Unleash Paradise: One Week Costa Rica Adventure

When I first set foot in Costa Rica, a country nestled in Central America, I instantly knew I was in for something special. I had spent 1 week fully exploring this vibrant land, from the stunning beaches of Nosara, to the lush forests of Monteverde, and finally soaking in the volcanic magic of Arenal. The trip was more than just sightseeing—it was an unforgettable Costa Rica itinerary packed with moments that continue to inspire me. If you’re looking for ideas or hoping to follow in the footsteps of someone who’s done it all, there’s so much this place has to offer.

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Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Planning Around the Weather

If you’re planning to visit Costa Rica and want to dodge the heavy rain, timing is everything. The best time to go is between mid-December-April, when the skies are clearer and days are brighter. I once visited in November, which falls in the shoulder season, and during that month, we encountered rain nearly every day. Monteverde turned out to be the rainiest, followed by Arenal, and finally Nosara, where we caught a few dry breaks. If I make it back, I’d aim for January or February next time, since that stretch promises ideal weather and a better overall experience.

About this Costa Rica Itinerary

How the Trip Flows

Let me walk you through how this Costa Rica itinerary works. It’s full of adventure, with bits of relaxation here and there. For one week, I was on the go. There was a lot of moving between places, so having a car made it much easier to get around. I love the flexibility it gave me—way better than using transfer services. If you’re down for a trip that’s fast-paced and adventure-filled, you’re in the right place. Continue reading to see how I planned every step. This trip showed me the real side of Costa Rica, and now I want to help you do the same.

One Week in Costa Rica Itinerary

Landing and Getting Started

There are two major airports in Costa Rica—SJO and LIB. I’ve flown into both, but if you’re planning to visit the northwestern cities, it’s more convenient to fly into Liberia. For this itinerary, we started and ended our trip in San Jose, so we flew into SJO. When we arrived, we were picked up at the airport by Adobe, the rental car company I always use. Their facility is close, and most importantly, they don’t hit you with hidden fees on your bill at arrival, which is, sadly, a common occurrence in Costa Rica. I’ve seen people think they got a great deal, only to pick up the car and find hundreds of dollars added. Don’t get blindsided—book with Adobe.

If you arrive early in the morning, you can head straight on your way to Nosara, the first destination of this trip. Just make a brief stop in San Jose to grab a sim card from Kolbi and some snacks for your journey. A quick stop makes the ride smoother, especially if you want to stay connected or need a bite on the road.

But if your arrival is in the afternoon or at night, I suggest you stay in San Jose. It’s not recommended for first timers to drive at night. You’ll want full daylight when beginning your drive, especially if you’re new to the roads here. Trust me, a little patience on the first day makes the whole week much better.

Day One And Two Nosara

Where to Eat/Drink

Let me tell you—Nosara is one of my favorite spots in Costa Rica. This beach town sits on the Nicoya Peninsula, about 150 miles from San Jose and 80 miles from Liberia. It’s a dream for anyone who loves nature or peace and quiet. I’ve been here more than once, and every time it feels like a fresh escape. The town is a popular destination for yogis, with many yoga retreats hosted by resorts that offer classes. Even if yoga’s not your thing, it’s still a great stop on any itinerary. You can relax on beautiful beaches, try zip lining, or go on an ATV tour. My top pick? The SUP mangrove tour. I loved paddling through the calm river, learning about Costa Rican plants and wildlife. We made a pit stop at a small beach for some cold refreshments, then made the return paddle. It was fun, relaxing, and a great intro to the area. We also did a sunset catamaran cruise—it was nice until we found out about the microscopic jellyfish after we got in the water for a quick swim. Yeah, not the best surprise.

When it comes to food, do not miss La Luna. It’s a lovely beachfront restaurant with a view that just adds to the meal. If you’re staying at the Nosara Beach Hotel, you’re in luck—the restaurant is right near the site and only a 5 minute walk away. The vibe is calm, the food is fresh, and it’s the perfect spot to eat, drink, and watch the waves roll in.

Day 3: Monteverde

Day 3 of this trip takes you to Monteverde, and I suggest you leave early to make the most of it. The way there is full of twists and turns, but the views are worth it. Monteverde is known for its cloud forests, and it’s one of the best spots for zip lining. We booked a tour at Selvatura Adventure Park and had a blast flying through the trees and walking across hanging bridges in the lush forest. The tour runs rain or shine, and for us, it felt like a hurricane rolled in. But honestly, that made it even more fun!

