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Costa Rica
Travel Guide

Costa Rica is the ultimate pura vida destination, and once you experience it for yourself, you will understand why. This beautiful Central American country packs incredible diversity into its borders. You’ll find misty cloud forests, active volcanoes, laid-back surf towns, and some of the most wildlife-rich jungles on the planet.

This Costa Rica travel guide will walk you through the country’s most exciting regions and must visit destinations, so you can plan an unforgettable trip.

San José Santa Teresa La Fortuna Monteverde

Uvita Manuel Antonio Bajos del Toro Pura Vida

San José Santa Teresa La Fortuna Monteverde

Uvita Manuel Antonio Bajos del Toro Pura Vida

One destination, many experiences

Discover the Different Sides of
Costa Rica

San José – Central Valley & City Life

Santa Teresa – Pacific Coast & Surf Culture

La Fortuna – Volcanoes & Adventure

Monteverde – Cloud Forests & Wildlife

Uvita – Coastal Nature & Marine Life

Manuel Antonio – Beaches & Rainforest

Bajos del Toro – Rainforest & hidden, misty Waterfalls

The Capital

San José

San José might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Costa Rica. However, it’s worth a quick stopover. The capital sits right in the heart of the Central Valley, surrounded by green mountains and coffee plantations. As a result, you get a genuine feel for everyday Tico life.

The city has a buzzing energy with colorful markets, fascinating museums, and a food scene that is seriously underrated. It is also the perfect base for day trips to nearby volcanoes, waterfalls, and cloud forests. Give it a chance and San José might surprise you.

Why Visit San José?

Cultural Hub – San José is home to the country’s best museums, theaters, and markets, giving you a real sense of Costa Rica’s history and daily life.

Authentic Local Life – Unlike the tourist heavy beach towns, San José offers a raw and genuine look at how Ticos actually live, eat, and connect.

Best Things to Do and See in San José

Mercado Central – Wander through this bustling indoor market. Locals shop here for fresh produce, spices, and traditional Costa Rican dishes.

Walking Tour – One of the best ways to experience San José is on a walking tour. Explore the historic downtown, full of culture and beautiful architecture.

National Theater – Admire the stunning neoclassical architecture of Costa Rica’s most iconic cultural landmark, built in 1897 and still hosting performances today.

National Museum – A museum that explores Costa Rica’s cultural and natural history, showcasing its journey from pre-Columbian times to the present.

Jade Museum – Explore one of the most impressive collections of pre-Columbian jade in the Americas, housed in a striking modern building in the city center.

Poás Volcano Day Trip – Drive about an hour from the city to peer into one of the world’s largest active craters, often framed by swirling clouds and lush vegetation.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens – Visit this nature park just outside San José to walk past multiple waterfalls, see rescued wildlife, and wander through butterfly and hummingbird gardens.

Where the jungle meets the surf

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is the kind of place where you show up for a few days and end up staying for weeks. I literally met so many visitors who extended their stay! Tucked away on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, this bohemian surf town feels magical.
It’s a mix of incredible waves, golden sunsets, and a lush jungle backdrop.

The vibe here is effortlessly cool. Think barefoot dinners, yoga at sunrise, and long days spent between the ocean and the trees. It is not the easiest place to reach, but that is part of its charm. Once you arrive, you will wonder why you did not come sooner.

Why Visit Santa Teresa?

World Class Surf – Consistent swells and warm water make Santa Teresa one of the best surf destinations in Central America, with breaks for every level.

Bohemian Atmosphere – The town has a creative, free spirited energy with yoga studios, smoothie bowls, and sunsets that bring everyone together on the beach.

Best Things to Do and See in Santa Teresa

Discover the Village – Santa Teresa is a laid-back 4 km stretch filled with great restaurants, boutiques, co-working spaces, yoga studios, and beachy vibes.

Go Surfing – Grab a board and hit the waves at one of the many beaches, all known for their consistent breaks.

Montezuma Waterfalls – Take a day trip to the nearby town of Montezuma and hike to a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by tropical forest.

Discover the Beaches – Playa Hermosa, Playa Carmen, and Playa Santa Teresa, each offering beautiful scenery and perfect waves for surfing or relaxing.

Sunset Yoga – Join one of the many beachfront yoga sessions and stretch out while the sun dips below the Pacific horizon.

