Costa Rica Travel Insights

How to Choose the Best Cloud Forest Experience in Monteverde

The colorful wildlife (yes, the resplendent quetzal resides here), lush vegetation, and abundance of hiking trails found in the misty cloud forests of Monteverde make it an appealing destination for travelers looking to immerse in nature. But with so many activities, parks, and private reserves to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. Our expert tips can help you choose a memorable cloud forest experience in Monteverde.

4 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With four days to spend in Costa Rica, it's wise to focus on one region. A popular choice is a highlights tour of the Arenal area, featuring volcano hikes and a dip in hot springs. Head to Manuel Antonio National Park for an active itinerary that includes surfing and kayaking, or travel to Monteverde for zip line adventures and horseback riding in the cloud forest. Alternatively, opt for a wildlife-themed luxury tour around the Osa Peninsula, or mix wildlife spotting with cultural experiences in Tortuguero National Park.

Culture & Wildlife in Tortuguero National Park - 4 Days

Spot vibrant wildlife and learn about Costa Rican culture on this educational four-day tour. You'll start with a day of sightseeing in San José, then move on to Tortuguero National Park, where you'll learn about Indigenous traditions on a village visit. Enjoy a motorboat excursion along the park's jungle waterways, looking for toucans, sloths, and monkeys along the journey. Then tour a coffee farm, sampling locally produced coffee and finding out more about the country's coffee-growing history.

Wildlife Luxury Adventure on the Osa Peninsula - 4 Days

Snorkel, hike, and bird-watch by day, then sleep in elegant eco-lodges at night on this luxury four-day wildlife tour around Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. A naturalist guide will point out rare avian species during an evening hike, and then you'll explore the wilderness of Corcovado National Park on day two. Plunge into the pristine waters of the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve for a snorkeling or diving adventure to finish off the itinerary.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Adventure - 4 Days

Vibrant birdlife, aerial thrills, delicious coffee, and chocolate are just a few highlights that await you on this exciting four-day journey around the Monteverde Cloud Forest. In addition to guided nature hikes, this well-rounded itinerary features a bird-watching tour, an excursion on horseback, a tour of a coffee farm, a visit to a chocolate processing center, and an exhilarating zip line adventure through the rainforest.

Discover Manuel Antonio National Park - 4 Days

Make the most of a short stay in Costa Rica with this action-packed four-day adventure in Manuel Antonio National Park. On guided nature hikes through the park's lush rainforest and beautiful beaches, you'll spot colorful frogs, playful monkeys, and an incredible variety of birds. Kayak through a quiet estuary and learn to surf in crystalline blue waters before heading back to San José, where the trip comes to an end.

Explore the Volcanoes & Wildlife of Arenal - 4 Days

Discover Costa Rica's spectacular landscapes and vibrant wildlife on this four-day itinerary. After touching down in San José, you'll transfer to La Fortuna, your base for exploring the Arenal region. Go on a guided rainforest hike, walk through a sloth habitat, see how chocolate is made, soak in natural hot springs, and walk high above the jungle on the Arenal Hanging Bridges before heading back to the capital city to catch your flight out.

The 5 Best Hotels with Pools in Tamarindo

Though Tamarindo is known for its idyllic coves, inlets, and white-sand beaches, sometimes you need a break from the surf and want to relax by the pool. Tamarindo has several lodging choices that offer swimming pools, including many with multiple pools or areas where you can relax in sunloungers and still enjoy those ocean views.

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Tamarindo

Boutique hotels in Tamarindo offer a blend of relaxation and authenticity while in the middle of the buzz on the region's famed white-sand beaches. You can choose from luxury hillside hotels, beachfront villas with bohemian vibes, and standard hotels with unique amenities, like happy hour, surf lessons, and beach clubs.

The 6 Best Hotels for Romance & Honeymoons in Tamarindo

Tamarindo's reputation for tropical white-sand beaches makes it an ideal spot for a romantic trip. Couples can enjoy relaxing on the beach and taking in the sunsets or combine their vacation with something more active, like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or learning how to surf. And to enhance your stay, opt for accommodation with perks like private hot tubs, spa treatments, outdoor showers, and beach views.

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in the Gulf of Papagayo

The hidden coves and beaches along the Gulf of Papagayo's rugged coastline offer a relaxing and active stay. Spend your days sunbathing at the beach or enjoy ventures like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding in the protected waters. And if you're after that beachfront experience, this region offers plenty of options.

