Travel blog, tips and advice for
Costa Rican travelers 

Dominical Costa Rica is a laid-back surf town located on the southern Pacific coast, where jungle-covered mountains meet powerful ocean waves. Known for its relaxed vibe, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and access to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful national parks, Dominical is a favorite stop for backpackers, digital nomads, families, and nature lovers. Whether you’re traveling through Costa Rica on a budget, planning a family adventure, or exploring solo, this guide cove

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to birdsong, watching monkeys swing through the canopy, or sipping your morning coffee above the rainforest floor, then staying in a Costa Rica treehouse hotel  is an experience you can’t miss. From rustic eco-retreats to luxurious treetop villas, Costa Rica offers some of the most unique and unforgettable stays in the world. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about staying in a treehouse hotel—plus recommendations, tips, an

Las Catalinas Costa Rica is unlike any other destination in the country. Designed as a car-free beach town , Las Catalinas blends Mediterranean-style architecture with Costa Rica’s natural beauty, offering a walkable, peaceful, and community-focused travel experience. Located on the northern Pacific coast in Guanacaste, this thoughtfully planned town attracts travelers seeking relaxation, outdoor adventure, and a refined atmosphere away from mass tourism. Whether you’re visit

If you’re planning a trip to Central America , one of the most frequent questions we hear at Pura Vida Traveling  is: “Nicaragua vs. Costa Rica — which one should I visit?”  Both countries are beautiful and packed with adventure, nature, culture, and memorable experiences… but they each offer very different kinds of travel. From volcanic landscapes and colonial cities in Nicaragua to lush rainforests, beaches, and well-developed tourism services in Costa Rica, your perfect de

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching waves in a tropical paradise, Costa Rica is calling your name! This vibrant country is a surfer’s haven, offering warm waters, consistent waves, and stunning beaches. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, learning to surf in Costa Rica is an unforgettable adventure. I’m here to share everything you need to know about surfing courses, the best spots, and how to make the most of your time riding the waves. Why cho

Traveling around Costa Rica doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re landing at San José Airport or Liberia Airport , heading to the jungle, the beach, or anywhere in between, a shuttle service is one of the easiest ways to move around Costa Rica . In this complete guide, we’ll explain how shuttles work, the difference between private and shared services, tips for booking, and why choosing a reliable shuttle provider will make your trip better from start to finish. What

Costa Rica is a dream destination for adventure lovers, road trippers, and nature seekers. From misty cloud forests and hidden waterfalls to remote beaches and rugged mountain roads, the country rewards travelers who are willing to explore beyond the main highways. To do that safely and comfortably, renting the right vehicle is essential. If you’re wondering where to rent 4x4 vehicles for Costa Rica adventures , the short answer is: choose a reliable rental company, book thro

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, home to nearly 6% of the planet’s wildlife despite covering less than 0.03% of its surface. From slow-moving sloths and colorful toucans to migrating whales and nesting sea turtles, the country offers year-round wildlife encounters that few destinations can match. But while Costa Rica has wildlife all year long, the best time to visit Costa Rica for wildlife viewing depends on what animals you want to see, where yo

If you’re planning a trip to Central America , you may be deciding between two of the region’s most popular destinations: Panama vs. Costa Rica . Both countries offer beautiful beaches, tropical landscapes, rich culture, and exciting adventures — but the travel experience in each place is surprisingly different. At Pura Vida Traveling , we help travelers plan unforgettable trips to Costa Rica every day, and we’re often asked how Costa Rica compares to Panama. While these neig

Understanding Costa Rica weather by month  is one of the most important steps when planning your trip. While Costa Rica is a year-round destination, the experience can vary greatly depending on rainfall, temperatures, wildlife activity, and crowds. At Pura Vida Traveling, we help travelers plan their trips with practical, up-to-date information about transportation, tours, accommodations, and the best times to visit each region. In this guide, we break down Costa Rica weather

One of the best things about visiting Manuel Antonio  is how easy it is to reach from nearby Quepos . Whether you’re heading to the Manuel Antonio National Park for the day, checking into a jungle hotel, or just chasing sunset views by the beach, this short trip is simple and stress-free. These two neighbors are only a short ride apart, and travelers have a couple of great ways to make the journey — whether you want something fast and private, or cheap and local. Below, we br

Planning a trip to Costa Rica in February ? You’re choosing one of the best months of the year to explore the country. February falls right in the heart of Costa Rica’s dry season, offering sunny days, warm temperatures, lush landscapes, and ideal conditions for beaches, wildlife watching, and adventure activities. At Pura Vida Traveling, we help backpackers, families, and solo travelers plan unforgettable trips across Costa Rica. In this guide, you’ll find everything you nee

Corcovado National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic and biodiverse destinations — a place where lush rainforest meets wild Pacific beaches, and wildlife thrives in one of the most untouched ecosystems in the world. National Geographic once called it “one of the most biologically intense places on Earth,”  and for good reason. If you're a true nature enthusiast looking for the ultimate wildlife experience, Corcovado National Park  is the hidden gem that will take your C

