Costa Rica

Costa Rica enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but each season offers different experiences:

• December–April (Dry Season): Best for sunny days, clear beaches, and outdoor adventures.
• May–August (Green Season): Ideal for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and better wildlife sightings.
• September–November (Low Season): Great for budget travelers, but expect rain, especially on the Pacific coast.

• Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs: One of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes, with thermal pools and scenic views.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest: A biodiverse rainforest perfect for hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife spotting.
• Manuel Antonio National Park: A stunning coastal park with beaches, monkeys, and sloths.
• Tortuguero National Park: A unique waterway park known for sea turtle nesting.
• La Fortuna Waterfall: A breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush jungle.
• Corcovado National Park: A remote, untouched rainforest filled with exotic animals.
• Rio Celeste: A strikingly blue river and waterfall within Tenorio Volcano National Park.
• Tamarindo Beach: A lively beach town with great surf, nightlife, and dining.
• Jaco Beach: A popular spot for surfing, fishing, and adventure activities.
• Poás Volcano: A massive crater with a steaming turquoise lake.

• Gallo Pinto: A traditional breakfast dish of rice and beans with spices.
• Casado: A hearty meal with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and protein (chicken, fish, or beef).
• Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions and cilantro.
• Olla de Carne: A flavorful beef stew with vegetables and plantains.
• Patacones: Fried green plantains served with salsa or guacamole.
• Chifrijo: A bowl of beans, rice, pork, and pico de gallo.
• Tres Leches Cake: A sweet, creamy dessert soaked in three types of milk.
• Agua Dulce: A warm drink made from raw sugar cane.
• Guaro Sour: A refreshing cocktail made with Costa Rica’s national liquor, Cacique Guaro.

• Flights: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José or Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.
• Car Rentals: Recommended for exploring at your own pace, but 4×4 vehicles are necessary for some remote areas.
• Shuttle Services: Convenient shared or private transport between major tourist destinations.
• Public Buses: Affordable but slow—best for budget travelers.
• Domestic Flights: Small planes connect San José with popular regions like Tamarindo, Nosara, and Drake Bay.
• Taxis & Uber: Uber is available in major cities, but taxis are more common in smaller towns.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Costa Rica’s visa requirements based on your nationality.
• Departure Tax: Some airlines include this in the ticket price, but if not, expect a small exit fee at the airport.

• Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas.
• Credit cards: Accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
• ATMs: Available in major towns and cities, dispensing both colones and U.S. dollars.
• Cash: Recommended for small businesses, tours, and tipping.

• Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Most signs, menus, and information are available in English.

• Costa Ricans (Ticos) are friendly and polite—greet people with “Pura Vida!” (Pure Life), the country’s unofficial motto.
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—most restaurants include a 10% service charge.
• Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in restaurants or shops.
• Respect nature—Costa Rica is a leader in eco-tourism and conservation.
• Do not disturb wildlife—avoid feeding animals or getting too close.

• Restaurants: A 10% service charge is usually included; additional tipping is optional but appreciated.
• Bars: $1–2 per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.
• Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is not expected but rounding up the fare is common.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

• For peak travel season (December–April): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (May–November): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For popular eco-lodges and guided tours: Book at least a few days ahead.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommended to protect Costa Rica’s marine life.
• Some national parks have entry limits—book in advance for popular sites like Manuel Antonio.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com