North Costa Rica Travel Guide
Planning a trip to North Costa Rica? Here's all you need to know about the best places to visit, food and drink scene, cultural attractions, and more.
- Introduction to North Costa Rica
- List of Places to Visit in North Costa Rica
- Hiking/Biking Routes of North Costa Rica
- Best Things to Do in North Costa Rica: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for North Costa Rica
- Food and Drink Scene of North Costa Rica
- Where to Stay in North Costa Rica: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in North Costa Rica: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of North Costa Rica
- Best Time to Visit North Costa Rica
- Do’s and Don’ts of North Costa Rica
- Safety and Health
- Getting to North Costa Rica: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in North Costa Rica
- Where to Go Next from North Costa Rica: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
North Costa Rica, located in Central America, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and adventure. If you’re planning a trip to this stunning destination, read on for a comprehensive guide to all the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs to keep in mind.
Introduction to North Costa Rica
North Costa Rica is a region full of stunning landscapes, with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and rafting, and it offers historical and cultural attractions that highlight the intriguing history of the region. With a tropical climate, lush forests, and incredible beaches, North Costa Rica is a must-visit destination in Central America.
List of Places to Visit in North Costa Rica
North Costa Rica is a vast region with plenty of places to explore. Here is a list of the top attractions you should visit:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Gold Museum in San Jose
- The National Museum of Costa Rica in San Jose
- The Guayabo National Monument
- The Arenal Volcano National Park
Natural Attractions of North Costa Rica: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- The Arenal Volcano
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- La Fortuna Waterfall
- Rio Celeste
Hiking/Biking Routes of North Costa Rica
North Costa Rica offers a range of hiking and biking routes, each with its unique experience and scenic views. Some of the most popular routes include:
- Rio Celeste Trail
- Arenal Volcano National Park
- Corcovado National Park
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Rincon de la Vieja
Best Things to Do in North Costa Rica: Activities and Tours
North Costa Rica offers a range of activities and tours, from the adrenaline-pumping adventures to the more laid-back experiences. Here are some of the best things to do:
- Zip-lining in Monteverde
- Whitewater Rafting in Arenal
- Surfing in Tamarindo
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Manuel Antonio
- Hot Springs in La Fortuna
Week-Long Itinerary for North Costa Rica
To make the most of your trip to North Costa Rica, we recommend following this itinerary for one week:
Day 1: Arrival in San Jose, explore the city. Day 2: Transfer to La Fortuna, visit Arenal volcano, and enjoy hot springs. Day 3: Take a day trip to Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge. Day 4: Transfer to Monteverde, Explore the Cloud Forest Reserve and take a night tour. Day 5: Take a hike to Rio Celeste. Day 6: Transfer to Manuel Antonio, enjoy a day at the beach Day 7: Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
Food and Drink Scene of North Costa Rica
The Costa Rican food scene is full of flavors and fresh ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Gallo Pinto
- Casado
- Chifrijo
- Ceviche
- Arroz con Pollo
Local Beverages
- Guaro Sour
- Costa Rican Coffee
- Imperial Beer
- Pipa Fria
Where to Stay in North Costa Rica: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
North Costa Rica has a range of accommodation options to meet all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay include:
- Hotel Belmar in Monteverde
- Nayara Tented Camp in Arenal
- Selina Tamarindo in Tamarindo
- Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa in Manuel Antonio
What to Buy in North Costa Rica: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
North Costa Rica is home to a variety of local products and souvenirs that make great gifts or reminders of your trip. Here are some must-buy items:
- Coffee
- Chocolate
- Handcrafted Pottery
- Local Artwork
- Natural Skincare products
Local Culture and Customs of North Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a nation of friendly people, and it’s essential to respect their rules and customs. Here are some local culture and customs to keep in mind:
- Tipping is not common in Costa Rica, but it’s appreciated.
- Spanish is the official language in Costa Rica, and locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak it.
- Costa Ricans appreciate when visitors dress modestly and respect older people.
- Costa Rica is a safe country but be aware of pickpocketing in crowded places.
Best Time to Visit North Costa Rica
The best time to visit North Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to April. However, If you want to witness the lush green landscapes of North Costa Rica, visit during the rainy season from May to November.
Do’s and Don’ts of North Costa Rica
Do:
- Try local food and drinks
- Learn Spanish
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Explore the natural beauty of the region
- Use sunscreen and insect repellent
Don’t:
- Litter
- Use drugs
- Disturb wildlife
Safety and Health
Safety in North Costa Rica
Costa Rica is generally a safe country but be aware of petty theft in crowded places. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings.
Health in North Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a healthy country with excellent medical facilities and services. Visitors should carry their health insurance cards and consult their doctors about vaccinations and travel advice.
Getting to North Costa Rica: Transportation Options and Logistics
North Costa Rica is accessible by plane, bus, or car. Here are some ways to get to North Costa Rica:
Airports Near North Costa Rica
- Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose
- Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport in Liberia
Bus Stations Near North Costa Rica
- Terminal 710 in San Jose
- Alfaro Terminal in Liberia
Other Options
- Renting a car
- Booking a shuttle service
How to Get Around in North Costa Rica
To get around North Costa Rica, visitors can use shuttle services, car rentals, or buses. Taxis are also a convenient option in some areas. However, it’s essential to negotiate the fare before getting in.
Where to Go Next from North Costa Rica: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you’re planning to extend your trip, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:
- Montezuma
- Santa Teresa
- La Fortuna de San Carlos
- Guanacaste
Conclusion
North Costa Rica is a gem in Central America, and it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. From hiking in the lush rainforests to relaxing on stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone in North Costa Rica. Plan your trip today and experience the Pura Vida lifestyle for yourself!
