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- Best time to visit Costa Rica<\/a><\/li>\n
- Costa Rica visa<\/a><\/li>\n
- Best places to visit in Costa Rica<\/a><\/li>\n
- Best beaches in Costa Rica<\/a><\/li>\n
- Costa Rica itineraries<\/a><\/li>\n
- Costa Rica hostels<\/a><\/li>\n
- Getting around Costa Rica<\/a><\/li>\n
- Costa Rican\u00a0food<\/a><\/li>\n
- Costa Rican culture and customs<\/a><\/li>\n
- Costa Rica travel safety<\/a><\/li>\n
- Is Costa Rica safe for solo female travellers?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Costa Rica travel advice<\/a><\/li>\n
- Vaccinations for Costa Rica<\/a><\/li>\n
- Backpacking Costa Rica budget<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/costa-rica.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPlayas del Coco<\/p>\n
Best time to visit Costa Rica<\/b><\/h2>\n
While the \u2018best\u2019 time to visit Costa Rica is said to be from December to April, deciding when to go really depends on your priorities. If you want guaranteed sunshine and don\u2019t mind larger crowds and more expensive accommodation, then you’ll want to visit in the dry season. December and January are beautiful months – the vegetation is still lush and green from the rain, and the rivers are at the perfect swell for rafting. If you do visit at this time of year it\u2019s recommended that you book well in advance to get the best choice of accommodation, especially as some places will enforce minimum stays.<\/p>\n
If you don\u2019t mind some rainy days and the potential for muddy roads, the shoulder season is a good compromise between the high and low seasons; it sees better priced accommodation and more chances to have the beaches and sights to yourselves.<\/p>\n
If you really can\u2019t stand heat and crowds or are on a shoestring budget, the rainy season might be your best option. Just be aware that the heavy rain might make some roads totally impassable, and some accommodation will close entirely during this time, so plan ahead. The most important thing is to be flexible with your activities so that if you can\u2019t do them on one day you can do them the next. Bear in mind that September and October are the rainiest months and could make doing any activities at all difficult.<\/p>\n
If you have decided to visit Costa Rica during rainy season, remember that this does not necessarily mean it\u2019s gonna rain every day of your trip; more likely that you will see sunny mornings and then heavy but passing downpours in the afternoons. Another bonus is that this is when Costa Rica\u2019s rainforests are at their lushest and the waterfalls at their most beautiful.<\/p>\n
These months also happen to be the driest on the Caribbean side, so if you do visit at this time of year be sure to check out Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero. Surfing conditions are also best during rainy season.<\/p>\n
Weather in Costa Rica<\/strong><\/h3>\n
So, it\u2019s a week until your Costa Rica trip and the weather forecast is telling you that it\u2019s downpouring every day – what do you do? The first thing is not to panic. Costa Rica\u2019s steep mountain ranges and positioning between two oceans means that it has a myriad of microclimates, making weather prediction notoriously difficult. Being only 10 degrees north of the equator means that it\u2019s likely you\u2019re going to have beautiful, warm weather for at least part of your trip. If you\u2019re visiting in the high season especially, you\u2019ll be pretty much guaranteed blazing sunshine every day.<\/p>\n
Costa Rica has two distinct seasons; wet and dry. These, of course, correspond to the low and high seasons. The wet season runs from August to October whereas the dry season runs from December to April. May, June, July and November are considered the shoulder seasons.<\/p>\n
Weather in San Jose <\/strong><\/h3>\n
The central valley has some of the most moderate and pleasant weather conditions in the country. It\u2019s relatively dry, the climate mild and the coastal breeze steady. The rainy season here runs from May through November, though the heavy rains are normally seen September through October.<\/p>\n
Weather in Tamarindo and Liberia <\/strong><\/h3>\n
These Northwestern lowlands are hot and arid, and the weather here is some of the driest in Costa Rica. The beaches have a fairly mild and steady year-round temperature, hovering between 20-27 degrees celsius. The dry season here lasts longer than most of the other provinces, running from about November to June.<\/p>\n
