haienaplan

Destination guide

Costa Rica trip planner

Rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife-filled coastlines built for eco-adventure.

Costa Rica is one of the easiest tropical adventures in the Americas. Zip-line through cloud forests, spot sloths and toucans, surf on both coasts, and soak in volcanic hot springs.

Canonical: https://haienaplan.com/destinations/costa-rica

Best time to visit

Dec–Apr

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (₡)

Language

Spanish

Top experiences in Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano

Lava-viewing hikes, hot springs, and Lake Arenal activities.

Monteverde cloud forest

Canopy bridges, night walks, and rare bird sightings.

Manuel Antonio

National park trails with monkeys, sloths, and beach access.

Tortuguero

Caribbean-side canals famous for turtle nesting and boat safaris.

Average temperatures in Costa Rica

San José — spring-like; wet May–Nov.

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High24° / 75°F25° / 77°F26° / 79°F26° / 79°F26° / 79°F26° / 79°F25° / 77°F26° / 79°F26° / 79°F25° / 77°F25° / 77°F24° / 75°F
Low14° / 57°F14° / 57°F15° / 59°F16° / 61°F16° / 61°F16° / 61°F16° / 61°F16° / 61°F16° / 61°F16° / 61°F15° / 59°F14° / 57°F

Temperatures shown in °C (with °F). Averages based on long-term climate normals for the country's main hub.

Sample itinerary

  1. Days 1–2: San José — city museums and coffee farm tour.
  2. Days 3–5: Arenal — volcano hikes, hot springs, and La Fortuna waterfall.
  3. Days 6–7: Monteverde — cloud forest, zip-line, and night wildlife walk.
  4. Days 8–10: Manuel Antonio — beach, national park, and sunset catamaran.

Foods to try

Gallo pintoCasadoCevichePlantainsTres lechesChifrijoOlla de carne

Travel tips

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