The 5 Best Beach Hotels in Tamarindo

If you're planning to visit Tamarindo, it's probably for its renowned beaches and coastline. To truly experience this region's famous shores, you might want to stay in a beachfront hotel or lodgings that offer direct beach access. You'll find plenty of options, from luxury hotels with sports equipment to standard accommodation with common spaces right on the sand.

The 7 Best Mid-Range & Luxury Hotels in Tamarindo

With such an idyllic setting, Tamarindo offers plenty of beautiful mid-range and luxury boutique hotels to enhance your stay along the region's famed coastline. Choose from luxury hillside hotels, beachfront cabins, villas with private pools, and bungalows with bohemian vibes.

The 4 Best Standard Hotels in Tamarindo

Many visitors choose to stay in Tamarindo for its incredible coastline, beaches, and opportunities for water sports. Surfers from all over the world come here to catch waves, which means there's plenty of entertainment, restaurants, and local shops to enjoy. Some of the best standard hotels in Tamarindo double as surf schools, so you can enjoy the total experience.

The 6 Best Hotels for Romance & Honeymoons in Monteverde

Monteverde is an ideal location for a Costa Rican honeymoon, with its misty and romantic cloud forest and abundant wildlife. Couples will find intimate properties surrounded by jungle greenery that offer amenities like private balconies, soaking tubs, fine dining restaurants, spas, outdoor pools, and happy hours.

The 6 Best Hotels Near Downtown Santa Elena in Monteverde

Santa Elena is Monteverde's hub and is where local restaurants, cafés, grocery stores, and shops are found. If you'd like to stay close to the downtown area, you have several hotel options, and many still maintain those Costa Rican cloud forest vibes.

The 6 Best Hotels Surrounded by Nature in Monteverde

One of the appeals of Monteverde is its dense cloud forest, so you'll find many hotels surrounded by nature and offering a quiet reprieve in the jungle. You'll have your choice of eco-lodges with organic eateries, bungalows surrounded by protected rainforest, and plenty of options allowing you to watch wildlife right from your room.

The 7 Best Lodges in Monteverde

A cozy lodge is an excellent choice when staying in the misty cloud forests in Monteverde, as many sit in the jungle and offer views within or above the treetops. Sleep in luxury cabins with plush furnishings, area staples operating since the 1980s, or lodges with spas, outdoor pools, and fine dining restaurants.

The 4 Best Lodges in Arenal

Arenal offers several lodges, many featuring iconic views of Arenal Volcano while also sitting within the Costa Rican jungle. Our top picks for accommodation in Arenal maintain an authentic atmosphere while still providing amenities like on-site eateries and hot springs. Enjoy staying in cabins, bungalows, and wooden rooms with warm decor and private outdoor spaces.

The 7 Best Hotels for Romance & Honeymoons in La Fortuna

Arenal/La Fortuna offers a romantic mix of beautiful scenery, relaxing hot springs, and cultural activities—an ideal spot for a honeymoon or getaway with your partner. Our recommendations for the best hotels for a bit of romance include luxury stays where you get your own private bungalow and plunge pool, plus other properties surrounded by the Costa Rican jungle with fine-dining eateries and secluded hot springs.

The 6 Best Hotels With Views of Arenal Volcano

The main attraction in Arenal/La Fortuna is the region's famed volcano, a cone-shaped peak often shrouded in clouds. Early morning is the best time to catch cloud-free views, so we recommend staying in an area hotel offering vistas of Arenal Volcano. Enjoy those views from your room with your morning coffee or common areas like open-air restaurants, hot springs, and yoga platforms.

The 6 Best Hotels Near Downtown La Fortuna

Staying close to La Fortuna gives you a mixed stay in the Arenal region, combining the area's famed jungle and volcanic views with the culture of its central hub. Our list of the best hotels near downtown La Fortuna includes those right in the action, properties a short walk from local restaurants and shops, and accommodation in the jungle yet just a quick five-minute drive from town.

The 5 Best Hotels Surrounded By Nature in Arenal

A popular reason to visit Arenal/La Fortuna is the region's beautiful natural surroundings, which include dense jungle and the famed Arenal Volcano. To really experience Costa Rica's appeal, you may want a hotel enveloped by nature. Kimkim's list consists of the best hotels giving you that experience, from luxury lodges to standard properties with volcano views.