La Fortuna, which is slightly East of Guanacaste and closer to the Caribbean coast, has similar weather conditions but is slightly cooler and more humid.<\/p>\n
Weather on the Caribbean coast (Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
These lowlands are hot, humid and have rainforests. Temperatures remain steady throughout the year, with average day time highs around 30 degrees and night time lows around 24. On the Caribbean Coast you can pretty much count on rain year-round, though often this is limited to early mornings and evenings. The driest months are February, March, September and October.<\/p>\n
Weather in the Central Highlands <\/strong>(Monteverde, <\/strong>Turrialba, Tilar\u00e1n) <\/strong><\/h3>\n
With mountain ranges at varying elevations of 3,000 \u2013 5,000 ft, this region is characterised by much cooler temperatures than the other provinces. The central highlands are also known for their cloud forests, the most famous being Monteverde Cloud Forest. Monteverde\u2019s elevation and positioning at a crossroads between the Caribbean and Pacific means that it\u2019s usually damp, rainy and covered in a thick, hazy mist. Unpredictable weather is common, with rain and windstorms sometimes lasting consecutive days. Generally, the best weather is experienced from December through April, then July and August.<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/dan-hadfield-498149-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/p>\nImage by\u00a0Dan Hadfield<\/a><\/p>\n
Costa Rica visa<\/b><\/h2>\n
Do you need a visa for Costa Rica? <\/strong><\/h3>\n
Citizens of most countries don\u2019t need a visa for Costa Rica for a visit of up to 90 days. If you\u2019re not sure, check your country\u2019s Costa Rica visa requirements.<\/a><\/p>\n
Citizens of all countries must have a return ticket to exit Costa Rica (which must show entry and exit of the country). Most visitors must have passports valid for at least six or nine months on arrival. If you\u2019re unsure where your country stands, check here<\/a> for a full run-down. All passports must have a blank visa stamp page.<\/p>\n
Best places to visit in Costa Rica<\/b><\/h2>\n
1. Monteverde<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Named after its lush green mountains, Monteverde is made up of 70,000 acres of cool, highland jungle that\u2019s shrouded in thick, perennial cloud.\u00a0 Apart from being visually stunning, the forest is also famous for being home to over 2,500 plant species, 500 types of butterflies, 100 mammal species and 400 bird species, including the rare and exotically colourful quetzal. If you\u2019re very lucky you might even spot the golden toad, which is said to only live in this area of the world. For those keen to mix thrills with the striking scenery, Monteverde\u2019s canopy tours – a combination of trails, zip-lines and suspension bridges – is one of the most exciting ways to take in the forest scenery.<\/p>\n
Although it\u2019s possible to find budget accommodation within the Monteverde forest perimeter, many backpackers choose to stay in the livelier, more amenity-packed town of Santa Elena, located a short 5km from the forest.<\/p>\n
2. Rincon de La Vieja National Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is just over 20km from Liberia and surrounds two volcanoes – Rincon, which is still active, and Santa Maria which is dormant. Rincon has pretty much everything a nature lover could want – rainforest, waterfalls, mudpools, volcanic fumaroles, hot springs, cloud forest and a myriad of unique wildlife, including pumas and jaguars. It\u2019s also famous for having high concentrations of Costa Rica\u2019s national flower – the purple orchid.<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Flo2.jpg\")
<\/p>\n3. Corcovado<\/strong><\/h3>\n
As the largest and most pristine, Corcovado is thought to be the crowning glory of Costa Rica\u2019s extensive national park system. National Geographic has dubbed Corcovado\u2019s 103,000 acres as<\/p>\n
\u2018the most biologically intense place on earth.\u2019 You\u2019ll find tapirs, jaguars, crocodiles, anteaters and sloths among countless other animals. It\u2019s not just the size but the remoteness of the landscape which makes this park so attractive \u2013 it\u2019s totally unspoilt. Corcovado is home to endless virgin rainforest and uninhabited beaches.<\/p>\n
4. Tortuguero <\/strong><\/h3>\n
