Personalized trips to Costa Rica
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

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: Explore Jungles, Volcanoes & Beaches - 7 Days
Best of Costa Rica: Explore Jungles, Volcanoes & Beaches - 7 Days

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.

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.

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.

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
The violet sabrewing hummingbird can be seen year-round in montane forests, though they're most active during Costa Rica's green (wet) season
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica's dry season (December to April) is considered the best time of year to visit, with most travelers arriving for reliable sunshine and prime beach days. Yet insiders...

Punta Uva beach near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast
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

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 zipline adventures . The...

Costa Rica Travel Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country
Punta Uva beach near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast
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
kimkim gem
Monteverde
Koora Hotel
5.0
(31)
· 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
(103)
· 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
(31)
· 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
(45)
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
(52)
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,...
Raft down the Río Balsa as you spot wildlife on the riverbanks (photo courtesy of Desafio Costa Rica)
Arenal/La Fortuna
Río Balsa Whitewater Rafting Adventure (Class II-III)
4.9
(19)
5 hours
·
Small group
Embark on an adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting adventure down the Río Balsa. You'll transfer from La Fortuna to the put-in spot on the river, where your guide will give you safety instructions and outfit you with a helmet and life vest. Then, push off into the current and start paddling...

Our Latest Costa Rica Content

Meet rescued and rehabilitated sloths at a Monteverde sanctuary
Map of Active Family Getaway to Costa Rica: Monteverde, Manuel Antonio & Drake Bay - 11 Days
Active Family Getaway to Costa Rica: Monteverde, Manuel Antonio & Drake Bay - 11 Days

Perfect for active and adventurous kids, this 11-day itinerary introduces your family to some of Costa Rica's most biodiverse and unspoiled ecosystems. Start in Monteverde to traverse its lush cloud forests by hanging bridge, hiking trail, and zipline, then hop over to Manuel Antonio to kayak and horseback ride in between plenty of beach time. Continue down the Pacific coast to Drake Bay, and wrap things up with snorkeling and wildlife spotting around Corcovado National Park.

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.

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
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Costa Rica
Travel specialist Olman Romero
active 4 hours ago

Olman Romero

I was born in Turrialba, a region rich in history and natural beauty, home to the Guayabo National Monument, the most important pre-Hispanic archaeological site in the country, as well as the...

read more...
Travel specialist Bryan Leon
active 3 hours 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 14 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 5 hours 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...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Costa Rica also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for Costa Rica

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Wonderful Costa Rica adventure
Costa Rica | May 24 - May 31, 2026

Steve
Steve S.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Jun 03, 2026
Oldman did a great job getting everything booked. Our Arenal guide, Monica, was amazing and knowledgeable. Our driver/guide for Poas was also great. We really enjoyed the entire trip, especially the stay in Samara. We don’t usually do beach vacations, but two slow days at the end of this trip, away from the tourists (like us), really fit our needs greatly that we didn’t even know we needed. I will definitely recommend Kimkim to friends Read more

Oldman did a great job getting everything booked. Our Arenal guide, Monica, was amazing and knowledgeable. Our driver/guide for Poas was also great. We really enjoyed the entire trip, especially the stay in Samara. We don’t usually do beach vacations, but two slow days at the end of this trip, away from the tourists (like us), really fit our needs greatly that we didn’t even know we needed. I will definitely recommend Kimkim to friends

Hotel Review
Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows
Sámara
Authenticity & Character
Location
Close access to the beach and nice views
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
El Silencio Hike & Visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs
El Silencio Hike & Visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs
Arenal/La Fortuna

We loved the El Silencio hike and our guide Monica. Ecotermales was a fun hot spring, but we’ve been to several so this was not new for us.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Olman Romero
Olman
Olman Romero
Local specialist in San Jose, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 03, 2026
Hello Steve, Thank you so much for your kind words!
It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your Costa Rica adventure. I'm especially happy to hear that you enjoyed your time with Monica in Arenal and your Poás guide as well. I'll be sure to share your compliments with them.
I also love hearing about your experience in Sámara. Sometimes those slower days by the beach end up being the most memorable part of the trip, especially after several days of exploring and adventure. It's wonderful... Read more

Hello Steve,

Thank you so much for your kind words!
It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your Costa Rica adventure. I'm especially happy to hear that you enjoyed your time with Monica in Arenal and your Poás guide as well. I'll be sure to share your compliments with them.

I also love hearing about your experience in Sámara. Sometimes those slower days by the beach end up being the most memorable part of the trip, especially after several days of exploring and adventure. It's wonderful that it turned out to be exactly what you needed.

Thank you for trusting me with your trip and for recommending Kimkim to your friends. Referrals are the greatest compliment we can receive.

I hope Costa Rica leaves you with many wonderful memories, and I would be delighted to help you plan another adventure in the future!

Warm regards,
Olman Romero

Costa Rica was our 4th trip with KimKim and i...
Costa Rica | May 23 - Jun 1, 2026

S
Shephali w.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 02, 2026
Costa Rica was our 4th trip with KimKim and it was wonderful. We explored the Arenal volcano and lake in La Fortuna, the cloud forest in Monteverde and the beautiful coast and Manuel Antonio State park in Quepos/Aguirre. The trip included hiking, horseback riding, viewing wildlife and enjoying beach activities. The Koora Hotel was exceptional. Read more

Costa Rica was our 4th trip with KimKim and it was wonderful. We explored the Arenal volcano and lake in La Fortuna, the cloud forest in Monteverde and the beautiful coast and Manuel Antonio State park in Quepos/Aguirre. The trip included hiking, horseback riding, viewing wildlife and enjoying beach activities. The Koora Hotel was exceptional.

