Costa Rica Vacation Packages and Tours

Costa Rican culture is where the nation’s history, nature, and diversity meet. It reflects the warmth and friendliness of its people, known as "Ticos" and "Ticas," and the nation takes pride in its commitment to peace, democracy, and environmental conservation, creating a unique cultural identity within the Americas.

Costa Ricans celebrate their Spanish heritage through festivals, music, and dance. Traditional folk music like the "guanacaste" and "punto guanacasteco" can be heard in the streets. The country's religious influences are evident in the numerous festivals dedicated to Catholic saints, blending indigenous and European traditions. 

Costa Rica's love for nature is deeply ingrained in its culture, with a significant emphasis on sustainability and ecotourism. The pura vida lifestyle, meaning "pure life," encapsulates the national ethos of living a simple, stress-free life in harmony with nature.

Artisans craft intricate oxcarts and vivid masks across the country, reflecting the indigenous Boruca and Chorotega cultures. In short, Costa Rica's culture is a colourful one, blending history, nature, and a commitment to preserving the beauty that defines this Central American gem.

What is the visiting etiquette in Costa Rica?

There are few rules around etiquette in Costa Rica per se, but remembering a few important tips will improve your trip. A handshake is a typical greeting, though you may receive a light kiss on the cheek from someone of the opposite gender. Men tend to dress more conservatively than women in Costa Rica. Mild forms of harassment such as catcalling can unfortunately happen in the country’s machismo culture, but a firm "no" will usually put a stop to it.

Costa Ricans frown on unnecessary drama and they hate to argue. Avoid criticism of the country or its people, or making a scene if things don’t go to plan. The more chill you are in Costa Rica, the better chance you have of things going smoothly. Costa Ricans’ aversion to conflict has its downsides too. They may tell you what they think you want to hear, rather than admit they don’t know. Just be polite and take local advice with a grain of salt if it sounds uncertain or fishy. 

What is Costa Rica best known for?

Costa Rica is recognized as a world leader in ecotourism, and most Costa Rica vacations reflect this. With over half a million species (five percent of the world’s total) across land, in the air and in the water calling this relatively small country home, this comes as no surprise. Don’t dismiss the country’s human elements, however. The locals are proud of their country and its biodiversity, and are not afraid to share their lively, colourful culture with visitors.

What are some Costa Rican traditions?

Costa Rica blends indigenous traditions with those introduced by its Spanish colonizers. In big cities like San Jose, holidays such as Christmas tend to be quite commercialized. But in more rural areas, you’ll see a more traditionally religious version, including Posadas, in which local children go from door to door dressed as Mary and Joseph, asking for room at the inn. On December 26, cowboys from across the country show off their skills at the national horse parade, called Tope Nacional. A non-lethal form of bullfighting is still practiced in Costa Rica, though it remains controversial with animal rights activists.

What are Costa Ricans like socially?

Costa Ricans tend to be laid-back, easy-going, and conflict-averse. With no armed forces, the only fight Costa Rica is interested in is the one against climate change, and most of the locals are proud of their country’s neutral stance. Conversation with strangers can feel more reserved than in other Latin American countries, using the formal usted form in Spanish, with the familial tu being reserved for family, friends, or children. You’ll also hear the term pura vida used as a greeting, goodbye, thank you, and in other contexts you wouldn’t normally expect to hear it.

What language do Costa Ricans speak?

Spanish is the dominant language in Costa Rica, though many people who work in tourism and hospitality are also fluent in English. You may also hear indigenous languages including Bribri, Cabécar, Maleku, and Guaymi.

The best time to visit Costa Rica largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Costa Rica has two main seasons, but they vary with the country’s geography. The Pacific Coast is at its driest from December to April, while the Caribbean enjoys better weather between March and September. Each season offers a unique set of advantages, making Costa Rica a year-round destination.

The dry season is the most popular time to visit. During these months, Costa Rica enjoys sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, beach outings, and wildlife exploration. The lush green landscapes and abundant wildlife make this a prime time for nature enthusiasts to take a Costa Rica trip. However, this is the peak tourist season, resulting in higher prices and more crowded attractions.