We only spent one night in town because all we wanted to do was check out the zip line and bridges. If you want to slow down a bit, you can stay 2 nights and use one of your Arenal/La Fortuna days instead. Monteverde has a peaceful charm, and the cool air is a nice change if you’ve been on the coast.

For food, I stopped at Cafe Zocara for great coffee. If you’re into steaks, try Toro Tinto—it’s a solid place to eat. Some guides recommended Taco Taco, but we didn’t really enjoyed the food. The tacos took a while, and there wasn’t much to write home about. We had to wait, and it just didn’t hit the mark for us.

Day 4-6: Arenal/La Fortuna

We wrapped up our week in Costa Rica with a visit to Arenal and La Fortuna. There’s plenty to see and do in this area, and I’d recommend spending at least 3 nights here. But if you want more time in Monteverde, you can always steal a night from Arenal. This region is known for the Arenal Volcano and its surrounding natural hot springs. We stayed at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, and our daily access to the springs was the best part of our stay. If you can swing it, staying there is totally worth the penny. If not, you can still enjoy the springs by purchasing a day pass.

While relaxing and enjoying the springs is totally acceptable, there are so many awesome things to do. The La Fortuna waterfall is one of the top tourist attractions in Costa Rica. It’s truly beautiful and worth climbing the 500+ steps back up. Don’t worry—there are places to rest along the way. There’s also a viewpoint if you don’t want to take the stairs, but standing at the base of the falls is something you’ll never forget. We booked tours with Desafio and went on a class 3 white water rafting trip down the Balsa River—so much fun! We also tried canyoning with PureTrek, which involved rappelling down waterfalls. It was cool to do, though not quite as thrilling as we expected.

Food here didn’t disappoint. Our breakfast was included at Tabacón (and yes, it was awesome). Lunch was covered on our tours, but for dinner, we dined at the 2 restaurants on the Tabacon property and also tried a small Italian place in La Fortuna. If you’re thinking of eating somewhere special, I recommend Tucanes—the ambience is warm and cozy, and my lava stone steak with a fresh cocktail was seriously delicious.

Day 7: Leave Costa Rica

After spending 3 nights in Arenal, it’s time to head back to San Jose to complete your one week Costa Rica itinerary. The drive is smooth if you leave early, and it gives you a chance to look back on all the great spots you’ve seen. I always like to take it slow on the last day — no rush, just one last look at the beauty of Costa Rica before flying out.

If you still have some time in San Jose, swing by the local markets. It’s a fun way to pick up some last-minute souvenirs to take back home. From handmade crafts to fresh coffee, you’ll find something special that helps you remember your trip long after the week is over.

Perfect Your Costa Rica Plan

Planning a trip to Costa Rica can be simple and fun when you know what to expect. From the rainforest to the beaches, this country offers so much. To make the most of your time, think about where you want to go, how you’ll get around, and what you want to see and do.

Start by picking your top spots—maybe Arenal, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio. Decide if you’ll rent a car, take public transport, or use taxis and Uber. Book your hotels, tours, and activities in advance to avoid missing out, especially during busy months.

Make sure you travel safe. Use common sense, keep your stuff secure, and ask locals for help if needed. Whether you’re here for adventure or to relax, a little planning goes a long way.

Where to Stay During This Itinerary

If you’re following this itinerary, I highly recommend staying 1 night in San Jose, 1 night in Arenal, 2 nights in Monteverde, and 3 nights in Manuel Antonio. It’s a logical plan that flows well and keeps travel times short. Ending your visit with some time at the beach makes the whole trip more pleasant. I think finishing in Manuel Antonio is the obvious choice in this case, especially if you want to relax at the end.

There are plenty of recommended hotels in each place, and they come at different price points, so you can find what fits your budget. Wherever you’re basing yourself, look for comfort, location, and good reviews. I’ve stayed in all these spots, and they each offer something special depending on what you need.

San Jose

Hotel Grano de Oro offers historic charm in La Sabana, with period furniture and elegant rooms ($170 USD).

Hotel Presidente is downtown on a pedestrian-only street, just 100 meters from the National Theater ($120 USD).

Hotel Aranjuez has a jungle tree house vibe and sits near Barrio Escalante ($70 USD).

Hotel Casa 69 is a colorful guesthouse on the edge of downtown, both cheap and cheerful ($50 USD).

Each hotel is in San Jose and fits different budgets, neighborhoods, and vibes.

