Quick answer: plan 12 to 15 days in Costa Rica, ideally from December to April (dry season), with a budget of roughly $80 to $135 per person per day. No visa for 90 days for most Western travelers. The rainy season (May to November) is still very enjoyable, with sunny mornings and lower prices.
Costa Rica at a glance
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | December to April (dry season); the Caribbean side is drier in February-April and September-October |
| Times to avoid | September-October on the Pacific side (heaviest rains) |
| Ideal duration | 12 to 15 days |
| Average budget | $80-$135 / day / person (mid-range, excluding flights) |
| Entry | Visa-free for US, UK, EU and many other citizens; tourist stays up to 90 days |
| Currency | Costa Rican colón (CRC); US dollars accepted in tourist areas |
| Driving | On the right; local third-party liability insurance is mandatory |
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
- December to April: dry season, clear skies, peak season with higher prices. Ideal for Pacific beaches.
- May to November: green season. Mornings are often sunny with afternoon showers, lush landscapes and lower prices. September-October is the wettest on the Pacific side.
- Caribbean coast (Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo): offset climate, drier in February-April and September-October.
- Turtle watching in Tortuguero: green turtles nest mainly from July to October, leatherbacks generally from March to June. Night viewing is supervised by licensed guides.
Entry requirements
Citizens of the US, UK, EU and many other countries do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. A valid passport and sometimes an onward ticket are requested. Check your government’s travel advice before departure.
12-day itinerary: volcanoes, forests and beaches
Day 1: San José
- Arrive at San José airport (SJO), overnight nearby.
Days 2-3: Tortuguero
- Transfer by road and boat (about 4 to 5 hours); canals, wildlife, turtles depending on the season.
Days 4-6: La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano
- Hot springs, La Fortuna waterfall, hanging bridges, hiking in the national park. Arenal has been dormant since 2010.
Days 7-8: Monteverde
- Cloud forest, hanging bridges, ziplines, quetzals (especially January to March). Transfer from La Fortuna: about 3 hours by taxi-boat-taxi.
Days 9-12: Manuel Antonio or Nicoya Peninsula
- Manuel Antonio: national park (closed Mondays; book entry tickets online), beaches, sloths and monkeys.
- Alternative: Nicoya beaches (Santa Teresa, Tamarindo) for surfing.
Rental car or shuttles?
- Shuttles: convenient and affordable between major stops; book ahead.
- Rental car: more freedom. An SUV or 4x4 helps on dirt roads (Monteverde, Drake Bay) but is not essential everywhere.
- Mandatory insurance: local third-party liability (SLI/TPL) is compulsory and not covered by credit cards; it is added to the advertised rate. Read the rental conditions carefully.
Costa Rica travel budget 2026
| Item | Budget | Mid-range | Comfort+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night, for 2) | $45-$80 | $100-$180 | $250+ |
| Food | $13-$22 / day | $28-$50 / day | $65+ |
| Transport (shuttles, car) | $9-$17 / day | $28-$65 / day | $90+ |
| Activities | $11-$22 / day | $28-$55 / day | $90+ |
Costa Rica is pricier than its Central American neighbors. Amounts are indicative.
Safety and practical tips
- Car break-ins: never leave luggage or valuables visible in a parked vehicle.
- Swimming: strong currents on many Pacific beaches; swim in lifeguarded areas.
- Wildlife: keep your distance and never feed animals.
- Sustainable travel: favor certified lodges and guides.
- Water: safe in cities; filtered or bottled water is wiser elsewhere.
Costa Rica Travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
December to April for sunshine. May to November prices drop and nature is very green, with afternoon showers.
Do I need a visa for Costa Rica?
Most Western travelers do not: tourist stays up to 90 days.
When can I see turtles in Tortuguero?
Green turtles from July to October, leatherbacks generally from March to June. Use a licensed guide.
Do I need a 4x4 in Costa Rica?
Not necessarily. An SUV helps on some roads (Monteverde, Drake Bay); shuttles are enough for the main sights.
Is Costa Rica safe?
Generally yes, but watch for car break-ins and beach currents.
Can I pay in US dollars in Costa Rica?
Yes in tourist areas, often at a less favorable rate; carry some colones too.
Official sources
- Costa Rica tourism board (visitcostarica.com)
- Your government’s travel advice (travel.state.gov, gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice)