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Planning your first (or fifth) trip to Costa Rica and overwhelmed by all the options? I get it. After more than 10 years exploring this wild, vibrant country, I still haven’t seen it all.
But if you’re dreaming of horseback rides on the beach, flying through cloud forests on a zipline, and soaking in healing hot springs (with a tropical drink in hand), you’re in the right place.
This list includes more than 50 of the best things to do in Costa Rica, from must-do sights to adventurous picks, unique experiences, wildlife activities, and meaningful cultural moments. Some I’ve done myself, and others are so uniquely Costa Rican that they belong on any traveler’s list.
Everything is sorted into five easy sections based on travel style, and if you’re short on time, there’s a sample 7-day itinerary waiting at the end to help you start planning with confidence.
10 Most Popular Things to Do in Costa Rica
If you only have a few short days or don’t want to miss out on the best things to do in Costa Rica, this list is for you!
From soaking in volcanic hot springs to ziplining through the treetops, here are the classic activities I recommend to start your Costa Rica adventure.
1. Go Ziplining Through the Cloud Forest
Did you know that ziplining was invented in Costa Rica? Racing through the treetops is a must-do on your list. I have ziplined in Costa Rica a few times, and it’s an experience that never gets old.
Flying through the forest, seeing the trees from above, and being up in the clouds is a magical moment you can’t miss. These tours, also referred to as canopy tours, are available across Costa Rica, but the most popular location to zipline is the Monteverde area.
🍃 Zip through Monteverde with this Black woman-owned tour company! 🌿
2. Hike to a Breathtaking Waterfall
The first waterfall I ever visited was in Costa Rica. With so many mountains and lush rainforests, it’s no wonder Costa Rica is home to so many beautiful waterfalls.
Visit La Paz near Poás Volcano, north of San José, or stop by the stunning blue Río Celeste. For waterfalls you can swim in, hike to Nauyaca falls at the nature park down by Dominical on the Pacific Coast, or go to Llanos de Cortés just outside of Guanacaste.
3. Explore the Treetops on Hanging Bridges
If flying through the air isn’t your thing (or honestly even if it is), the hanging bridges are another treetop adventure I would recommend.
The Monteverde area has several adventure parks with hanging bridges, including Selvatura, 100% Aventura, and Treetopia. I most recently visited Treetopia, which also offers a cable car ride and a zipline, all with separate entrance fees. These bridges really are right along the tops of the trees, and the experience is a bit exhilarating!
Closer to Arenal and La Fortuna are Sky Adventure and Místico Hanging Bridges, though I hear these are more crowded than the Monteverde attractions.
4. Soak in the Hot Springs of La Fortuna
One experience I don’t think you should leave Costa Rica without is soaking in mineral-rich waters at one of La Fortuna’s famous hot springs. A thermal river runs from the nearby volcano through the town, so the road is dotted with hot springs open to the public, ranging from free to luxury.
One of the most popular resorts is Baldí, which offers overnight hotel stays as well as day passes. Next door is Titokú, which is a much smaller springs but still has several pools, and for a fraction of the price. Titokú is part of the Hotel Arenal Kioro Luxury Resort and free for guests to visit.
I don’t think you could go wrong, though, as there are dozens of springs resorts to choose from. The important thing is that you relax and enjoy the soak – Pura Vida.
5. Take a guided rainforest tour in a national park
Visitors often overlook Carara National Park on their way to Quepos and Manuel Antonio, but it’s one of my favorites and significantly less crowded. Braulio Carrillo is a beautiful rainforest great for hiking and is on the Caribbean side along with Cahuita and Tortuguero on the coast.
While you can certainly visit any national park without hiring a guide, if this is your first visit I highly recommend hiring a local guide. Not only do they have tons of fun information to share about the park and the wildlife, but they are also connected among guides and easily share with each other where to spot sloths, birds, and more in real time, so your odds of seeing the best wildlife are much higher.
You can usually hire a guide right from the park entrance when you pay to get in, but you can also book guided tours in advance from a tour company.
6. Explore sandy, warm beaches with soft white or volcanic black sand
Costa Rica’s beaches stretch across both coasts, from luxury resort beaches in Guanacaste (like Papagayo and Playa Conchal) to surf-friendly towns like Tamarindo and Nosara. On the Pacific side, you’ll find wild coastlines near Manuel Antonio and Uvita, while the Caribbean offers laid-back spots like Playa Cocles and Playa Negra near Puerto Viejo.
