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Introducing Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a nature lover's dream travel destination. Hike to hidden waterfalls, fly through the rainforest on a zip line, raft amazing white-water, or catch a wave on one of the many epic surf breaks.

When is the best time to visit?
Due to Costa Rica's location in Central America, near to the equator, it enjoys just two seasons annually as opposed to four. The dry season lasts from mid-November through April, and the rainy season lasts from May to mid-November. The latter is also referred to as the "green" season due to the brilliant vegetation that thrives during this period.  

Travelers often opt to visit during the dry season. Peak crowds hit in December, with folks continuing to come during January and February and (for many North Americans) during spring break. However, there are advantages to visiting Costa Rica in the "green" season, from less crowds to lower prices.  Read our travel guide for visiting Costa Rica in the "green" season to find out more.

Still not sure when to go, read our guide on the best times to visit Costa Rica.

Where to go in Costa Rica?
The people of Costa Rica are happy to welcome travelers and teach them about adventure and the pure life, or 'Pura Vida'. This country relies on the eco and adventure tourism that put it on the map, read about the main regions of the country to decide where you want to visit. Visit a baby sloth rescue, get to know Manuel Antonio National Park, see Arenal Volcano, and explore the Osa Peninsula Rainforest.

How many days do I need?
Costa Rica is a small country (size of West Virginia), with many sights situated fairly close together.  With great roads (mostly), throughout the country, makes it easy to get around. In one week, you can explore a number of sights and get a great sense of the country if you are ready to be on the go. With 2 weeks, you have a bit more time to relax in each destination or explore more of the country.  Still not sure how many days you need, read our guide to help you decide.

Getting around Costa Rica
Shuttles or private transfers are great options to get around in Costa Rica. Driving is not always straightforward, but still a great choice if you feel comfortable driving on curvy or unpaved roads.  For longer transfers, Costa Rica has a network of domestic airports that connect the main locations in the country. Read more

Looking for inspiration? See our top Costa Rica itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Costa Rica Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by Costa Rica trips other travelers loved
Storm clouds over Arenal volcano
Map of Best of Costa Rica in 7 Days: Explore Jungles, Volcanoes and Beaches
Best of Costa Rica in 7 Days: Explore Jungles, Volcanoes and Beaches

With a mix of rugged jungles, active volcanoes and world-class beaches, Costa Rica offers some of the best natural sights and experiences in the world, all conveniently packed into one country. Almost a quarter of the land is preserved within national parks, allowing a wide range of animals and plants to flourish, making Costa Rica an ideal destination for ecotourism. With this itinerary, you'll discover the best attractions Costa Rica has to offer in just a week.

Monteverde Cloud Forest
Map of Classic Costa Rica: 7-Day Self-Drive Tour
Classic Costa Rica: 7-Day Self-Drive Tour

Taking a road trip through Costa Rica gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore where you want. You'll pass through stunning natural scenery — from lush cloud forests to picturesque beaches — in seven days of scenic driving. This tour can be extended or shortened depending on how much time you have.

Beautiful Rio Celeste in Tenorio National Park
Map of Best of Costa Rica - 14 Days
Best of Costa Rica - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary includes many of Costa Rica's greatest hits. You'll venture into the country's most beautiful national parks and enjoy zip-lining adventures, nature hikes, beach excursions, and more. All the while you'll spot exotic animals as you traverse some of the most virgin rainforest landscapes in Central America.

Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano.
Map of Best of Costa Rica: Arenal, Monteverde & Manuel Antonio - 8 Days
Best of Costa Rica: Arenal, Monteverde & Manuel Antonio - 8 Days

This 8-day trip is ideal for travelers looking to experience Costa Rica's highlights. Go for a dip in Arenal's hot springs and spot monkeys and other wildlife on hikes around the famous volcano. Continue to Monteverde, where you'll discover the remarkable flora and fauna of the cloud forest. Finally, spend a few days in Manuel Antonio National Park, kayaking through turquoise waters and relaxing on pristine white sand beaches.

