I adore Costa Rica. It was the first nation I ever visited, and it instilled in me a lifelong passion for travel. Costa Rica is one of my favorite countries in the world to visit.. It was the first country I ever visited, and it sparked my wanderlust. Costa Rica has lately become one of the most popular regions in Central America. It is a favorite among expatriates, luxury tourists, and budget travelers alike. While it is more expensive than other Central American countries, it is still an excellent destination to visit.
I enjoy the never-ending adventures, gorgeous beaches, various creatures, delicious food, and kind people.
Although this country is expensive when compared to other places in the region, it is still an amazing place to visit. The beaches are picturesque and there are great surfing and diving opportunities. There are also plenty of places where you can get away from the crowds of retired Americans who live here. I really can’t say enough good things about this country! This guide to Costa Rica can assist you in having the trip of a lifetime while also saving money.Pura Vida!
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Costa Rica
1. Climb a volcano
As one of the country’s top tourist attractions, volcanoes offer visitors stunning views and unique experiences. Arenal is the most popular volcano, renowned for its beautiful hikes and scenic views. Irazu is home to a gorgeous green-blue lake in one of its craters, while Poas Volcano contains a boiling acid lake within its crater.
2. Visit Monteverde
I love Monteverde in Costa Rica. It’s the perfect town to stay in if you want to go hiking in the cloud forest, take canopy tours, or visit coffee plantations. The coffee here is incredible – it tastes like liquid chocolate.
3. Explore Tortuguero National Park
This park is located on the Caribbean coast and is known for being one of the most important breeding grounds for endangered green turtles. The park also helps protect other animals such as manatees, sloths and monkeys. If you’re someone who enjoys jungles, birds and quiet places, this is definitely a place you should consider visiting! Admission to the park costs 9230 CRC.
4. Explore Corcovado
Corcovado National Park isn’t like most other places. It’s located on a remote Osa Peninsula in the southwest, and it is full of untouched jungles and beautiful hikes. You’ll find many diving locations around too. Though it may be tough to get there, I believe that it is worth seeing at least once if you’re ever in the country.
5. Stay in Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo is a seaside town on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica known for its excellent beaches, surfing, and party atmosphere. It’s one of my favorite towns in the country because of its Caribbean influences, which give it a distinct feel from the rest of Costa Rica.
Backpacking Costa Rica Suggested Budgets
If you budget 30,000-35,000 CRC per day while backpacking Costa Rica, you can stay in a hostel, eat mostly cheap meals like street food and prepared dishes from the grocery store, take public transportation to get around, and engage in free activities such as hiking or visiting the beach.
On a budget of 65,000 CRC per day, you may stay in an Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at local sodas, take the odd taxi, and do more sponsored activities like guided tours, surf lessons, and museum visits. This is just the beginning of luxury living. The sky’s the limit!
Money Saving Tips for Travel to Costa Rica
When compared to other Central American countries, Costa Rica is one of the most expensive. Fortunately, there are several strategies to save money while you’re in Costa Rica. Here are some of the most effective strategies for saving money in Costa Rica:
- Travel off-season – The rainy months in this country are from April to November, and during this time prices drop significantly and the area is less crowded. If you’re watching your spending, plan your trip for this season. Another money-saving tip is to avoid tour activities – there are a lot of great (but expensive) group activities and tours in the country. However, you can have just as much fun by doing free activities like hiking, swimming, and relaxing at the beach instead.
- Eat at the sodas –Extremely low-budget sodas are tiny family-owned eateries that specialize in modest local cuisine, which typically costs around 3,500 CRC. The best bargain in the country is found at these hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
- Go camping – Many resorts and hostels allow you to camp on their grounds if you have a tent. This normally costs between 6,000 and 7,500 CRC per night.
- Visit the Caribbean side – The lovely nation of the Caribbean may be visited on a shoestring budget, as long as you visit one of the less-known areas.
- Avoid the tourist buses – If time isn’t of the essence, local buses are a more budget-friendly option compared to tourist buses, even though they travel at a slower pace.
- Pack a water bottle –By using a water bottle with a purifier, you can save both money and the environment. I personally prefer LifeStraw.
When to Visit Costa Rica
The majority of travelers go to Costa Rica during the dry season, lasting from December through April. Although it is when costs are highest and tourist traps are most overrun, there is practically guaranteed daily sunshine–perfect weather for taking advantage of the country’s many beaches and rainforests. If you’re planning a trip then, book everything far ahead as things fill up remarkably fast.
The best time to travel to Costa Rica on a budget is during the rainy season from May through November. Although it does rain more often, there are still sunny days and warm temperatures. The heaviest rains generally subside in June and July, making this an ideal time to visit as you’ll be able to see the country’s rainforests at their most vibrant.
Overall, temperatures and weather vary considerably by location. If you’re near the Caribbean coast or the Northern Plains, expect year-round humidity and temperatures in the 70s to 80s°F (20s-30s°C). Temperatures are not as humid in the North Pacific, but they can get even hotter during the dry season