ATV Coastline Tour – Rent an ATV and explore the dirt roads along the coast, passing hidden beaches and jungle trails along the way.

Mal Pais Tide Pools – Visit the impressive natural rock pools that form at low tide. Scattered along the shore, it's a great spot to relax.

Tortuga Island – For even more tropical vibes, take a day trip to Tortuga Island for white sand beaches, clear water, and a few trails with wild pigs to spot.

How to Get to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

It's a bit remote, which is exactly why it feels so special, but getting there takes a little planning. You have a few main options:

Fly from San José: The fastest option is to take a domestic flight with Sansa or Green Airways to Tambor Airport, followed by a 45–60 minute drive to Santa Teresa.

By car: Take a taxi to Puntarenas, then board the Naviera Tambor ferry to Paquera (about 1.5 hours). From there, continue by taxi for another 1.5–2 hours to reach Santa Teresa. It’s highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially if you’re traveling with a car.

By ferry: Take a taxi to Puntarenas, take the Naviera Tambor ferry (Puntarenas to Paquera, about 1.5 hours), then continue by taxi for another 1.5–2 hours to reach Santa Teresa. It’s highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially if you’re traveling with a car.

Even though we had a rental car during our entire trip in Costa Rica, we decided to fly to Santa Teresa from San José. It’s an experience in itself! The views and plane take-off over the coastline and jungle make the journey just as unforgettable as the destination.

The volcano playground

La Fortuna

La Fortuna sits in the shadow of the mighty Arenal Volcano. Honestly, it’s one of those places where adventure finds you. Whether you are soaking in natural hot springs, chasing waterfalls, or zip lining through the jungle canopy, there is never a dull moment here.

The town itself is small and walkable, but the surroundings are absolutely packed with things to do. Arenal Volcano dominates the skyline and creates a dramatic backdrop for everything, from morning hikes to evening dips in steaming thermal pools. If you love being outdoors, La Fortuna is paradise.

Why Visit La Fortuna?

Arenal Volcano – The iconic perfectly cone shaped volcano towers over the town and creates one of the most dramatic natural backdrops in all of Costa Rica.

Hot Springs Everywhere – Volcanic activity heats natural rivers and pools throughout the area, offering dozens of hot spring options from luxury resorts to free local spots.

Adventure Capital – From zip lining and white water rafting to canyoning and hanging bridges, La Fortuna is packed with adrenaline fueled activities.

Best Things to Do and See in La Fortuna

La Fortuna Waterfall – Descend over 500 steps through lush jungle to reach this stunning 70 meter waterfall and swim in the refreshing pool at its base.

Arenal Volcano Hike – Explore the trails in Arenal Volcano National Park, walking over old lava flows while spotting wildlife and enjoying incredible volcano views.

Mistico Hanging Bridges – Walk across a series of suspension bridges through the rainforest canopy, offering unique perspectives of the jungle and its inhabitants.

Discover the Village – La Fortuna is a small, lively town surrounded by lush nature, with great restaurants, cozy cafés and local shops.

Hot Springs – Relax in one of the region’s many thermal pools, whether at a resort like Tabacón or at a quieter free spot along the river.

El Salto Rope Swing – A popular rope swing spot right by the bridge in town, where you can jump into water below. Just grab the rope and swing into the refreshing pool.

Rio Celeste Day Trip – Drive about an hour to Tenorio Volcano National Park and hike to the breathtaking turquoise blue waterfall. Yes, the color really is intense blue!

The free hot springs along the river (called Tabacón River Hot Springs or El Choyin) are just as great as the paid ones.

Walking through the clouds

Monteverde

Monteverde is one of those rare places where you genuinely feel like you have stepped into a different reality. High up in the mountains, this region is famous for its cloud forests, where mist drifts through ancient trees draped in moss and orchids, creating an atmosphere that is incredibly beautiful.

Here, the biodiversity is mind-blowing! With over 400 species of birds, thousands of plant species, and some of the rarest wildlife on the continent, Monteverde is a nature lover’s dream. And yes, you might just spot the legendary resplendent quetzal if you are lucky enough.

Why Visit Monteverde?

Unique Cloud Forest Ecosystem – Monteverde’s cloud forests are among the most biodiverse places on Earth, home to species you will not find anywhere else.