If you’re short on time but don’t want to miss one of Costa Rica’s most unique destinations, a Tortuguero 2 day tour (1 night) is the perfect solution. Often called the Amazon of Costa Rica , Tortuguero National Park is famous for its lush canals, incredible wildlife, and remote Caribbean atmosphere. In this guide, we’ll explain what to expect from a 2-day Tortuguero tour, who it’s best for, what you’ll see, and why booking with Pura Vida Traveling makes your trip easy and st

Monteverde is one of the most famous destinations in Costa Rica—and for good reason. Known for its mystical cloud forests, rich biodiversity, and strong commitment to conservation, Costa Rica is also one of the best places for birdwatching. With more than 400 bird species recorded in the region, birdwatching in Monteverde is a must-do activity for backpackers, families, solo travelers, and anyone interested in wildlife and nature. Whether you’re an experienced birder or simp

Santa Teresa , Costa Rica isn’t just famous for its surf and sunsets—it’s also a top fishing destination on the Nicoya Peninsula. With rich Pacific waters, experienced local captains, and year-round fishing opportunities, Santa Teresa is perfect for beginners, families, and experienced anglers alike. At Pura Vida Traveling, we help travelers find the best fishing tours in Costa Rica, whether you want a relaxed inshore trip or a full offshore deep-sea adventure. Why Go Fishing

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is famous for its laid-back Caribbean vibe, golden-sand beaches, reggae rhythms, and rich Afro-Caribbean culture. But beyond the surf breaks and colorful beach towns, there’s another unforgettable experience waiting for you: a chocolate tour in Puerto Viejo . Costa Rica has a long and fascinating relationship with cacao, and the Caribbean coast is one of the best places in the country to discover how chocolate is grown, harvested, and transformed —

Uvita, Costa Rica, is one of the most captivating and diverse destinations in the South Pacific region of Costa Rica. Known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and relaxed vibe, Uvita appeals to every type of traveler—from backpackers seeking adventure to families looking for nature and beaches, and solo travelers craving serenity or exploration. This comprehensive guide will help you plan every aspect of your trip to Uvita. We cover the best ways

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica that combines adrenaline, nature, and hidden waterfalls, the Pilas Blancas ATV Waterfall Tour in Nosara  should be at the top of your list. This tour is one of the best ways to explore Costa Rica’s rugged backcountry while visiting a beautiful jungle waterfall—perfect for backpackers, families with older kids, and solo travelers alike. What Is the Pilas Blancas ATV Waterfall Tour? The Pilas Blancas ATV Waterfall T

Joining a Yoga Teacher Training in Costa Rica is more than an educational experience—it’s a transformational journey. Between lush jungles, ocean breezes, and a deeply rooted wellness culture, Costa Rica offers the perfect environment to step into your role as a yoga teacher (or deepen your personal practice). Whether you’re preparing for a 200 hour yoga teacher training  or advancing your path with a 300 hour yoga teacher training , this guide will help you feel confident,

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica is one of the most iconic beach destinations on the Nicoya Peninsula . Once a quiet fishing village, Santa Teresa has grown into a vibrant surf town known for its world-class waves, stunning sunsets, laid-back vibe, and wellness-focused lifestyle. Today, it attracts backpackers, digital nomads, families, and solo travelers looking for adventure, relaxation, and a strong connection to nature. In this complete travel guide, you’ll find everything you

If you’re planning a trip to Tamarindo, Costa Rica, one of the most unforgettable experiences you can add to your itinerary is a catamaran sailing and snorkeling tour. Whether you’re a backpacker seeking adventure, a family looking for a fun beach day, or a solo traveler wanting that Pura Vida  moment on the water, this cruise delivers breathtaking ocean views, tropical wildlife, and perfect moments to relax and explore. What to Expect on a Tamarindo Catamaran Tour? A typical

Visiting the Nicoya Peninsula and looking for an unforgettable adventure? One of the best ways to experience Montezuma Waterfall  is by joining an ATV Waterfall Tour from Santa Teresa . This tour combines jungle trails, river crossings, local villages, and one of Costa Rica’s most famous waterfalls — all in one epic half-day adventure. Whether you’re a backpacker chasing adrenaline, a family looking for a fun outdoor activity, or a solo traveler wanting to explore beyond the

Explore Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast by Sea — Wildlife, Snorkeling, Sunset Views & Pure Pura Vida! If you’re planning a trip to Manuel Antonio or Quepos , one of the best ways to experience Costa Rica’s breathtaking coastline is on a catamaran boat tour  departing from Marina Pez Vela . Whether you’re a backpacker, a family traveler, or a solo adventurer, this half-day sailing adventure offers something unforgettable for everyone. Why a Catamaran Tour is a Must-Do in Manuel Ant