Arenal

If you stay in Arenal, you’ve got lots of great choices. Some spots are fancy, some are chill, and others are easy on the wallet. I’ve tried a few, and here are my top picks.

• Nayara Springs and Nayara Gardens are run by the same company. These eco-resort hotels feel like pure luxury in the rainforest. It’s a big splurge at $800 USD a night, but you’ll never forget it.
  
• Amor Arenal is full-on 5-star and super intimate. Each room is a private cabin with a plunge pool, hardwood floor, and amazing views. Price is about $650 USD.
  
• Arenal Manoa Resort has pretty grounds, great views, and comfortable rooms at a reasonable rate—around $200 USD.
  
• Arenal Observatory Lodge and Trails is calm and clean. The on-site restaurant is good, and it’s a nice spot for a quiet night ($150 USD).
  
• La Fortuna Waterfall Bungalows are a fun budget option for families. You get cute wooden chalets, and some have separate bedrooms. Cost is $100 USD.
  
• No matter your budget, Arenal has the right place to stay. All these picks offer good value and make your trip better.

Monteverde

If you’re heading to Monteverde, you’ll find lots of great spots to stay. From peaceful cabins in the woods to modern lodges near town, there’s something for every budget and style. I’ve stayed at a few of these myself, and here are my top picks to help you choose the right one.

• Hotel Belmar has a longstanding reputation and a sustainability-focused mission. It feels like an Alpine lodge, with airy rooms, hardwood floors, wood paneling, large windows, and great balconies that look over the hills and forest ($300 USD).
  
• Senda Monteverde sits on the outskirts of Santa Elena town, right adjacent to the Aguti Wildlife Reserve. Guests get free access, and the vibe is high-end and modern ($300 USD).
  
• Monteverde Lodge & Gardens is near the edge of Santa Elena, but secluded enough to feel remote. It’s close to town by walking distance, yet still immersed in nature ($280–400 USD).
  
• Cloud Forest Lodge is a new hotel with a slightly luxury-ish class. It’s set high in the hills and surrounded by nature. Rooms are private chalets, cozy and quiet ($300 USD).
  
• Valle Escondido Nature Reserve Hotel & Farm sits next to the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens. It’s on a private reserve with trails at your doorstep. Rooms are simple, and breakfast is good ($125 USD).
  
• Los Pinos Cabins & Reserve isn’t fancy, but it’s a solid budget pick. All the rooms are private cabins that feel rustic, yet are very clean and comfortable ($100 USD).

Manuel Antonio

If you’re heading to Manuel Antonio, picking the right hotel makes a big difference. I’ve stayed in a mix of places here—from budget options to luxurious resorts. Here are my personal picks, all written in a simple way to help you decide.

• Arenas del Mar is the obvious choice if you’ve got the budget. It’s fancy, peaceful, and right by the beach. Just avoid September and October due to yearly maintenance ($500 USD).
  
• Gaia Hotel & Reserve is a great adults-only boutique pick. It’s on the road connecting Quepos and Manuel Antonio, with spacious, modern rooms, an on-site La Luna restaurant, and a multi-level pool that feels like a treat ($280 USD).
  
• Si Como No Resort is awesome for kids. It’s a larger hotel with a beach resort feel. Not super intimate, but it checks all the boxes for families ($300 USD).
  
• Parador Resort & Spa is a classy resort-style hotel. It’s set at the end of a long road, a short 5-minute walk from the beach. Tucked in the jungle overlooking the ocean, it has superb pools, well maintained grounds, and feels luxurious ($270 USD).
  
• Hotel La Mariposa is in MA town. The hilltop location gives you some of the best views in the area. The infinity pool and excellent service made it stand out to me ($200 USD).
  
• Hotel Costa Verde is just minutes from the beach and park. The rooms and bungalows are spread out over a large property, with a unique style that blends eclectic and rustic vibes. It’s fun and relaxed ($150 USD).
  
• Hotel Naoz is a great budget option right in the center of Manuel Antonio. It’s small, but has modern, simple, immaculate, and very comfortable rooms ($100 USD).
  
• Every one of these hotels offers something special—from beach views to jungle vibes. Whatever your style, budget, or travel group, Manuel Antonio has a spot for you.

Things to Consider When Planning Your Trip

Is a Week Enough Time for a Trip to Costa Rica?

A week in Costa Rica is a great amount of time to get a nice introduction to the country, but it’s not enough to see the whole thing. Even though Costa Rica is small and has a decent road network, getting between places can take a while. Most visitors come to enjoy nature and the outdoors, so you won’t be able to just hop around and visit many spots in a single day. You can’t just drive to the jungle and pop in for a 30-minute look. You’ll need to spend at least a few days in each destination to really take it in.

