Whether it’s your first trip to Costa Rica or your first time out of the country, you’re in for a treat. Costa Rica is one of the most “beginner-friendly” international destinations in the world, so it’s the perfect spot to get your travel sea legs! And with endless natural beauty, delicious food, adventures around every corner, and a friendly community, you are sure to create lifelong memories.
Costa Rica will welcome you with open arms, but there are some tips and things to know that can help you take your trip from great to amazing. Before you book your flights and pack your bags, here are a few things every first-time visitor should know.
Costa Rica Guide Table of Contents
Jump to the sections you want to learn about most!
- Why Costa Rica is a Great First International Destination
- Getting to Costa Rica
- Understanding Costa Rica’s Seasons
- The Incredible Nature You’ll Find in Costa Rica
- Where to Stay in Costa Rica
- How Long Should You Stay in Costa Rica?
- What to Eat in Costa Rica
- Understanding Currency, Payments, and Tipping
- Best Ways to Get Around Costa Rica
- How to Respect Costa Rica’s Nature + Communities
- Helpful Spanish Phrases to Know
- What to Pack for Costa Rica
Why Costa Rica Is a Great First International Destination
Traveling to a new country can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never left your home country before. Fortunately, Costa Rica makes international travel surprisingly easy.
It’s a Friendly Country for English Speakers (and Spenders)
Many tourism professionals, hotel staff, guides, and restaurant employees speak English, particularly in popular destinations. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country, and many businesses accept U.S. dollars alongside the Costa Rican colón.
It’s a Country that Welcomes Tourists
Visitors from the United States will also appreciate some familiar conveniences. Costa Rica uses the same electrical outlets as the U.S., meaning most travelers won’t need an adapter. Flights from major U.S. cities are relatively short, and the country’s tourism industry is well-developed, making it easy to find transportation, accommodations, and activities.
You Will Make Friends Along the Way
Most importantly, Costa Rica is known for its friendly people and welcoming culture. Visitors are often surprised by how comfortable and approachable their first international trip feels.
Getting to Costa Rica
Getting to Costa Rica from the U.S. is easier than many first-time travelers expect. With nonstop flights from major cities across the country, you can be in Costa Rica in just a few hours.
For most visitors, you’ll fly into one of two international airports:
- San José (SJO): The best choice for visiting the Pacuare River, Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero, and much of central Costa Rica. If you’re staying at Rios Lodge, this is the airport you’ll want to fly into.
- Liberia (LIR): The best option for beach destinations along the Guanacaste and northwestern Pacific coast.
Flight prices tend to be on par with what you’d expect for international travel, but you can find great affordable flights if you keep your eyes open.
Hot Tip: If you’re visiting Rios Lodge, simply fly into San José (SJO) and we’ll handle the rest. Our team coordinates transportation to the lodge and can even help you plan the rest of your Costa Rica adventure.
Entry Requirements
For most U.S. travelers, visiting Costa Rica is simple. A visa is not required for tourist stays, but you’ll need a valid passport and proof of onward or return travel, such as a return flight home. Before you travel, it’s always a good idea to check the latest entry requirements, as regulations can change.
Understanding Costa Rica’s Seasons
One of the most common questions first-time visitors ask is: “When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?”
The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Dry Season (December–April)
The dry season is characterized by sunny days, warm temperatures, and relatively little rainfall. This is Costa Rica’s busiest tourism season and a popular time for beach vacations and outdoor adventures.
Green Season (May–November)
Locals often prefer calling this the “green season” rather than the rainy season. While afternoon showers are common, the landscape becomes incredibly lush and vibrant. Rivers run higher, wildlife is active, and many destinations feel less crowded.
For rainforest destinations like the Pacuare River region, the green season can be particularly beautiful as the jungle comes alive with color, sounds, and flowing water. It also often comes with lower rates for lodging and activities for a more economical trip.
What is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?
It depends on your needs. Costa Rica’s diverse geography means weather varies by region, and every season offers unique advantages. The best time to visit depends on your priorities, budget, and travel style.
The Incredible Nature You’ll Find in Costa Rica
Despite covering less than 0.1% of the Earth’s landmass, Costa Rica is home to roughly 5% of the world’s biodiversity. No wonder Costa Rica is a global hub for nature lovers!
Rainforests
Costa Rica’s rainforests are perhaps its most iconic landscapes. Towering trees, rushing rivers, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife create an immersive natural experience unlike anywhere else.
In the Pacuare River region, protected rainforest stretches for miles, providing habitat for countless species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Cloud Forests
At higher elevations, cloud forests create a completely different ecosystem. These misty forests are famous for their unique plant life, cooler temperatures, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Beaches and Coastlines
Costa Rica boasts both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, offering everything from white-sand beaches to dramatic volcanic black-sand shores.
Volcanoes
The country’s volcanic landscapes provide opportunities to visit active volcanoes, explore lava fields, and relax in naturally heated hot springs.
