rent a chair and relax on the shore, sip a coconut drink, rent a kayak to explore the beaches from the water or take a banana boat tour to kill some time.
A bit of warning, though. Don't expect a remote paradise where you will have beaches for yourself.
Tortuga Island is a popular day trip in Costa Rica, and its beaches can be reached from Jaco, Puntarenas, Montezuma beach, Tambor beach, and many other places (even San Jose). Therefore, the island gets crowded, especially on weekends.
The quality of tours varies, and you can have the time of your life or leave disappointed.
Being said that, you can never know without trying, and from our experience, it is important to set your expectations right.
When booking Tortuga Island Tour, you have the chance to read the reviews, though.
TRY GALLO PINTO
Gallo Pinto is the most traditional food in Costa Rica, and although it translates as "spotted rooster", it's a vegetarian meal (well, when not served with bacon).
The translation is tied with the look of the meal, and the resemblance is uncanny.
The history of Gallo Pinto is a bit more complicated, and both Nicaragua and Costa Rica claim that the initial food recipe originates in their respective country.
Fortunately, we can leave the disputes of whoever it invented behind and slowly enjoy the filling result every morning while there. Eating Gallo Pinto somewhere on the beach while listening to calming sounds of the ocean will beautifully correspond with the Pura Vida mentality.
Gallo Pinto has a base of beans and rice and plenty of variations depending on the location.
Gallo Pinto is usually served at breakfast with scrambled eggs, avocado, and coffee, and the combination of rice and beans makes it a hearty meal that will keep you full until lunchtime.
There is practically a zero chance that you wouldn't come across this food on your journey around Costa Rica.
You can come across this food not only in Central America but in entire Latin America; only the food is served under different names, and ingredients vary from country to country.
FISHING AT THE PACIFIC OCEAN
Each year, fishing at the Costa Rican deep waters gets more and more popular. The seas around Costa Rica are incredibly rich with marine life, and according to the fishing calendar, you can catch snappers, groupers, sailfish, marlins, or bass year round.
If fishing is the activity you are looking for, then Costa Rica has perfect conditions for it.
In Costa Rica, you can go shore fishing, kayak fishing, or charter fishing, depending on your preferences and budget.
Although saltwater fishing provides a better experience, freshwater fishing is also a thing in Costa Rica.
You need a license for fishing from a vessel in Costa Rica; sometimes, it might be included in the tour. Make sure to follow all Costa Rican fishing regulations (for example, some species must be released).
SAN JOSE CITY TOUR
Often skipped by international travelers, San Jose might not have the same star power as other top attractions in the country.
However, it's never a bad idea to visit the capital city of a given country, as these cities are usually destinations on their own. And San Jose is so different from the natural sights that Costa Rica offers that this might be its greatest strength.
As a result, you might discover some unexpected surprises this large metropole hides.
San Jose is often not described in a positive way, and the city still has safety issues. Nevertheless, if you use your common sense, staying safe in San Jose is not that difficult.
Leave your valuables at the hotel, know where you go, avoid certain areas, and use a taxi to get around the city after dark.
Although it's always possible to wander the streets alone, a local guide will show you the city from a different perspective, and you can learn something about the history and visit top places without any hassle.
You can always shop around or book the San Jose City Tour online.
RELAX IN AN ECO LODGE
Costa Rica is one of the best eco-friendly destinations in the world, and staying at an ecolodge is one of the most popular ways to spend your time there.
Here we list some of the best ecolodges in Costa Rica. This is not any definitive list, though, and you can find many more amazing places around the country.
El Silencio Lodge and Spa | Set in a private tropical forest reserve, stylish suites have panoramic views of the mountains; the restaurant serves local dishes with vegetables and herbs from a private garden. In your free time, you can enjoy yoga, meditation, or hiking.
Lapa Rios Ecolodge | Are you looking for an intimate and authentic experience, sustainable tours, bird-watching walks, or interpretive hikes while staying in a bungalow amid a primary and secondary forest? Lapa Rios offers all this and much more. For reservations, head to their website and book directly with them.
Tortuga Lodge | Surrounded by a jungle and set on private land in Tortuguero, Tortuga Lodge offers stunning river views, beautiful rooms, hiking trails, wildlife, and a Caribbean fusion restaurant.
At first sight, it might seem that ecotourism is often a quite expensive way to travel. Fortunately, it's often not about the money, but the attitude.
You can find in Costa Rica plenty of cheap hostels or family guesthouses that run their business sustainably.
ENJOY A FRESH COCONUT ON THE CARIBBEAN BEACH
While it's technically true that you can drink a coconut at both shores of Costa Rica, it's a quintessential part of a trip to the Caribbean beaches.
The Caribbean side is a bit overlooked, and first-time visitors usually go only to Tortuguero and then return back to the Pacific coast. While that's not an entirely bad idea, there are still some places you might want to visit.
Visiting the Caribbean side is not only about beautiful places but also about the local people and culture, which is slightly different from the rest of the country.
The northeast of this coast is mainly visited for sea turtles and ecotourism in Tortuguero, but the southeast boasts fine sand beaches and insanely beautiful waters rich with marine life and coral reefs.
The best places to visit on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica are Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo.
Now imagine lying on the beach with a freshly opened coconut drink in your hand while listening to the soothing sound of the sea. It can't get much better than that.
By the way, not only is drinking coconut highly refreshing in the tropical country, but it's also very beneficial for your health.
HORSEBACK RIDING IN LA FORTUNA
Horseback riding has a long tradition in Costa Rica, and you might want to consider this activity even if you haven't ridden a horse before.
Riding along the pastures, forests, and rivers at the foothills of a volcano is a great way to experience Costa Rica from a different perspective.
Most of the tours are beginners friendly, the horses are well-trained, and your guide will adjust the tour to your experience.
Well-experienced riders might want to choose a Horseback Riding Private Tour to get the most of the trip.
Arenal is not the only place in Costa Rica for horseback riding, and you can take try this activity in plenty of other areas.
SPOT QUETZALS IN LOS QUETZALES NATIONAL PARK
The elusive resplendent quetzal is one of the most beautiful birds in Central America, and it's only to be expected to spot it there.
Similar to Monteverde, Los Quetzales National Park is, in reality, a cloud forest, and the elevation ranges from 1000 to 3000 meters. The area receives a lot of precipitation, the climate is much cooler (more than you would expect), and the forest is often shrouded in the clouds.
Cloud forests are unique and specific, and it's often more challenging to spot wildlife without a local guide.
Los Quetzales National Park is one of the less popular national parks, but if you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Costa Rica, look no further.
The pros and cons of the park are self-evident. Escaping crowds can be difficult in Costa Rica, but there are still places you can have almost for yourself.
The facilities and the ranger station at the entrance are basic, and the park can't compete with its more famous counterparts at this part.
There are currently only two trails in the park open for the public; one is short and paved (800 meters), the other is longer and more adventurous (2 kilometers).
The park was opened not that long ago, and hopefully, more trails will be available in the future.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
