Travel blog, tips and advice for
Costa Rican travelers 

Montezuma, Costa Rica, is a bohemian beach town perched at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Known for its laid-back vibe, lush jungle waterfalls, and pristine beaches, Montezuma has become a must-visit destination in Costa Rica for everyone from budget backpackers to families seeking adventure. Whether you’re chasing surfing waves, hidden waterfalls, local culture, or sunset dinners by the sea, Montezuma delivers an unforgettable Pacific Coast experience. In this com

If you're searching for one of the most thrilling outdoor adventures in Jacó, the Extreme Canyoning Tour at Vista Los Sueños  delivers an unforgettable adrenaline rush. This experience takes you deep into Costa Rica’s lush rainforest, where you’ll rappel down powerful waterfalls, hike along jungle riverbeds, and immerse yourself in some of the wildest landscapes on the Pacific coast. Unlike many typical adventure tours, canyoning combines hiking, climbing, rappelling, and swi

Costa Rica may look small on the map, but traveling around the country can take more time than most visitors expect. Mountain ranges, winding coastal roads, rural villages, and rainforest terrain all impact travel time. If you are planning your trip, one of the most important questions to answer is: How do you get around Costa Rica efficiently and affordably? Whether you’re a backpacker traveling on a tight budget, a family looking for comfort, or a solo traveler wanting fle

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica, chances are you’ve come across two iconic destinations: Monteverde and Arenal (La Fortuna). Both are famous for lush rainforest landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. But they offer very different experiences. So the big question is: Should you go to Monteverde or Arenal ? The answer depends on what kind of traveler you are — backpacker, family, solo explorer — and what you’re hoping to experience in Co

If you’re visiting the lively beach town of Jacó  and looking for an exciting outdoor activity, an ATV adventure tour  should be at the top of your list. This thrilling off-road experience takes you far beyond the main streets of town and deep into Costa Rica’s tropical jungle. Riding an ATV through muddy trails, crossing rivers, climbing to mountain viewpoints, and swimming at a hidden waterfall are among the best ways to experience the region's natural beauty. Whether you’r

Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s most popular beach towns—and while it’s known for surfing, nightlife, and great restaurants, you don’t need a big budget to enjoy it. Whether you’re backpacking through Costa Rica, traveling with family, or exploring solo, Tamarindo offers plenty of free things to do  that let you experience the town’s natural beauty and laid-back pura vida vibe. At Pura Vida Traveling , we help travelers make the most of Costa Rica—so here’s our list of the t

Samara Costa Rica is one of the most welcoming and easygoing beach towns in the country. Known for its calm waters, friendly community, and relaxed pace of life, Samara attracts a wide range of travelers — from families with young children to solo travelers, digital nomads, and couples looking for a stress-free beach escape. Samara offers something that’s becoming increasingly rare in Costa Rica: a beautiful beach with safe swimming conditions , plenty of local character, an

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? You’re in for a treat! This country is a vibrant mix of lush rainforests, stunning beaches, active volcanoes, and incredible wildlife. Whether you’re a backpacker, traveling with family, or going solo, this ultimate 10-day Costa Rica itinerary will help you make the most of your adventure. We will share our favorite spots, practical tips, and a day-by-day plan that balances adventure, relaxation, and culture. Ready? Let’s dive in! Itinerary pl

Planning your first trip to Costa Rica? You probably have a lot of questions — about safety, transportation, costs, weather, and where to go. At Pura Vida Traveling , we help travelers navigate Costa Rica with ease — from getting around the country to finding the best tours, hotels, and restaurants. In this guide, we answer the most common questions first-time visitors ask, so you can plan confidently and make the most of your trip. Let’s dive in! General Costa Rica Travel Qu