Costa Rica
Welcome to Costa Rica: Untamed Adventures and Unforgettable Experiences
Picture this: the thrill of soaring through a lush rainforest canopy on a zipline, the wide-eyed wonder of spotting a sleepy sloth hanging from a tree, the pure bliss of sinking your toes into the warm sand of a picture-perfect beach…this is Costa Rica.
If you’re longing for a getaway where every day promises heart-pumping adventures, incredible wildlife encounters, and the chance to truly unwind amidst stunning natural beauty, you’ve come to the right place. Costa Rica packs a powerful punch for its small size – and this blog from Northern Wanderers is your roadmap to making the most of it.
Best Time To Visit
Costa Rica boasts a tropical climate, making it a fantastic year-round destination. However, there are nuances between the seasons that will affect your experience:
Dry Season (December – April): This is peak season, and for good reason! Expect sunshine, little rainfall, and perfect conditions for outdoor activities and soaking up those beaches. Keep in mind, prices are higher and certain places (especially coastal towns) get more crowded.
Green Season (May – November): Embrace those afternoon showers and watch the rainforests burst with vibrant life. Lower crowds and better deals await. Note that some trails may be more challenging, and heavy rains are more common in September and October, especially on the Caribbean coast.
Shoulder Seasons: The periods between the main seasons (November/early December and April/May) can be sweet spots offering pleasant weather, more manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.
Tip: Costa Rica has various microclimates! Always research the specific areas you’ll be visiting for an accurate idea of what to expect weather-wise.
What To Expect
Capital: San José
Population: 5.5 million (2024)
Language: Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. About 10% of Costa Rica speaks English so you’ll want to brush up on your Spanish before your visit.
Currency: The official currency of Costa Rica is the Colón. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: redit cards are widely accepted in Costa Rica. However, the US dollar is also widely accepted. You’ll find that many hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies have their prices listed in dollars. If you do decide you want some local currency, you’ll find that Costa Rica has a modern and widespread network of ATMs. You should be able to find an ATM in all of the large tourist destinations. A lot of places will now also accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google pay.
Plugs: The plugs in Costa Rica are type A and, the same as in the US. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Costa Rica is generally a safe country to visit. Like most destinations around the world, you’ll want to use common sense and take extra safety precautions as a solo traveller, like not walking alone at night.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Costa Rica
(Note: Costa Rica is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
1. Explore Lush Rainforests and Cloud Forests:
Hike through vibrant rainforests like Manuel Antonio National Park, teeming with monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Or venture into the mystical cloud forests of Monteverde, where you can walk on hanging bridges high up in the tree canopy.
2. Embrace Adventure Activities:
Costa Rica is an adrenaline lover’s paradise. Feel the thrill of ziplining through the jungle, go whitewater rafting on roaring rivers, try waterfall rappelling, or spot crocodiles on a boat safari.
3. Encounter Amazing Wildlife:
Costa Rica is renowned for its biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for sloths hanging lazily from trees, mischievous monkeys swinging through the branches, and brightly colored toucans soaring overhead. And of course, if you love sea turtles, visit Tortuguero National Park, a major nesting site.
4. Soak Up the Sun on Pristine Beaches:
From the lively surf towns of the Pacific Coast to the laid-back Caribbean vibes, Costa Rica’s beaches offer something for everyone. Relax on powdery white sand, try your hand at surfing, go snorkeling amidst colorful coral reefs, or simply sway in a hammock beneath the palm trees.
5. Immerse Yourself in "Pura Vida":
This phrase, meaning “pure life,” sums up Costa Rica’s relaxed and joyful approach. Sample delicious local cuisine, browse bustling markets, chat with friendly locals, or try a yoga class overlooking the ocean – soak in those peaceful vibes!
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Costa Rica and reasons to visit Costa Rica
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Travel Resources
*Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.