It\u2019s a testament to the beauty and uniqueness of Tortuguero National park that despite its remoteness, (there are no roads and you can only reach the park by boat or plane), it still remains one of the country\u2019s most visited national parks. The best way to tour the park is to wind through on your own canoe, through the beautifully dense maze of jungle canals. Plan ahead as to when you want to visit, as Tortuguero is famous for having one of the world\u2019s best sea turtle nesting sites – tortuga translates to turtle. Loggerheads and leatherbacks nest from October to March, and green and hawksbill turtles can be seen from July to October.<\/p>\n
Because of its remoteness, expect to pay a bit more for accommodation than elsewhere in the country. Having said that, there are still plenty of hostels to choose from and if you have a tent you can camp anywhere along the coast for free.<\/p>\n
5. Manuel Antonio <\/strong><\/h3>\n
Despite being one of the smallest national parks in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio spans several natural habitats and is home to a large number of endangered species, most famously the red squirrel monkey. Apart from its lush rainforest, Manuel Antonio is also famous for its white sandy beaches and stunning coral reef. Being blessed with beautiful beaches just a short distance from the capital of San Jose, it\u2019s a popular and bustling town with a lively nightlife. Backpackers looking for the cheapest accommodation can try nearby Quepos. Only 15 minutes away by bus, Quepos is slightly more affordable for restaurants, nightlife and hostels.<\/p>\n
6. Arenal Volcano<\/strong><\/h3>\n
One of the best parts about visiting Arenal is the drive up to the volcano, as you watch it transform from a miniscule dot to this huge, imposing mountain. Though it hasn\u2019t erupted since 2010 Arenal is still considered active – in fact, it\u2019s still possible to see smoke from the eastern side. Apart from its perfectly conical shape that provides a dramatic visual backdrop for nearby towns La Fortuna and El Castillo, there\u2019s a surreal majesty to Arenal that\u2019s the reason for its unflagging popularity. At sunset dark clouds loom around it, giving it a fierce, burgundy glow, and the occasional underground rumble makes it feel like the land beneath is breathing.<\/p>\n
The most popular activities in the Arenal region are trekking (the most popular trail being to La Fortuna waterfall) and visiting the natural hot springs.<\/p>\n
While there are plenty of springs to choose from, Eco Termales<\/a>\u00a0is well-known for offering the most authentic, open-air experience. Its location among the trees and various cobble stone pools (each one has a slightly different temperature) can\u2019t be beaten. Listen out for howler monkeys; they\u2019re prevalent in this area so you won\u2019t be able to miss their iconic screech!<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Arenal2.jpg\")
<\/p>\n7. San Jose<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Though San Jose is most often seen as a launchpad to other destinations, it\u2019s a fun city in its own right. The best places to visit in San Jose include the Mercado Central and the lavish National Theatre and cafe in downtown. Restored colonial mansions are dotted around the city on quiet, dusty streets in the north, particularly in Barrio Amon, which is also where you\u2019ll find lots of galleries, trendy caf\u00e9s and colourful street art.<\/p>\n
Best beaches in Costa Rica<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/beach-2580656_1280.jpg\")
<\/p>\nImage by\u00a0Kristendawn<\/a><\/p>\n
1. Nicoya peninsula<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Remote enough to be unspoilt by tourism and featuring some of the best surf breaks in the country, the beaches of the Nicoya peninsula are the most popular with backpackers. The nearest airport is in the town of Liberia, which is a perfect launchpad for the beautiful Nicoya beaches and Rincon de la Vieja National Park, as well as for backpackers continuing on to Nicaragua.<\/p>\n
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Mal Pa\u00ed<\/strong>s and Santa Teresa<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
At the very tip of the Nicoya peninsula you\u2019ll find this isolated duo, which feature some of Costa Rica\u2019s best surf. For those not into surfing, the beaches offer swimming, snorkelling, horseback riding and long walks on several hiking trails in the surrounding tropical jungle. While still relatively far-flung and hard to reach, increased tourism has brought improved travel options and better road access to both towns.<\/p>\n
