Visiting Costa Rica in October offers a unique and delightful experience for travelers seeking to explore this Central American gem’s rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. October is a transitional month, falling within the rainy or “green” season, which lasts from May to November. While some may shy away from travel during the green […]

December is a magical time to visit Costa Rica, offering an idyllic blend of warm weather, festive celebrations, and abundant wildlife. As the dry season begins, the country’s diverse landscapes—from lush rainforests and pristine beaches to bustling cities and tranquil highlands—come alive with vibrant energy. December marks the start of peak tourist season, yet it […]

Costa Rica, renowned for its stunning biodiversity and adventure opportunities, offers a year-round tropical vacation. August, nestled within the green season, brings its charm to the land of “Pura Vida.” With lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and a mix of sunny and rainy days, August is an ideal time to explore Costa Rica’s natural beauty and […]

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that attracts millions of visitors each year, thanks to its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture. One of the best times to visit this Central American gem is during the dry season which typically runs from mid-December to mid-May. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and […]

Located in the northern lowlands of the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, Tenorio Volcano National Park is known for Tenorio Volcano, natural hot springs, hiking trails, wildlife, and most notably, Rio Celeste Waterfall. The Legend of Rio Celeste Local legend has it that after God finished painting the sky, he washed his paintbrushes in Rio […]

Little kids can be hard. Traveling with little kids is especially so. When we combine our kids with traveling to a new destination, sometimes the path of least resistance is just easier. For example, we may find ourselves settling for room service rather than venturing out in search of a restaurant with whining kids in […]

Our Experts share their favorite tour pairings for a well-balanced honeymoon.

Within Costa Rica’s borders are some of the most biodiverse rainforests and ecosystems in the world with unparalleled opportunities to see diverse wildlife. From vibrant toucans to elusive jaguars, let’s explore how to maximize your wildlife encounters in this natural wonderland. Before we dive in, I would be remiss if I didn’t say… Wildlife is […]

Nature is amazing. Beaches and tropical forests are really something of course, but there are some places in the world that just leave you wondering, “How can this be?”.  Costa Rica has several such places. These mysteries of nature are perplexing and, we believe, really should be seen to be believed. The Sea Turtle Arribada, […]

If you haven’t noticed, Costa Rica has been making headlines lately. At Costa Rica Experts, we love this well-deserved attention. There are two note-worthly headliners that I really must share. I think these will be fun for those considering travel, those already booked, and those of us who have already enjoyed days under the Costa […]

Costa Rica, with its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, is not just a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a paradise for families seeking a memorable beach vacation. From pristine white sands to vibrant coral reefs, Costa Rica offers a diverse range of beaches catering to various tastes – which can be tough to navigate […]

Costa Rica is a tour country. By this I mean, you have to take tours to experience its essence. The biggest draws to the country are outside the resorts: rainforests, wildlife, waterfalls, mangrove estuaries, cloud forests, and national parks… you name it. You have to get OUT to see what this little country is all about. […]

The thing about sloths is… we can’t get enough.  Despite their laziness, their slooow movements, their strange little bodies, and that fur (we’ll explain later), they are incomprehensively cute. It just doesn’t make any sense! And perhaps, that’s what fascinates us. Or maybe it’s that they always appear to be smiling at us. Or if […]

So you’ve got your heart set on Costa Rica, but those storm clouds make you a bit nervous. The Costa Rica rainy season is a common concern for travelers, but don’t let the rain keep you away. When is Costa Rica’s rainy season? Costa Rica has two seasons: dry season and rainy season. The rainy […]

Transportation options within Costa Rica can be nearly as diverse as the country itself! There are two international airports to choose from, various domestic flights, ground transportation routes, and sometimes boat transportation depending on your destination. Then, you’re faced with the task of deciding which company to book with. If you’re new to Costa Rica […]

When getting ready for a vacation in Costa Rica, there is plenty to consider. Between keeping an eye on your destination’s weather, packing for your various excursions, and making sure your passports are all in order, the process can quickly become overwhelming! However, one of the most important things that you should focus on while […]

There’s something mesmerizing about black sand beaches: their uniqueness, the way your toes dig into the charcoal earth, and the way a lush tropical backdrop rises up from behind them – making them look so wild! They are almost other-worldly. Their rarity is course part of the appeal. The dark sand is derived from eroded […]

