Travel blog, tips and advice for
Costa Rican travelers 

Visiting a waterfall should be on almost every traveler's wish list. But for those heading to the northwestern part of Costa Rica, especially the beaches of Guanacaste, finding one of these magnificent cascades can be difficult. That's because this region of the country is known to be flatter and drier — not exactly ideal conditions for a waterfall. Luckily, though, there are some spectacular waterfalls hidden away like this gem near Liberia: Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, also

Traveling from Granada, Nicaragua, to San José and Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in Costa Rica is a popular route for travelers continuing their Central American adventure or catching an international flight. Located approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles) apart, the journey crosses the Nicaragua –Costa Rica border and offers several transportation choices depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style. Whether you prioritize comfort, affordability, or sp

Nestled on the edge of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay may be best known for its wildlife, Corcovado National Park adventures, and world-class snorkeling, but the food scene here is also worth exploring, even though the choice is rather limited. Here are our favorite restaurants, cafés, and coffee shops in Drake Bay, from upscale dining experiences featuring fresh-caught seafood to local sodas serving authentic Costa Rican dishes. Fine Dining Restaurants Kalaluna Bistro General

Peñas Blancas is the main border crossing between Nicaragua and Costa Rica and an important gateway for travelers continuing toward destinations like Liberia, La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. Located approximately 45 km south of Granada, Peñas Blancas is relatively easy to reach and offers several transportation options depending on your budget, schedule, and comfort preferences. This guide covers the best ways to travel from Granada to Peñas Blancas, i

If there's one local ritual that perfectly captures the soul of Quepos, Costa Rica, it's La Feria — the beloved weekly farmers market that brings the community alive with color, aromas, and the kind of honest, unpretentious energy that makes this Pacific coast town so special. Whether you're a long-term expat, a digital nomad, or a traveler passing through on your way to Manuel Antonio National Park, La Feria is not just a place to shop — it's a place to live like a local, ev

If you’re searching for a quiet beach in Guanacaste away from the crowds of Tamarindo and the busy resorts, Playa Ardilla may become your new favorite hidden paradise. Located near the upscale beach towns of Playa Flamingo and Potrero in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province, Playa Ardilla is a small, secluded beach with turquoise water, jungle surroundings, and a peaceful atmosphere that still feels untouched. Unlike many famous beaches in Costa Rica, Playa Ardilla remains relati

If you are looking for the perfect mix of adrenaline, rainforest scenery, and unforgettable outdoor adventure, white water rafting in Manuel Antonio should be at the top of your Costa Rica itinerary. Costa Rica is famous worldwide for its incredible biodiversity and eco-adventures, but many travelers are surprised to discover that the country is also home to some of the best white water rafting rivers in the world. From gentle family-friendly rapids to heart-pounding canyon d

If you are looking for an adventure that combines powerful rapids, lush rainforest scenery, and serious adrenaline, the Sarapiqui River (Río Sarapiquí) should be high on your Costa Rica bucket list. Located in Costa Rica’s northern lowlands, the Sarapiquí River is famous for delivering an exciting rafting experience surrounded by tropical jungle and incredible wildlife. It is especially popular among travelers staying in La Fortuna, Arenal, and the Central Valley, offering on

If there is one river in Costa Rica that consistently leaves travelers speechless, it is the Pacuare River (Río Pacuare). Flowing through untouched rainforest, deep canyons, and waterfall-lined gorges on Costa Rica’s Caribbean slope, the Pacuare is far more than a rafting destination. It is a journey into one of the country’s wildest and most beautiful landscapes. Whether you are an adrenaline seeker, a nature lover, or simply searching for an unforgettable day trip, white wa

Getting from Uvita up into the cloud forests of Monteverde is like trading warm Pacific breezes for misty mountain air — and the journey itself becomes part of your Costa Rican story. You’ve got options depending on your vibe: private shuttles let you relax and travel door‑to‑door at your own pace with views changing from rainforest to rolling hills; shared shuttles are a great balance of comfort and value with hotel pick‑ups and drop‑offs along the way; and if you’re on a ti

Located on Costa Rica’s laid-back Caribbean coast, Cahuita National Park is one of the country’s most accessible and rewarding national parks. Known for its coastal rainforest trails, abundant wildlife, and vibrant coral reefs, it is also one of the best places for snorkeling on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. If you’re looking for a destination where you can combine wildlife spotting, beautiful beaches, and underwater exploration, snorkeling in Cahuita is an experience you

