A dream for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking relaxation. If you are looking for tips for your trip to Costa Rica, you have come to the right place. Here you will find our personal experiences and highlights.
Costa Rica – the land of “Pura Vida” is located between Nicaragua and Panama in Central America. It is one of the countries with the greatest biodiversity in the world. If you are looking for nature, beautiful beaches, volcanoes, exotic animals, and relaxed people, this is the place for you. We had the privilege of living in this beautiful country for almost four years and would like to share our personal Costa Rica travel tips, favorite places, and experiences with you. Whether you are currently planning your trip or already on the road, you will find lots of valuable information here for an unforgettable tour of Costa Rica.
Pura Vida Costa Rica
This phrase is heard and experienced every day and everywhere in Costa Rica. Translated, it means something like "pure life".But Pura Vida is much more than just an expression, it describes the life style of Costa Ricans (Ticos). It is a special attitude to life, a kind of personal philosophy. Pura Vida can be experienced here every day, whether at the in the easy going, positive attitude people or the beauty of nature. After four years in this wonderful country, these words have clearly left their mark on us. Since then, we have tried to enjoy “pure life” always and everywhere and to appreciate the simple things, such as the beauty of nature.
General tips for a relaxed travel through Costa Rica
Best travel time: climate and weather in Costa Rica
Between November and April, it is usually dry, and the time there is called "Gold Season". In the province of Guanacaste, in the north of the country, it often doesn't rain at all during this period, but it is also a little hotter and more humid than usual. At the beginning of the dry season, the landscape is usually still beautifully green, but by March/April, the dryness really becomes apparent and everything turns “golden.”
From May until October it's "Green Season", then it sometimes rains. However, between May and August, the rain is often limited to about an hour in the early evening, but nature is much greener as a result. In September and October, however, it sometimes rains for longer periods, which can lead to flooding, and there are more mosquitoes (some carrying dengue fever) around.
In my opionion December and January are is the best time to travel,everything is still beautifully green from the rainy season, but the weather is relatively stable and it usually doesn't rain at all. Of course, this is also the peak season (especially around New Year's Eve) and prices are higher than at other times. We have often found April to be extremely hot, especially in Guanacaste, where temperatures sometimes reached 35°–40° for weeks and there was no wind, which usually provides some cooling in other months. Otherwise, temperatures are relatively stable throughout the year. On the coast, it is between 30°C and 35°C, and in higher regions around 25°C to 30°C.
Time: why you become a early bird in Costa Rica
People in this country tend to be early risers, partly because it is usually still pleasantly cool in the morning, and partly because it gets pitch dark immediately after sunset at around 6 p.m. Time itself is not so important in Costa Rica; everything is a little more relaxed. Anyone who expects their plans to be carried out punctually here runs the risk of being disappointed. In general, it is best to allow a little more time – or not to plan too much detail.
Traveling in Costa Rica: Road conditions, rental cars, and public transportation
The roads are mostly okay, but not comparable to Western highways. For a distance of about 200 km on the “highway” (mostly single lane), it can take about 3-4 hours by car, and even longer by public bus. Especially to remote beaches or national parks, the roads are often unpaved. These dirt roads sometimes have large potholes, so allow extra time and, if possible, do not drive after dark (i.e., after 6 p.m.). For such roads, a four-wheel drive (4×4) rental car would be worthwhile, simply because it is slightly higher off the ground and you don't feel every stone. Unfortunately, rental cars are relatively expensive compared to other countries, but they are still a good way to get to know the country a little faster and more easily. Just be careful with speed limits, as the penalties are quite high compared to Europe if you are caught. Many places can also be reached easily and cheaply by public bus, just allow more time and keep an eye on your valuables.
