Travel blog, tips and advice for
Costa Rican travelers 

Thinking about sleeping under the stars, hearing howler monkeys at night, or waking up to waves lapping on the sand? Camping in Costa Rica is one of the most immersive ways to explore this biodiverse paradise. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know — from preparations and route ideas to safety tips and gear suggestions — so that your camping journey becomes one of your most unforgettable experiences. Why Camp in Costa Rica? Costa Rica is famed for its stunning natur

Thinking of visiting Costa Rica in November? It's a fascinating time of year — not quite peak dry-season, but past the worst of the rains, and full of lush landscapes, fewer crowds and good deals. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect—weather, crowds, wildlife, activities, pros & cons—and give you practical tips for making the most of your trip. Why November Is a Unique Travel Month November in Costa Rica is a transition month between the rainy ("green") seaso

If you’re planning a trip to Central America, one question probably keeps popping up: “Guatemala vs Costa Rica — which one should I visit?” Both countries are incredible, but they offer very different experiences. From volcano hikes and colonial towns in Guatemala to beaches and rainforests in Costa Rica, the choice depends on your travel style, budget, and what you want out of your adventure. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the decision e

If you want to soak in hot springs without paying resort prices , El Choyin — also called Rio Chollín or the free hot springs of La Fortuna — is your best bet. This naturally heated river is open to the public 24/7, offering a rustic, wild experience compared to the commercial thermal spas. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to find it, what to expect, safety tips, and how to make the most of your visit. What Is El Choyin / Rio Chollín? El Choyin (Rio Chollín) is a na

If you’re looking for a more peaceful and intimate hot spring experience in La Fortuna, far from the crowds, Ecotermales Fortuna might be exactly what you need. Hidden in the rainforest just minutes from town, these natural thermal pools offer the perfect balance between nature, relaxation, and local authenticity . In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about visiting Ecotermales Fortuna — from prices and facilities to what makes it one of the most belov

Planning your first trip to Costa Rica? Between the rainforests, volcanoes, wildlife, and world-class beaches, it's easy to see why this tiny Central American country consistently ranks among the top travel destinations in the world. But Costa Rica has its own quirks — and first-time visitors often fall into the same traps that turn dream vacations into stressful ones. We've been on the ground here for years, helping backpackers, families, and solo travelers explore Costa Ric

Monteverde may be famous for its misty cloud forests and wildlife, but its food scene is just as unforgettable. From treetop fine-dining experiences and farm-to-table bistros to cozy local sodas serving traditional Costa Rican dishes, Monteverde has something for every traveler’s palate. Whether you’re craving a romantic dinner surrounded by nature, a casual café with mountain views, or hearty comfort food after a day of adventure, this charming highland town delivers. Here’s

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

Planning your first — or fifth — trip to Costa Rica? Before you pack your bags, read this. These are the real Costa Rica do's and don'ts that locals wish every traveler knew before landing. If you're getting ready to visit Costa Rica, you're in for an extraordinary adventure. This small Central American country packs in rainforests, volcanoes, pristine beaches, incredible wildlife, and some of the warmest people you'll ever meet. But like any destination, knowing what to do —

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

Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to the sound of howler monkeys, stepping outside into warm tropical sunshine, and spending the afternoon on a pristine Pacific beach with a cold drink in hand. No snow. No gray skies. No scraping ice off the windshield. That's Christmas in Costa Rica — and it's every bit as magical as it sounds. Whether you're dreaming of a beachside holiday escape, a family adventure among volcanoes and rainforests, or a cultural immersion into one of L

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