Manuel Antonio in Quepos and Tamarindo in Guanacaste are the most popular and easiest to get to, though my personal favorites are along Puerto Viejo in the Caribbean.
Also, I wouldn’t personally swim at Jacó but many people do. I’ll just say all of the rivers from San José empty into the ocean by Jacó. So you do you.
Note: not all beaches are safe for swimming.
It’s a good rule of thumb to check if you see any locals in the water before swimming at a beach. Most beaches don’t have lifeguards, and some have strong waves and rip currents.
Is Costa Rica safe? Read our guide on safety in Costa Rica
7. Go birdwatching in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Birding is the fastest-growing hobby for millennials, and even if you aren’t into spotting birds, you will still enjoy birdwatching in Costa Rica. Unlike in the US, most of the birds around Costa Rica are bright and colorful, and extremely fun to spot!
Some popular birds you can see are Toucans, Macaws and Parrots, Parakeets, and Hummingbirds, of which there are many varieties. There are also some unique birds like the Roseate Spoonbill, Mot Mot, Magpie Jay, and several colorful Tanagers. You can even sometimes spot the famous Resplendent Quetzal, a rare bird I have yet to see myself.
While the reserve itself can fill up during high season, there are plenty of other cloud forests nearby such as Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, The Children’s Eternal Rainforest, and Curi Cancha.
Book a guided tour at any of the cloud forest reserves, or hire a local guide on GetYourGuide or Viator. I most recently booked a tour with a guide at Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.
🦜 Compare prices for birdwatching tours in Monteverde:
GetYourGuide | Viator
8. Tour a Local Coffee Farm
Costa Rica, and all of Central America, have a long, storied history with coffee. While Costa Rica is not the main exporter for coffee beans, the country has made a name for itself with quality coffee, and a trip here wouldn’t be complete without touring at least one coffee farm.
Cafe Britt is the most well-known coffee farm, and has a very commercial-style tour, while El Toledo in Atenas is a small, family-owned, and organic operation. Check out Life Monteverde in near the cloud forests, Finca Rosa Blanca near San José, or Coopedota Farm south of town.
Try tasting the coffee black and see if you can interpret the tasting notes of the regional blends.
9. Stand On Top of a Volcano
Costa Rica gets much of its biodiversity from the rich volcanic soil, so it’s a great place for you to see a volcano! Standing over the steaming crater, surrounded by craggy black rocks and giant “umbrella” leaves will transport you to another world.
There are several volcanoes dotted around the small country, the most popular being Irazú and Poás near San José, and Arenal, Rincón de la Vieja, and Tenorio to the North.
If you’re renting a car, you can drive to the parks directly and pay an entrance fee. If you need transportation, there are both guided tours and shuttle services available.
10. See Unique Costa Rican Wildlife
All that biodiversity in Costa Rica means the country is teeming with wildlife that will be especially unique to travelers from the northern hemisphere. While I think seeing wildlife should definitely be something you do, I actually think it would be difficult to avoid it as the wildlife is everywhere in Costa Rica.
Popular animals you can spot will be sloths, monkeys, and iguanas, but if you look closely, you might see something else!
Avoid “wildlife sanctuaries” that let you touch and hold the animals – these are wild animals. There are many sanctuaries in Costa Rica, but not all of them have the best practices with the animals’ well-being at the forefront. In fact, Costa Rica recently passed a law making it illegal to take a selfie with wild animals to help combat these poor practices.
Curious where to actually spot these animals in the wild? [Jump to the best places to see wildlife.]
Bucket List Adventures & Fun Outdoor Experiences in Costa Rica
Craving more than just beach lounging and sightseeing? If your idea of a great trip includes soaring over the treetops, rappelling down waterfalls, or navigating jungle rivers, Costa Rica is packed with options that will get your heart racing.
Here are my top picks for adventurous things to do, whether you’re looking for a big dose of adrenaline or just something a little more active.
11. Go White Water Rafting on the Pacuare River
Rafting is available from several excursion companies on the Pacuare River which is the most popular destination, and rated as one of the top in the world, though you can white water raft on several other rivers around the country as well.
