Costa Rica Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go
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Hot Travel Tips for Costa Rica
Costa Rica Travel Tips
Pura Vida!
So, you’re going to Costa Rica and need some travel tips? I’m so excited for you! CR is a place I had wanted to visit for a long time, and my recent trip didn’t disappoint.
There are a few things you should keep in mind, though, before you go. I’m happy to give you some practical tips based on my own experience, so you can save money and keep yourself (and the planet) happy and healthy while you travel.
My Experience in Costa Rica
I had a wonderful time with my husband in the Guanacaste province of CR on my trip in winter 2018. The weather was warm, there weren’t many tourists around, and it was the most relaxed I’ve ever been on a trip. I kid you not!
I’ll be writing a more detailed post about my trip soon, so don’t forget to check back for it, or subscribe to be notified by email.
If you are considering the Mexican Riviera as a possibility, check out my article about safety in Mexico.
Here are 7 Costa Rica Travel Tips:
Hot Tip 1: Take & USE Sunscreen
Wear sunscreen every day; I can’t stress this enough. Since it’s near the equator, Costa Rica is warm, and the sun’s rays beat down like nobody’s business, even in December.
Look for a company that has committed to minimize any negative effects on the environment.
Hot Tip 2: Take Swim Shoes
Whether you are planning a beach getaway or an escape to the mountains (or both!), you will probably need shoes that you can wear in the water.
Think about wading in thermal pools or white water tubing. It’s a good idea to protect your feet against rocks, creatures, and anything else you might not want to step on or bang your foot against.
I wish I had not forgotten mine! You can buy them there, but why do that?
Hot Tip 3: Take Insect Repellent
Make sure you protect yourself from bugs. You’ll want to prevent mosquitoes and ticks from biting you.
I am usually eaten alive by mosquitoes, but the wipes I took kept me from being attacked.
You can find more health information for travel to Costa Rica on the CDC website.
Hot Tip 4: Rent a 4 x 4
In CR all but the main roads seem to be made of dirt, mud, and rocks with lots of potholes! If you think you will need a car, make sure you get a 4 x 4.
We were so glad we did. Keep in mind, though, that a lot of the hotels have shuttle service to and from the airport, so you might not need a car at all.
Hot Tip 5: Drink the Tap Water
Costa Rica has a tropical climate, so staying hydrated is really important. Even though I was there in December, it still got quite warm.
As long as you are in a developed area, the tap water is generally safe. You only need to worry if you are totally traveling off the grid.
My husband and I drank tap water throughout our trip avoiding bottled water as much as possible.
This will save you money and reduce the environmental impact of plastic.
This leads to Hot Tip 6.
Hot Tip 6: Take a Refillable Water Bottle
There is too much plastic in this world! Not buying bottled drinks is a great way to cut down on plastic use.
I highly recommend taking a refillable bottle. For travel, I love my collapsible water bottle by Hydaway.
It was perfect for all my Costa Rica adventures; I filled it before going on hikes, doing yoga, and hanging by the pool or at the beach.
Hot Tip 7: Support CR’s Sustainability Efforts
By traveling green, you will certainly get smiles and high-fives from the locals.
For example, look for eco-friendly hotels and resorts, ask for no straw when you order drinks, and don’t buy bottled water.
Enjoy your trip to beautiful Costa Rica, and let me know in the comments if you think of any other Hot Tips!
Pura Vida!
A Place to Stay in Costa Rica
Looking for accommodations in Costa Rica? I almost always use Booking.com for making reservations.
My favorite place to stay in the jungle: Rio Perdido Hotel & Thermal River
In this eco-friendly resort, you can stay in your own bungalow. Everything you need is in the complex: wildlife (i.e., monkeys, birds), a spa, pools, jungle yoga, thermal river, and activities (i.e., rafting, zip lining), bar, and a restaurant with healthy, delicious food. I’ve never been so relaxed as when I stayed there.
Our beach resort: JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
A beautiful property with a private beach!
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Until next time…