In an ideal world, I’d always recommend two weeks for your first trip. That way, you can calmly move through the country and really experience what it has to offer. It gives you time to cover more ground without feeling rushed. If you have the luxury of an uninterrupted vacation, two weeks is perfect.

That said, many people only have a week to spare—and that’s okay. You can still accomplish a lot. Many of the main attractions are only a few hours from each other, so a one-week road trip can help you see some real highlights. Just keep your plans simple, stay in fewer places, and enjoy what you do see.

Where to Go on a First Trip

If it’s your first time visiting Costa Rica, you’re in for a treat. This country is full of natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and unique places that feel like no other. There are so many attractions that it can be hard to choose, but I’ve got a few favorite spots that I think every visitor should try to see.

Let’s start with Arenal. This iconic destination is home to the famous volcano where you can hike, zip line, and even relax and unwind in hot springs. It’s one of those must visits that gives you a little bit of everything. Whether you want adventure or rest, Arenal has it all.

Next is Monteverde, known for its Cloud Forest Reserve. The misty forests here are full of life and give you a close look at Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity. The trails are peaceful, and it feels like you’re walking through the clouds. It’s a place that’s both exciting and calm at the same time.

For beach lovers, I always suggest Manuel Antonio. With its stunning coastal landscapes, this spot is great for a soft introduction to Costa Rica’s famous beaches. The area mixes busy towns with peaceful nature, which makes it a balanced stop on your trip.

If you have more time, there are even more incredible destinations to explore. Check out Tortuquero if you want to see turtles, or visit the remote and wild Osa Peninsula. Nosara is perfect for surfers and yoga fans. You could also head to Guancaste province or the Caribbean coast to see beautiful, less touristy places like Playa Cahuita or Puerto Viejo. Costa Rica has something for everyone.

How to Get Around

Traveling in Costa Rica is pretty simple. The country is small, so getting from the Caribbean coast in Limon to the Pacific Ocean in Puntarenas only takes about four and a half hours. No matter where you’re planning to visit, it’s never too far.

You have a few possibilities to move around: renting a car, taking public transportation, or using a private transfer service. Each works, but some are better than others depending on your trips and style.

For most people, I believe renting a car is the right choice. It gives you full freedom and fits well with this itinerary. If you’re only in the country for 7 days, it’s not feasible to be relying on buses. You’ll want to be on your own schedule.

Driving in Costa Rica is mostly easy and hassle free. Roads are decent, and signs are clear. I’ve had great experiences behind the wheel here. You’ll find both big international rental companies and local agencies, many of which are less expensive.

At the San Jose airport, there are tons of options. You’ll see well-known names like Hertz and Payless. These international companies are popular but can be pricier than the local ones.

If you’re trying to check prices and book, I always recommend using DiscoverCars. It’s a website that shows you all the offerings from both major brands and smaller agencies. That makes it easy to compare and find the better pricing.

You’ll often find some great deals by booking in advance. I’ve saved quite a bit doing this before every trip. It’s quick and clear, and you know exactly what you’re getting.

In short, if you want the most freedom and want to follow this route, renting a car is your best bet. It’s easy to set up, and you can see so much more with less stress.

Public Transport

Public transportation in Costa Rica is not very comprehensive, so if you’re relying exclusively on buses, your trip might feel a bit limited. Some areas are hard to reach without a car, and connections can be slow. Still, there are good direct bus services that run between popular destinations across the country.

These intercity buses are usually comfortable, safe, and quite affordable. If you plan to use them, I suggest getting your tickets online beforehand, because they depart at very specific hours. I’ve used buses a few times, and as long as you plan ahead, they work well for major stops.

Bus tickets can be purchased online up to a week prior. I recommend reserving in advance when you can. You can also buy them at the station. It’s unusual for buses to be sold out, but it does happen, especially during busy times, so it’s smart to plan early.

Uber & Taxis

As a local, I always recommend using Uber when possible, especially if you’re exploring the capital. In San Juan, there are plenty of taxis, but they’re usually more expensive. Sadly, some drivers will overcharge tourists, which is why I prefer apps like Uber that show you the price up front.

In bigger cities and towns, Uber works well. But if you’re going to a secluded spot or a small area, Uber might not be an option. You can usually find a taxi to call, or even a local bus. Just ask someone nearby—they’ll often help point you in the right direction.