12. Ride Horses on the Beach at Sunset
That just sounds romantic, doesn’t it? Several popular tourist spots in Costa Rica offer tours by horseback, including hiking to waterfalls and exploring the beaches.
This was my best friend’s favorite activity that she did in Montezuma when she visited me during my year abroad in Costa Rica.
13. Learn to Surf on the Pacific or Caribbean Coasts
Surfing is extremely popular in Costa Rica. In fact, I got to watch a world surfing competition here at Playa Hermosa years ago. If you’ve never tried surfing before, you can sign up for beginner lessons.
Popular spots for surfing on the west coast are Tamarindo and Nosara, while Playa Cocles is the most popular surf spot on the Caribbean coast.
14. Try Waterfall Rappelling (Canyoning)
If you are really feeling up for adventure, why not just climb down a cascading waterfall? Canyoning, or canyoneering, is a popular adventure sport in Costa Rica that would definitely be a once in a lifetime experience during your trip.
15. Take an ATV Tour Through the Jungle
ATV tours are a thrilling way to explore Costa Rica’s rugged terrain, from jungle trails to coastal paths.
Take a ride out through the rainforest on muddy, unmaintained trails and see parts of the forest less seen. This would be such a fun adventurous way to explore!
Many tour operators offer excursions in areas like Tamarindo, Jaco, and La Fortuna.
16. Paddle by Kayak or SUP in Tropical Waters
While you can take boat tours out on the ocean, exploring by kayak or Standup Paddleboards is also becoming a more popular excursion for adventure lovers. I am such a big fan of kayaking and will almost always rent a kayak when it’s an option when I’m traveling.
There is just something about being out on the water so close to everything.
17. Backpack to Chirripó, Costa Rica’s Tallest Peak
While I haven’t personally done this, while I was working in Costa Rica a fellow intern did this for his birthday and had an amazing time. Chirripo is the tallest summit in Costa Rica and a national park to the south of San Jose.
You can book a guided hike or set it up yourself, but the process is a little complicated compared what backpackers might be used to in other countries like the US, so plan in advance.
18. Go Mountain Biking through Volcanic Landscapes
The Rincon de la Vieja area in Guanacaste offers scenic mountain biking trails that pass through volcanic landscapes, forests, and rivers.
Other biking hotspots include Arenal and the Orosi Valley for a more lush, tropical ride.
19. Fly to the Osa Peninsula & Explore Corcovado
For the truly adventurous, flying into the remote Osa Peninsula offers access to Corcovado National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It’s a rugged, off-the-beaten-path destination perfect for nature lovers and wildlife spotting.
I’m excited to finally be doing this later this year, as it has been on my Costa Rica bucket list for many years. I will be sure to report back once I go!
20. Float Through the Jungle on a River Tubing Tour
If you’re looking for a mix of excitement and ease, river tubing is a fun way to float through jungle-lined rivers. It’s available in Pacuare which is also popular for rafting, and in Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
This is best time of year to go on a tubing excursion is during the dry season from December to April.
21. Go Snorkeling to see Tropical Colorful Fish
While it’s not necessarily world class such as in other Caribbean locations like Belize or Honduras, snorkeling can still be a lot of fun in Costa Rica.
This is a popular excursion near Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos, and you can see a lot of colorful, tropical fish. If you’re visiting during the rainy season, make sure to schedule it for the morning as it most often rains in the afternoon.
22. Dive with Sharks and Rays on the Pacific Coast
Costa Rica offers great scuba diving on both coasts, with the Pacific side especially known for spotting rays, sharks, and sea turtles. Popular dive spots include Catalina Islands, Bat Islands, and Cahuita on the Caribbean side.
23. Sail at Sunset Along the Coast
Sunset sailing tours are a relaxing way to end your day, often including snacks, drinks, and sometimes even dolphin sightings. You’ll find tours offered in most beach towns like Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and Playas del Coco.
24. Skydive Over the Coastline
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, skydiving is available in select locations like Playa Tamarindo. It’s a unique way to take in the coastline and lush landscape from thousands of feet in the air.
While I haven’t gone in Costa Rica, I was able to cross this experience off my bucket list in a surprising way – with my mom! I would highly recommend trying it at least one time, and jumping out of a plane surrounded by the stunning lush nature in Costa Rica is sure to be memorable.
