The Only Costa Rica Travel Tips You’ll Ever Need in 2025

Before our first trip to Costa Rica, we thought we were fully prepared. But we quickly realized we had a lot to learn. From unexpected costs to must-know local customs, there are a few things that can make or break your trip. 

To save you from learning the hard way, we have the only Costa Rica travel tips you’ll ever need.

Travel Tips for Costa Rica

Here are some travel tips for Costa Rica so you don’t end up sunburned, lost, or annoyed at yourself for not packing bug spray.

1. Pack for Every Kind of Weather

Costa Rica has a dry season and a rainy season. But even in the dry season, it still rains. And when it rains, it really rains. 

We greatly recommend you bring a lightweight rain jacket, good walking shoes, and bug spray (the mosquitoes here are on another level). If you’re heading to the beach, grab some reef-safe sunscreen (it’s better for the ocean, and no one wants to deal with a nasty sunburn).

2. Getting Around Takes Longer Than You Think

Costa Rica looks small, but getting from one place to another isn’t always quick. Some roads are rough, some are super curvy, and Google Maps will lie to you about travel time. 

If you’re renting a car, you better get a 4WD if you’ll be driving on rough roads. If not, shuttles and buses are solid, but don’t plan tight schedules (things take time).

3. Bring Some Cash, But Not Too Much

Costa Rica uses the colón, but US dollars work almost everywhere. Still, having a little local cash helps with taxis, tips, and small shops. 

ATMs are also easy to find but don’t pull out a ton at once, and let your bank know you’re traveling so your card doesn’t get blocked.

4. Keep an Eye on Your Stuff

Costa Rica is safe, but that doesn’t mean you can be careless. Always watch your bags, especially at the beach (monkeys and raccoons will steal your snacks).

Plus, don’t flash expensive stuff in busy areas. And if you’re driving, avoid stopping in random places at night.

5. Don’t Mess with the Wildlife

You’ll see cool animals here, like sloths, monkeys, toucans, all that. But don’t touch them.

Feeding wild animals messes with their natural behavior, and Costa Rica actually has a campaign telling people not to take sloth selfies. So just enjoy it from a distance.

If you want to see wildlife up close, a guided walking tour in Manuel Antonio Park with a naturalist is a great way to learn and spot animals responsibly.

6. Eat at a Soda (Not the Drink, the Restaurant)

If you want good, cheap food, look for a soda. This is a small local spot that serves big plates of rice, beans, plantains, and meat (aka a casado).

We can say that it’s filling, affordable, and way better than overpriced tourist restaurants. Also, try their fresh pineapples. They taste like a whole different fruit compared to what you get at the store back home.

7. Adventure is Fun, But Be Smart

Costa Rica is great for ziplining, rafting, hiking, and surfing, but don’t be reckless. Book with a good tour company, wear the right gear and actually listen to your guide. 

We highly recommend you try the jungle zipline and Tarzan swing experience in Monteverde.

If you’re surfing, ask about rip currents before heading out. And if you see a river or lagoon, double-check there aren’t crocodiles before jumping in.

Are you new to surfing? Join a lesson at Tamarindo Beach to learn the basics and stay safe in the water.

8. A Little Spanish Goes a Long Way

Most people speak some English, but learning a few Spanish words helps. Try “Buenos días” (good morning), “gracias” (thank you), and “pura vida” (which means everything from “hello” to “no worries”). Locals appreciate it when you at least try.

9. Tap Water is Fine… Mostly

Tap water is safe in most places, but if you’re going somewhere remote, it’s better to use a water filter bottle or buy bottled water. 

Bringing a reusable bottle is also a good move since Costa Rica is trying to cut down on plastic waste.

10. Plan Around Crowds (If You Can)

If you can avoid it, don’t go during Christmas, New Year’s, or Easter because everything is packed, and prices go up. 

If you have to travel during those times, you better book your hotels and tours early so you’re not stuck scrambling for a place to stay. 

For affordable yet well-rated hotels, consider Arenal Xilopalo in La Fortuna for a nature getaway, Hotel Plaza Real Suites & Apartments in San José for a city stay, or Hotel Banana Azul in Puerto Viejo if you want a beachfront experience.

11. Wear the Right Shoes

You’ll probably do a mix of walking, hiking, and beach chilling, so bring good sneakers or hiking shoes, plus a pair of sandals. You can buy shoes there, but they might be more expensive than you expect.

12. Tipping in Costa Rica

Most restaurants already include a 10% service charge, so you don’t have to tip more unless you feel like it.

For tour guides and drivers, around 10% is solid. But if someone gives great service, it’s always nice to throw in a little extra.

13. Travel Insurance is Worth It

You probably won’t need it, but if something goes wrong, you’ll be glad you have it. Whether it’s lost luggage, a last-minute flight change, or something minor like getting sick from trying mystery street food, it’s better to be covered.

If you want peace of mind on your trip, get travel insurance for Costa Rica now.

14. Just Go With the Flow

Costa Rica runs on pura vida time, which basically means things move at their own pace. Buses might be late, tours might get rescheduled, and plans might change last minute. You just gotta roll with it—stressing out won’t help.