This a tough topic. The question should really be: When is the best time for ME to visit Costa Rica? Yes, the answer depends on the individual. So while we can’t answer this question for you, we can give you some information to help you make your decision. Dry Season vs Green Season First things […]

Mistakes happen, but there are some travel conundrums that can be prevented. Allow us to save you some sweat and (hopefully not) tears. Fortunately for all of us, our Costa Rica Experts coordinate vacations day in and day out – for 35 years I might add – and do their best to make sure precautions […]

Sometimes it’s fun to explore the flavors of a country before your trip. And, often times equally amusing to find that certain dishes bring back memories after your return. If you’re in the Chicago area, Irazu restaurant in Wicker Park is the place to scratch that itch. Browse this fantastic breakdown of typical Costa Rican […]

I get it! It’s totally understandable to have misconceptions about a place you’ve never been to before. The thing is that misconceptions can trip you up when you go to plan a vacation. Answering questions and sharing expertise is only part of the way our Costa Rica Experts can streamline the travel planning process for […]

When it comes to traveling with family, it can be a challenge to find things everyone will enjoy. The following Costa Rica family vacation ideas are favorites for all ages. River or Mangrove Float Floating along Costa Rican waterways looking for wildlife is an adventure for everyone. The forest comes alive in the evening on […]

Last month, Travel + Leisure released its ranking for The Top 100 Hotels in the World, a curation of some of the world’s most elite hotels pitted against one another. It’s always especially exciting for us when a Costa Rica hotel makes the list. This year, three very deserving Costa Rica hotels were on it. […]

About a 2-hour drive from Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose in the small cloud forest town of Bajos del Toro, the Bajos del Toro Waterfall Hike is a countrywide attraction for locals and worldwide visitors alike. Bajos del Toro Waterfall Hiking Trail The Bajos del Toro area is great for hiking and has […]

Is there anything more captivating than walking through a fabled ruin surrounded by jungle gardens taking in the sights and stories from long ago? Admittedly, I’m a bit of a history buff, but stories and legends are one significant way to get a deeper understanding of any country’s culture. The following are some of Costa […]

Santa Rosa National Park is located within one of the hottest and dryest regions of Costa Rica, Guanacaste. The sprawling 386 square kilometer park protects the largest remaining expanse of tropical dry forest in Central America. Set in the far northwest corner of Costa Rica, Santa Rosa has pristine remote beaches and is fantastic for […]

It’s time for an escape. Perhaps somewhere remote? Costa Rica has a multitude of resorts and hotels set in secluded rainforests, cloud forests, and by the sea. The following are just a few of our favorites, but there are many more. We encourage you to speak with a Costa Rica Expert for a personalized recommendation! […]

For a small country, Costa Rica has a lot going on. The 12 distinct climate zones offer many unique experiences. As you begin your vacation research, it’s worth noting that some experiences capture the true essence of Costa Rica and shouldn’t be missed. Not to worry. We have compiled a list of those experiences for you. Read on […]

It’s been eight months. Working at home seemed almost magical at first, but now that backyard view is getting a bit tiresome. Can anyone relate? It’s probably time for a change of scenery. Now, if it hasn’t yet crossed your mind, allow us to highlight a simple truth: if you can work remotely from home, […]

Situated in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, Palo Verde National Park is one of the most important wetland ecosystems in the country. The Rio Tempisque River is the park’s lifeline as it seasonally swells, spilling out over the region to form marvelous wetlands among the dry tropical forest. The park makes up about 45,492 […]

Whether you’re missing your favorite Costa Rican coffee shop, savoring the luxury of newfound coffee time, or dreaming of ways to bring the pura vida back into your life – a delicious cup of Costa Rican coffee will certainly hit the spot. Enter Cafe Britt. If you’ve had the pleasure of visiting Costa Rica already, you […]

Costa Rica Pacific Coast vs Caribbean Coast –  which is best? This is one of the most common questions we get for those getting newly acquainted with Costa Rica. And really, the answer depends on you and your preferences. The truth is that although Costa Rica is roughly the size of West Virginia, it’s ecosystems […]

Need a change of scenery? Us too. For the next few weeks on Instagram, we’re bringing you on a grand tour of Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems. We hope they inspire you and provide a much-needed escape. We also hope you’ll join us in celebrating Costa Rica’s biodiversity with the hashtag #changeofscenery⁠ ⁠Manuel Antonio Just 3 […]