25. Go Rock Climbing in Cachi or Cerro de la Muerte
Rock climbing in Costa Rica offers everything from volcanic rock faces to jungle-covered cliffs, with options for both beginners and experienced climbers. A few well-known climbing areas include Cachi and Cerro de la Muerte.
26. Try Sportfishing on the Pacific Coast
Costa Rica is one of the top sportfishing destinations in the world, offering deep-sea and inshore fishing tours. You can target marlin, sailfish, tuna, and more, especially on the Pacific coast.
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Where to See Wildlife in Costa Rica (Ethically)
A quick word before we dive in: Costa Rica’s wildlife is truly wild, and that’s part of the magic. Please don’t feed animals, even if you see others doing it (yes, even if your guide is). Feeding wildlife makes them sick, aggressive, and dependent on humans, and some species can’t survive once they’ve lost their natural instincts.
27. Visit a National Park to Explore Rain Forests, Dry Forest, Cloud Forest, and Paramo (tropical high-altitude)
Costa Rica protects a huge range of ecosystems through its national parks: from the dense rainforests of Corcovado to the golden dry forests of Santa Rosa, the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, and the high-altitude páramo of Chirripó.
Each offers its own wildlife, landscapes, and trails to explore. I highly recommend visiting at least one national park during your trip to Costa Rica.
28. Take a Guided Tour
Hiring a local guide can completely change your experience.
They’ll point out hidden wildlife, animal tracks, or camouflaged frogs you’d never spot on your own plus they’re often in real-time communication with other guides about where to find specific animals like sloths.
29. Go on a Night Walk in the Rainforest
The rainforest comes alive at night with sounds and sights you won’t find during the day.
A guided night walk is one of the best ways to spot glowing eyes, tiny frogs, curious insects, and even birds asleep on branches.
30. See Crocodiles in Rio Tarcoles
The Rio Tarcoles bridge along the Pacific Coast is popular for spotting crocodiles from above — mostly because locals (used to) feed them to draw a crowd, though I recently heard it is now illegal and no longer done.
This bridge is on the main route along the Pacific Coast, so almost every shuttle and bus will stop here to bring tourists. While it’s a convenient stop, I don’t recommend it. Feeding wildlife disrupts their behavior, and we don’t recommend attractions that feed wild animals.
If you do want to see the crocodiles, book a guided boat tour on the river instead. You will see crocodiles in their natural environment, and probably many other incredible Costa Rican wildlife too. My favorite national park, Carara, is very close by!
32. Go on a Whale-watching Tour
If you’re visiting between July – October or December – March, you can take a boat tour to spot migrating humpback whales. It’s a powerful, awe-inspiring experience to see these giants surface in the wild.
I’ll never forget the feeling when one of the whales surfaced while we sat floating above it, off the coast of Quepos. The whole boat was silent, and you could feel the presence and scale of this massive being below.
This is definitely an unforgettable, Costa Rica Bucket List-worthy experience.
31. Spot Sloths on Both Coasts
Sloths are probably the most famous animals in Costa Rica, aside from monkeys, and while they are somewhat abundant, they can be hard to spot.
You are most likely to see them along the coasts with with a guided tour. Popular spots are on the Pacific Coast around Quepos down to the Osa Peninsula, La Fortuna and around Arenal Volcano, in Tortuguero, and in the south Caribbean around Puerto Viejo.
I have even seen a sloth in San José! There used to be one who lived in a tree right outside my husband’s office window at the University of Costa Rica. I’ve also spotted one in Cahuita National Park on the Caribbean coast, from the car driving in Monteverde, and in Tortuguero on a night tour.
So, with a guide your chances of seeing sloths will be pretty good! Hire an official guide at a national park, or book a private sloth tour.
Note: avoid “wildlife sanctuaries” who let volunteers hold and touch sloths and other wild animals.
33. Tour the Mangroves of Tortuguero By Boat
Spot monkeys, birds, reptiles, and even sloths on a morning boat tour through the park’s canals. This is the exact tour we took.
If you visit Tortuguero during nesting season (July–October), you may also get to witness green sea turtles coming ashore – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
34. Visit the Ostional Wildlife Refuge
Famous for the mass nesting event known as the arribada, Ostional is one of the few places in the world where you can see thousands of Olive Ridley turtles come ashore at once.