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Samara<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Considered Costa Rica\u2019s best-kept secret, Samara\u2019s white-sand beach offers picture-perfect scenery as well as kayaking, bird-watching, supping, snorkelling, scuba and sportfishing. The horseshoe shaped bay it\u2019s nestled in also means that Samara is one of Costa Rica\u2019s safest beaches, making it an ideal destination for mellow, low-key travel. Hurry up and visit though, as each year more and more tourists are discovering this water-lovers paradise.<\/p>\n
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Montezuma<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Aside from its mangroves, tropical forest and beautiful coastline, Montezuma is most famous for its free-spirited, artsy vibe. Embrace your inner boho and attend a local yoga class, or a low-key film or poetry festival. Don\u2019t be fooled by the laid-back vibe however, as Montezuma knows how to throw a party once the sun goes down, boasting some of the best nightlife of all the Nicoya beaches.<\/p>\n
The village itself sits within high cliffs and a jungle which features some of the most famous waterfalls in the country – Montezuma falls.<\/p>\n
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Conchal<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Just north of Tamarindo is the stunningly picturesque Conchal beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Brilliant white sand and millions of tiny seashells sprinkle the\u00a0palm-fringed shoreline of the beach – hence the name conchal (concha translates to shell in Spanish). The turquoise and emerald waters are a rarity on the pacific coast and make snorkelling here a must. The beach is almost always serenely quiet as tourists head to more developed nearby beaches.<\/p>\n
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Tamarindo<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
While all the beach towns in Costa Rica can fairly be described as chilled-out, Tamarindo is not quite the hippy mecca that Montezuma is – having earned itself something of a party rep and being better for beer, burgers and surf than smoothies, kale and yoga (though the latter is available wherever you go in CR). As the most accessible and arguably the best surfing spot (even for novices), Tamarindo beach remains as popular as ever. The beach is also famous for being part of Las Baulas de Guanacaste Marine National Park, a protected area that serves as a safe place for the leatherback sea turtle population.<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/TamarindoSunset.jpg\")
<\/p>\nTamarindo<\/p>\n
2. South Pacific<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\u00a0<\/strong>Dominical<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Another popular, laid-back surfer\u2019s paradise, Dominical beach is flanked by lush green landscapes on one side and deep blue ocean on the other. The waves here can reach up to 10 feet – tall enough to please even the most hard-core thrill-seekers. Though not what you\u2019d typically call #beachgoals with its dark, rocky sand, the sunsets here do not disappoint. Neither does the company – Dominical\u2019s popularity with surfers and backpackers means that it\u2019s managed to retain an authentically chilled, coastal vibe.<\/p>\n
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Jaco<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
While Dominical is chilled out, it\u2019s fair to say that Jaco is the opposite. It\u2019s still a carefree surfer town, but the focus here is more on partying than napping in your hammock. Lively, bustling and with great dining and nightlife, Jaco is the perfect place to let loose on the way to or from nearby San Jose and Manuel Antonio National Park.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
3. Southern Caribbean Coast (Limon Province)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\u00a0<\/strong>Over on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica are the tropical, world-renowned surfer beaches of Limon province.<\/p>\n
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Puerto Viejo de Talamanca<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Once only a far-flung destination for intrepid surfers, Puerto Viejo is becoming increasingly popular with backpackers attracted to the laid-back easy charm of its surfer lifestyle and authentic local scene, not to mention the unique volcanic-sand beaches and proximity to national parks. Despite its increasing popularity, Puerto Viejo is still rarely crowded (particularly in the rainy season when some of the best surf is to be found) and still has a very chilled out, sleepy vibe. Explore the quiet backstreets and the colourful Caribbean houses that line them. Unlike some other popular Costa Rica beaches, cheap food, accommodation and nightlife is easy to come by.<\/p>\n
