5 Best Things To Do In Costa Rica

There are so many exciting things to do in the beautiful Central American country of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is a land of astonishing beauty and bountiful adventure. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests and wealth of wildlife, it’s no wonder that travelers flock to this tropical paradise. 

To make the most of your Costa Rica vacation, here are five of the best things to do: from hiking active volcanoes to snorkeling a stunning coral reef! Enjoy an afternoon rafting on the Rio Pacuare – between the towering rocky cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, you’re sure to have an unforgettable journey in your Costa Rica travel. 

Encounter some local wildlife at one of many national parks – explore the rich variety of flora and fauna amid lush green jungle trails or take a boat journey down a river. Don’t miss Tortuguero National Park, home to tropical birds and turtles nesting on remote beaches.

• Scuba Dive, Surf, and Snorkel during Your Costa Rica Travel

Water lovers will love every minute of their Costa Rica Travel vacation. With its proximity to the Pacific and Caribbean Seas, there are plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving locations. 

A fantastic option for many visitors is to enjoy water activities during cruises. But if you prefer more individual experiences, there are plenty of places you can try out. These include Catalina Islands, the Gulf of Papagayo, Cano Island, and Cahuita National Park. 

Other popular spots are Santa Teresa and Mal Pais. The latter is quite popular with those seeking quiet, secluded destinations. 

As a visitor to Costa Rica, it is a bit daunting to navigate the country on your own. Consider it an investment in your Costa Rica travel to hire professional guides. Due to their local knowledge, the experienced guides will know the best destinations. Further, they can plan your entire itinerary. Your only job after that is to enjoy everything this beautiful country offers.  

• Get a Feel of City Life in San José

San José is the capital city of Costa Rica. It is also the perfect place to get a feel of city life. Experience the hub of the city by strolling through Central Avenue. There is everything you can expect to find in a vibrant town. These include museums, shops, and restaurants. 

You will love how Central Avenue comes to life in the evening with plenty of Street vendors and musicians. Do check out the central market for some local food tasting. 

Some must-visit museums to learn about Costa Rica culture in San José include:

• The National Theatre
• The Gold Museum
•  The Museum of contemporary art and design
•  Jade Museum
•  National Museum

Ask your Costa Rica travel agency about the food, and city tours. There is never a dull moment in this vibrant Central American gem.  

• Explore the Caribbean Coast

The Caribbean coast resides on the eastern coast of Costa Rica. This is the perfect place to visit if you would rather avoid large tourist crowds. Though less developed than the Pacific Coast, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do.

Enjoy fantastic beaches and take part in plenty of water activities. Also, marvel at the best nature has to offer in fauna and flora at the National parks. 

During your visit to the Caribbean coast, visit Tortuguero National Park. The landscape comprises mangroves, rainforests, and beaches. But what is truly fascinating is the wildlife roaming through the different terrain. Your Costa Rica travel agency will likely book you for a ride on the floating safaris. Watch out for crocodiles, caiman, and hundreds of bird species. 

Plan your Costa Rica vacations for February to October to catch the nesting sea turtles. 

• Experience Nature’s Wonders at the Monteverde Rainforest 

The Monteverde Rainforest is one of Costa Rica’s cloud forests. What makes cloud or water forests so fascinating is the low-level cloud cover resulting in persistent fog throughout. Humidity levels can get as high as 100% resulting in dense rainforests, which are quite breathtaking. 

Sunlight is usually not able to penetrate the clouds. Talk about the perfect setting for a horror movie. But that is the key fascination for the thousands of visitors who flock to the Monteverde cloud forest. 

Once you get your fill of the scenery and immersive experience of walking in the dreamlike setting, there is more to do. There are plenty of activities for adventure seekers, including zip lining and hiking. 

Experience some culture at the museums in the villages near the rainforest.  

• Sample the Local Cuisine

Your travel to Costa Rica can only be complete by sampling the local cuisine. Remember, this country is a melting pot of many different cultures. So you can expect some pretty amazing dishes as well. So, during your Costa Rica vacations, make sure you sample dishes like:

• Casado comprises rice, beans, fried sweet plantain, salad, and your meaty protein of choice.
• Gallo Pinto is a mix of red peppers, rice, beans, cilantro, and onions. The locals typically serve it with corn tortillas, sweet plantains, eggs, or fried cheese. 
• Sopa Negra is a spicy, black bean soup that will warm you up in an instant. 
• Pipa fripa is the Costa Rican name for cold coconut. Talk about a refreshing and revitalizing drink on a hot tropical day. 

Finally, make sure you sample Costa Rica coffee, which is some of the best in the world. You can know more by visiting the plantations and learning how to brew that perfect cup of coffee. Your Costa Rica travel agency can book you on some of the tours. 

Final Thoughts

Experience the unforgettable beauty, vibrant culture and action-packed adventures of Costa Rica vacation! From strolling the streets of San Jose to hiking up majestic volcanoes, Costa Rica has something to offer all types of travelers. Whether it’s surfing, zip lining, or simply absorbing the stunning vistas of breathtaking beaches, there’s something for everyone in this unique Central American country.

We have two pieces of invaluable advice, though. The first is to book your travel through a reputable Costa Rica travel agency. That is the best way to enjoy a hassle-free trip. Also, you get to visit the best places and experience fun things to do without involving yourself in the planning. 

The second piece of advice is to come with plenty of energy. This Central American country has a lot to offer visitors. Plan to spend plenty of time soaking in the sights, sounds, and activities. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Costa Rica Travel

What you should know about travel to Costa Rica 

Is Costa Rica safe to travel to?

Like any other travel destination, it is crucial to practice caution. Costa Rica has its fair share of crime targeting tourists. So do take note of the Costa Rica travel advisories to be safe. 

 Also, use the services of a Costa Rica travel agent to plan your itinerary and movement within the country. 

 Is Costa Rica open to travel?

Tourists from all over the world are welcome to Costa Rica. But, you must comply with regulatory processes. These include having the necessary travel documentation, such as valid passports and a return ticket. 

Can I travel to Costa Rica from the US?

Yes, and there is no visa requirement for US nationals. Even then, you need a valid passport and return ticket showing your intent to exit within 90 days. 

When is the best time to travel to Costa Rica?

One thing about Costa Rica is that it remains warm all year round. Being in a tropical climate, you can expect dry and rainy seasons. There are plenty of showers, sometimes daily, from May to November. December to April is the dry season, but there are occasional rain showers.