Hotel Review
Koora Hotel
Monteverde

First-class boutique hotel with spectacular views and even better service. We enjoyed a two-floor suite which was beautifully appointed. The food was exceptional and the staff was kind, attentive and always accessible. Highly recommend and would absolutely stay again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Morning Catamaran Adventure with Barbecue
Morning Catamaran Adventure with Barbecue
Manuel Antonio

Nice activity if you'd like to see the beautiful coast line by boat. The crew were very good and the catamaran is spacious and well maintained. we enjoyed snorkeling in the cove and were able to view dolphins jumping alongside the boat.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Manuel Antonio

This is a must do for the area. would have preferred a longer guided hike in the park with more time to enjoy the beach. the main trail is very crowded with tourists and guides. we did see numerous birds, sloths, monkeys, insects and diverse landscapes.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Organic Farm & Spice Garden Visit
Private Organic Farm & Spice Garden Visit
Manuel Antonio

This was just ok. This experience is likely dependent on the guide. we were disappointed that we did not learn much about chocolate and coffee harvest and production and the quality of the tour and food was poor. would skip this.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
El Tigre Waterfalls Excursion
El Tigre Waterfalls Excursion
Monteverde

spectacular falls. kids loved swimming in the pools and climbing over the rocks. must see.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike with Lunch
Private Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike with Lunch
Arenal/La Fortuna

Must do. Jay was our tour guide and was the best guide we have ever had. He was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the flora/fauna of the region. Beautiful hike, wonderful guide.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Gustavo Camperos
Gustavo
Gustavo Camperos
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 02, 2026

Shephali!

It is wonderful to hear that the whole family had fun! I specially love that you were able to enjoy highlights of the country, such as Arenal and Manuel Antonio, while also enjoying lesser known gems such as El Tigre.

It was a pleasure to plan and support a trip for you and we hope to continue taking you on adventures anywhere you go 🗺️

Incredible trip for our family of 9!
Costa Rica | May 22 - May 31, 2026

L
Laura P.
Center Point, AL | Reviewed on Jun 01, 2026
Our family of 9 had an incredible trip to Costa Rica thanks to Elena and Adrian. They were both helpful and communicative both during planning and while on site. Arenal Springs Resort & Spa in La Fortuna was the perfect first stop and had everything we could have wanted - hot springs on site that we visited daily, excellent service, beautiful surroundings, and a secluded peaceful environment. The buffet breakfast was delicious each morning offering tons of options. All of our excursions for... Read more

Our family of 9 had an incredible trip to Costa Rica thanks to Elena and Adrian. They were both helpful and communicative both during planning and while on site. Arenal Springs Resort & Spa in La Fortuna was the perfect first stop and had everything we could have wanted - hot springs on site that we visited daily, excellent service, beautiful surroundings, and a secluded peaceful environment. The buffet breakfast was delicious each morning offering tons of options. All of our excursions for perfect for our group - volcano hike plus waterfall (doing both back to back same day was a little much for the adults though), water water rafting and ziplining at Sky Adventure (the most memorable)! We love this property. The only downfall was it was not walkable to most restaurants and since we didn't have a vehicle it required many taxi rides. The view at La Mariposa in Manuel Antonio could not be matched, though the staff was not nearly as helpful here. We loved that it was walkable to tons of shops and restaurants though. The animals and wildlife in M.A. are spectacular, as was our guide for our nature hike in the national park. The catamaran we took was fun, though had a LOT of other people which was a bit of a bummer since we have done smaller boats in other places that felt more quaint. The bbq lunch on board was delicious though. We had the same driver the entire trip and I can't recommend Alex enough. He was always helpful and knowledgeable and offered great food recommendations. I hope we will be able to return to this beautiful country one day to explore other areas.

Local specialist: Elena Mora
Elena
Elena Mora
Local specialist in Cartago, Turrialba | Replied on Jun 01, 2026
Hola Laura, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was truly a pleasure assisting your family with this special Costa Rica adventure. We are delighted to hear that you had such an incredible experience and that both Adrián and I were able to help make your trip smooth and enjoyable from the planning stages through your time in Costa Rica. We are especially happy to hear how much you enjoyed Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, the hot springs, the beautiful surroundings, and the... Read more

Hola Laura,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review!

It was truly a pleasure assisting your family with this special Costa Rica adventure. We are delighted to hear that you had such an incredible experience and that both Adrián and I were able to help make your trip smooth and enjoyable from the planning stages through your time in Costa Rica.

We are especially happy to hear how much you enjoyed Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, the hot springs, the beautiful surroundings, and the excursions. It is wonderful to know that the white-water rafting and zip-lining at Sky Adventures were among the highlights of your trip and created lasting memories for your family.

Thank you as well for sharing your honest feedback regarding the accommodations, transportation, and catamaran experience. Feedback like yours is extremely valuable and helps us continue improving the experiences we create for our travelers.

I will be sure to share your kind words with Alex. He is an outstanding driver and host, and I know he will be thrilled to hear how much his knowledge, professionalism, and recommendations contributed to your experience.

Costa Rica has so many beautiful regions still waiting to be explored, and we would be honored to help you discover them on a future visit. Whether it is Tortuguero, Monteverde, Corcovado, Drake Bay, or another hidden corner of our country, we would love to welcome your family back.

Thank you again for trusting Serendipity Adventures with your family vacation. It was a privilege to be part of your journey.

Pura Vida!

Elena Mora
Serendipity Adventures

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.