Question 1

What are the best landmarks to visit in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

For iconic landmarks, you've got to see Arenal Volcano, with its stunning views and surrounding rainforest.  Poás Volcano National Park offers breathtaking crater views, while the majestic Manuel Antonio National Park boasts beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife.  Then there's the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip.

Question 2

What are the most popular 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Among 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in Costa Rica, Hotel Belvedere Playa Samara Costa Rica, Hotel Casa Buenavista - Adults Only and Hotel Secreto La Fortuna are the most popular ones.

Question 3

What types of hotels can I find in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

There is a wide range of hotels to be found in Costa Rica. Like any country with a tropical climate and gorgeous beaches, you'll find an abundance of all-inclusive luxury resorts with their own spas, swimming pools, restaurants and more. Business travelers can stop in the urban corporate hotels, while those traveling for pleasure can stay in a cute boutique hotel or bed and breakfast.

Question 4

What are some must-do activities in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Ziplining through the rainforest canopy is a must.  White-water rafting on the Pacuare River is an adrenaline rush.  For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest on a hanging bridge, or taking a surfing lesson on the beaches of Tamarindo.  Wildlife spotting tours, particularly for sloths and monkeys, are incredibly popular.

Question 5

What are the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Hotel El Silencio Del Campo, Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs and Xandari Resort & Spa are among the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica.

Question 6

Where should I stay in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

One type of accommodation that's especially brilliant in Costa Rica is the ecolodge, which you can find in the jungles and other stunning settings. You can find another type of hotel accommodation: the cabina, a locally owned, one-floor establishment with doors opening directly outside.

Question 7

When is the ideal time to visit Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

The dry season (December to April) is generally considered the best time to visit, with sunny skies and less rainfall. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The 'green' season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but you'll encounter more rain.

Question 8

What are the best family friendly hotels in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

The best family friendly hotels in Costa Rica are Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis, Hotel El Silencio Del Campo and The Springs Resort & Spa At Arenal.

Question 9

What are the best places to visit in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

If you're visiting Costa Rica for the first time, then Manuel Antonio is a good place to start. It's one of the country's most popular destinations due to its beautiful beaches and surrounding nature, and cute sloths. Alternatively, La Fortuna is another popular tourist spot, famous for the Arena Volcano National Park. Costa Rica is all about nature. If you're visiting this lush country, you'll want to visit some of its gorgeous natural parks, like the Manuel Antonio National Park, the Arenal Volcano National Park, or Monteverde and the Cloud Forests. For beaches, head over to Dominical, Tamarindo, Jaco, and Mal Pais and Santa Teresa. If you're looking for museums and culture, then stop by the capital of San Jose.

Question 10

Which neighbourhoods or areas are best for spending a week in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano, is great for adventure activities. Tamarindo offers beautiful beaches and surfing.  Monteverde is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking cloud forest exploration.  For a more relaxed beach vacation, consider Manuel Antonio.

Question 11

What are the best pet friendly hotels in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

The best pet friendly hotels in Costa Rica are Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul, Hotel Plaza Yara and Hotel La Mansion Inn Arenal.

Question 12

What is the local food in Costa Rica like?

Accepted Answer

For breakfast, try Gallo Pinto, a rice dish mixed with black beans, served with natilla (sour cream), scrambled eggs and fried plantain. Casados, a rice and bean dish, is often served for lunch with some meat or fish and a salad with fried plantains, white cheese and corn tortilla. Arroz con pollo, rice with chicken, is another commonly served dish, often served with local vegetables like yucca, chayote, and camote. Try arroz con leche, a local and traditional rice pudding from Costa Rica.

Question 13

Which parts of Costa Rica are perfect for a weekend getaway?

Accepted Answer

The Pacuare River area is ideal for a quick white-water rafting trip.  Manuel Antonio National Park provides a concentrated dose of stunning beaches and wildlife.  For a city break, San José offers museums and cultural experiences.

Question 14

What are the best hotels with jacuzzi in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis, Hotel El Silencio Del Campo and The Springs Resort & Spa At Arenal are the best hotels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica.