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Punta Uva\/Playa Evita<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Quiet Punta Uva beach boasts golden sands, coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, all backed by the dense jungle of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, where you\u2019ll find monkeys, sloths, parrots and the great green macaw. The coral reef located just offshore also makes Punta Uva a fantastic snorkel beach.<\/p>\n
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Manzanillo<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Also located in\u00a0Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife and Marine Refuge<\/a> is the small, quiet fishing village of Manzanillo. Much like Punta Uva, the main attraction of this tiny town is its palm-fringed golden sand and its warm and fabulously turquoise Caribbean waters that are exceptional for snorkelling.<\/p>\n
You can also dive, explore by kayak or even take a \u2018dolphin tour\u2019 of the coast to catch a glimpse of the three species of dolphins that make this their home. Located at the very end of the coastal road from Puerto Viejo, from Manzanillo you can take one of the several dirt road tracks that lead straight into the tropical jungle, making it feel like the final pitstop on a journey through paradise.<\/p>\n
Many of Costa Rica\u2019s most beautiful beaches are to be found, unsurprisingly, it its national parks. Not only are they utterly unspoilt, they\u2019re also guaranteed to offer glimpses of Costa Rica\u2019s famous wildlife. Make a short trek from the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park and you\u2019ll come to a stunningly white, palm-fringed beach which hundreds of capuchin monkeys have decided to call home.<\/p>\n
The main draw of the remote Tortuguero beaches is turtle-nesting season. Watch green sea turtles, leatherbacks, hawksbills and more nesting on the beaches in the park from July to October and February to April.<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Monkey.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCosta Rica itineraries<\/b><\/h2>\n
Costa Rica 2-week itineraries<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The generalist:<\/strong><\/p>\n
Day 1 – San Jose<\/p>\n
Day 2-4 – La Fortuna\/Arenal<\/p>\n
Day 5-8 – Manuel Antonio National Park<\/p>\n
Day – 9-10 Dominical<\/p>\n
Day 10-11 Playa Uvita<\/p>\n
Day 11-13 Corcovado National Park<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The nature lover:<\/strong><\/p>\n
Day 1 – San Jose<\/p>\n
Day 2- 5 Tortuguero National Park<\/p>\n
Day 5 – 8 La Fortuna\/Arenal<\/p>\n
Day 8- 11 Monteverde Cloud Forest<\/p>\n
Day 11- 13 Manuel Antonio National Park<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/ManuelAntionioNP.jpg\")
<\/p>\nManuel Antonio National Park<\/p>\n
The beach bum:<\/strong><\/p>\n
Day 1 – San Jose<\/p>\n
Day 2-5- Manuel Antonio National Park<\/p>\n
Day 5 – 7 Jaco<\/p>\n
Day 8 – Liberia<\/p>\n
Day 9 – 11 Tamarindo<\/p>\n
Day 11-13 Samara<\/p>\n
Costa Rica 3-week itineraries<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The generalist:<\/strong><\/p>\n
Day 1 – San Jose<\/p>\n
Day 2-5 La Fortuna\/Arenal<\/p>\n
Day 5-8 Monteverde Cloud Forest<\/p>\n
Day 8-11 Jaco<\/p>\n
Day 11-14 Tortuguero National Park<\/p>\n
Day 14-17 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca (Including Punta Cocles, Punta Uva and Manzanillo<\/p>\n
beaches)<\/p>\n
Day 17-20 Manuel Antonio National Park<\/p>\n
The nature lover:<\/strong><\/p>\n
Day 1 – San Jose<\/p>\n
Day 2-5 La Fortuna\/Arenal<\/p>\n
Day 5-8 Monteverde Cloud Forest<\/p>\n
Day 9 Liberia<\/p>\n
Day 10 – 13 Rincon de la Vieja National Park<\/p>\n
Day 13-16 Tortuguero National Park<\/p>\n
Day 16-18 Manuel Antonio National Park<\/p>\n
Day 18-20 Corcovado<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/LaFortunaWaterfall-583x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nLa Fortuna waterfall<\/p>\n
The beach bum:<\/strong><\/p>\n
Day 1 San Jose<\/p>\n
Day 2-4 Manuel Antonio National Park<\/p>\n
Day 4-7 Jaco<\/p>\n
Day 8 Liberia<\/p>\n
Day 9-11 Tamarindo<\/p>\n
Day 11- 13 Samara<\/p>\n
Day 13-16 Santa Teresa\/Malpais<\/p>\n
