Discover Costa Rica

Rainforests, wildlife, volcanoes, and tropical coastlines.

Tamarindo coastline with palm silhouettes and distant surfers

2026-06-15

Things to Do in Tamarindo Costa Rica: An Honest Guide

Five experiences and three skips: this things to do in Tamarindo Costa Rica guide ranks surf, markets, and boat trips by what's worth your limited time.

Costa Rican rainforest trail with hikers from behind

2026-06-15

Hiking in Costa Rica: Footwear, Water, Maps Guide

Rainforest trails stay muddy over half the year, so hiking in Costa Rica punishes the wrong shoes. Pack grip boots and 2-3 liters before you go.

Costa Rica beach safety flags and lifeguard setup

2026-06-15

Swimming in Costa Rica: Beach Flags and Safety

Rip currents cause 80% of lifeguard rescues, not sharks. Before swimming in Costa Rica, learn the flag colors that vary by beach and how to escape a rip.

Panoramic Costa Rica landscape combining rainforest, volcano, cloud forest, and beach

2026-06-15

Costa Rica Itinerary: 5, 7, or 10 Days by Region

A 'two-hour' map distance runs 3-4 hours on mountain roads, so this Costa Rica itinerary plans travel legs as half days and one base per stop.

Costa Rica's diverse landscapes: rainforest, river, volcano, and hikers as silhouettes

2026-06-14

Costa Rica Wildlife: Where and When to See It

With 900-plus bird species and 25% of land protected, Costa Rica wildlife rewards planning: sloths daily, jaguars almost never, frogs peak May-November.

Costa Rica adventure montage: waterfalls, Tortuguero kayaking, and coffee plantation horseback riding

2026-06-14

Costa Rica Waterfalls: 7 Ranked by Worth the Detour

Most Costa Rica waterfalls cluster into three drivable circuits, so you can pair La Fortuna, Rio Celeste, and Nauyaca with costs and 4x4 needs.

Costa Rica coast with surfers and locals walking along a palm-fringed beach, seen from behind

2026-06-14

Costa Rica Surfing: Spots, Costs, and Local Life

Pay $40-$65 for group lessons, then cook gallo pinto with a host. This costa rica surfing guide covers seasons, access, and hazards, updated for 2026.