Costa Rica Travel Guide
Pura Vida and endless adventures!
I can't quite put into words how this trip made us feel.
Costa Rica is full of magic, and as cheesy as it may sound - my soul feels lighter due to their Pura Vida lifestyle. It's a remarkable country.
While this was a vacation in the sense that I brought my husband, I of course keep YOU in mind with every new country I visit. I love my job too much not to!
I toured several properties, we went out of our way for dinner at a tented camp, I asked locals about their favorite hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and have endless notes to help better match my clients to the right hotels and itinerary in Costa Rica.
There's jungle, there's beach, there's cloud forest... so where do you start?!?
Getting from place to place can be quite complex – from plane charters to lengthy transfers, to ferries, to pairing the right properties to your preferences, there’s a lot to consider!
Don’t sweat it – that’s where I come in.
What’s so special about Costa Rica?
Costa Rica presents pristine rainforests, volcanoes, cloud forests, and unique wildlife viewing. From monkeys to sloths, to toucans, to some of the world’s best surfing, you’re sure to have a remarkable experience.
And oh, the people! They call themselves, "Ticos". They care SO very much about their culture and are so proud to be from Costa Rica. You will be welcomed with a warm smile, and often will be called "Amigo".
If that isn't enough, the views are some of the most beautiful that I've ever seen. The Costa Rica jungle resembled the world of Avatar, and I was in awe at every step I took.
The country has wildlife galore - nearly 6% of the WORLD'S biodiversity!
If you love beautiful landscapes, amazing food, sloths! and a little adventure, Costa Rica is THE perfect place for you.
What to do
Tarzan swing
Open air bungalow spa
Sloth tour - if you see Pepe, tell him hi for us!
Volcano and waterfall hikes
Forest bathing walking meditation
Yoga
White water rafting
Coffee plantation
Chocolate tasting
Waterfall gardens
Bioluminescence tours
Waterfall rappelling
Sunset wine and cheese boat at Arenal lake
Hanging bridges
Surfing
Canopy/Ziplining Tour
ATV tour
Hot springs
Twilight Safari
Hiking/Biking
Whale boat tour
And sooo much more.
A Breakdown
The Southern Osa Peninsula offers a truly rural experience.
The central, Arenal Volcano Region is the adventure capital! Expect gorgeoussss rainforest views here.
Monteverde for the cloud forest.
Manuel Antonio National Park is where the rainforest meets the sea.
Northern Guanacaste allows for the perfect pairing of exploring during the day, and luxury by night. Don’t come to Guanacaste for a true rainforest experience since many immersive experiences are at least 40 – 90 minutes away.
Santa Teresa is a laid back, boho surf town that you don’t want to miss! We just loved exploring this town and felt so safe walking at night. Think locals driving their ATVs/motor scooters with bare feet!
There are several other gorgeous regions that might just be the perfect fit for you. Let’s chat to be sure.
Some Helpful Tips
Bring water shoes!
Go during off season! September was BEAUTIFUL, and we felt especially cared for as resorts were not swamped. It was technically rainy season, but we only experienced 2-3 quick downpours, and it was late afternoon when we were relaxing in the room.
Always talk with your hotel about special dining experiences they may offer.
Do a mixology class! Our class at Nantipa was one of our favorite parts of our trip.
Order tap water at dinner so you don’t get charged.
Uber : while technically illegal there, it is safe, cheap and fairly reliable.
Out of all the paths in the world, make sure a few of them are dirt
.
(Or pavement at the unbelievably gorgeous Tabacon Hot Springs)
If Costa Rica has ever been a dream of yours, let's make it happen!
Looking for more travel inspiration? Follow me on Instagram, @onyx.and.evergreen.travel.
I post travel tips and inspiration daily!