Costa Rica is famous for its waterfalls. And for travelers visiting the South Pacific Coast, the Nauyaca Waterfalls are one of the main attractions. The trailhead to the falls is just 20 minutes from Dominical, one of the bigger towns on the southern coast. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Manuel Antonio. Nauyaca Waterfalls consists […]

What’s a getaway if you aren’t getting away? The following off the beaten path destinations in Costa Rica will allow you to do just that: escape the crowds and the hustle and bustle to find tranquility. Nicoya Peninsula If you’re looking to disconnect from the day-to-day and reconnect with yourself, the Nicoya Peninsula is your […]

Designated an official national park in 1990, Marino Ballena National Park covers 13,616 sea acres and 272 land acres – a truly diverse range of ecosystems! One of only two marine parks in Costa Rica, it is especially well-known for the whales that come annually to breach. Another interesting curiosity is the whale’s tail shaped […]

Turquoise water and rocky white sand beaches backed by coconut trees and lush rainforest are characteristic of the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge protects roughly 70% of the southern Caribbean which stretches from the little village of Manzanillo all the way down to Panama. The wildlife refuge has wild white […]

One of the most popular waterfalls in Costa Rica and top Arenal regional attractions is La Fortuna Waterfall. In my opinion, the hike down to the base of the waterfall is a must for travelers visiting Arenal. In fact, La Fortuna Waterfall holds a special place in my heart. I chose to do a “trash […]

Cahuita National Park, on the southern Caribbean coast 26 miles south of the port city of Limón, is a land and marine park best known for white-sand beaches, thick lowland jungle, brilliant turquoise water, and wildlife. Travelers to the southern Caribbean should not miss this coastal highlight! Our Cahuita National Park guide provides helpful information […]

Carara National Park is a centrally located forest bordering the Central Pacific Coast. Its location makes it accessible to many destinations in Costa Rica, but it is perhaps most popular for birding. Approximately 48% of Costa Rica’s avian species can be found within the park. Check out our Carara National Park guide for helpful information […]

Sitting in the dry northwest corner of Costa Rica in the Guanacaste province, Rincon de la Vieja National Park has a wealth of natural wonders including Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, boiling mud pots, hot springs, and even waterfalls. The 34,000 acres of Rincon de la Vieja National Park are characterized by dry forest with […]

The Bachelor is in Costa Rica! We have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of ABC’s The Bachelor in Costa Rica. And Peter finally made his debut in Costa Rica last night on episode 5 of season 24. With his arrival, we’re anticipating some questions from potential travelers about their exotic Costa Rica escape. Allow us […]

With over 763 miles of coastline, Costa Rica has a multitude of little beach towns with unique characteristics and cultures. The following are what we believe to be the nine best beach towns in Costa Rica. Tamarindo One of the largest and most popular beach and surf towns in Costa Rica is Tamarindo in the […]

From luxurious tented camps to laid-back rustic lodges, glamping in Costa Rica is up-and-coming. In case you aren’t familiar with the term glamping, it’s a playful combination of glamor and camping. If you’re up for an adventure but are hesitant to camp in the rainforest, don’t miss these safari-style glamping experiences. Kasiiya Papagayo Luxury Wilderness […]

At Costa Rica Experts, we offer various transportation options to our travelers in the trip planning process. Many travelers will arrange for private drivers from destination to destination, with some domestic flights sprinkled in where appropriate. Other travelers would prefer the liberty of driving for parts or for the duration of their vacation. I would […]

One way to understand the heart of a culture is to walk through its art museums and galleries. Discover through the eyes of its visionaries and most talented forefathers the events that have shaped it. En route to the rainforest or one of Costa Rica’s many well-known other natural wonders, many travelers will pass through […]

Beginning to take the plunge into honeymoon planning? These Costa Rica honeymoon ideas will set you up for your most romantic trip yet. The Canopy Suite at Pacuare Lodge Picture this getaway at the Pacuare Lodge: raft to a secluded eco-lodge on the Pacuare River, then cross a private suspension bridge to your honeymoon suite, before enjoying an ice-cold […]

Flying can be stressful, especially in a foreign country. The following guide will inform you on international flight options to Costa Rica, give you an idea of what to expect at the airport, and hopefully leave you vacation-ready for your trip to Costa Rica. Getting the Best Airfare Prices If you are price or time-sensitive, […]

