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 cloud forests.  Poás Volcano National Park offers incredible crater views, while the majestic Manuel Antonio National Park boasts beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife.  Then there's the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest, famous for its hanging bridges and biodiversity.

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

Zip-lining through the rainforest canopy is a classic Costa Rican adventure.  White-water rafting on the Pacuare River is thrilling, and wildlife spotting tours, particularly in Tortuguero National Park for turtles, are unforgettable.  Surfing lessons on the beaches of Tamarindo are popular, and exploring the hanging bridges of Monteverde is a must for nature lovers.

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. The green season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds but a higher chance of 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, offers a good base for exploring volcanoes and cloud forests. Tamarindo is perfect for beach lovers and surfers.  For a more laid-back experience, consider the charming town of Monteverde, nestled in the cloud forest.  Manuel Antonio offers a combination of beaches and rainforest.

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 Domos Mirador Romantic Private Honeymoon Glamping.

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 weekend of white-water rafting and jungle exploration.  Manuel Antonio National Park offers a quick escape to stunning beaches and wildlife.  For a city break, San José provides cultural attractions and easy access to other areas.

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 to explore beyond the main tourist areas. Many roads, particularly in the rainforest, are unpaved and require a vehicle with good ground clearance.  Public transport is available but can be limited in some areas.

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 establishments. However, it's advisable to carry some colones (CRC), especially in smaller towns and rural areas, as some smaller businesses may not accept cards.

Question 19

What are the largest airports in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José is the main international airport.  Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia serves the Guanacaste region, a popular tourist destination.

Question 20

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

Accepted Answer

Costa Ricans are known for their 'Pura Vida' lifestyle, emphasising a relaxed and friendly attitude.  It's polite to greet people with a 'Buenos días', 'Buenas tardes', or 'Buenas noches', depending on the time of day. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is also appreciated.

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 typical lunch or dinner plate with rice, beans, meat, salad, and plantains.  Try the fresh seafood, especially ceviche, and don't miss the delicious tropical fruits like pineapple and mango.

Question 22

Where are the best shopping spots in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

San José offers a variety of shopping options, from upscale malls to local markets.  In smaller towns, you'll find artisan crafts and souvenirs.  Many national parks and tourist areas have shops selling local products.

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 vibrant parade with colourful floats.  Numerous religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year, often featuring traditional music and dance.  The country also hosts various smaller, regional festivals celebrating local traditions.

Question 24

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

Accepted Answer

The central valley, where San José is located, generally enjoys a mild and comfortable climate year-round.  The higher elevations of the cloud forests also offer pleasant temperatures.

Question 25

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

Accepted Answer

Underestimating the distances between locations and not planning enough travel time is a common mistake.  Not packing appropriate clothing for varying climates and activities is another.  Forgetting insect repellent and sunscreen is also frequent.

Question 26

What are some hidden gems to explore in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula is known for its incredible biodiversity but is less visited than some other parks.  The Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for birdwatchers.  The Tenorio Volcano National Park, with its stunning Rio Celeste river, is another less-crowded gem.

Hotels in Costa Rica

4684 Cheap hotels in Costa Rica

San Bosco Inn

Apartotel & Suites Villas Del Rio

Hotel Casa Roland San Jose

Lua Villas

Otoya 1907 Hotel

Hotel Del Aserradero

Hotel Monte Real

Hotel Lavas Tacotal

Hotel Novo

La Riviera Hotel

Hotel Cibeles Resort

Hotel Aranjuez

Best Costa Rica luxury hotels (4 and 5 stars)

Alta Las Palomas Hotel

Hotel Honey Bee

Hotel Three Sixty - Adults Only

Bella Vista Ranch Ecolodge

Top cities

Best Costa Rica hotels with a pool

Hotel Mango Airport

Hotel Villas Vilma

Hotel Evasión

Berlor Airport Inn

Frequently asked questions about hotels in Costa Rica

Best Costa Rica hotels with parking

Agua Inn

Terrazas De Golf Boutique Hotel

Casa Calocita

Natura Loft Garden

Best hotels in Costa Rica with a gym

Sheraton San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica

Hilton San Jose La Sabana

Hotel Zima

Barceló San José