The scenic Pacific Coast of Costa Rica
Map of Costa Rica Essentials: Self-Drive Tour - 14 Days
Costa Rica Essentials: Self-Drive Tour - 14 Days

In this two-week tour, you can experience Costa Rica's main attractions as well as its lesser-known marvels. Drive along coasts, rainforest roads, and hills to discover the natural sights that make Costa Rica the most visited country in Central America.

Arenal Volcano
Map of Family-Friendly Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park- 9 Days
Family-Friendly Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park- 9 Days

Fun for the whole family, this itinerary covers two of Costa Rica's most famous areas. Arenal and Manuel Antonio are some of the best representations of Costa Rica; Arenal area features one of the most famous volcanos in the country, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, while Manuel Antonio National Park is renown for its white sandy beaches and vast diversity of tropical plants and wildlife.

Make the Most of Your Time in Costa Rica

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Read this first to maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Relax on your Costa Rica Vacation
How Many Days to Spend in Costa Rica

You can have a great adventure in Costa Rica in as short as a long weekend. With only a few days to spare, you'll have enough time to hike through a rainforest, see an active...

Costa Rica Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica

For access to all the country has to offer, visit during the dry season that runs from December through April—winter is the most popular time, with great weather and sizable...

Manzanillo
Essential Costa Rica: 4 Regions to Visit

Costa Rica is proof that big things can come in small packages. Although this Central American gem is barely the size of West Virginia, it’s the most biodiverse country on the...

Visit Costa Rica and visit national parks like Rincon de la Vieja on your next kimkim trip
How Kimkim Trips Work in Costa Rica

Costa Rica draws travelers with its rainforests, beaches, and abundant wildlife. With a kimkim specialist, you'll go beyond the usual stops—spot sloths and toucans with local...

A road to Arenal Volcano
Driving in Costa Rica: Road Trip FAQ

Costa Rica has a way of igniting the adventurous spirit within. This is, after all, one of the world's most biodiverse countries loaded with rainforests, wildlife species,...

Costa Rica Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Explore Monteverde
Where to Eat in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Monteverde is known for its stunning cloud forest, but there's also plenty of incredible dining options to fill you up after those long sky walks and zip-line adventures . The...

Costa Rica Travel Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country
Manzanillo
Essential Costa Rica: 4 Regions to Visit

Costa Rica is proof that big things can come in small packages. Although this Central American gem is barely the size of West Virginia, it’s the most biodiverse country on the...

Costa Rica Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Koora Hotel
Monteverde
Koora Hotel
5.0
(26)
· Upscale
Sleep among the cloud forest canopy at upscale Koora Hotel in one of its bungalows on a hill surrounded by trees, some with vistas that reach the Pacific. The hotel's prime location allows guests to explore nearby orchid and butterfly gardens or set out on canopy tours and nature walks....
Arenal/La Fortuna
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
4.8
(93)
· Upscale
Sleep in the jungle at Arenal Manoa, which has sprawling grounds complete with dense vegetation, three eateries, a swimming pool, a spa, and several hot springs pools. Its 82 colonial-inspired bungalows each house two units, where each room has a private terrace hidden by tropical plants. Stroll...
Agua Ardiente Pool Bar, Courtesy of Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Arenal/La Fortuna
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
4.9
(26)
· Luxury
At Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, a luxury resort in La Fortuna, you'll feel like you're in the middle of the jungle. All 42 rooms feature natural tones, wooden accents, and views of the rainforest. Your room rate includes access to the thermal pools (a quick shuttle ride away), with a small...