While it wasn’t the right time during my visit, we still had the chance to see a Leatherback turtle lay eggs on shore, and in the morning, my group saw some leatherback turtles hatching and running back into the surf (I’ll always regret not getting up – sometimes early mornings are worth it!)
Unique Things You Must Do in Costa Rica
If you’re looking for things to do in Costa Rica that are more unique, rather than typical tourist attractions – I got you. There are some of my favorite activities that fit the bill perfectly!
35. Take a Day Trip to La Iguana Chocolate
Tucked away in the hills of rural Costa Rica, La Iguana Chocolate offers a hands-on cacao tour that takes you from bean to bar.
You’ll need a rental car or private driver to reach it, but once there you can tour the organic farm, make your own chocolate from scratch, and enjoy a homemade lunch with a local family.
Tours are $34 per person and lunch is available as an add-on for $10.
It’s one of my all-time favorite experiences in Costa Rica, and well-worth the drive off the beaten path.
36. Take a cooking class
A cooking class is a great way to connect with Costa Rican culture through food. You’ll learn how to make traditional dishes like gallo pinto or empanadas, and leave with recipes (and memories) to take home.
One of the first things I did when I came home from my first trip to Costa Rica was learn how to make gallopinto for breakfast. It’s like a souvenir that gives back over and over again!
37. See a tropical dry forest
Costa Rica’s dry forests are a rare biome that shift dramatically with the seasons. During the dry months, they feel almost desert-like, and you can even walk out onto dry lakebeds, yet when the rains return, it morphs back into a rainforest.
Palo Verde National Park is a dry forest and one of the best places to go for birding, but you will see lots of other unique wildlife as well such as anteaters, bats, and spider monkeys.
Santa Rosa is another national park that is dry forest closer to the coast.
38. Watch Bioluminescence Light Up the Ocean
Have you ever seen a firefly light up on a late summer evening? That’s due to a process call bioluminescence, and there are tiny organisms in the ocean that can do the same thing! While these organisms exist all over the ocean, some places have such high concentrations that you can actually see them light up the waves.
I remember being on the Pacific coast during a study-abroad trip in Costa Rica and seeing the waves light up beneath the dark sky. We ran into the surf and watched as the ocean began to sparkle, like we were swimming in a sea of stars. It was truly a magical experience.
While that was part of a study-abroad experience, some tour operators now offer night excursions to bioluminescent bays in Costa Rica, especially along the Pacific coast.
39. Rent a car and take a road trip!
While you can visit plenty of places via shuttle or bus, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Costa Rica’s hidden gems at your own pace. Drive between volcanoes, coastlines, waterfalls, and cloud forests all in one trip.
One of my favorite things to do on a road trip is stopping by little places that aren’t worth the drive on their own. On my most recent drive, we stopped in Sarchí to see the largest oxcart in the world, Zarcero to see the famous topiary gardens, and Atenas to get some delicious chifrijo.
🚗 Reserve a rental car with this locally owned rental company 🚗
40. Experience Restorative Wellness in Nature
Costa Rica’s natural setting makes it a perfect destination for wellness. You can try a volcanic mud bath near Rincón de la Vieja, book a massage surrounded by jungle sounds, or simply wander through the trees in silence. Whether you’re into structured self-care or slow nature time, this is the place for it.
During our stay at Dreams Las Mareas I had a solo spa day, starting with a massage followed by enjoying the hydrotherapy stations. While my husband slept in, I was in pure bliss and getting rested a different way.
I recommend trying at least one wellness experience to connect with nature while you’re visiting Costa Rica.
41. Practice Yoga in the Jungle
There’s something special about moving your body and quieting your mind while surrounded by crashing waves or tropical birdsong.
You’ll find classes all over Costa Rica, especially in yoga hubs like Puerto Viejo, Playa Chiquita, and Nosara.
My bestie and I always laugh about our experience doing yoga at the beach when we were told to do a Lion’s Breathe pose and channel our negative energy into the ocean. Like, isn’t that bad for the ocean?
🧘♀️ View top resorts with yoga classes 🧘♀️
42. Ride a tram or cable car through the rainforest
For a more laid-back way to experience the jungle canopy, take a rainforest tram or aerial cable car. It’s a peaceful alternative to ziplining, and gives you time to fully take in the lush surroundings from above.