People, lifestyle, and language
The Ticos, as Costa Ricans call themselves, are very friendly hosts and generally extremely open, cheerful people. Of course, it helps if you try to speak a few words of Spanish, but especially in tourist areas, you can get by just fine with English. It also helps if you quickly adopt the laid-back attitude of the Pura Vida lifestyle; stress won't win you any friends. In general, things are not taken so seriously; life is much simpler, more relaxed, and carefree—Pura Vida, in other words.
Safety in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is generally considered a safe country to travel in – but unfortunately, whenever there is an opportunity for petty theft, it is often taken advantage of. People are not usually aggressive and do not seek confrontation. But if something valuable is left lying around, it will quickly disappear. So, it's best to leave anything you don't want to lose in the safe. Don't leave anything visible in the car (even if it's just your swimwear – the hassle with the rental car company over the broken-into car isn't worth it). The same goes for the beach: anything valuable left on your towel while you're in the water may be gone when you come out. Nothing has been stolen from us in almost four years there, but unfortunately, we hear about it happening to many travelers.
Medical care
There are several private clinics and doctors, especially in San Jose or Liberia, that are well equipped. So if anything happens, just ask at your accommodation. Minor issues were also dealt with quite well in our small beach village, and many things could often be resolved even at the pharmacy.
Accommodations in Costa Rica
From hostels and small B&Bs to luxury hotels and eco-lodges, there is something for everyone. We often searched in advance on a large booking site such as booking.com, Expedia, or AirBnB, and then booked directly with the accommodation if possible, or simply asked for available rooms on site during the off-season.
National parks, rainforests, and cloud forests in Costa Rica
Approximately 25% of the country is under nature conservation. At national parks, you usually have to register at the entrance, and there is often an admission fee. Especially the first time, a guided tour is definitely worthwhile. The guides there can find the smallest frog, the best-camouflaged snake, the most colorful bird, or the best-hidden sloth, and they can also tell you a lot about them.
Beaches in Costa Rica
All beaches in Costa Rica are open to the public and may not be built on. There are no private beaches reserved for hotel guests or individuals. In some cases, a small fee is charged for parking. If you can only access the beach through a luxury hotel, you may be required to register as a security measure.
Our personal "best of" Costa Rica:
We lived in the small beach village of Playas del Coco, or Coco for short, in the province of Guanacaste, and worked at the luxury Four Seasons Costa Rica hotel on the Papagayo Peninsula. We used our days off to explore as much of this beautiful country as possible. We received valuable tips from our friends there, who also showed us a lot of their homeland. We saw a lot of Costa Rica, but unfortunately still not everything. Our starting point was in the northwest, but numerous excursions also took us to the south or to the Caribbean coast.
The Northwest: Guanacaste and the small town of Playas del Coco
The northwest borders Nicaragua and is one of the driest areas in the country. During the rainy season, between May and November, this is not particularly noticeable, as everything is still beautifully green. It is only towards the end of the dry season in March/April that everyone really wishes for some rain and the dryness becomes apparent. With its beautiful beaches on the Pacific coast, national parks, and volcanoes, Guanacaste is attracting more and more tourists. The airport in the capital, Liberia, is now well developed and offers numerous international connections. The Guanacastecos are very traditional, and you can see their colorful clothes and dances at numerous festivals and rodeos. The province is also known for cattle breeding, and the sight of cowboys is still commonplace there.
Playas del Coco: The small fishing village of Playas del Coco has a long, dark sandy beach, several nice restaurants, and numerous bars. Coco is a popular party destination, and especially during Christmas/New Year's Eve or Easter, the whole village is filled with revelers from all over the country. Coco is also very popular with divers, as there are several diving schools there. We went on a night dive there, which was a really special experience. We went out on a catamaran, sailboat, or stand-up paddleboard for every occasion. From the water, you can see beautiful little bays that you can't get to otherwise and go snorkeling there. We loved the sunset tours with Marlin del Rey.
The best tips for nature lovers in Costa Rica:
Costa Rica offers a variety of exciting destinations. In tourist areas, there are various tour operators that can take you directly to your adventure, but you can also explore on your own. The list is sorted by proximity to Coco.