Day 16-20 Puerto Viejo de Salamanca (Including Punta Cocles, Punta Uva and Manzanillo<\/p>\n
beaches)<\/p>\n
Costa Rica hostels<\/b><\/h2>\n
Hostels in Monteverde<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Most of the affordable accommodation to be found in Monteverde is in nearby Santa Elena. Hammock House<\/a> is a typical Costa Rican family home with a good location and very affordable dorms, starting from \u00a36, as well as private rooms. Breakfast is included and the friendly owner is more than happy to help with questions. Slightly more expensive but right in the middle of town is Monteverde Backpackers,<\/a> which has a chilled out common area and social vibe, and is only a minute\u2019s walk from the town centre. Breakfast is DIY style and free. Beds start at \u00a39.<\/p>\n
If you have a slightly higher budget, Camino Verde Hostel<\/a> has comfortable private rooms and stunning views of the surrounding countryside from its balcony area. It\u2019s just a short walk from town and includes a very good free breakfast.<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Capture-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCamino Verde Hostel<\/a><\/p>\n
Hostels in Corcovado National Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Only reachable by boat, Corcovado is not the easiest place to find affordable accommodation, but Martina\u2019s Place<\/a> on beautiful Drake\u2019s Bay offers clean, affordable rooms just 200m from the beach. It\u2019s also close to amenities and has free Wi-Fi and coffee. Rooms start at \u00a310.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Tortuguero National Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Aracari Garden Hostel<\/a> offers beautiful hammock-filled gardens, cosy common areas and clean rooms, with dorms starting at \u00a310 and just \u00a323 for a private.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Manuel Antonio<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Views from hostels don\u2019t get much better than at Vista Serena<\/a>. Perched on a mountain, Vista Serena looks out over lush jungle and sweeping views of the Pacific. Hammocks are dotted everywhere and free amenities include Wi-Fi, coffee and toast. Beds start from around \u00a39.<\/p>\n
Hostels in San Jose<\/strong><\/h3>\n
The ever-popular Costa Rica Backpackers<\/a> offers cool accommodation at very reasonable prices.\u00a0 Dorms start from \u00a36.50, which includes free tea and coffee, Wi-Fi and luggage storage. The rooms open out to a large garden full of hammocks and a communal pool where the tunes are always banging. There are two bars on site as well as a reasonably priced restaurant.<\/p>\n
It doesn\u2019t get much more chic than Capital Hostel La Ciudad<\/a>. Stylish and modern, the dorms are pod-style and the communal areas are luxurious. The whole hostel is spotlessly clean, the large breakfast is complimentary, and the vibe is peaceful and laid-back. Can you believe you can get all this from just \u00a312 per night?<\/p>\n
An old manor-style house with a large beautiful garden, Hostel Casa del Parque <\/a>is a good budget option with dorms starting at \u00a38. The location is one of the hostel\u2019s biggest draws, being right in the centre of San Jose and close to all amenities. Freebies include Wi-Fi and tea and coffee.<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/Capture-2.jpg\")
<\/p>\nHostel Casa del Parque<\/a><\/p>\n
Hostels in Arenal, La Fortuna<\/strong><\/h3>\n
You know you\u2019ve spotted a good deal when the hostel is not only the most affordable, but also has outstanding reviews. Small but right in the centre of town, hip Arenal Container Hostel<\/a> provides clean dorms set up in old shipping containers. Funky murals decorate the outdoor, hammock-lined communal areas. The staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable and will help you organise tours and answer any questions. Dorms start from \u00a38.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Nicoya Peninsula <\/strong><\/h3>\n
If you\u2019re headed pretty much anywhere in the Nicoya Peninsula (or on your way to or from Nicaragua) you\u2019re bound to spend at least a night in Liberia, the launchpad to the best destinations in the area, including Rincon de La Vieja National Park.<\/p>\n
Hospedaje Dodero Hostel<\/a> is extremely popular – it\u2019s cheap and ticks all the boxes. The rooms are spotlessly clean and the service is friendly, but the main draw is the location just 100m from Liberia\u2019s main market, where you\u2019ll find endless food options. It has a communal kitchen and free Wi-Fi Private rooms start from \u00a313 – book in advance if you want one with air con!<\/p>\n
