Discover Tailor-Made Costa Rica Vacations

Don't let this dissuade you from visiting! As with most rainforests, there is regular rain almost on a daily basis, but these downpours typically only last for a brief period of time. Indeed, having a few clouds in the sky and the occasional rainfall can be a welcome relief in a country with the year-round heat of Costa Rica. Activities-wise, the peak dry season from December to April is ideal for beach getaways and sunny adventures, while the shoulder months of May and November bring fewer crowds and lush green landscapes.

Cooler conditions in the highlands make them perfect for exploring cloud forests and volcanoes during the winter months.

For more planning insights, explore the best time to visit Costa Rica and match your trip to the experiences you value most.

Festivals, music, and conviviality are woven into everyday life, from colourful seasonal festivals to simple customs like greeting friends with a handshake. “One of the best events to experience every January,” says Destination Specialist Kajal Gadhia, “is the Palmares Festival, a huge celebration with live music, horse parades, carnival rides, and incredible food.”

The country’s commitment to peace and sustainability is also central to its identity. “Costa Rica doesn’t have an army. That says so much about the peaceful nature of the country,” says Virginia Dameno, who also highlights how eco-conscious practices are part of the national culture.

Learn more about Costa Rican culture and traditions play a role in daily life.

Meals often highlight rice and beans, plantains, seafood, and seasonal fruits, creating a diet that is both nourishing and flavourful. Coffee also holds a special place in daily life, celebrated as a source of national pride.

The most popular lunch in Costa Rica is casado, which means "married" in Spanish and refers to its comprehensive combination of ingredients. Casado typically features a balanced plate of white rice, beans (usually red or black), fried plantains, a salad with cabbage and vegetables, and a choice of protein such as beef, chicken, fish, or eggs. A corn tortilla is often included with the meal. Other classic dishes include gallo pinto, a rice-and-beans breakfast favourite.

Along the coasts, fresh ceviche is a highlight, while tamales wrapped in banana leaves and sweet arroz con leche remain staples across the country. Plantains appear in many forms, from fried to baked, and showcase the versatility of this staple. To drink, locals enjoy fresco de frutas, a refreshing fruit blend, as well as world-renowned Costa Rican coffee.

To learn more about flavours, traditions, and dining etiquette, see our guide to Costa Rica Food and Drink. Enjoy Costa Rica’s fresh, flavourful dishes and world-class coffee as part of your tailor-made adventure.

Packing light, quick-dry clothing and a good rain poncho will prepare you for sudden downpours, while comfortable shoes are a must for hikes and wildlife tours. Destination Specialist Virginia Dameno suggests bringing swimwear and versatile layers so you’re ready for both rainforest humidity and cooler highland air.

When it comes to getting around, private transfers are the best option for visitors, speeding up transfer times and preventing any mixups owing to language barriers or fixed meeting locations. Destination Specialist Kajal Gadhia notes that U.S. dollars and credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas. She also recommends keeping a reusable water bottle and insect repellent handy.

For more preparation insights, check out Things to Know Before You Go to make the most of your adventure.