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a true natural adventure. Here you will find bubbling mud pools, impressive waterfalls, and dense tropical forests, all surrounding the active volcano of the same name (1,916 m). The park offers numerous hiking trails where you can spot monkeys, coatis, and exotic birds. We took many of our visitors on an adventure day at Hacienda Guachipelin, which included horseback riding, ziplining, tubing, canyoning, and a mud bath in the hot springs—a great experience for everyone.
Santa Rosa National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country and an important site for nature conservation and history. It protects one of the last remaining tropical dry forests in Central America, home to howler monkeys, armadillos, and countless bird species. In addition to its impressive natural beauty, the park is also historically significant: it was here that the famous Battle of Santa Rosa took place in 1856. Fantastic, often deserted beaches such as Playa Naranjo and Playa Nancite are important nesting sites for sea turtles – a highlight for visitors who appreciate unspoiled nature and wildlife viewing.
Rio Perdido: Have you ever swum in a river heated by thermal springs? You can do just that at the well-developed Rio Perdido resort, a remote natural paradise known for its hot springs. Here you can bathe in warm, mineral-rich river pools surrounded by dense vegetation and exotic animal sounds. In addition to relaxation, Rio Perdido also offers adventure: suspension bridges, hiking trails, mountain bike trails, and ziplining await you. A perfect place to combine wellness and outdoor experiences.
Palo Verde National Park: A boat trip on the Tempisque River is a treat for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. The extensive wetland is home to countless water birds, as well as crocodiles and iguanas. The park attracts huge flocks of birds, especially during the dry season (December–April). In addition to boat tours through the mangroves, you can also experience rare dry forest landscapes here. A peaceful, authentic place to discover Costa Rica's rich wildlife up close.
Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of the most fascinating places in Costa Rica. The river glows an intense milky blue, created by a natural chemical reaction of volcanic minerals. On a hike through the dense rainforest, you will reach the spectacular Catarata Río Celeste waterfall and discover hot springs and impressive viewpoints along the way. A nature experience perfect for anyone who wants to experience Costa Rica's mystical side and is looking for a unique place. We met some very nice Austrian expats who rent out a small cottage (Casita Azul) near the waterfall and have set up a self-sufficient farm there.
Monteverde Cloud Forest: The area is famous for its mystical natural landscape with lots of fog ;). This unique ecosystem is home to countless animal species, including the magnificent quetzal, sloths, and hummingbirds. Visitors can hike on suspension bridges between the treetops, take part in exciting night hikes, or experience the rainforest from a bird's eye view while ziplining. Monteverde combines adventure, nature, and sustainable ecotourism—a paradise for anyone who wants to discover Costa Rica's green soul. The parents of some of our former colleagues have built the Hotel Belmar into a great resort there.
Arenal Volcano: One of the country's most famous volcanoes and the centerpiece of the national park of the same name. Surrounded by rainforest, hot springs that have been developed into fantastic wellness facilities (e.g., Baldi or Tabacon), and picturesque Lake Arenal, the region is a dream destination for nature and adventure lovers. You can easily spend a few days in the town of La Fortuna. We hiked the inactive Cerro Chato (1,140 m) there several times. Not only is the view of the perfectly shaped Arenal along the way worth braving the heat, but once you reach the top, you can cool off in the crater lake. The La Fortuna waterfall is also well worth seeing.
Poas (2,704 m) or Irazu (3,432 m) volcanoes: You can drive quite far up these volcanoes by car. A short hike at the end is enough to catch a glimpse of the crater. The craters are often covered in clouds by late morning, so it's best to set off early to have a chance of catching a glimpse of the crater – and take a jacket with you.