Best Experiences in Costa Rica

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
(Photo courtesy of Treetopia Park Monteverde)
Monteverde
TreeTram, Hanging Bridges & Zipline Adventure
4.9
(39)
5 hours
·
Small group
Perfect for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers, this activity-packed experience takes you into the cloud forest to explore the treetops at Treetopia Park Monteverde. You'll start by boarding the park's open-air cableway to ride up to the starting point of the hanging bridges. Then, follow your...
Arenal/La Fortuna
Sky Tram, Ziplines & Sky Walk Adventure
4.8
(43)
5 hours
·
Small group
Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, this Arenal Volcano National Park adventure lets you experience Costa Rica's cloud forests from above and below. Step aboard an open-air gondola to reach the Mano del Arenal lookout, then descend along a series of seven thrilling zipline cables,...
The alluring, wildlife waterways of Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero
Boat Excursion in Tortuguero National Park
4.9
(16)
3 hours
·
Small group
Embark on a unique boat adventure through the waterways of Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica's Caribbean coastline gem, accompanied by a professional naturalist guide. Choose between a morning or afternoon/evening tour to witness diverse wildlife, such as howler monkeys, northern jacana...

Our Latest Costa Rica Content

Spend a day snorkeling and sunbathing in Cahuita National Park
Map of Explore Turrialba & Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast  - 10 Days
Explore Turrialba & Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast - 10 Days

Set off an adventurous journey from the Costa Rican city of Turrialba to the Caribbean coast, immersing yourself in the country's untouched beauty and local culture. Start with whitewater rafting on the Río Pacuare and rappeling down a canyon before transferring to Tortuguero. From there, navigate Tortuguero National Park's waterways on a boat tour and watch turtles nesting on the beach. Finish with plenty of free time to soak up the sea and a chocolate tour in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Meet sloths and other wildlife on this family-friendly Costa Rica Tour
Map of Family-Friendly Costa Rica Adventure: La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo - 7 Days
Family-Friendly Costa Rica Adventure: La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo - 7 Days

Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Costa Rica on this fun-filled, weeklong family tour. Start in La Fortuna, where you'll hike around the impressive Arenal volcano and take a refreshing dip in the pools of La Fortuna waterfall. Do some spelunking at Venado Caves, then continue to the pristine coastlines of the Gulf of Papagayo. Stroll white-sand beaches, meet sloths, pumas, and monkeys at an animal sanctuary, and end with a sunset sailing excursion around the gulf.

Bond as newly weds as you keep your eyes peeled for tropical species, like purple-throated hummingbirds on a hike to Laguna de Hule
Map of 10 Days in Costa Rica - 4 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Costa Rica - 4 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Given Costa Rica's size, you can fit jungle, aquatic, and urban adventures in your 10-day honeymoon. Outdoorsy couples will enjoy rafting the Río Pacuare and ziplining in Turrialba. Wildlife lovers can go bird-watching in Monteverde and spot monkeys in Corcovado National Park. Couples keen on cuisine can sample Costa Rican fare in the Central Market and make chocolate with a Bribri community. Those seeking a slower pace will appreciate a sunset cruise in Tamarindo and a hot springs soak in Arenal.

Costa Rica Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 1 Week in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 5-Days in Costa Rica : 5 Unique Trip Itineraries
5-Days in Costa Rica : 5 Unique Trip Itineraries
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Costa Rica
Travel specialist Olman Romero
active 1 hour ago

Olman Romero

I was born in Turrialba, it is a region famous for hosting the Guayabo Archeological Monument, which is the oldest and most important pre-hispanic archeological site in the country. Turrialba is...

read more...
Travel specialist Bryan Leon
active 53 mins ago

Bryan Leon

Growing up in a coffee plantation area near San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me a deep love and appreciation for nature. As a certified...

read more...
Travel specialist Randall Jiménez
active 2 hours ago

Randall Jiménez

Phrases like “The trip was wonderful beyond my dreams”, “I came back home being a different person…I have grown physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually”, “A job well done my friend”,...

read more...
Travel specialist Holden Ketchum
active 43 mins ago

Holden Ketchum

I have lived in Costa Rica for eight years and made it my home. My role is to help travelers connect to the activities and experiences that will bring them the most joy and provide lasting...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Costa Rica

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

A Costa Rica Expert Reconnecting with Costa Rica 🇨🇷
Costa Rica | Nov 12 - Nov 24, 2025