Congos Hostal Liberia<\/a> has wood-panelled rooms starting at \u00a37, some with a patio area. It also offers barbecue facilities, a large garden with hammocks, a shared lounge, free Wi-Fi, hot drinks and a communal kitchen.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Mal Pais and Santa Teresa<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Hostel Dos Monos South<\/a> has clean, air-conditioned rooms and is located right at the intersection of Mal Pais and Santa Teresa beaches, just metres away from bars, restaurants and grocery stores. The atmosphere is social and breakfast and Wi-Fi are free, not to mention that the hostel also offers surfing lessons! Dorms start at \u00a36 a night.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Samara<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Colourful Matilori<\/a> offers cosy, cheerfully decorated dorm rooms starting at a very reasonable \u00a38. The location is excellent – close to the beach and restaurants – and the atmosphere is very social, with two open communal kitchens and a large shared area with tables and hammocks. The staff are awesome, and always happy to help.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Montezuma<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Hostel locations don\u2019t get much better than this. Proyecto Montezuma<\/a> is a TEFL, surf and Spanish school which also provides accommodation with incredible views from its rooms, garden and own stretch of beach. It\u2019s also very reasonably priced, especially for Montezuma which is one of Costa Rica\u2019s pricier spots. The hostel is a ten minute walk from town and a two minute walk to the famous Montezuma waterfalls. Amenities include a communal kitchen, BBQ facilities and free Wi-Fi, with dorms starting at \u00a39.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Tamarindo<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Modern, centrally located and with AC in every room (this is pretty important in Tamarindo), Blue Trailz Hostel and Surfcamp<\/a> is especially popular with the surfing crowd. Guests get discounts on boards, lessons, tours and bikes from their shop out front. Enjoy a cosy communal area, guest kitchen and free Wi-Fi, with dorms starting at \u00a38.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Puerto Viejo<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Quiet, cosy and right in the middle of town is Roots Family<\/a>. Lovingly decorated and made entirely out of bamboo, this is one pretty hostel. The staff are friendly and helpful and the vibe is very social but chilled. The location is a 100m walk to the beach and five minutes to the town\u2019s restaurants and bars. It\u2019s also 300m from the bus stop, where you can catch a ride to the beautiful nearby beaches all the way down the coast. Dorms start from \u00a39.<\/p>\n
Hostels in Jaco<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Room2board<\/a> is popular for a reason – it has everything we love in a hostel. Clean, modern, spacious, fun – and to top it off, it has a huge outdoor pool\/social space. Room2board also has a poolside movie screen, free yoga classes and perhaps best of all, a sunset-facing rooftop decked out with hammocks. When the party is in your backyard it can be hard to leave the hostel! Dorms start at \u00a312.50.<\/p>\n
![\"backpacking](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/39.jpg\")
<\/p>\nHostels in Dominical<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Not only is Cool Vibes Beach Hostel<\/a> right on Dominical\u2019s beautiful coastline, it\u2019s also a minute\u2019s walk from the bus stop and nearby shops – including one of the most popular cafes in town. Bonuses include a small pool, hammocks and a huge kitchen.<\/p>\n
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Getting around Costa Rica<\/b><\/h2>\n
The three most popular ways of getting around Costa Rica are by bus, shuttle (shared or private) or car rental. The choice comes down to whether you want to save time, or money!<\/p>\n
Public bus transport in Costa Rica<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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- It\u2019s cheap<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