On the other hand, the wet season showcases Costa Rica's rainforests at their most vibrant. The landscape flourishes with lush greenery, and the rivers are at their fullest. While rain showers are common, they are usually short-lived and followed by clear skies. This season is perfect if you’re seeking a more budget-friendly, less crowded experience. It’s also an excellent time for surfers, as the Pacific coast experiences larger waves.

When is the ideal time to visit Costa Rica?

March to April is the golden point on Costa Rica’s weather calendar where the Pacific Coast and Caribbean dry seasons meet. That being said, a Costa Rica vacation is a great idea year-round, depending on where you go. May, June and November are particularly lush, so if you’re not put off by a little rain, you’ll likely come away with some fantastic photos. For Costa Rica’s best surfing, visit the Pacific Coast during its wet season, from May to November.

When is Costa Rica’s peak tourist season?

Costa Rica tourism peaks in the dry season from December to April, with the end-of-year holidays and Spring Break being the busiest times. Costa Rica vacation packages are often booked far in advance for these periods.

Which is the most affordable time to visit Costa Rica?

Those who brave the wet season can pick up some good deals on a variety of Costa Rica tours while enjoying the country at its greenest and most lush. Wet season showers don’t tend to last too long anyway, so there really is no bad time to visit Costa Rica in terms of weather.

How long should I plan to visit Costa Rica?

Seven to 12 days is a good timeframe for a Costa Rica vacation, and most Costa Rica tours fall within this range. Costa Rica is also a popular snowbird or long-stay destination during North America’s winter, so it isn’t unheard of for visitors to stay several weeks or even months.

How long can you vacation in Costa Rica?

As a tourist, you can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days.

How much is a trip to Costa Rica?

The cost of a Costa Rica vacation can vary quite a bit, from US$200 per person per day for a simple introductory or family trip, to more than double that for a more luxurious trip, or one that caters to specific interests such as birdwatching. Budget extra if you want to explore the harder-to-reach national parks such as Corcovado National Park. 

What currency does Costa Rica use?

The Costa Rican Colón is the local currency, trading at around 525 to 1 USD. Many tours and experiences are quoted in USD and for these, it’s better to pay in USD. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but keep some colónes on hand for small, local purchases. 

Do I need to tip in Costa Rica?

Costa Rican restaurants add a 10% service charge, so there’s no need to tip unless your server truly went above and beyond. Leave $2 a day for housekeeping and a dollar per bag for porting your luggage. For cabs, between $1 and $5 is usually enough, depending on the length of the trip. Guides are usually tipped between $5 and $15, depending on the size of your group. If taking a boat tour, tip the crew as well.

Where to go on a Costa Rica vacation

Costa Rica’s staggering biodiversity means no two national parks or regions are exactly alike. Arenal Volcano is the country’s most impressive, surrounded by hot springs, spectacular waterfalls, and the lovely town of La Fortuna. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve harbours more than 3,000 species within its leafy mists, while on the Pacific coast, Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio are the most popular bases. Tortuguero, a nesting habitat for four marine turtle species, is found on the Caribbean side. If you’re spending more than a week in Costa Rica, consider visiting both coasts to appreciate the contrast. Though it’s a little more expensive, Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula always wows those willing to make the trip.

How safe is Costa Rica for vacation?

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in the Americas, but stay alert to petty theft. Rental cars are often a target. So are bags on the beach, or left hanging on chairs at bars and restaurants. Keep any bags where you can see them, and don’t carry more cash or documents (including credit cards) than you need for the day. Stay in a group when walking at night and stick to registered red or orange taxis to avoid scams. Also, it’s common sense, but keep a respectful distance from wild animals you encounter in the parks.

Is Costa Rica LGBTQ+ friendly?

Costa Rica is generally accepting of LGBTQ+ identities and has long been ahead of its Central American neighbours in terms of reform. Same-sex marriage is legal, gender-affirming care is available and non-binary gender is legally recognized. Rural areas can be more conservative, but tourists are unlikely to experience anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination. San Jose has a thriving gay scene, while smaller scenes exist in tourism hubs like Manuel Antonio.  