Gustavo
Gustavo C.
Costa Rica | Reviewed on Nov 25, 2025
As a Costa Rica expert on behalf of kimkim, this was a trip to reconnect with some of the regions I know and love. A complete circuit visiting highlights such as La Fortuna and Monteverde, as well as more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Rincon de La Vieja and Drake Bay. This way, I can stay up to date with locations travelers love, as well as guide them in navigating destinations that require deep knowledge. It was also a great way to connect with guides, drivers, and hotels that help... Read more

As a Costa Rica expert on behalf of kimkim, this was a trip to reconnect with some of the regions I know and love. A complete circuit visiting highlights such as La Fortuna and Monteverde, as well as more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Rincon de La Vieja and Drake Bay. This way, I can stay up to date with locations travelers love, as well as guide them in navigating destinations that require deep knowledge.

It was also a great way to connect with guides, drivers, and hotels that help bring the kimkim experience together, and ensure that each step of the trip is working correctly in connecting the traveler to locals and creating the correct impacts in the communities they visit.

Hotel Reviews
Borinquen Thermal Resort
Guanacaste

I am a kimkim Costa Rica travel expert. As a property that is 24 years old, Borinquen had gone under my radar for quite a while. Rediscovering this family-owned hotel, which exudes a vibrant colonial Costa Rica vibe, has been quite an impressive experience. From the moment you start making your way to the property through narrow streets surrounded by nature and with the view of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in front of you, you feel that you're travelling into a different time. At a distance, you can see some clouds floating very close to the trees, and as you come closer, you start seeing that they're the steam from the natural hot springs scattered around this area. Upon arrival, you feel that you're in a hacienda, with expansive grounds, beautiful gazebos to sit around and observe the many birds, enormous trees that have been thoughtfully preserved, and much more. The rooms are perfect, with windows all around to continue the beautiful views even when you're inside, a porch to have your coffee in the morning and afternoon, looking at the gorgeous colors of the sunrise or the intense sunset right in front of you. Can't say enough about having natural springs and volcanic mud at the property to enjoy as much as you want. Its incredible to be able to see up close the earth bubbling and steaming in front of you.

Authenticity & Character
Feels very Costa Rican, very natural and real as there is no denying these springs come directly from the volcano
Location
An off-the-beaten-path location full of nature
Staff
The staff is local and super helful, always doing their best so that you feel comfortable in such a remote setting
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were immaculate, as well as the springs facilities. Beds were big and super comfortable, as well as the bathrooms
Koora Hotel
Monteverde

I am a kimkim Costa Rica specialist. Perfect views of the sunset and the Pacific coast from your room and from the hotel's restaurant ✅ Warm private pools scattered along the hotel grounds ✅ Fire pits scattered around the hotel grounds ✅ Monkeys, coatis, and even toucans knocking on your door in the morning ✅ Koora combines incredible grounds filled with cloud forest with a style that ensures you know that you're in the mountainous area of Monteverde. As this area tends to be cooler than most of Costa Rica, the hotel ensures that you can stay cozy and warm every moment you spend there. The attention to detail is great,

Authenticity & Character
The hotel has a defined mountain ambience, with connections to Costa Rican indigenous tribes through art and wooden carvings in common areas and the rooms.
Location
Private area just close enough to town, but far away enough that you feel you are immersed by the rainforest. The views are something that words cannot really describe, but just imagine mountains folding upon each other all the way to the sea, where the sun sets in the pacific coast.
Staff
Very few times have I met a staff that is so excited and passionate to work somewhere, you can feel how much they love the menu when they offer it to you, how much they love the hotel helps their communities, how much they love spotting animals with you as the fauna at the hotel is constant. I remember I was having breakfast a little rushed one day as I was getting ready for an activity, and the waiter came to me and said "would you like to see a very rare toucan?". And sure enough there he was a green and red toucan I had never seen in my life before, and he was so excited to share it with me, and I think that speaks a lot about the type of hotel this is
Cleanliness & Comfort
Delicious bed, big bathroom and shower, fresh coffee to make in a french press in your room, and everything you may need
Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge
Nosara

I am a kimkim Costa Rica specialist. I am sure you have heard of ocean-view hotels, but have you heard of turtle-view hotels? Lagarta Lodge, situated on a hill between the beaches of Ostional and Nosara, offers a direct view from its restaurant and many of its rooms to the Ostional Refuge, a protected beach due to the arrival of various turtle species in large numbers. What this means is that with binoculars or a telescope, you can even see the turtles arriving at the beach as you're having breakfast. Need to say more?

