What is the best base for exploring Costa Rica?


What is the best base for exploring Costa Rica? For a first trip Manuel Antonio and Arenal are good places to consider given your interests. Though it is a bit more expensive, if you are really averse to long car or bus rides, you can look into flying on either Sansa or Natureair from San Jose Or you might want the flexibility of renting a car.


Where is the prettiest place in Costa Rica?

Most Beautiful Places in Costa Rica
  • Rio Celeste Waterfalls, Tenorio Volcano National Park.
  • Corcovado National Park.
  • Pacuare River Rafting.
  • Arenal Volcano.
  • Cahuita National Park.
  • Punta Uva Beach.


What is the best time of year to visit Costa Rica?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. This is when you catch the seasons in transition, and the national parks are quieter.


What is the most walkable town in Costa Rica?

Las Catalinas is a unique place, one that espouses a new way of living in Costa Rica. At a glance it is a walkable pedestrian village that exists in harmony with its natural surroundings, and draws its character from a diverse set of influences from across the world.


How do tourists get around in Costa Rica?

The best way to get around Costa Rica is by bus, which is reliable, navigable, inexpensive and frequently runs through San José, Costa Rica's capital. Driving on your own is not highly recommended as some roads are tricky (speckled with potholes and ambiguously marked intersections).


What time of year is cheapest to go to Costa Rica?

The cheapest time to visit Costa Rica is during the green season or rainy season, May to November. As the largest influx of tourists visit Costa Rica during the dry season (December through April), that is the most expensive time to visit. Read more about Costa Rica weather to know what to expect.


Is Costa Rica safer than Mexico for tourists?

Costa Rica is considered to be safer than Mexico, with lower crime rates and political stability. Mexico, unfortunately, still gets a lot of violence due to drug cartels. However with that being said, it is still a safe place, you just have to be a little bit more cautious.


Is Costa Rica cheaper than Hawaii?

Costa Rica is cheaper than Hawaii. There is more to do and it will cost you less. You can spring for more luxurious accommodations once in a while in Costa Rica and you won't break the bank, but a standard hotel in Hawaii will already be pretty expensive.


Where to go in Costa Rica to avoid tourists?

Avoid the crowds at 10 of the best secret spots in Costa Rica
  • Any way you size it up, Costa Rica has a lot of tourists – both from home and abroad. ...
  • Wild coastline in Cahuita National Park. ...
  • Pristine Playa Cocolito. ...
  • Jungle trekking, Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. ...
  • Playa Conchal, the seashell beach.


Why is Costa Rica so cheap to travel to?

The overall affordability of Costa Rica is due to a combination of economic factors, competition among tourism providers, government initiatives, and the local currency exchange rate.


Where do most Americans stay in Costa Rica?

All of the popular and safe expatriate locations in Costa Rica, such as Heredia, Atenas, Arenal, Tamarindo and even some parts of the capital city San Jose are home to many American expats. One way to make friends is by simply being social and visiting US-owned establishments like bars or restaurants, or shops.


How many days is ideal for Costa Rica?

We recommend spending 10 days to two weeks in Costa Rica, as this timeframe will give you enough time to cover all the major highlights while also including time for traveling from one destination to another.


What is the average cost of a trip to Costa Rica?

A week of vacation in Costa Rica costs between $850 and $1,450 for an average traveler in mid-priced hotels, lodges or rental houses and doing standard tours (assuming double occupancy). Beachfront accommodations and high dollar activities like deep sea fishing will quickly push the budget over $2,500.


What is the best beach side in Costa Rica?

Best Beaches in Costa Rica For the Ultimate Beach Vacation
  • Flamingo Beach (Guanacaste) ...
  • Samara Beach (Guanacaste) ...
  • Santa Teresa, Playa Carmen and Hermosa Beach. ...
  • Montezuma Beach. ...
  • Tamarindo Beach (Guanacaste Province) ...
  • Uvita Beach (Costa Ballena, Puntarenas) ...
  • Tortuga Island. ...
  • Playa San Juanillo (Guanacaste)


What area of Costa Rica is best?

Explore the Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica
  • Arenal Volcano: Adventure Capital. ...
  • Manuel Antonio National Park. ...
  • Tamarindo Beach: Surf & Sunsets. ...
  • Monteverde: A Birdwatching Paradise. ...
  • Conchal Beach: Shell Beach. ...
  • Tortuguero: A Wildlife Wonder. ...
  • Puerto Viejo: Laid-Back Vibe. ...
  • San Jose: Culture Capital.


Is Costa Rica cheap or expensive?

If you're wondering “Is Costa Rica expensive?”, the answer is yes and no. Compared to other Central American countries like Nicaragua or El Salvador, Costa Rica is generally more on the expensive side. It's pretty well-developed and has a thriving tourism industry, so things do cost more.