Several canopy tours also offer a cable car or tram ride as an add-on, or you can book it as part of a private tour.
43. Dinner at a Mirador
A mirador is a viewpoint, and in Costa Rica there are dozens of restaurants situated along the hilltops with beautiful views of the valleys below.
While you can usually dine any time of day, visiting at night with the city lights below is sort of romantic, which makes it a popular choice for date nights.
Spot signs for miradores all throughout the mountains. Most have ample parking as they are popular stops for tour groups and can accommodate walk-in guests.
44. Try the local food
For visitors coming from the US, you might be surprised to learn that Costa Rican food is much different from Mexican cuisine. While they both include rice, beans, and tortillas, that is about where the similarities end.
It’s worth a visit to a local diner, called a soda to try at least one Costa Rican meal, although there are many dishes I’d love for you to try!
The most common meals are a casado (rice, beans, protein, salad, and a side) or arroz con pollo (chicken and veggie fried rice, often served with refried beans and chips).
And if you’re craving a little extra kick – Costa Rican food is anything but spicy – ask for the chilero, a homemade mix of pickled vegetables with hot peppers.
Meaningful Ways to Experience Costa Rican Culture
You shouldn’t come all the way to Costa Rica and not interact with the local culture, so here are a few fun things to do that will connect you!
45. Visit a homestay and hang out with a Costa Rican family
When I studied abroad in Costa Rica, one of the things I was most looking forward to was living with a Costa Rican family, and I was lucky enough to experience that in tenfold. Staying with a local family when you visit is such a rewarding way to connect with Costa Rican culture and daily life.
Host families can show you their favorite meals and places around town, and share wisdom you’ll never find on a travel website. Plus, you can practice your Spanish if you’re up for it! Find homestays using a site like Homestay.com, or by searching ‘homestays in Costa Rica’ to find the dozens of options available such as Tico Linguo, a Spanish school.
46. Rural Tourism
If you want to go beyond the typical tourist path, try slowing down and experience Costa Rica’s community life outside of major towns instead.
You can stay on local farms, take part in workshops, and learn about traditional crafts, farming, and food, all while supporting small, often family-run communities.
47. See Ancient Ruins
Costa Rica’s pre-Columbian history comes to life at sites like Guayabo National Monument, the country’s largest archaeological site dating back over 3,000 years, and the mysterious Diquís Spheres, massive stone spheres carved over 1,000 years ago.
These ruins offer a glimpse into ancient cultures that many visitors never hear about.
I can say from experience that at least the Guayabo Monument is not very easy to access using the bus system, as there were not very many coming and going, and we got stuck there in the rain. Instead, I recommend renting a car, booking a tour, or taking a shuttle.
Fun fact: there is actually a Diquís Sphere in my current city of Philadelphia, which was once a part of the International Sculpture Garden. It is not currently on display, though.
48. Visit the Indigenous Bribri Cultural Center
Located in the Talamanca region, the Bribri Cultural Center gives visitors the opportunity to learn directly from one of Costa Rica’s Indigenous groups.
You can take part in a traditional chocolate-making workshop, tour the land, and shop handmade goods in their local cabana store, all while supporting the preservation of their culture and language.
Located in the Talamanca region, the Bribri Cultural Center invites you to learn directly from one of Costa Rica’s Indigenous communities. You can take part in a chocolate-making workshop, walk the land, and shop handmade goods all while honoring Bribri culture and language.
This tour includes a chocolate workshop at the BriBri center + waterfall!
49. Explore San Jose
San José often gets overlooked, but it’s worth spending a day exploring Costa Rica’s capital.
Check out the National Theater, browse museums like the Museo del Oro Precolombino, Museo de Jade, or the National Museum built in a fortress with a butterfly garden inside (and see a Diquís Sphere).
Wander the Central Market for street eats and artisan finds (just be sure to leave valuables at the hotel, and keep your belongings in front within eyesight.).
50. Cheer on a soccer game (fútbol) at the national stadium
Soccer games are affordable and incredibly fun, and there’s nothing like the energy of a live fútbol match in Costa Rica.
