Costa Rica travel guide
Practical guides from locals — planning, driving, destinations, and everything in between.
Are Rental Cars Safe in Costa Rica? What Travelers Should Know
Rental cars are generally safe in Costa Rica if you park smart, avoid leaving bags visible, and choose secure lodging. The real risk is break-ins at trailheads, beaches, and unattended lots.
Costa Rica in May: What Weather, Prices, and Crowds Really Look Like
Costa Rica in May is the start of green season: lower prices, fewer crowds, and usually sunny mornings with afternoon rain. Here’s what to expect.
Costa Rica in April: Weather, Crowds, and What to Expect
April is one of Costa Rica’s in-between months: warm, often sunny, with the first hints of the green season. Here’s how to plan well.
Costa Rica in March: Weather, Best Regions, and What to Pack
March is one of Costa Rica’s driest, sunniest months, but the best region depends on whether you want beaches, wildlife, or cooler mountain air.
Costa Rica in February: Weather, Crowds, Prices, and Best Places
February is one of Costa Rica’s most popular months for a reason: dry weather on the Pacific side, good road conditions, and prime beach season. Here’s how to plan it well.
What to Pack for Costa Rica Rainy Season: A Local Guide
Costa Rica’s rainy season is not a reason to overpack. Bring the right shoes, layers, and rain protection, and you’ll be fine from May to November.
Costa Rica 10 Day Itinerary: My Best First-Timer Route
A practical 10-day Costa Rica itinerary for first-timers, with two smart route options, drive times, budgets, and what to skip when time is tight.
Best Hot Springs in La Fortuna: Free Pools vs Paid Resorts
A practical guide to La Fortuna’s hot springs: which ones are free, which ones are worth paying for, and how to choose by budget, vibe, and transport.
Renting a Car in Costa Rica Hidden Fees: What to Watch For
The real cost of a Costa Rica rental is rarely the headline price. Here’s how mandatory insurance, deposits, and drop-off fees change what you pay.
Manuel Antonio vs Uvita: Which Beach Town Fits Your Trip?
Manuel Antonio is the easy, polished pick; Uvita is the wider-open, lower-key one. Here’s how they compare on beaches, wildlife, cost, and drive time.
Costa Rica in January: Weather, Crowds, Costs, and Best Plans
January is one of Costa Rica’s most popular travel months. Here’s what weather, crowds, prices, roads, and region-by-region conditions really look like.
Is Costa Rica Expensive to Visit? A Realistic Budget Guide
Costa Rica can be affordable or pricey depending on where you stay, how you move, and which activities you choose. Here’s the real 2026 budget picture.
Is Costa Rica Safe for Solo Female Travelers? A Realistic Guide
Costa Rica is one of the easier solo trips in Latin America, but safety depends on timing, location, and how you move around. Here’s the real-world breakdown for women traveling alone.
What to Pack for Costa Rica: Dry vs Green Season
A calm, practical packing guide for Costa Rica families and first-timers, with dry-season vs green-season differences, beach-to-rainforest basics, and kid-friendly extras.
Costa Rica 7-Day Itinerary for First-Timers: The Best Easy Route
A calm, practical 7-day Costa Rica itinerary for first-timers, with easy drives, family-friendly stops, realistic costs, and route choices that keep the trip smooth.
Best Zipline in La Fortuna: How to Choose the Right Canopy Tour
La Fortuna has some of Costa Rica’s best canopy tours. Here’s how the top ziplines compare on speed, scenery, safety, and price so you can book smart.
Do You Need a 4x4 in Costa Rica? Region-by-Region Truth
The honest answer is “sometimes.” On paved routes, a regular car is fine. On steep, muddy, or river-crossing roads, a 4x4 can save your trip—and your nerves.