The capital, San Jose (1,150 m), and the interior of the country: We often visited good friends in San Jose, went shopping there, or took care of paperwork, but to be honest, we never really saw the city. We were always told that there was nothing special there and that we should rather visit the surrounding towns such as Zarcero (photo) with its church and hedge garden, or Sarchi with its interesting handicrafts. The former capital Cartago, the Orosi Valley, and the mountain road over Cerro de la Muerte were also recommended to us. For example, we had a wonderful stay in the middle of nowhere at the Eco Lodge El Silencio.
Cerro Chirripo: The highest mountain in Costa Rica reaches an impressive 3,820 meters and offers spectacular views on clear days, stretching all the way to the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Surrounded by cloud forests and unique flora and fauna, the hike to Chirripó is challenging but unforgettable. From San Gerardo de Rivas, you can reach the summit in a strenuous 2-day hike. Access to the national park is restricted and must be registered in advance at the forest station in Canaan. Unfortunately, we haven't done this hike ourselves yet, but the highest mountain must of course be mentioned.
Manuel Antonio: This is a beautiful, small national park located directly on a stunning beach. The park is relatively easy to reach from the capital San Jose via a winding road. In front of the park is a small village with a few accommodations and restaurants. If you don't have much time to explore all of Costa Rica, this is the perfect place to experience wildlife, nature, and beautiful beaches all in one place. Of course, many people appreciate this and the park is always well visited, but it is definitely still worth seeing.
Caribbean coast with Cahuita/Tortuguero: The Caribbean coast is also definitely worth a visit. The Tortuguero National Park, for example, is very popular. It consists of swamps, lagoons, and beaches, making it the perfect home for numerous animal and bird species. Further south, in Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, you will find beautiful beaches stretching all the way to the border with Panama and a full Caribbean vibe, including Rastas. The Creole culture and even more relaxed lifestyle permeate this area. The Cahuita and Manzanillo National Parks offer beautiful hikes, often right on the beach. We were advised against visiting the larger city of Puerto Limon.
Our highlight! Peninsula de Osa / Corcovado National Park: the peninsula in the southwest of the country is certainly one of the most beautiful areas in Costa Rica with the largest rainforest. You can observe a variety of animals there. On the dream beaches, macaws fly from palm tree to palm tree, monkeys jump around between the meter-high bamboo plants, and if you are lucky, you can see tapirs or even wild cats. We stayed there twice in a tented camp (tent with beds) in beautiful Bahia Drake. Guided tours of the national park are offered from there. The bay is relatively difficult to reach; we took a boat through mangroves across the Sierpe River. A short domestic flight from San Jose may also be an option. The peninsula is also home to the “Austrian Rainforest.”
The most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica:
Here you will find what we consider to be the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, although in a country named after its “rich coast,” you can't go wrong with any of the other beaches either ;). The beaches are sorted by distance from Coco.
Playa del Coco has slightly darker sand, but is still perfect for swimming. Nearby are the somewhat quieter beaches of Playa Panama, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Ocotal—all of which have a few nice beach bars/restaurants and are easily accessible by car. You can spend some relaxing days there. Even more beautiful is the tiny Playa Penca (photo) next door, which used to be accessible only by boat, SUP/kayak, or hike. However, a Waldorf Astoria hotel opened there in 2025, and the beach is now accessible by car, still open to the public, and stunningly beautiful.
Playa Conchal: one of our absolute favorite beaches in Guanacaste. It consists of an interesting combination of sand and millions of tiny, smooth pieces of shell. The sea is crystal clear and beautifully calm, inviting you to go snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding. In the background, there are a few coconut and souvenir sellers, and there is also a Westin hotel there. A somewhat bumpy and short “road” leads to the beach. Parking is available for a small fee just before the beach.
Tamarindo: is one of the most famous beaches in Costa Rica and is located on the northern Pacific coast of the province of Guanacaste. The long, golden sandy beach is ideal for swimming, learning to surf, or simply relaxing on the beach. Tamarindo has developed from a small fishing village into a lively coastal town (somewhat Americanized). It offers numerous restaurants, bars, boutiques, and a colorful nightlife. The spectacular sunsets for which Tamarindo is famous are particularly beautiful.