By far the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica is by local bus, either directivo (direct) or colectivo (with multiple stops). Short bus trips of three hours or less will cost around 2000 CRC (\u00a33), whereas longer trips can cost up to 6000 CRC (\u00a38). Local bus rides, for example within San Juan, cost about 200 col\u00f3n (25p).<\/p>\n
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- It\u2019s an efficient and affordable way to travel between destinations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
From San Jose, you can take the public bus to nearly every popular tourist destination. You can check specific routes here<\/a>.<\/p>\n
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- You can meet the locals and share stories with fellow backpackers<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Public buses are a great way to experience local life, as well as share tips and stories with other travellers that are also heading to your destination.<\/p>\n
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- You can sit back and relax <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
No having to navigate tricky roads for you my friend!<\/p>\n
Cons<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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- They can be slow<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Though the public buses quite often leave late, the directivo routes (which go directly from one large town to another) won\u2019t necessarily take that much longer than a shuttle bus or rental car. If you\u2019re travelling from a smaller town where only the colectivos are available however, the various transfer stops in different towns can significantly increase your travel time.<\/p>\n
One instance of this is the journey from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio – which takes 4 buses and comes in at about 9 hours of travel instead of 4!<\/p>\n
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- They can be tricky to navigate<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Though it\u2019s the biggest transportation hub in the country, San Jose doesn’t have a main bus terminal. Ticket offices are scattered around the city – some large bus companies have big terminals that sell tickets in advance, while others have little more than a stop. Check the Tourism Board\u2019s brochure<\/a> for information on where your bus leaves from. It also has phone numbers to call for more information on your route.<\/p>\n
Schedules change wildly, so it\u2019s a good idea to confirm times when you buy. Buses often leave late or early too so it\u2019s recommended that you get to your stop about an hour before your ride is due to leave.<\/p>\n
There are often no schedules posted at stops. Again, check the brochure for the terminal address and company name which will be written on the front of the bus, along with the name of the destination. A lot of drivers won\u2019t speak English so it\u2019s a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases to make navigation easier. Alternatively, ask your fellow backpackers at your hostel\/hotel about routes and travel tips.<\/p>\n
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- They can get crowded<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Though Costa Rica is generally a safe country, it\u2019s a good idea to keep an eye on luggage in overhead racks, especially when the bus is crowded. For popular routes it\u2019s also advised to buy a ticket at least a day ahead.<\/p>\n
Private\/shared shuttles<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Shuttles are provided by\u00a0Gray Line,\u00a0Monkey Ride<\/a>,\u00a0Tropical Tours<\/a>, Easy Ride and\u00a0Interbus<\/a>. You can either make reservations online through their websites or book through your hostel. My personal recommendation is the very reliable Interbus. <\/a><\/p>\n
Pros<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- They can get crowded<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- They can be tricky to navigate<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- They can be slow<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- You can sit back and relax <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- You can meet the locals and share stories with fellow backpackers<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- It\u2019s an efficient and affordable way to travel between destinations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- It\u2019s cheap<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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- Costa Rica visa<\/a><\/li>\n