The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica: our tips for Puerto Viejo, Cahuita and Tortuguero. Spot sloths, visit national parks, find hotels and food.

Arenal and Monteverde in Costa Rica: the volcano, La Fortuna waterfall, hummingbirds, a coffee tour and cloud forest. With hotels, restaurants and tips.

The Pacific coast of Costa Rica: Tamarindo, Sámara, Santa Teresa, Manuel Antonio and Uvita. Our favorite beach clubs, hotels and tips.

Spotting wildlife in Costa Rica: where and when to see sloths, quetzals, toucans, sea turtles and whales? With a handy seasonal calendar.

How much does Costa Rica cost? Our real 2026 costs: flights, rental car, hotels, food, parks and tours. Plus a sample budget and money-saving tips.

Renting a car in Costa Rica: which car, mandatory insurance, deposit, license, Waze, fuel and rivers. With our own experiences from 2026.