Rivers and Waterfalls
Whether you’re whitewater rafting, swimming beneath a waterfall, or simply enjoying the view, Costa Rica’s Pacuare River is a major part of the country’s appeal.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for:
- Sloths
- Monkeys
- Toucans
- Scarlet macaws
- Tree frogs
- Coatis
- Iguanas
- Hundreds of bird species
- Blue Morpho butterflies
One of the best parts of visiting Costa Rica is that wildlife encounters often happen when you least expect them.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers everything from beach resorts and boutique hotels to jungle ecolodges. Where you stay depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. But, there are some lodging options that lead to a smoother first-time Costa Rica experience.
If you want to immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort, a family-friendly, all-inclusive stay at Rios Lodge is a hidden gem option that guests come back to again and again. Nestled in the rainforest along the Pacuare River and accessible only by raft or hiking trail, the lodge includes accommodations, chef-prepared meals, guided adventures, and transportation from San José, all included in your package.
This is a great option for couples, families with kids 6+, friend groups, retreats, and all travelers looking for adventure without having to plan every detail of the experience. Rather than spending your trip coordinating hotels, meals, and activities, you can simply arrive and let our team take care of the details while you enjoy the best of Costa Rica’s rainforest.
Why Stay in an All-Inclusive Lodge
If it’s your first trip to Costa Rica, staying at an all-inclusive ecolodge can make travel much simpler. Instead of coordinating transportation, meals, activities, and accommodations across multiple destinations, everything is planned for you—so you can spend more time enjoying Costa Rica and less time worrying about logistics.
- Door-to-door service: We’ll pick you up in San José and handle your transportation to and from the lodge.
- A true rainforest experience: Stay deep in the protected Pacuare rainforest, far from crowds, surrounded by waterfalls, wildlife, and jungle scenery.
- Adventure included: Your stay includes guided activities like hiking, wildlife walks, tubing, ziplining, and whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, named one of the Top 10 Rivers in the World by National Geographic.
- Family-friendly: Most experiences are designed for ages 6 and up (families with younger children are encouraged to contact us to discuss options).
- Nearly everything is included: Accommodations, chef-prepared meals, transportation from San José, and guided activities are all included. The only additional costs are bar drinks and gratuities.
For travelers looking for an easy, immersive introduction to Costa Rica, Rios Lodge combines comfort, adventure, and one of the country’s most spectacular rainforest settings into a single, unforgettable experience.
How Long Should You Stay in Costa Rica?
We recommend 7-10 days for first-time visitors. This gives you enough time to experience multiple regions without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time, even a 4- or 5-night stay at one destination – like on a Rios Lodge retreat – can provide an unforgettable introduction to Costa Rica.
Sample 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
One of the best ways to experience Costa Rica is by combining the rainforest, volcanoes, and the beach. Here’s a balanced itinerary that lets you see some of the country’s highlights without spending your entire vacation in the car.
Day 1: Arrive in San José and relax after your flight.
Days 2–6: Rios Lodge
Raft or hike into the lodge and spend four days immersed in the rainforest. Enjoy whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, ziplining, hiking to waterfalls, wildlife spotting, tubing, delicious meals, and time to simply unwind in nature.
Days 6: Travel Day + Explore San Jose
Take the Rios Lodge back to San Jose and enjoy a night in the city.
Day 7: Travel to Manuel Antonio
Travel day to Manuel Antonio to enjoy the cost and nearby national park.
Days 8–9: Beach Fun
Head to the beach for surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing. Manuel Antonio is a stunning beach location for it all.
Day 10: Return to San José for your flight home.
Hot Tip: Our concierge team can help you plan transportation before and after your stay at Rios Lodge, making it easy to connect your rainforest adventure with the rest of your Costa Rica itinerary
What to Eat in Costa Rica
Costa Rican cuisine is simple, fresh, and deeply connected to local agriculture.
- Gallo Pinto: This traditional combination of rice and beans is often served for breakfast and is considered a staple throughout the country.
- Casado: A classic Costa Rican lunch featuring rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of protein.
- Patacones: Twice-fried green plantains that make a delicious side dish or snack.
- Fresh Tropical Fruit: Many visitors quickly become obsessed with Costa Rica’s fruit. Pineapple, papaya, mango, watermelon, passion fruit, and bananas are often harvested locally and served at peak freshness.
- Costa Rican Coffee: Costa Rica produces some of the world’s most respected coffee. Whether you’re sipping a morning cup overlooking the rainforest or visiting a coffee farm, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy it fresh.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Even deep in the rainforest, our chefs are combining local ingredients with international influences. Fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, seafood, herbs, and locally sourced products help create memorable dining experiences.
Understanding Currency, Payments, and Tipping
The official currency is the Costa Rican colón, though many tourist-oriented businesses also accept U.S. dollars.