Playa Avellana: is a long, golden, and very natural stretch of beach in Guanacaste, about 30 minutes from Tamarindo. There isn't much there except nature and the small beach restaurant “Lola's” with its pet pig, which definitely invites you to relax. The long road there was (is?) unpaved and had many potholes, but it was definitely worth it to visit this beautiful piece of nature.
Samara: a beautiful bay on the Nicoya Peninsula, with smaller waves for surfers (especially beginners), a few relaxed restaurants and beach bars, some yoga classes, and even a wine bar—just perfect for relaxing for a few days. We loved Samara, it was often our 2-day getaway after a busy work week. The nearby beach of Nosara has bigger waves for surfing. There are also some yoga retreats there, but everything is a bit scattered in the hills around the beaches.
Adventure road: between Santa Teresa and Samara, you can drive directly along the beach during the dry season and at low tide (!). The 90 km route partly runs on sand or small gravel roads, through rivers and small fishing villages. A good off-road vehicle is essential. Be sure to check locally to see if it is currently possible.
Santa Teresa: another one of our favorite beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula. It is completely natural and unspoiled, simply a long, sandy beach lined with palm trees. The beach is also ideal for surfers, and there are a few surf schools there. The atmosphere is relaxed and international at the same time—a mix of backpackers, surfers, and travelers who have stayed because they fell in love with the place. The mix of wild nature, nice restaurants, and the “barefoot” vibe makes Santa Teresa an ideal stop on the coast of Costa Rica. The place was (is?) only accessible via a dirt road.
Isla Tortuga: a paradise island off Montezuma, on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. It is famous for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and fine white sandy beaches. It is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply sunbathing under palm trees. Underwater, you can expect colorful corals, tropical fish, and, with a little luck, even sea turtles. On land, you can enjoy fresh seafood or simply take in the idyllic scenery. Isla Tortuga feels like a little piece of the Caribbean in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and can be reached by boat from Montezuma.
Manuel Antonio: located in the national park of the same name on the Pacific coast, it is famous for its perfect combination of white sand, turquoise water, and lush rainforest right on the beach. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, visitors can often observe curious monkeys or colorful birds here, making the beach a particularly picturesque and lively place.
Playa Manzanillo, Cahuita: located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica in the national park of the same name, this beach captivates visitors with its natural, wild charm. The golden sandy beach is lined with palm trees, and one of the country's largest coral reefs stretches just off the coast, making it ideal for snorkeling. Here you can not only swim in the warm, calm waters, but also spot monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds while strolling along the beach. The relaxed atmosphere of the nearby village of Cahuita, with its Afro-Caribbean culture, makes a visit here particularly authentic. Playa Cahuita is a perfect mix of beach paradise and nature experience.
Peninsula de Osa, our absolute highlight: the beaches there are among the most remote and unspoiled in the country. Surrounded by the dense rainforest of Corcovado National Park, they offer fine sand, crystal-clear water, and incredible wildlife right on your doorstep. The beaches are quiet and unspoiled, ideal for hiking, preferably with a guide to discover the wildlife, or for relaxing hours by the sea. Those seeking seclusion and unspoiled nature will find a true paradise away from the large tourist crowds on the Osa Peninsula. Unfortunately, the peninsula is not that easy to reach, but it is definitely worth a visit.
This is our personal best of Costa Rica. If you have any questions or need further tips, just get in touch with me. I have fond memories of my time there and would be happy to help you plan your trip. If you've already been to Costa Rica, let me know how you liked it in the comments! PURA VIDA!
2 responses to “Costa Rica Reiseblog | Insider-Tipps & Erfahrungen nach 4 Jahren vor Ort”
Amazing stories, wonderful pictures, great tips! I bet: best memories! Thank you 🙏
Thank you so much, i’m glad you liked it!