Booking in Advance

Costa Rica is a hot spot on the tourist map, and many of its premier destinations are very popular. That means it’s smart to plan ahead. I always tell people to make reservations early—for accommodation, transportation like transfers or car rental, and any guided activities you want to do. Booking in advance can save you a lot of stress.

This is extra true for tours and organized experiences. The best tour operators and companies often get booked out fast. Space fills quickly, and if you wait too long, you may miss out. Trust me—some of the most fun stuff in Costa Rica needs to be reserved ahead of time.

While you might want to do things the DIY way—like self-guided hikes or adventures—that only works if you have a flexible schedule. If your days are tight, trying to figure it out as you go can backfire. I’ve seen visitors arrive thinking they can wing it, and they often leave disappointed.

You don’t want to miss a day of adventure just because you didn’t plan. So book early, skip the last-minute bookings, and avoid the stress. A little planning now makes for a much smoother trip.

Safety

When it comes to safety while traveling in Costa Rica, the best tip I can give is to use common sense. This is one of the happiest countries in the world, and most locals are truly happy and ready to assist or help with anything you need. People are friendly and often offer guidance if you ask.

That said, remember that Costa Rica is still a developing country, and like anywhere else, there are people who may try to take advantage of tourists. Trust your gut instinct. If something feels wrong or uncomfortable, it’s okay to walk away or say no.

Follow simple precautions to stay safe. Keep your important documents in a safe or concealed place. Don’t carry too much cash, and stay aware of your surroundings. If you have a rental car, don’t leave high-value items in plain sight—especially if you’ll be away from the car for a while.

If you ever face an emergency or feel unsafe, don’t worry. The police force in Costa Rica is very reliable. Never hesitate to call them or ask a police officer for assistance. They are used to helping travelers and can be trusted.

MY ADDITIONAL PRO TIPS

Here are some of my top personal tips from the trip to Costa Rica, based on what really stood out. These are easy wins that can help you save time, money, and hassle while making your experience more fun and relaxed.

• Don’t expect every food spot to be amazing. Most were just OK, and Costa Rica isn’t a big foodie destination. But the sodas (small local casual dining spots) are cheap, the people are nice, and the vibe is super genuine. Soda el Arenal in La Fortuna was our favorite and had the best meals with the kindest folks running the place.
  
• Bring back coffee, chocolate, and hot sauces from your trip—they were all amazing! We brought some home, and honestly, we wish we had brought back more.
  
• We skipped many tours because they felt too constrained and slowed us down. But we still saw plenty of wildlife by accident—no event needed. Even when it was raining, we got lucky. Maybe it’s common, or maybe we just hit the right spots.
  
• At Manuel Antonio National Park, the guides are on another level. If seeing animals is important to you, you’ll want a guide. They know what to look for, and many are available both outside and inside the park.
  
• We missed Tabacon hot springs in La Fortuna because we didn’t make reservations. It was booked for over a month. But The Springs was incredible, and they offer a 2-day pass that isn’t expensive, which worked better for our activities anyway.
  
• Watch your surroundings and don’t bring valuables. We never left bags unattended or gave anyone a chance to jack our stuff. I felt safer walking in Costa Rica at night than I do in Los Angeles during the day. The locals are very helpful.
  
• Don’t convert cash unless you need to. We used USD and card most of the time. Just note, your bank might add a small international transaction fee per swipe. Also, some places charged more for CC than Colones.
  
• In the touristy areas, most people speak English pretty well. Outside of those spots, don’t be shocked if you get a blank stare when you speak English. Use Google Translate—it saved us more than once and helped with Spanish basics.

Just Returned from Costa Rica!

I just got back from an amazing trip to Costa Rica, and I have to say—it was better than I expected. Some of the food was just OK, but nothing was bad, and a few dishes became instant favorites (I even posted them on my page). This was my 4th time visiting, and I’m even more excited to go back again. It was way cheaper than the Jersey Shore once we factored in flights, and the overall cost felt totally comparable.

We stayed near Playa Junquillal, and wow—the sunset photos were unreal. The colors over the water were so beautiful. The sunsets in Costa Rica are truly unrivalled. One day we even got lucky with a local fishing captain who was super dialed in and made the whole day extra fun. We went in June, and though it was rainy, it didn’t stop us. Most days had a dry stretch that let us explore.

