Most “all inclusive” Costa Rica vacation packages aren’t what you think. Unlike Caribbean resorts where drinks and meals are bundled, Costa Rica all-inclusive means something different – and honestly, better for most travelers.
Here’s what you actually get when you book an all-inclusive Costa Rica package, what you’ll still pay for separately, and when a true resort package makes more sense than our approach.
What’s Included in Costa Rica All-Inclusive Packages
When we build a Costa Rica all-inclusive package at Vacation Pura Vida, here’s what’s covered:
- Round-trip flights from your home city to San José or Liberia
- All accommodations – boutique hotels, beachfront villas, or eco-lodges depending on your route
- Ground transportation – airport transfers, shuttles between destinations, or rental car with insurance
- Daily breakfast at every hotel
- Pre-booked tours and activities – zip-lining, wildlife tours, hot springs, surf lessons, whatever fits your itinerary
- Park entrance fees for national parks and reserves
- 24/7 local support – if something goes sideways, you call us, not a 1-800 number
What’s typically not included: lunches, dinners, alcoholic drinks, spa treatments, and optional add-on tours you decide to book once you’re here. Costa Rica doesn’t work like Cancún — most travelers eat at local sodas and beach restaurants, which is half the experience and often cheaper than resort dining.
Sample 7-Day All-Inclusive Package Breakdown
| Component | What You Get | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | Round-trip from US/Canada to San José | $400–$800/person |
| Hotels (6 nights) | 3-4 star boutique hotels, 2–3 locations | $600–$1,200 |
| Transportation | Rental car or private shuttles | $350–$600 |
| Tours & Activities | 3–5 guided experiences (zip-line, wildlife, hot springs) | $300–$600/person |
| Daily Breakfast | Included at all hotels | Included |
| Total Package | 7 days, 2–3 regions | $1,800–$3,500/person |
Prices vary based on travel dates, group size, and which regions you visit. Peak season (December–April) runs 20–30% higher than green season (May–November). Booking during shoulder months like May or early December can save you hundreds while still offering great weather.
Popular All-Inclusive Itineraries
Arenal + Manuel Antonio (7 Days)
Volcano views, hot springs, rainforest hikes, and Pacific beaches. This is our most-booked route for first-timers. You’ll stay near Arenal Volcano for three nights, then transfer to Manuel Antonio for beach time and wildlife. Expect to see sloths, monkeys, toucans, and possibly scarlet macaws.
Monteverde + Guanacaste Beaches (8 Days)
Cloud forest adventure followed by all-day beach lounging. Perfect for families. Monteverde gives you zip-lining and hanging bridges through misty forests. Guanacaste gives you surf lessons and sunset catamaran tours. Pack layers for Monteverde and swimsuits for the coast.
Caribbean + Central Pacific (10 Days)
Two completely different coastlines. Start in Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean side – laid-back reggae vibes, snorkeling, sloth sanctuaries, and Afro-Caribbean cuisine. Finish in Jacó or Esterillos on the Pacific for bigger waves and easier access to national parks. This route showcases Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity and cultural variety.
Tortuguero + Arenal + Beach (9 Days)
For wildlife lovers who want it all. Begin in Tortuguero National Park, accessible only by boat or plane, where you’ll spot caimans, river otters, and nesting sea turtles. Move inland to Arenal for volcano hikes and hot springs, then finish at a Pacific beach of your choice.
When NOT to Book an All-Inclusive Package
If you want a true resort experience where you never leave the property and everything including alcohol is covered, book a Guanacaste beach resort directly. That’s not what we do, and it’s not how most of Costa Rica works.
Our packages are for travelers who want to see multiple regions, do real activities, and experience the country beyond a pool bar. If that sounds like too much moving around, or if you prefer predictable resort amenities over authentic local experiences, stick to one location and book a traditional all-inclusive resort.
FAQ
Are meals included in Costa Rica all-inclusive packages?
Breakfast is almost always included. Lunch and dinner typically aren’t, because Costa Rica’s restaurant scene is too good to skip. Expect to budget $25–$50 per person per day for meals outside the hotel.
Can I customize an all-inclusive package?
Yes. We build every itinerary from scratch based on what you want to do, how much you want to move around, and your budget. Nothing is cookie-cutter.
What’s the best time to book an all-inclusive Costa Rica vacation?
Dry season (December–April) is peak, so book 3–4 months ahead. Green season (May–November) has lower prices, fewer crowds, and you can often book 4–6 weeks out.
Do packages include travel insurance?
No, but we strongly recommend it. We can connect you with travel insurance providers, or you can book your own. It’s especially important during rainy season when flight delays are more common.
How do I get between destinations?
We arrange everything – rental car with GPS and insurance, private shuttles, or shared shuttles depending on your comfort level and budget. You’ll never be figuring out logistics on your own.
Ready to Plan Your All-Inclusive Costa Rica Vacation?
We’ll build a custom itinerary that covers flights, hotels, transportation, and activities — no generic packages, no upsells once you arrive. Just a complete trip designed around what you actually want to do in Costa Rica.
Call +506 6214 4422 or visit Vacation Pura Vida to book your Esterillos Este appointment.