Costa Rica is famous for its tropical beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, wildlife, and pura vida lifestyle. But beyond the adventure tours and postcard-perfect sunsets, the country also has a rich cultural identity shaped by religion, history, family traditions, and national pride. If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica, understanding the country’s national holidays can completely change your travel experience. Some holidays bring colorful parades, fireworks, and cultural fest

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, chances are you’ve asked yourself this question: “Can I use Uber in Costa Rica?” The short answer is: Yes, Uber works in Costa Rica — but technically, it operates in a legal gray area. That answer confuses many travelers, so this guide explains everything you need to know before using Uber in Costa Rica in 2026. Is Uber Officially Legal in Costa Rica? Uber has operated in Costa Rica since 2015, but the government has never fully legali

Traveling around Costa Rica is one of the most exciting parts of planning your trip. From tropical beaches and volcanoes to cloud forests and jungle towns, the country is packed with unforgettable destinations. But figuring out how to move between them can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. That’s where private and shared shuttle transportation in Costa Rica becomes the perfect solution. Whether you are traveling from San José to Manuel Antonio, heading from La Fortun

If you're wondering what airlines fly into Costa Rica, you’ll be happy to know that the country is extremely well-connected, with dozens of international carriers serving both Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR). From major U.S. hubs to Europe and Latin America, Costa Rica receives hundreds of international flights every month, making it one of the easiest destinations to reach in Central America. Full list of Airli

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Booking your flight is the very first (and often most important) step. The good news: getting to Costa Rica has never been easier—or cheaper—thanks to increased airline competition, new routes, and frequent deals in 2026. In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about flights to Costa Rica, including the best airports, airlines, routes, prices, and insider tips to score the cheapest fares. Why is Costa Rica easier (and ch

Renting a car in Costa Rica is one of the best ways to explore the country at your own pace—but it’s also one of the most confusing parts of planning your trip. Between mandatory insurance, hidden fees, road conditions, and rental requirements, many travelers feel overwhelmed before even landing. This complete 2026 guide breaks everything down clearly so you can rent with confidence, avoid surprises, and enjoy the freedom of the road. Why renting a car in Costa Rica is differ

If you're searching for the best hotels in Cahuita, there’s one important thing to understand first: Cahuita is not a luxury destination. Unlike places like Manuel Antonio or Guanacaste, Cahuita is all about authentic Caribbean culture, nature, and laid-back vibes. You won’t find big 5-star resorts or $300/night hotels here—and that’s exactly why travelers love it. Instead, Cahuita offers something better: locally owned boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and budget-friendly stays,

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Cahuita National Park is one of those places you simply can’t skip. With its unique combination of tropical rainforest, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs, it offers one of the most accessible and rewarding nature experiences in the country. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, a family looking for an easy wildlife adventure, or a solo traveler craving authentic Costa Rica, this guide will help you plan the perfe

If you're searching for Costa Rica's top-rated resorts, you're in the right place. Costa Rica is home to some of the most incredible luxury, eco-friendly, and beachfront resorts in the world—ranging from jungle lodges to five-star oceanfront escapes. What makes Costa Rica stand out is its unique blend of luxury + nature. Many of the country’s best resorts are designed to immerse you in rainforests, volcanoes, and pristine beaches while still offering world-class service and a

If you’re wondering what to do in La Fortuna, you’re in the right place. This small town at the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano is one of the most exciting destinations in Costa Rica—packed with waterfalls, jungle adventures, volcano hikes, and natural hot springs. But what if you only have 2 days in La Fortuna? Good news: that’s more than enough time to experience the best of it—even on a budget. This 48-hour itinerary mixes must-do activities + hidden free spots, so you c

Costa Rica is one of the best destinations in the world for wildlife lovers—and spotting monkeys in Costa Rica is often at the very top of every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re backpacking, traveling with family, or exploring solo, seeing monkeys swinging through the jungle is one of those unforgettable “pura vida” moments. The good news? Monkeys are relatively easy to see in Costa Rica—if you know where to go. In this guide, we’ll break down the best places to see mon

If you’re planning a trip to Manuel Antonio National Park, you’re about to visit one of the most iconic destinations in Costa Rica. Famous for its lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and incredible wildlife, Manuel Antonio is often ranked among the most beautiful national parks in the world. If you want to truly make the most of your visit—from spotting incredible wildlife to enjoying the park’s best beaches—having the right information beforehand makes all the difference. A

If you’re planning a trip to Nosara, one experience you truly shouldn’t miss is sunset horseback riding along the Pacific coast. Blending adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery, it’s one of the most memorable ways to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Whether you’re a couple searching for a romantic sunset activity, a family looking for something unique, or a solo traveler wanting to connect with nature, a sunset horseback riding tour in Nosara offers an un