Guanacaste · Pacific
Tamarindo
Sun-soaked surf town with a buzzing expat scene, restaurants and golden beaches.
Visit Costa Rica
Your adventure starts here
From rainforest canopies to two stunning coastlines, plan the trip of a lifetime.
Why travelers love it
One country, endless experiences
Costa Rica packs more into a small footprint than almost anywhere on earth.
Two Coastlines
Pacific surf and Caribbean calm — both within a few hours' drive.
Wildlife Everywhere
Sloths, monkeys, toucans and sea turtles across 30+ national parks.
Adventure Capital
Zip-lining, white-water rafting, volcano hikes and world-class diving.
Easy to Get Around
Short internal flights and shuttles connect every major region.
Top destinations
Where to go
Mix and match these regions to build the perfect itinerary.
Puntarenas · Central Pacific
Manuel Antonio
Iconic national park where rainforest meets white-sand beaches and sloths roam.
Alajuela · Northern Plains
La Fortuna / Arenal
Volcano views, natural hot springs, waterfalls and world-class adventure.
Puntarenas · Highlands
Monteverde
Misty cloud forests, hanging bridges and zip-lines through the canopy.
Guanacaste · Nicoya Peninsula
Nosara
A Blue Zone wellness haven famous for yoga, surf and a healthy, slow pace.
Alajuela · Central Valley
Atenas / Central Valley
Famous for the 'best climate in the world' — a top pick for expats and retirees.
Travel tips
Know before you go
- Best time to visit: dry season runs December–April; green season (May–Nov) is lush and quieter.
- You don't need a 4x4 for most trips, but it helps for remote beaches and the rainy season.
- Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country, including San José and the Central Valley.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, light rain gear and good walking shoes — and US dollars are widely accepted.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Costa Rica?+
The dry season (December to April) is the most popular time to visit Costa Rica, with sunny days ideal for beaches and wildlife. The green season (May to November) is lush, quieter and cheaper, with rain usually falling in the afternoon.
How many days do you need in Costa Rica?+
Most first-time visitors spend 7 to 10 days in Costa Rica. Ten days lets you combine a volcano region like La Fortuna, a cloud forest like Monteverde, and a Pacific beach town such as Manuel Antonio or Tamarindo without rushing.
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?+
Yes. Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America, with a stable democracy and no standing army. Standard precautions against petty theft apply, especially in tourist areas and parked cars.
Do you need a visa to visit Costa Rica?+
Citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, the EU and many other countries can enter Costa Rica visa-free as tourists for up to 90 days. You need a passport valid for your stay and proof of onward travel.
¡Pura Vida!
Ready to plan your visit?
Get our free travel guide plus help from local trip experts and vetted hotel partners.