Can I drink the tap water in Costa Rica?

Over 92 percent of Costa Rica has access to safe drinking water, so unless you’re heading to a really remote area, bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at every opportunity. 

What to pack for a trip to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical destination, so light, breathable fabrics are key. A pair of good hiking shoes and a small, easy-to-carry day pack are must-have items. The locals tend to keep it casual, so a thin rain jacket and microfibre towel will be far more useful than dress clothes. Eco-friendly mosquito repellent and sunscreen are a good idea too, though you can pick up most of the basics at local pharmacies.

Costa Rica’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as its ecosystems. You can start your gastronomic journey with gallo pinto, a quintessential Costa Rican dish. This savoury mix of rice and black beans, seasoned with cilantro, peppers, and Lizano sauce, is a staple in every Tico's diet. Pair it with a "Ticos-style" breakfast featuring eggs, ripe plantains, and cheese for a truly authentic start to your day.

One of the most popular dishes in Costa Rican cuisine is chifrijo, a hearty bowl of rice, beans, pork, and avocado, perfect for refuelling after a day of exploration. When it comes to beverages, agua de sapote or agua de maracuyá are refreshing fruit drinks that capture the essence of Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. Coffee aficionados are also in for a treat with the world-class Costa Rican coffee, renowned for its smooth flavour and robust aroma.

Exploring Costa Rica through its food is not just a culinary journey but a cultural immersion, allowing you to savour the essence of this enchanting destination.

What is Costa Rica’s traditional cuisine?

Few dishes are more classically Costa Rican than a cascado, a breakfast plate piled with rice, beans, plantains, a mixed salad, fresh or fried cheese, corn tortillas, and some kind of protein. If you’d rather start your day with something lighter, the humble smoothie, known as batidos, is ubiquitous across Costa Rica. Other Latin American favourites such as ceviche show up in Costa Rican cuisine as well, while plantains are a popular sweet or savoury snack, whether on their own (usually as chips called patacone), with dip, or as part of a larger meal. Our favourite is crispy plantain chips served with pico de gallo, Costa Rica’s famous non-spicy salsa.

What is the dining etiquette in Costa Rica?

Dining etiquette can catch some off guard on their Costa Rica trip, so try to remember a few basics. Don’t start eating until the host says buen provecho, then pass dishes to your left when you’re done taking your portion. Eat with your knife in your left hand and your fork in your right (this can be tricky if you’re used to the opposite), and keep your hands in sight at all times when not eating. You can use your knife to guide salad onto your fork, but don’t cut it up.

Finally, rank plays a role at the Costa Rican table. The head of the table is usually reserved for the most honoured person, often the host (not such a big ask, considering they often pick up the bill). It’s also not unusual for men to sit on one side of the table and women to sit on the other, though of course, many Costa Ricans ignore this somewhat old-fashioned custom. Finally, be sure to finish everything that is on your plate. Unlike in some other cultures, it’s considered an insult to leave food unfinished on your plate in Costa Rica. If you took more than you were able to eat, make it very clear to your host that you enjoyed the meal and really couldn’t eat another bite.

What is the drinking etiquette in Costa Rica?

Drinking etiquette in Costa Rica is similar to that of other Latin American countries, with one small quirk. It’s common to say gracias after each sip. The legal drinking age is 18, and it’s a good idea to know and respect your limits in Costa Rica’s heat.

Does Costa Rica cater to dietary restrictions?

Costa Rica is turning into a haven for vegetarians and other health-conscious folk, both local and expat, so finding restaurants that will cater to dietary restrictions isn’t too difficult. The Costa Rican diet is already heavily plant and fish-based, so make sure the chef/server is aware of any allergies or other restrictions, and enjoy.

What do meals typically cost in Costa Rica?

A nice local meal can be had for as little as US $10 in Costa Rica, while a multi-course dinner for two will run closer to US $80. Prices are of course higher in popular tourism spots than in the rest of the country.