Question 15

How easy is it to get around in Costa Rica without a car?

Accepted Answer

The best way to get around Costa Rica is by bus. Buses are reliable, navigable, inexpensive, and you can pick up many services in the capital, San Jose. It's safer and easier to get around by bus rather than driving yourself, as there are many potholes and confusing intersections.

Question 16

Is renting a car recommended for exploring Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Renting a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially if you plan on venturing beyond the main tourist areas. Many roads, particularly those leading to national parks, are unpaved and can be challenging to navigate in a smaller car.

Question 17

What are the best hotels with a swimming pool in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis, Hotel El Silencio Del Campo and The Springs Resort & Spa At Arenal are among the best hotels with a swimming pool in Costa Rica.

Question 18

Are credit cards widely accepted in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Credit cards are accepted in most larger hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry some colones (CRC), especially for smaller establishments and local markets.

Question 19

What are the largest airports in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia are the two largest and busiest airports.

Question 20

Are there any unwritten rules of behaviour visitors should know about Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

It's considered polite to greet people with a 'pura vida', a common Costa Rican greeting.  Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is also appreciated.  Respect for the environment and wildlife is paramount, so please stick to designated trails and avoid disturbing animals.

Question 21

What local specialties should you try in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Gallo pinto (rice and beans) is a staple breakfast dish.  Casado is a hearty lunch plate with rice, beans, meat, salad, and plantains.  Try the fresh seafood, especially ceviche.  And don't forget the delicious tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and papayas.

Question 22

Where are the best shopping spots in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

San José offers a variety of shopping malls and boutiques.  Smaller towns often have local markets where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and unique items.  Look for traditional crafts like pottery, wood carvings, and jewellery.

Question 23

What signature events or festivals take place in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

The Festival de la Luz (Festival of Lights) in San José is a spectacular parade with floats and music.  Many towns and cities celebrate their patron saint's day with vibrant fiestas throughout the year.  Specific dates vary, so it's best to check local listings.

Question 24

What’s the best place in Costa Rica for mild and comfortable weather?

Accepted Answer

The Central Valley region, where San José is located, generally enjoys a mild and pleasant climate year-round, making it a good option for those seeking comfortable temperatures.

Question 25

What are the most common travel mistakes tourists make in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Underestimating the distances between locations and not allowing enough travel time.  Not packing appropriate clothing and footwear for varied climates and activities.  Failing to learn basic Spanish phrases.  Not being adequately prepared for rain, even during the dry season.

Question 26

What are some hidden gems to explore in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula offers incredible biodiversity and fewer crowds than other national parks.  The Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.  Explore the smaller, lesser-known beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

Hotels in Costa Rica

4684 Cheap hotels in Costa Rica

Fuego Lodge

Hotel Casa Roland San Jose

Alborada Boutique Stay

Hotel Margarita Sierpe

Hotel Arenal Rabfer

Cuatro Vientos Lodge & Apartments - Santa Teresa, Cr

Hotel Don Fito

Monteverde Ecolove

Nautilus Surf & Yoga Villas Santa Teresa

Jacamar Corcovado Drake Bay

La Riviera Hotel

Hotel Claro De Luna

Best Costa Rica luxury hotels (4 and 5 stars)

Hotel Y Restaurante El Páramo

Hotel Iris Arenal

Laloon Luxury Suites - Adults Only

Villa Marala

Top cities

Best Costa Rica hotels with a pool

Aloft San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica

Campos Arenal Hotel

Howler Monkey Hotel

Orquideas Boutique Hotel

Frequently asked questions about hotels in Costa Rica

Best Costa Rica hotels with parking

Paradise Hot Springs - Thermal Water & Volcano Views

Guayabo Lodge

Lua Villas

Hotel Plaza Real Suites & Apartments San Jose

Best hotels in Costa Rica with a gym

Tilajari Hotel Resort

Hotel Nya

Arenal Paraiso Resort Spa & Thermo Mineral Hot Springs

Blue River Resort & Hot Springs