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & the Osa Peninsula - 16 Days

Experience Costa Rica in style, enjoying excursions with private guides and overnight stays in luxury hotels on this wide-ranging itinerary around the country. Start with birdwatching and snorkeling on the Osa Peninsula, then transfer to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you'll take surf lessons. Go horseback riding in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, hike around Arenal Volcano, and relax in natural hot springs before heading back to San José for one last night out on the town.

Discover the Best of Costa Rica - 16 Days

Offering an appealing mix of outdoor adventures, relaxation, and cultural experiences, this 16-day itinerary around Costa Rica is a traveler's favorite. Start with volcano hikes and hot springs in Arenal, then explore Monteverde's cloud forest on a canopy tour and an excursion on horseback. Go whitewater rafting down the Río Pacuare, visit a wildlife rehabilitation center in Puerto Viejo, and enjoy a boat tour along the canals of Tortuguero National Park before heading to San José, where the trip ends.

Active Adventure on Costa Rica's Rivers & Caribbean Coast - 6 Days

Whitewater rafting, hiking, cycling, and kayaking await on this action-packed six-day adventure around Costa Rica. The start of the trip features a two-day rafting excursion down the Río Pacuare on Class III-IV whitewater. You'll explore Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on a bicycle, then see Cahuita National Park on a guided hike. Kayak around the lush jungle waterways around Punta Uva before the journey ends.

Luxury Wildlife Adventure in the Osa Peninsula - 6 Days

Enjoy Costa Rica in style on this high-end six-day trip around the wildlife habitats of the Osa Peninsula and Arenal. After a day exploring the capital city of San José, you'll travel to Drake Bay for a colorful birdwatching tour and hiking in Corcovado National Park. Continue to La Fortuna—and check into a luxury hotel—where you'll soak in hot springs, spot nocturnal mammals on a private jungle tour, and get up close with animals at a wildlife rehabilitation center.

Discover Costa Rica's Natural Highlights - 6 Days

Explore Costa Rica's great outdoors on this lively six-day tour around the country's natural highlights, from volcanoes and hot springs to forests and beaches. Start in Arenal with a visit to the Hanging Bridges, a hike around Arenal Volcano, and a dip in the Tabacón Hot Springs. Then transfer to Manuel Antonio National Park for snorkeling, hiking, a sunset catamaran cruise, and a boating excursion in the Damas Island Estuary.

Explore Culture & Nature in Costa Rica - 6 Days

From visiting an indigenous village to riding horses in a national park to snorkeling with tropical fish, this six-day itinerary around Costa Rica offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities. Start at Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you'll soak in natural hot springs, then move on to the Gulf of Papagayo for a sunset sail, a jungle cruise, and a visit to an indigenous village. End your trip with a snorkeling adventure offshore the Catalina Islands.

Explore Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Wetlands & Caribbean Coast - 13 Days

Kayaking, ziplining, whitewater rafting, and horseback riding on the beach are just a few of the outdoor activities featured on this wide-ranging 13-day adventure around Costa Rica. Begin in Arenal with volcano hikes and a dip in hot springs, then move on to Monteverde for a coffee tour and a canopy excursion in the cloud forest. Spend a few days rafting and learning about wildlife conservation in Puerto Viejo before an unforgettable hike to the top of Cerro Tortuguero in Tortuguero National Park.

Costa Rica from Coast to Coast - 13 Days

Travel from the Caribbean coast to the Pacific coast, enjoying outdoor adventures along the way, on this exciting 13-day itinerary across Costa Rica. Spend a day sightseeing in San José before heading on to Tortuguero National Park for a boat tour and a nighttime nature hike. Continue to Arenal for volcano hikes, hot springs, and a visit to a wildlife rehabilitation center, then zipline through the cloud forest in Monteverde and end the trip in Manuel Antonio National Park.

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & the Osa Peninsula - 12 Days

Enjoy the best of Costa Rica on this adventurous 12-day itinerary featuring excursions with private guides and overnight stays in luxury hotels. Begin with a few days of birdwatching, snorkeling, and hiking on the Osa Peninsula, then transfer to La Fortuna, your base for exploring the Arenal area. Trek around Arenal Volcano and relax in hot springs before continuing to Monteverde for a coffee tour and an unforgettable trip through the cloud forest on horseback.