Authenticity & Character
Short of 5 stars as although the hotels has incredible vibes and atmosphere, sometimes the Costa Rican essence is lost.
Location
Perfect location to have a little bit more freshness with ocean breezes a top a hill, while still having easy access to the beach through shuttles and hiking trails.
Staff
The staff is at a good level, however many can still improve, specially in the restaurant area.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Immaculate
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa
La Fortuna

I am a kimkim travel specialist. There's a lot to love about Casa Luna, from its colonial style to its expansive grounds and its ideal locations. The hotel pays homage to classical Costa Rican jungle architecture, featuring hardwood and earth tones, along with expansive terraces that evoke the traditional wrap-around porches of colonial houses, where families would gather in the afternoons for coffee. The hotel is very close to downtown La Fortuna/Arenal, but it's located on a secondary street that makes it quieter and more connected to nature. In this same street, you'll be able to find nearby restaurants without having to worry about too many cars going by. The hotel also has its own trails in the rainforest that will lead you to the spa :) I also really loved that each room is equipped with umbrella's as you never know when it will rain in the rainforest :)

Authenticity & Character
It's a very Costa Rican hotel with lush gardens all around and with incredible views of the Arenal Volcano, you wont be able to forget where you are 🇨🇷🌋
Location
The street it is located on is beautiful, very authentic, quiet, and close to town as well as restaurant options!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Unlike many of the accomodations in the rainforest and in La Fortuna, the rooms in Casa Luna are able to provide an extra barrier from the elements and unwanted visitors. My room was clean all the time and did not have any issues with bugs coming into my room.
Local specialist: Gustavo Camperos

Thank you KimKim !!
Costa Rica | Nov 9 - Nov 18, 2025

C
Christopher B.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 25, 2025
Everything was perfect. Beautiful country and great accommodations. Private sailing on last day was beyond special. Read more

Everything was perfect. Beautiful country and great accommodations. Private sailing on last day was beyond special.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Bosque del Mar
Playa Hermosa

Location Location Location. Steps from the beach. Restaurant was superb. Best fish sandwich !

Authenticity & Character
Location
Beach and islands.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Staff was helpful and attentitive.
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
La Fortuna

Best hotel springs and pools. Food was great and breakfast was the best.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful gardens and flora.
Location
Base of volcano
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mawamba Lodge
Tortuguero

Felt like we were deep in the rain forest.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Presidente
San José

Thank you Nicole for special service and Manu for great private tour of San Jose.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Morning Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure
Morning Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure
Costa Rica

Great way to spend last day in CR on a private sail boat, snorkeling and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Palo Verde National Park Boat Trip
Palo Verde National Park Boat Trip
Costa Rica

Saw alot of wildlife.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit to Maleku Indigenous Reserve
Visit to Maleku Indigenous Reserve
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Boat Excursion Through the Tortuguero Canals
Guided Boat Excursion Through the Tortuguero Canals
Tortuguero

Guide was very knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tortuguero Village Visit
Tortuguero Village Visit
Tortuguero

Very remote and rainy. Best nights sleep listening to rain falling on our cabin.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private San José City Tour
Private San José City Tour
San José

Our guide Manu was the best.

Quality of Experience
Very informative of history of San Jose.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Nov 25, 2025

Hola Christopher!

Thank you so much for your feedback! I'm thrilled to hear that everything was perfect and that you found Costa Rica as beautiful as we do.

Knowing that the private sailing trip on your last day was such a special highlight truly makes my day. I'll be sure to share your kind words with our entire team and the local guides.

We hope to welcome you back for more unforgettable moments in the future!