Incredible Birdwatching – With over 400 bird species including the resplendent quetzal, it is one of the top birdwatching destinations in the world.

Best Things to Do and See in Monteverde

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve – Walk the misty trails of this world renowned reserve and immerse yourself in one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet.

La Reserva Bosque Nuboso – A protected natural reserve with hiking trails through dense cloud forest. It’s quieter, more raw, and better for nature and wildlife spotting.

Colibri Cafe – Right at the entrance of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Colibri Café is the perfect place to relax after a hike. Sip a Costa Rican coffee while hummingbirds flutter all around you.

Santa Elena – Explore the charming town at the heart of Monteverde, with cozy cafés, local shops, and a laid-back mountain vibe.

El Tigre Waterfall – Hike through lush forest to a series of beautiful waterfalls, with hanging bridges and scenic views along the way.

Zip Lining – Fly through the clouds on some of the longest and highest zip lines in Latin America, an experience you will never forget.

Night Tour – Join a guided walk after dark to discover nocturnal creatures like tarantulas, glass frogs, kinkajous, and sleeping birds.

Coffee and Chocolate Tour – Learn how Costa Rica’s famous coffee and cacao are grown and processed, with plenty of tastings along the way.

The road from La Fortuna to Monteverde is famously rough and unpaved for a long stretch. Plan extra time for the drive and definitely go with a 4x4.

Where the whale tail meets the shore

Uvita

Uvita is a small coastal town on the Southern Pacific coast that punches well above its weight when it comes to natural beauty. It's most famous for the Marino Ballena National Park, where a stunning natural sandbar shaped exactly like a whale’s tail stretches out into the ocean at low tide.

However, there is much more to this place than just the whale tail. During the right season, humpback whales migrate through these waters. The surrounding area is full of waterfalls, jungle hikes, and peaceful beaches. It's the kind of place that moves at its own pace, and that is exactly what makes it special.

Why Visit Uvita?

The Famous Whale Tail – At low tide, a natural sandbar forms a near perfect whale tail shape in the ocean, one of the most unique natural formations in Costa Rica.

Humpback Whale Watching – From mid July to October and January to March, humpback whales visit these waters to breed and nurse their calves.

Off the Beaten Path – Uvita has a quieter, more local feel compared to the bigger tourist hubs, making it perfect for travelers who want to slow down.

Best Things to Do and See in Uvita

Marino Ballena National Park – Walk out onto the famous whale tail sandbar at low tide and explore the park’s beaches, mangroves, and coral reefs.

Whale Watching Tour – Take a boat tour during whale season to see humpback whales breaching in the warm Pacific waters, often accompanied by dolphins.

Nauyaca Waterfalls – Hike to these stunning two tiered waterfalls, widely considered among the most beautiful in all of Costa Rica.

Uvita Waterfall – A smaller but gorgeous local waterfall just outside town where you can swim and even slide down a natural rock slide.

El Pavon Waterfall – A unique jungle waterfall where a massive boulder is perfectly wedged between the rocks, with water flowing right beneath it.

Playa Ventanas – Visit this unique beach with sea caves that you can explore at low tide, framed by dramatic rock formations.

Playa Hermosa – With its dark sand and palm-lined backdrop, Playa Hermosa is a beautiful 2 km stretch where locals and visitors gather for an afternoon surf.

Day Trip to Dominical – Just 15 minutes from Uvita, Dominical is a small, laid-back surf town with a hippie vibe.

Sierra Mangrove Tour – Take a boat tour through the Sierpe mangroves, about 45 minutes from Uvita. This protected wetland is rich in wildlife.

The whale tail is only fully visible at low tide and, unfortunately, only from above. Check the tide charts before your visit and you may need a drone to see it properly.

Where rainforest meets the sea

Manuel Antonio

This is where lush tropical rainforest meets pristine Pacific beaches. The result is one of Costa Rica’s most beloved destinations. Although small, the national park is incredibly packed with wildlife. Monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and colorful birds are all around, and you do not have to look hard to spot them.

What makes Manuel Antonio so special is how effortlessly nature and comfort coexist. You can spend the morning hiking through the jungle, the afternoon swimming on a white sand beach, and the evening watching the sunset from a hilltop restaurant.

Why Visit Manuel Antonio?

Incredible Wildlife – Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see monkeys, sloths, toucans, and other tropical animals up close.