Credit cards are widely accepted throughout most of the country, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. It’s still helpful to carry some cash for small purchases, local shops, and remote destinations.
Tipping customs differ slightly from those in the United States. Restaurants often include a 10% service charge in the bill. While additional tipping isn’t required, it’s always appreciated for exceptional service. Guides and drivers commonly receive tips from satisfied guests.
Best Ways to Get Around Costa Rica
One mistake many first-time visitors make is underestimating travel times.
Costa Rica may appear small on a map, but mountain roads, winding routes, and varying road conditions can make travel slower than expected.
Popular transportation options include:
- Rental cars
- Shared shuttles
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
Rather than trying to see the entire country in a single trip, consider slowing down and spending more time in fewer destinations. You’ll spend less time in transit and more time enjoying the experience.
Hot Tip: If you’re booking a Rios Lodge trip, your transportation is included! All you have to do is show up to San Jose and we’ll cover the rest. We also have a concierge team on hand to help you plan your entire trip. No matter where you’re coming from or headed to next, we can help you plan the simplest way to reach your next adventure.
Is Costa Rica Safe?
Costa Rica is widely considered one of the safest countries in Central America and has a long history of welcoming international visitors.
As with any destination, common-sense precautions are important:
- Don’t leave valuables unattended.
- Avoid displaying expensive items unnecessarily.
- Use reputable transportation providers.
- Follow local recommendations.
Costa Rica is full of incredibly friendly and helpful people that are excited to share their country with kind, respectful visitors.
How to Respect Costa Rica’s Nature
Costa Rica has become a global leader in conservation, and visitors play an important role in protecting the country’s natural beauty.
- Respect Wildlife: Never feed wild animals, attempt to touch them, or get too close for photos.
- Stay on Trails: Designated paths help protect fragile ecosystems and reduce environmental impact.
- Reduce Waste: Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid unnecessary single-use plastics whenever possible.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring into natural areas and leave places better than you found them.
- Support Sustainable Tourism: Choose businesses that prioritize conservation, environmental stewardship, and community partnerships.
How to Respect Costa Rica’s Communities
Responsible travel extends beyond nature conservation.
- Support Local Businesses: Whenever possible, choose locally owned restaurants, guides, artisans, and accommodations.
- Learn a Few Spanish Phrases: Even simple phrases can help create positive interactions and show respect for local culture.
- Embrace a Different Pace: Things may move differently than you’re accustomed to at home. Patience and flexibility go a long way.
- Travel with Curiosity: Rather than expecting Costa Rica to operate exactly like home, approach your visit with openness and a willingness to learn.
Helpful Spanish Phrases to Know
Here are a few phrases that can be helpful during your trip:
- Hola – Hello
- Buenos días – Good morning
- Gracias – Thank you
- Por favor – Please
- Disculpe – Excuse me
- ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
- ¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
- Tico/tica – slang term for Costa Rican residents
- Pura Vida – Pure Life
Even a small effort is often appreciated.
BONUS: What “Pura Vida” Really Means
You’ll hear the phrase “Pura Vida” everywhere in Costa Rica. While it literally translates to “Pure Life,” its meaning goes much deeper.
Locals use it as a greeting, farewell, expression of gratitude, or simply a way to say that life is good. It’s a mindset that encourages people to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and focus on what matters most.
Many travelers return home saying this mindset was one of the most memorable parts of their trip.
What to Pack for Costa Rica
Packing needs vary depending on where you’re visiting, but most travelers should bring:
- Lightweight clothing
- Rain jacket
- Swimsuit
- Lightweight hiking shoes
- Sandals
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Dry bag or waterproof phone case
Remember that many destinations experience changing weather conditions, so it’s always wise to prepare for both sunshine and rain. Download our full rainforest packing list here!
Internet & Cell Service in Costa Rica
Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions in Costa Rica offer free Wi-Fi, and many U.S. cell carriers have affordable international plans. In more remote destinations like Rios Lodge, cell service is limited, making it the perfect place to unplug while still having Wi-Fi available in common areas when you need it.
Ready for Your Costa Rica Adventure?
Take it from us (passionate people who built a lifestyle around sharing Costa Rica with travelers): Costa Rica is an easy destination to fall in love with. From incredible wildlife and lush rainforests to welcoming communities and the laid-back Pura Vida lifestyle, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression on first-time visitors.
If you’re looking to experience the best of Costa Rica in one destination, Rios Lodge offers an unforgettable introduction. Accessible only by raft or hiking trip, our remote rainforest ecolodge combines adventure, wildlife, waterfalls, chef-prepared meals, and immersive nature experiences in the heart of the Pacuare River region. If you want to plan a trip that includes all the best regions of our country, our skilled reservations team can help you make travel plans for everything.
Whether it’s your first international trip or your tenth, there’s no better place to experience the magic of travel than Costa Rica.