Pura Vida!
Bryan Leon,
Serendipity Adventures | Costa Rica🌴☀️🐦

We have traveled around the world, and up unt...
Costa Rica | Nov 9 - Nov 18, 2025

Trish
Trish G.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 22, 2025
We have traveled around the world, and up until now did all the planning ourselves. This was the first time we used a travel agent and Kimkim was AMAZING. Every detail was prearranged. We had a very active trip with four stops, six excursions and transportation with planes, buses, boats and a rental car. Everything worked exactly as planned. Our tour guides were all prompt, friendly, knowledgeable and spoke English. We had a great time doing things I would not have thought of arranging. The... Read more

We have traveled around the world, and up until now did all the planning ourselves. This was the first time we used a travel agent and Kimkim was AMAZING. Every detail was prearranged. We had a very active trip with four stops, six excursions and transportation with planes, buses, boats and a rental car. Everything worked exactly as planned. Our tour guides were all prompt, friendly, knowledgeable and spoke English. We had a great time doing things I would not have thought of arranging. The total price was very reasonable for everything we experienced. It was my favorite trip ever, and that says a lot. We will definitely use Kimkim again.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Bosque del Mar
Playa Hermosa

A lovely boutique hotel with the most friendly staff ever. The ground consist of beautiful mature trees with the rooms integrated into the landscape. The ocean is steps away and visible from the restaurant and upstairs bar. There is one smallish pool and a hot tub. The rooms are beautiful with a separate sitting room with a comfortable sectional sofa. The restaurant was very nice. The food was delicious but a little pricey. We found the upstairs bar menu a little less expensive but still delicious food. The staff were all very accommodating and made our stay extra nice. A massage by Angie was a perfect way to end our stay. She is a spectacular massage therapist and highly recommended

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
La Fortuna

Wow! Absolutely gorgeous grounds and a series of hot springs to die for. You have several choices of hot springs with varying temperatures, a swim up bar, swimming pools and water slide. We spent so much time on the property and it was so relaxing. The rooms are HUGE and clean with lovely covered porches on the front and back. The food in the restaurant was very good. The breakfast buffet was included and a terrific variety of food, both traditional and local dishes. Even the gift shop had a nice selection of souvenirs with reasonable prices.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mawamba Lodge
Tortuguero

A rustic all inclusive hotel in the Rain Forest. You are immersed in the tropical jungle environment. There is no A/C, no TV and very limited WiFi, but honestly it was nice being unplugged. The in house tour guide was very knowledgeable and taught us about the flora and fauna of Costa Rica. The food was fair. The wait staff were ok. They did their job, but were not particularly friendly, expect for a couple of staff that stood out. A couple of days here is enough.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Presidente
San José

A modern urban hotel in the city of San Jose. Very clean, fabulous, friendly staff. Delicious breakfast Buffett included with our room. The rooftop restaurant was a very nice atmosphere with spectacular food so we ate there twice. I highly recommend this hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Morning Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure
Morning Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure
Costa Rica

A beautiful boat and lovely adventure. The captain and first mate were very attentive and made this a favorite tour of our trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit to Maleku Indigenous Reserve
Visit to Maleku Indigenous Reserve
Arenal/La Fortuna

A terrific experience learning about the history of this tribe, eating an authentic lunch, archery, a mock wedding and description of the plants they use for medicinal purposes.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tortuguero Village Visit
Tortuguero Village Visit
Tortuguero

A walk through a local village. The day we went it was pouring rain which did not stop us. They are proud people. Bring cash because you will not find an ATM in this village

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private San José City Tour
Private San José City Tour
San José

Our tour guide Manu was a delight. He taught us a lot about the history of Costa Rica during this walking tour. He spoke English well and had a great personality.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Nov 23, 2025

Hola Trish!

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. Reading this truly made my day!

Hearing that this was your favorite trip ever, especially given your extensive travel experience, is the highest compliment we could ever receive. I'm thrilled that everything flowed smoothly and that our team could introduce you to experiences that made your journey so special.

We would be absolutely delighted to help you create more unforgettable memories on your next adventure.

Pura Vida!
Bryan Leon,
Serendipity Adventures | Costa Rica 🌴

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.