The birds of Costa Rica incite passion in budding and experienced birders alike and provide endless discovery. There are approximately 903 known bird species in Costa Rica classified within 82 different families. Within each species, there are often variations in plumage between females and males, breeding and nonbreeding males, and adult and juveniles. The following […]

Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for environmentally conscious travelers. Not only has the country set aside approximately 25% of its land to parks, reserves, and protected land, but it also leads the world in environmental innovations and initiatives. Costa Rica is working to achieve carbon-neutrality by 2021. So if you are hoping to continue […]

Poás Volcano is one of the most accessible volcanoes to visit from Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose and one of the most popular attractions in the Central Valley. It lies within the 16,000 acres that make up Poás Volcano National Park in the Alajuela province. The volcano is surrounded by dense cloud forest […]

Let me let you in on a secret: I live in Hawaii. Yes, it’s true, I passionately promote Costa Rica day in and day out, but I currently reside in the Aloha State. Having said that, I feel that makes me uniquely qualified to compare the two destinations for honeymooners. So which would I choose […]

The holidays in Costa Rica are a time for celebration, and Costa Rica’s native Ticos and Ticas welcome any chance to celebrate. A large part of the population identifies with the Catholic Church, and so share most religious holidays, but many of their traditions and celebrations are unique to Costa Rica. Here is our month by […]

Let’s be real. It’s fun to show off your latest exotic getaway on the gram. That far-flung hot spring encircled by lush tropical foliage… you want that picture too. And in case you haven’t noticed, Costa Rica is insta-worthy. Mystical, exotic, and awe-inspiring… Costa Rica has a little bit of everything to keep your snaps lively […]

The growing emphasis on health and wellness in today’s culture has created a demand for wellness escapes everywhere. The laid-back ambiance and exotic beauty of Costa Rica have made it a top contender among international wellness destinations. A generally happy people and emphasis on the simple, pure life make it easy to unwind, take the […]

Corcovado National Park is one of the largest lowland tropical rainforests in Central America and the best place in Costa Rica for wildlife watching. The park is over 163 square miles, covering nearly half of the Osa Peninsula, yet remains one of the most remote regions of Costa Rica. Famously dubbed “the most biologically intense […]

There’s something to be said for a country called the “Rich Coast.” With two expansive coastlines, the Pacific Coast to the West and the Caribbean Coast to the East, Costa Rica spans 12 unique climatic zones. In addition to onshore riches like rainforests, jungles, and mangroves, Costa Rica boasts a multitude of offshore wonders. The […]

New Costa Rica accommodations have been popping up, renovations are taking place, and we’ve added many more hotels to our collection. The following are four new hotels and two newly renovated hotels that we are exceptionally excited to add to our collection this year. Isa Chiquita Glamping, Nicoya Peninsula Have you ever wanted to camp on […]

You have heard about Costa Rica’s wildlife, lush rainforest, and the breathtaking beaches, all of which have made it famous. There is, however, another reason to add Costa Rica to your travel bucket list: coffee. Besides winning prestigious awards in international competitions, Costa Rican coffee has grown to be much more than an economic boost […]

If you’ve picked Costa Rica for your wildlife watching vacation, you’re off to a great start. Wildlife. is. everywhere. Honestly, it would be difficult to not cross paths with some sort of critter during your stay, but there are definitely regions where wildlife gravitate. The following top places to see wildlife in Costa Rica will […]

What is it about whales? Is it their massive size? Their incredible intelligence? Their social personalities that seem remarkably similar to ours? Whatever it is, they intrigue us. We are drawn to them. And there is no place like Costa Rica for whale watching. Costa Rica has the longest humpback whale season in the world. […]

One of Costa Rica’s most beloved seaside visitors is the sea turtle. And you could say that sea turtles love Costa Rica right back. Year after year, they return to the same Costa Rica beaches to lay their eggs. One of the most spectacular displays of this is the arribada, or the annual arrival of hundreds of […]

Let’s be honest. Luxury and culture are not typically synonymous. So when the Hyatt’s new luxury resort concept, the Andaz, came to Costa Rica’s Papagayo Peninsula and successfully coupled these two uncommonly coupled concepts, our Costa Rica Experts were all surprised. And intrigued.  Before I elaborate, allow me to quickly define one of the most well […]

There are two types of travelers: those that visit a place once and those that return again and again. I was the former, until Arenal Volcano. I just couldn’t get enough of the zip-lines, the hot springs, and of course, the volcano. I especially enjoyed my time at The Springs Resort & Spa, an expansive luxury resort […]