Explore Costa Rica's Volcanoes & Pacific Coast - 12 Days

This 12-day adventure around Costa Rica's spectacular natural landscapes leads you to volcanoes, national parks, and Pacific beaches. You'll start the trip in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you'll soak in hot springs and ride horses, then you'll continue to Arenal for wildlife spotting and volcano hikes. Swing through the trees on a zip-line in Monteverde, watch sea turtles nesting on the beach in Tamarindo, and kayak or snorkel through clear turquoise waters off the coast of Sámara.

Highlights of Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde & Manuel Antonio - 12 Days

From the depths of the sea to the jungle treetops, this exciting 12-day itinerary takes you to Costa Rica's top highlights for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing. Spot vibrantly colored frogs and monkeys on a guided nature walk, boat along the canals of Tortuguero National Park, hike around Arenal Volcano, and dip in natural hot springs nearby. Then zip-line through the trees in the cloud forest and snorkel in Manuel Antonio National Park—all of this and more await you on this outdoorsy journey.

Explore Wetlands & Caribbean Beaches - 8 Days

Sea turtles, stingrays, iguanas, sharks, toucans, and sloths are a few examples of the wildlife you're likely to see on this outdoorsy eight-day itinerary around Costa Rica's wetlands and beaches. You'll start with a boat tour and a guided night hike in Tortuguero National Park, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, then move on to Puerto Viejo and Cahuita national parks. You'll visit a jaguar rehabilitation center, snorkel around a coral reef, and ride horses on the beach before the trip is over.

Explore Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Beaches: Manuel Antonio - 8 Days

Discover Costa Rica's natural wonders on this eight-day adventure around the country's volcanoes, hot springs, cloud forests, coral reefs, and beaches. Spot sloths in the wild and soak in hot springs in Arenal before continuing to Monteverde for a cloud forest hike, a guided nature walk, and a visit to a coffee farm. Finally, you'll boat, snorkel, hike, and swim in the pristine wilderness of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Active Adventure on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 11 Days

Enjoy waterfall hikes, horseback riding, a sunset sail, and snorkeling with tropical fish on this active 11-day trip around Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. You'll begin the journey in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you'll soak in natural hot springs and ride horses. Continue to Arenal for a few days of rainforest adventures, including a visit to a sloth habitat, then head to the Gulf of Papagayo for a jungle cruise. Finish the itinerary with snorkeling, swimming, and hiking around coastal Sámara.

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & the Osa Peninsula - 11 Days

Discover the spectacular landscapes of Costa Rica on this luxurious 11-day trip. You'll explore the great outdoors by day and sleep in luxury lodgings at night, traveling first to the Osa Peninsula to do some world-class snorkeling in the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve. Then hike around Arenal Volcano, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy a gourmet dinner in a beautiful natural setting. Finish the itinerary with a nighttime nature walk and zip-lining in the Monteverde cloud forest.

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & the Osa Peninsula - 10 Days

Explore Costa Rica's landscapes and wildlife habitats by day—and sleep in luxury hotels at night—on this 10-day itinerary around the country. Travel to the Osa Peninsula to hike around Corcovado National Park and snorkel the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve. Then move onto the Arenal region for waterfall hikes and hot spring relaxation. You'll finish up in Monteverde with a nighttime nature walk and a day of zip-lining through the cloud forest.

Family Fun on Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast - 11 Days

Featuring a mix of wildlife experiences and outdoor adventures, this 11-day exploration of Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast is fun for the whole family. Hike to the top of Costa Rica's highest volcano, spot colorful spiders on a nighttime rainforest hike, and boat around national parks as you explore the country's Caribbean coast. You'll also have the chance to visit a jaguar rehabilitation center, see monkeys in the wild on a kayaking excursion, and ride horses along the beach—fun for the kids and kids at heart!

Active Costa Rica: Río Pacuare Rafting, Arenal & Manuel Antonio- 8 Days

From whitewater rafting to waterfall rappelling, this active eight-day itinerary around Costa Rica is filled with adventure! After a day of sightseeing in San José, you'll embark on two days of rafting down Class III-IV rapids on the Río Pacuare. Continue to Arenal for volcano hikes and a zip-lining excursion through the rainforest. You'll finish up in Manuel Antonio National Park, where you'll spot crocodiles, snorkel with tropical fish, and sail along the coast at sunset.