Beautiful Beaches – The park and surrounding area have some of the most stunning beaches on the Pacific coast, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Easy Access – Located just a few hours from San José, Manuel Antonio is one of the most accessible nature destinations in the country.

Best Things to Do and See in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio National Park – Hike the well maintained trails through dense rainforest and relax on the gorgeous beaches inside the park, all while spotting wildlife at every turn.

Wildlife Spotting – Keep your eyes open for three toed sloths hanging in the trees, white faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, and colorful toucans.

Manuel Antonio Beach – A stunning white sand beach inside the national park, surrounded by lush jungle and crystal-clear turquoise water.

Espadilla Beach – A long, lively beach just outside the park, known for its surf, golden sand, and laid-back atmosphere.

Espadilla Norte Beach – Enjoy this beautiful public beach just outside the park entrance, great for surfing, swimming, and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day Trip to Nauyaca Waterfalls – Hike to these stunning two tiered waterfalls, widely considered among the most beautiful in all of Costa Rica.

Rainmaker Conservation Project – Visit this private reserve with hanging bridges, waterfalls, and old growth forest, offering a quieter alternative to the national park.

Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesdays. It also has a daily visitor cap and tickets must be bought online via the SINAC system beforehand. Physical tickets are not sold at the gate.

Off the Beaten Path

Bajos del toro

Bajos del Toro is where wild, untouched nature takes center stage, with lush rainforest, dramatic waterfalls, and misty mountain landscapes creating one of Costa Rica’s most hidden gems. This area sits within a cloud forest. Low-hanging mist drifts through the mountains, creating a cool climate, incredible scenery, and an amazing level of biodiversity.

What makes Bajos del Toro so special is its sense of adventure and serenity. Spend your days chasing waterfalls and hiking through cloud forest trails. Or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience a different, less-touristy side of Costa Rica.

Why Visit Bajos del Toro?

Epic Waterfalls – This region is home to some of Costa Rica’s most impressive waterfalls, including hidden gems deep in the jungle.

Untouched Nature – Surrounded by lush cloud forest, Bajos del Toro feels raw, peaceful, and far away from the crowds.

Off the Beaten Path – It’s a perfect destination if you’re looking for a more authentic and less touristy experience in Costa Rica.

Best Things to Do and See in Bajos del Toro

Blue Falls of Costa Rica – Discover a series of vibrant turquoise waterfalls hidden deep in the jungle, perfect for hiking and swimming.

Catarata del Toro – Visit one of Costa Rica’s most powerful waterfalls, plunging into an extinct volcanic crater.

Río Agrio Waterfall – See the surreal, bright blue waterfall and river, colored by volcanic minerals and surrounded by lush jungle.

Tesoro Escondido Waterfall – Discover a hidden jungle waterfall with vibrant blue water, tucked deep in nature and surrounded by lush greenery.

Quebrada Gata Waterfall – A lesser-known hidden gem featuring multiple stunning waterfalls, tucked deep in the jungle and incredibly beautiful.

Catarata Vuelta del Cañon – A two-level waterfall drops into a lush green canyon, ending in a striking blue pool that’s perfect for a refreshing swim.

Scenic Drives – Enjoy breathtaking drives through misty mountains, rolling hills, and untouched countryside.

Many waterfalls in Bajos del Toro require entrance fees, so bring cash and plan enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

The Philosophy of Costa Rica

What Does Pura Vida Really Mean?

If there is one phrase you will hear everywhere in Costa Rica, it is pura vida. It literally translates to "pure life," but it means so much more than that.

Pura vida is a greeting, a goodbye, a way of saying "everything is great," and honestly, an entire philosophy. That's how Ticos approach life: with gratitude, warmth, and a genuine belief that things will work out. You will hear it from taxi drivers, surf instructors, restaurant owners, and strangers on the street. And the funny thing is, after a few days in Costa Rica, you will start saying it too.

When planning your trip, do not try to rush from place to place. Part of the magic of Costa Rica is embracing the pura vida pace. Leave room for spontaneous moments, slow mornings, and conversations with locals. That is when the best memories happen.

You might notice that "Tico time" is a real thing. Buses, tours, and even restaurants may not always run on a strict schedule. Instead of getting frustrated, just embrace it. That is the pura vida way.