Whether or not you’re a sports fan, catching a game at the national stadium in San José is a fun, affordable way to experience a taste of Costa Rica (and trust me they are big on their fútbol)
51. Go on a day trip to a traditional Costa Rican town
Charming historic towns like Orosí, Cartago, Heredia, and Alajuela offer colonial architecture, historic churches, and vibrant community parks – perfect for a more laid-back cultural experience.
Visit Atenas to see the boyero monument or Sarchí for the largest painted oxcart in the world in recognition of Costa Rica’s agricultural heritage. Zarcero is known for its whimsical trimmed hedges in the town square.
These towns are easy day trips from San José and give you a taste of smaller-town Costa Rican life compared to the city.
52. Take a Spanish class
When I came to Costa Rica, my 6+ years of studying Spanish in school were nothing compared to experiencing my day-to-day in Spanish.
Learning a bit of Spanish can go a long way during your travels, and taking a class while you’re in Costa Rica is a great way to connect with locals and culture. Many towns have schools that offer short-term lessons for travelers, whether you’re starting from scratch or brushing up on basics.
Sample Itinerary
There’s too much to do in one trip, so how should you prioritize all these ideas for just 5-10 days? Here’s how I’d structure a trip for first-time visitors who want to hit the highlights without feeling rushed.
- Day 1 – Start in Monteverde, book a forest tour and ziplining
- Day 2 – Tour a coffee farm, and take a night walk
- Day 3 – Next, go to La Fortuna, soak in hot springs
- Day 4 – Guided hike in Arenal, or hanging bridges
- Day 5 – Finally, head to the pacific coast, either Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Nosara, Mal Pais, Santa Teresa) or Puntarenas (Jaco, Playa Hermosa, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Uvita)
- Day 6 Enjoy the beach. Do some yoga, go for a hike, ride horseback on the beach, and enjoy a water sport such as snorkeling or surf lessons
- Day 7 – Head back to San Jose. Optionally, spend some time exploring the city before you fly out, or go to a nearby site like Irazu or Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfalls, or Cafe Britt Coffee Farm.
Short on time? I would choose 1-2 locations out of the 3 in this itinerary, depending on what you are most interested in doing on your first trip to Costa Rica.
A quick note about driving:
Google Maps will underestimate your travel time. Most roads are narrow, winding, with two lanes, and the only way in or out of many regions. Traffic can back up for hours unexpectedly, and roads can flood. Build in extra time and try not to overpack your schedule.
Want help making the most of your trip?
This sample itinerary is just a starting point; your perfect Costa Rica adventure depends on your travel style, interests, and how much time you have. I’m currently putting together a detailed 7-day itinerary (plus custom variations!) to help you plan stress-free, no matter how long you’re staying.
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Map of the top things to do in Costa Rica
Want to see where everything is located? I’ve pulled together a map of the top things to do in Costa Rica to help you plan your route.
Planning a trip to Costa Rica? I’ve got more to help you get ready.
Whether you’re dreaming about volcano hikes, beach yoga, or the perfect plate of gallo pinto, I’m working on a set of practical guides to help you feel completely confident planning your first trip to Costa Rica without spending hours piecing it all together.
Coming soon:
- When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?
- 7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
- What to Know Before Your First Trip: Tips for Traveling to Costa Rica
- Costa Rica Packing List
- How Much Does a Trip to Costa Rica Cost?
- What is Costa Rican Money (and how to use it)
- Driving in Costa Rica
- Renting a Car in Costa Rica + My Review of Vamos
- The Ultimate Costa Rica Travel Guide Ebook
Want early access? Join my email list and I’ll send these your way as they launch, along with bonus tips I only share with subscribers.
Read More About Costa Rica
- The Ultimate Costa Rica Travel Guide
- 50+ Best Things to Do in Costa Rica That are Worth the Trip
- Is Costa Rica Safe? 17 Tips for Safe Travel
- Rio Celeste Waterfall in Costa Rica: A rare beauty you must visit
- Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park – Everything You Need to Know to Visit One of Costa Rica’s Best Waterfalls
- Costa Rican Slang You Need to Know Before Your Trip
- Costa Rican New Year’s Traditions: How to Celebrate the New Year Like A Local
- Wildlife of Costa Rica: A Photo Journal
- Studying Hummingbirds in Cerro de la Muerte
- How Nearly Failing College Chemistry Led to a Lifetime of Travel and Adventure
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