If you’re planning a vacation and feel overwhelming pressure choosing towns or which side of the country to checkout, don’t stress. Pick one place to stay, maybe something cheap, and work from there. There are plenty of reliable travel agencies to help. Costa Rica is a lovely destination, full of warm people, great sights, and even chances to see animals without going far. I love every trip more than the last.

During my last week in Costa Rica, I realized how many surprises the country holds. I had a great trip, and the photo I took of a Great Green Macaw was truly spectacular. We visited Playa Negra, San Jose, and spent a fantastic time eating the best seafood at Playa Hermosa. Coco, Monteverde, and Santa Elena were also on our route, with stops in downtown Argentinian restaurants where the price was about half of what you’d pay in the USA. Everywhere we went had fresh juices, which made each meal feel excellent.

One thing I didn’t expect was how expensive some experiences in CR could be. It wasn’t the “cheap and cheerful” Hawaii-style beach vacation some imagine. A simple tour could cost $100, a trail entry $50, and zip lining with hanging bridges added up to $150. These expenses pile up quickly, so be selective with your choices. Still, we spotted monkeys, parrots, sloths, snakes, lizards, and many birds on our own just by watching the trees and listening for leaves moving. But I’ll admit—guides with a scope at places like Finca Ecological in San Luis showed us more, especially birds that love bananas.

We also loved La Fortuna, Santa Teresa, and the chill beginner surfing vibe in Nosara. Local sodas served great food, and the Motmot we saw in Cahuita and Puerto Viejo added to our backyard wildlife. One even slept in a tree right outside the bathroom window! If you go, keep in mind the tourist rate helps fund volunteers and maintenance during off-season. From Escazu (where I had dental surgery) to the Caribbean, or finding a beachfront Airbnb near the ocean, every corner offers something unique. Just don’t forget good hiking shoes, especially for slippery spots like Bri-Bri waterfall, and check your forecast—the weather can change fast!

Costa Rica: Life Changing and Full of Wonder

We did many fun things. Canyoning and kayaking gave us a thrill. We also stayed at luxury accommodations with mineral hot pools, spa treatments, and gourmet dining. Costa Rica takes ecotourism and conservation seriously. The wildlife, rainforests, and hot springs are just beautiful. I loved walking in the cloud forests and watching birds fly over the rivers and near the volcanoes.

There are so many nature-based activities to enjoy. We went ziplining, took guided walks, and even tried whitewater rafting. I saw many animals like sloths, monkeys, and bright birds. We also visited museums, tried local food, and learned about culture. The people were warm and friendly. This trip changed me. It was all about nature, relaxation, and fun. I now see why people call it pura vida—a pure life!

Considering a Move to Costa Rica – Tips and Advice

Thinking about moving to Costa Rica can be exciting, especially if you’re drawn to its natural beauty, slower pace of life, and warm weather. Many people imagine a peaceful lifestyle, full of nature, good food, and friendly people. But living here is not the same as vacationing. Things like bureaucracy, electricity, and groceries can be more expensive than expected. Relocating should not be rushed. Spend time in both dry and rainy conditions, and talk with foreigners who’ve made the move. Renting for a year is a smart step before buying property or building a starter home.

If you’re serious, do your research. Get a good lawyer, and make sure you understand visa rules, health concerns, and how residency papers work. It helps to have a support network, or at least a few friends to guide you. Areas like Guanacaste or gated neighborhoods such as The Oaks, Cabo Velas, or Villas Langosta are popular, but even there, life can be a challenge. Take your time, plan wisely, and don’t let the dream become an expensive fantasy.

Travel Entry Basics for Costa Rica

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, you’ll need more than just a U.S. passport. First, make sure your passport is valid and not damaged, as immigration might deny you entry. You should also have a return ticket or proof of onward travel to another country within 90 days, although 180 days is now allowed for many tourist stays. Airport staff might ask about your itinerary, so have your accommodations ready. Bring a paper copy with the name and address of your hotel, Airbnb, or wherever you’re staying. Sometimes, travelers are grilled at passport control if they can’t provide proof of lodging.

Though not always enforced, the official entry requirements include having $100 cash per month of your planned stay. If you’re carrying more than $10,000, you must declare it. A credit card, ATM card, and a small amount of Costa Rican money can be helpful for tips or small purchases. Most water is safe to drink, so you don’t need a water purifying tool. One thing that might feel new—don’t flush used toilet paper; use the trash cans next to the toilets. These small living condition differences are part of the travel experience in Costa Rica. I’ve visited for 1 weeks and never felt sick, but being prepared always helps.