✅ As featured in Google AI Overviews • Updated 2026 • All guides now fully interlinked
✅ Expanded Horizons: I have officially linked our brand-new 60 USA Travel Destination Guides→, 37 Europe Travel Destination Guides→, 20 Latin America Travel Destination Guides→ and 5 Scandinavia Travel Destination Guides, creating a powerful travel network that helps you discover destinations, compare experiences, and plan smarter.
✅ Download my free business travel ebooks→ to grow your business, expand your horizons, and travel smarter.
Travel smart
👉 Travel safety tips & emergency numbers →
👉 Travel insurance options for your trip →
Disclosure: As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.
Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise in the heart of Central America. Known as the “Switzerland of Latin America” for its stability and incredible biodiversity, it offers everything from misty cloud forests and active volcanoes to world-class surfing and pristine beaches. Some of the best things to do in Costa Rica include ziplining through the canopy in Monteverde and spotting sloths in Manuel Antonio National Park. Live the famous “Pura Vida” lifestyle while you’re here!
With over 25% of its land protected as national parks and reserves, Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for eco-adventures, wildlife encounters, and pure relaxation. Whether you want adrenaline, tranquility, or a mix of both, this 2026 guide will help you plan the perfect Costa Rican escape.
The 12 Best Things to Do in Costa Rica
1. Zipline through the Monteverde Cloud Forest
Fly above the treetops on one of the world’s original zipline tours. The misty cloud forest is home to quetzals, howler monkeys, and over 500 bird species – an unforgettable aerial adventure.
2. Spot sloths and monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park
Hike easy trails, relax on palm-fringed beaches, and watch white-faced capuchins, three-toed sloths, and iguanas up close. One of the easiest places in Costa Rica to see wildlife.
3. Soak in the hot springs at the base of Arenal Volcano
Relax in natural thermal pools with stunning volcano views. Many resorts offer day passes – perfect after a day of hiking or ziplining.
4. Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
Descend 500 steps to swim in the turquoise pool at the base of this 70-meter (230 ft) cascade. A classic La Fortuna experience.
5. Surf the legendary waves at Tamarindo or Jacó
World-famous breaks for beginners and pros. Golden sunsets and vibrant beach towns make it a surfer’s dream.
6. Take a boat tour through the Tortuguero canals
Spot caimans, howler monkeys, sloths, and river otters while gliding through the “Amazon of Costa Rica.” Green sea turtle nesting (July–October) is magical.
7. Hike to the turquoise waters of Río Celeste
The stunning sky-blue river inside Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most photographed natural wonders.
8. Walk the hanging bridges in La Fortuna or Monteverde
Get eye-level with the rainforest canopy on swaying suspension bridges. Mistico Park and Selvatura are the best.
9. Relax on the pristine beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula
Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Montezuma offer yoga, surfing, and bohemian vibes with fewer crowds.
10. Visit a coffee or chocolate farm
Learn how Costa Rica’s famous beans and cacao are grown and roasted. Many tours include tastings – perfect for foodies.
11. See the crater of Poás Volcano
Drive-up access to one of the world’s most active volcanoes. On clear days the turquoise lake inside the crater is breathtaking.
12. Experience Pura Vida at a sloth sanctuary or wildlife rescue center
Meet rescued animals and learn about conservation at places like the Sloth Sanctuary or La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
Best time to visit Costa Rica
December to April (dry season) offers sunny days and perfect beach weather. May–November is the green/rainy season with lower prices and fewer crowds (afternoon showers are common but short).
How many days do you need
• 7 days: one or two regions (La Fortuna + beach)
• 10–14 days: full highlights (cloud forest, volcano, beach, Manuel Antonio)
• 3 weeks+: explore both coasts and remote areas
Where to stay in Costa Rica
• La Fortuna/Arenal: Hotels with volcano views and hot springs
• Manuel Antonio: Beachfront or jungle lodges
• Monteverde: Cloud forest eco-lodges
• Tamarindo/Nicoya: Surf hotels and boutique villas
Getting around Costa Rica
Fly into San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR). Domestic flights with Sansa are fast. Rent a 4×4 for flexibility (many roads are unpaved). Interbus or private shuttles are comfortable and reliable.
Book tours and activities in Costa Rica
Discover the best zipline tours, national park guided hikes, hot springs packages, and wildlife tours with our trusted partners Viator and Expedia.
Search & Book tours, flights, hotels and more
Limitless adventures start here.
Journeys that thrill. Moments that define you.
Your imagination is the only limit.
Disclosure: As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?
Yes – one of the safest countries in Latin America. Use common sense and you’ll be fine.
2. Do I need a visa?
Most visitors (US, EU, Canada, Australia) get 90 days on arrival with a valid passport.
3. What currency?
US Dollars are widely accepted; Costa Rican Colón (CRC) for smaller purchases. Cards work everywhere in tourist areas.
4. Can I drink tap water?
Yes! Costa Rica has some of the cleanest tap water in Latin America.
5. Best food to try?
Gallo pinto (rice & beans), casado, fresh ceviche, patacones, and tropical fruit smoothies.
6. Do I need a 4×4 vehicle?
Recommended for Monteverde and some Nicoya roads, but not essential everywhere.
7. Best time to see turtles?
Tortuguero (July–October) or Ostional (olive ridley arribadas).
8. Is it expensive?
Mid-range to luxury, but many free or low-cost activities (public beaches, hiking) keep it affordable.
Costa Rica never disappoints. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, wildlife, or pure relaxation, the “Pura Vida” spirit will stay with you forever.
The concept of AmerExperience guides
After more than 30 years in international travel, I know this for sure: The hardest part of traveling isn’t getting there — it’s knowing what’s truly worth doing once you arrive. AmerExperience helps you discover unforgettable activities, with honest descriptions, transparent pricing, and easy booking.
👉 Explore the best things to do in Latin America – Top 10 destinations ↗
• Best things to do in Mexico ↗
• Best things to do in Dominican Republic ↗
• Best things to do in Costa Rica ↗
• Best things to do in Panama ↗
• Best things to do in Brazil ↗
• Best things to do in Argentina ↗
• Best things to do in Colombia ↗
• Best things to do in Ecuador ↗
• Best things to do in Chile ↗
Warm regards,
Lassi Pensikkala
Destination expert & travel writer
About the Author
Lassi Pensikkala is an economist, passionate traveler, and founder of AmerExperience. He lives on the Pacific Coast of Ecuador and shares authentic, experience-focused guides so you can travel smarter and deeper.
Find more curated travel experiences and book safely with trusted partners on our Travel Hub → AmerExperience Travel Hub