Discover Costa Rica's Cultural & Natural Highlights - 8 Days

Delve into Costa Rica's fascinating traditions and magnificent landscapes on this eight-day tour that blends culture and nature. Highlights along the journey include a cooking class with a Costa Rican chef, tours of two local farms to learn about agriculture and rural life, and a visit to an indigenous community, where you'll have the chance to purchase handicrafts. You'll also go horseback riding to La Fortuna Waterfall, enjoy a jungle cruise in Palo Verde National Park, and sail on the Gulf of Papagayo at sunset.

Road Trip to Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 14 Days

Hit the road for this 14-day self-drive adventure around Costa Rica's highlights! You'll pick up a rental car in Liberia and head to Rincón de la Vieja for hiking and hot springs, then drive to Arenal, where you'll visit a chocolate farm and spot sloths in the wild. The road trip takes you to Monteverde next for zip-lining in the cloud forest, then to Tamarindo and Sámara for snorkeling excursions and the chance to observe sea turtles nesting. The journey ends with a free evening in the capital city of San José.

Luxury Trip to Costa Rica's Beaches, Cloud Forests & Volcanoes - 14 Days

Explore Costa Rica's beautiful natural landscapes—and treat yourself to luxury hotel stays—on this two-week adventure around the country. The itinerary takes you to two national parks, Corcovado and Manuel Antonio, for hiking, snorkeling, and boating excursions. You'll also spot wildlife on a night tour, visit a coffee farm, zip-line through the jungle in the Monteverde cloud forest, and hike to Arenal Volcano, enjoying a dip in natural hot springs nearby to finish the trip.

Costa Rica from Coast to Coast - 14 Days

Hiking in the jungle, soaking in hot springs, snorkeling with tropical fish, horseback riding to waterfalls—these are just a few outdoor adventures that await travelers on this thrilling 14-day itinerary around Costa Rica. After a day in San José, you'll head to the Caribbean coast and spend a few days exploring Tortuguero National Park. Discover the natural wonders of Arenal and Monteverde before finishing up the adventure on the Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio National Park.

Family Adventure in Arenal & the Nicoya Peninsula - 10 Days

From zip-lining through the jungle canopy to snorkeling with tropical fish, outdoor adventures await you and your family on this thrilling 10-day trip around Costa Rica. You'll start with a few days in the Arenal region, hiking around volcanoes and waterfalls, before heading to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for zip-lining and wildlife spotting. Then finish the adventure with several days on the Nicoya Peninsula, where you'll snorkel, visit a scarlet macaw refuge, and enjoy a family-oriented boat safari.

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders - 10 Days

Explore the best of Costa Rica on this exciting 10-day adventure through the country's outdoor landscapes. Get to know the capital city of San José before heading off to Arenal for several days of volcano hikes and soaking in natural hot springs. You'll explore the cloud forest, learn about coffee production in Monteverde, and then continue to Manuel Antonio National Park for boating and snorkeling in aquamarine waters.

Costa Rica Cycling Adventure - 7 Days

Cycle from coast to coast on this epic adventure tour that will take you from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. See authentic Costa Rica as you bike past villages, farms, banana plantations, and sugar cane fields on your way toward the west coast. Stop to explore jungle rivers, mountains, an active volcano, and a famous coffee-growing region, then celebrate the end of the trip on the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal & the Osa Peninsula - 7 Days

Get off the beaten path on this weeklong luxury adventure around Costa Rica's beautiful landscapes. After a day exploring the capital city, you'll travel to the Osa Peninsula for a sunset birdwatching tour around Drake Bay. Explore Corcovado National Park on a guided hike, then look for whales and dolphins in the wild on a boat tour. You'll sleep in luxury hotels throughout the week and finish the trip in the Arenal region with a visit to a sloth habitat and a wildlife rehabilitation center.

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders - 7 Days

See Costa Rica's outdoor highlights on this weeklong adventure around the country's volcanoes, hot springs, cloud forests, wildlife habitats, and beaches. After spending a few days exploring Arenal Volcano and its surroundings, you'll move on to Monteverde to sip locally produced coffee and trek through the cloud forest. Then finish the week in Manuel Antonio National Park for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.