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a video is a novel. Our Costa Rica Experts often describe in great detail the highlights of destinations and attractions, but it’s not quite the same as seeing them yourself first-hand. So while we’re still patiently awaiting the invention of teletransportation, videos are the next best thing. The following 7 videos will temporarily […]

In case you missed it, the recently built Andaz Papagayo Resort by Hyatt is crushing the social-sphere. Influential bloggers and Instagram personalities are posting eye-catching images of the resort all over the web. So what’s the big deal? Read on to discover how the Andaz Resort inspires trending travel bloggers. An Efficient, Minimal Design The simplistic design of the Andaz and the […]

Mastering the Art of Efficient Travel Whoever coined the phrase “less is more” was wrong. More is more. Especially when it comes to travel. While minimalism is on the rise in design and lifestyle circles, we remain travel maximalists. We want more. More for our time, more for our money, and more photos for our […]

From the wellness resorts of Bali to the jungle bungalows of Brazil, Costa Rica has comparable experiences at a fraction of the cost, and closer to home.

Our Experts have kid-friendly destination recommendations for every child’s interest! Discover the best family vacation spots in Costa Rica for your family.

Cocktail Conversations with Master Mixologist Clark Jimenez It goes without saying that the new Andaz Resort on the Papagayo Peninsula has stirred things up in the little resort capital of Guanacaste. The Andaz is serving up a refreshing sense of personality and Costa Rican flair, attracting some of the top talent in the country. One […]

Behind the Scenes with Hotel Arenal Nayara’s Chef Jack If you’ve done any research on Costa Rica hotels, you’ve probably fallen upon the Nayara sister hotels, Arenal Nayara and Nayara Springs. These two luxury boutique hotels at Arenal Volcano consistently and easily make the Top Ten list of essentially every hotelier in the business. The Nayaras have mastered the […]

The Monteverde Cloud Forest, a cool misty forest shrouded in greenery, has a truly majestic quality about it. Without a beach or volcano, it’s an easy destination to overlook, despite all its charismatic nuances. I confess I did. But now that I’ve walked through cloud 9, I’m hooked. And I feel compelled to set the record straight. I. […]

The sloth is a star among Costa Rica’s animal kingdom. Travelers are determined to see this puzzling, cuddly creature during their trek into the rainforest. Our Experts all too frequently receive travel wish lists consisting of top destinations, activities, rainforest resorts, and sloths. You can only imagine then how the masses melt when they hear […]

Browse the top Costa Rica honeymoon destinations we love, pick your favorites, and our honeymoon experts will handle the rest.

Foodies take note: Costa Rica is finally taking its place in the culinary spotlight. El Silencio Lodge is now the first and only Central American boutique hotel to join the Relais & Chateaux collection. Costa Rican coffee is now a preferred American coffee. So what other scrumptious delicacies does little Costa Rica have to offer? […]

The holidays are over. Now is the time to dream of warmer weather and Spring Break. You’re considering Costa Rica. You may have even booked a flight, but where do you start? Our Costa Rica Spring Break Survival Guide is a must-read for those looking to make the most of their next Spring holiday. Plan […]

Move over Africa! Here are The Big Five Animals of Costa Rica for every wildlife enthusiast’s bucket list. A Costa Rica nature safari is a must for travelers in need of a change of scenery. Here is our Costa Rica Big Five. And the list could have definitely gone on… Toucans Colorful, flashy, vibrant. There are six […]

For the first- time traveler to Costa Rica, our experts nearly always recommend a visit to the Arenal Volcano. For those looking for an adventure vacation, it’s a must. The commanding presence of the volcano and surrounding secondary rainforest foliage is the perfect backdrop for adrenaline junkies in search of their next rush. In 2010, the Arenal […]

Costa Rica adventure tours have a unique balance of attractions and highlights. It offers all-inclusive resorts and white sand beaches in the north, and wildlife, nature, and rainforest further south. One feature that is consistent throughout the country, however, is the opportunity for world-class adventure. This sets Costa Rica above many other one-trick tropical destinations, proving […]

If the Irish hadn’t claimed green as their national color in the early 1600’s with the birth of St Patrick’s Day, the honor could have easily been given to Costa Rica. With the unique diversity the country offers, it should come as no surprise that Costa Rica promotes tourism that is sustainable in the long run. […]