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Scarlet macaws in Costa Rica

Costa Rica travel guides

Costa Rica is best known for its myriad of flora and fauna, where dense cloud forests are filled with the calls of monkeys and exotic birdsong, iridescent butterflies and tumbling waterfalls.

In addition to the wildlife, our travel guides for Costa Rica provide information and advice if you're planning an active vacation. It’s also a great destination for families, with plenty to do for all ages, while a honeymoon here can be as relaxing or adventurous as you wish, combining such activities as river rafting with time spent on one of Costa Rica’s windswept beaches.

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Ideas for how to explore Costa Rica

Our travel guides share our specialists' passion and knowledge for Costa Rica. We travel here regularly to discover new experiences, explore untried areas and dig deeper into the better-known places and attractions. At the same time, we gather advice and up-to-date information on the best-quality guides, new hotels and restaurants, and the most memorable forms of transportation.

  • What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide
    Red eyed tree frog, Costa Rica

    What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide

    What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide

    One of the most biodiverse countries on the planet, Costa Rica attracts nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike. Country specialist, Nik, picks out some of the country’s highlights, from white-water rafting to wildlife spotting in the cloudforest.

    5 min read

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  • Best family vacations in Costa Rica
    Brown-throated sloth, Pacaya Samiria Reserve

    Best family vacations in Costa Rica

    Best family vacations in Costa Rica

    From the rainforests of Arenal Volcano to wildlife experiences in Tortuguero National Park and the surf breaks of Tamarindo, Costa Rica is ideal for families. Specialist Nik gives his advice on activities, hotels, and travel logistics for a family trip to Costa Rica.

    10 min read

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  • Luxury vacations in Costa Rica
    Lapa Rios, Costa Rica

    Luxury vacations in Costa Rica

    Luxury vacations in Costa Rica

    Luxury in Costa Rica lies in the unrivaled wildlife that covers the country, from the Pacific to the Caribbean coast. With small hotels designed to make the best of the natural surroundings, this is barefoot luxury at its most pure.

    7 min read

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  • Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it)
    Osa Peninsula

    Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it)

    Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it)

    Mark from our Costa Rica team shares his experience exploring Costa Rica from behind the wheel, explains why this country is well-suited to driving trips, and offers tips for how to make the most out of your rental car.

    6 min read

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  • Wildlife vacations in Costa Rica
    Squirrel Monkey, Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

    Wildlife vacations in Costa Rica

    Wildlife vacations in Costa Rica

    From birds to basilisks, Costa Rica specialist Holly lets you in on the country’s wildlife highlights. She also explains where exactly to go to increase your chances of observing all Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.

    8 min read

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  • Honeymoons in Costa Rica
    Resplendent quetzal, Costa Rica

    Honeymoons in Costa Rica

    Honeymoons in Costa Rica

    Volcanic hot springs, cloudforest, beaches, rainforest reserves and white-water rivers: Costa Rica lends itself to couples seeking an adventurous, eco-conscious honeymoon with many chances to spot wildlife. Specialist Michael reveals where exactly to go, and the best places to stay.

    7 min read

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  • Beach vacations in Mexico and Central America
    Tulum, Mexico

    Beach vacations in Mexico and Central America

    Beach vacations in Mexico and Central America

    Thinking of including some beach time in your Central America trip? We outline the best beaches in each country and why we’re especially drawn to them — whether it’s for their sand, their snorkeling, or their ambiance.

    6 min read

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  • Birdwatching in Central America
    Hummingbird, Costa Rica

    Birdwatching in Central America

    Birdwatching in Central America

    Tiny in comparison to its sister regions to the north and south, Central America covers just 0.1% of the world's surface, yet it contains an unparalleled level of biodiversity.

    3 min read

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