Travel blog, tips and advice for
Costa Rican travelers 

Costa Rica — a name that instantly brings to mind lush rainforests, golden beaches, and the iconic “Pura Vida” lifestyle. But if you’ve ever wondered where exactly Costa Rica is located , you’re not alone. Many travelers hear about this Central American gem without realizing its small yet strategic position on the world map. In this guide, we’ll explain where Costa Rica is located , what countries border it, its geography and climate , and why its location makes it one of the

If you’re planning your trip to Costa Rica, get ready — you’re about to experience one of the most beautiful, friendly, and adventure-packed countries in the world. But before you pack your flip-flops and sunscreen, it’s good to know a few Costa Rica do’s and don’ts  that can make your trip smoother, safer, and more authentic. These are the insider Costa Rica travel tips locals wish every traveler knew  — so you can enjoy the Pura Vida  lifestyle from day one. DO: Embrace the

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? You’re in for a treat. Between the lush rainforests, shimmering coasts, and vibrant wildlife, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. But with so much to see, you might be wondering: what is  truly  a  Costa Rica must-see and do ? Let me walk you through my top picks (and tips) so you make the most o f your adventure here. If you love wildlife, don’t miss our full guide to Costa Rica animals   — it’s packed with tips for spotting monke

When you think of Costa Rica, you probably picture lush rainforests, colorful birds, and exotic creatures hidden in the jungle. And you’re absolutely right! Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth — home to over 500,000 species , representing nearly 5% of all life on the planet. From sleepy sloths hanging in the treetops to red-eyed tree frogs perched on leaves, Costa Rica’s animals are part of what makes this country so magical. Whether you’re hiking thro

Traveling from the remote, nature-rich towns of Sierpe to the laid-back beach community of Uvita offers a chance to explore more of Costa Rica’s stunning South Pacific coast. Whether you are arriving after a wildlife expedition or a jungle retreat, several transportation options can help you reach Uvita efficiently and comfortably. Below, we explore five common ways to make this journey: by rental car or taxi, by air, by shared shuttle, by private shuttle, and by bus. Each o

Drake Bay is a remote, wild paradise on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, accessible primarily by water or rugged roads. But eventually, many travelers need to make their way from Drake Bay to Sierpe (to continue to San José, other destinations, or onward transit). In this guide, we walk you through all the realistic options, recommended routes, schedules, cost estimates, and practical tips — just like our reverse article ( How to get to Drake Bay from Sierpe ) but from the opposit

If you’re dreaming of the perfect tropical escape, Santa Teresa Beach  in Costa Rica should be at the top of your list. Known for its world-class surf, breathtaking sunsets, and relaxed bohemian vibe, this small beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula has become one of the country’s most sought-after coastal destinations. Where Is Santa Teresa Beach? Santa Teresa Beach  is located on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula , on the Pacific side of the country. It’s part of the Puntarenas p

When the sun drops behind the cloud forests of Costa Rica, a whole new world awakens. Welcome to the realm of nocturnal wonders — welcome to the Monteverde Costa Rica night tour . In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes a night tour in Monteverde so extraordinary, what to expect on your adventure, the wildlife you may see, tips to prepare, and how you can reserve your spot on a top-rated guided experience. If you’re ready to explore the forest after dark, check out our

Monteverde, Costa Rica, is famous for its lush cloud forests, exotic wildlife, and eco-adventures. While many travelers come for zip-lining and guided night tours, you don’t have to spend big to enjoy the magic of this mountain paradise. From scenic hikes to local hangouts, Monteverde offers plenty of budget-friendly and even free activities. Here are the top cheap and free things to do in Monteverde —including a stop at the famous Colibrí Café. 1. Walk the Santa Elena Town &

If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the open road, exploring volcanoes, jungles, and pristine beaches—all while carrying your home on wheels—then Costa Rica is the perfect place for a campervan adventure . And one company stands out for making this dream possible: Costa Rider Campervan . With flexible options ranging from campervans to 4x4 rentals in Costa Rica with rooftop tents , C osta Rider makes it easy to travel with comfort and freedom. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a

There are many ways to explore Costa Rica—flying between cities, booking shuttle buses, or renting a car and staying at hotels. However, if you’re seeking a travel experience that combines adventure with comfort,  Pura Van  campervan rental in Costa Rica   is the ideal choice. With sleek, fully equipped vans that feel more like a mini home than just a vehicle, Pura Van has become a favorite for travelers who want to take a Costa Rica road trip  without sacrificing convenience

There’s something magical about a sunset in Costa Rica . Whether you’re watching the sun dip below the Pacific Ocean or fade behind lush jungle-covered mountains, the country offers some of the most breathtaking golden hours in the world. If you’re planning your trip, you might be asking: What time is sunset in Costa Rica?  The answer depends on the season and your location, but sunsets here are reliably spectacular throughout the year. In this guide, we’ll cover everything y

Christmas in Costa Rica blends the warmth of tropical weather with deeply rooted Catholic traditions and vivacious public celebrations....

Costa Rica has become a premier destination for yoga teacher training (YTT), thanks to its natural beauty, wellness culture, and “Pura...

When people think of Quepos , Costa Rica, two things often come to mind: world-class sportfishing and its proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park . At the heart of this coastal town lies Marina Pez Vela , a state-of-the-art marina and lifestyle hub that has transformed Quepos into a world-class destination for travelers, anglers, and ocean lovers alike. Whether you’re planning a fishing adventure, looking for fine dining with ocean views, or simply want to soak in the vibra

San José, the bustling capital of Costa Rica, is a popular destination for travelers making their way from the beautiful beaches of San...

If you’re planning a trip to La Fortuna , Costa Rica, one of the must-do experiences is visiting the Baldi Hot Springs . Known as one of the largest hot spring resorts in the world, Baldi offers a blend of relaxation, fun, and natural beauty that makes it a favorite for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With over 25 thermal pools , waterfalls, swim-up bars, saunas, and even water slides, it’s easy to see why Baldi is one of the most popular hot springs in La Fortu

Santa Teresa is one of Costa Rica’s most magical beach towns — known for its laid-back surf culture, stunning sunsets, and barefoot boho vibe. It draws in backpackers, digital nomads, yogis, and adventure seekers from around the world. While the town has its luxurious side, the good news is that you don’t need a big budget to enjoy the best of it . When we headed to Santa Teresa, we honestly didn’t know what to expect. We hadn’t done much research and were just going with the

October sits halfway through Costa Rica’s green (rainy) season on the Pacific side, but on the Caribbean coast, it brings some of the...

We’ve called Quepos home for over 10 years, and one of our favorite aspects of living here is exploring the town’s vibrant food scene. Over the years, we’ve tried just about every spot — from the bakeries that wake up the city with the smell of fresh bread to the marina restaurants serving elegant dinners with a view. In this guide, we’re sharing our personal favorites and the places we confidently recommend to friends, family, and travelers alike. Dive into this guide to th

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, is more than just a world-renowned surf destination — it’s also a gourmet paradise for food lovers . From...

Traveling from Uvita , located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, to Tamarindo on the northwestern Nicoya Peninsula requires...

Traveling from Sámara to San José is a journey that takes you from the laid-back beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula to the bustling heart of...

Thinking about moving to Costa Rica as an American ? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of U.S. citizens are drawn to Costa Rica’s...