Planning a Costa Rica trip means coordinating flights, hotels, activities, and logistics across multiple destinations. Most travelers waste hours researching what to pack, when to visit, and which documents they need – only to forget something critical.
Here’s the complete checklist I use when planning trips for clients. It covers everything from passport requirements to hidden gear you’ll actually need.
Essential Documents and Requirements
Entry Requirements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date
- Return ticket or proof of onward travel
- No visa required for stays under 90 days (US, Canada, EU, Australia citizens)
- Travel insurance recommended but not mandatory
Money and Banking
- US dollars accepted everywhere – no need to exchange before arriving
- ATMs widely available in towns and tourist areas
- Notify your bank you’re traveling to avoid card blocks
- Carry small bills – many places can’t break $50 or $100 notes
When to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica has two seasons: dry (December–April) and green (May–November). Most travelers book during dry season for guaranteed sunshine, but green season offers better prices and fewer crowds.
If you’re visiting Arenal Volcano or cloud forests, rain happens year-round. Pack accordingly no matter when you travel.
Best Months by Activity
- Turtle nesting: July–October on Caribbean coast, September–March on Pacific
- Whale watching: July–November and December–April (different species)
- Surfing: Consistent year-round, biggest swells May–November
- Budget travel: September–October (lowest prices, heaviest afternoon rain)
Packing Essentials Most People Forget
I’ve seen hundreds of travelers arrive unprepared for Costa Rica’s microclimates. You’ll move from beach heat to cloud forest chill in the same day.
Critical Gear
- Lightweight rain jacket (even during dry season)
- Quick-dry clothes – humidity is intense
- Reef-safe sunscreen (regular brands damage coral)
- Bug spray with DEET for lowland areas
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag
- Headlamp or flashlight (many trails and beaches have no lights)
What to Leave Home
- Expensive jewelry – you’re going to beaches and rainforests
- More than one pair of nice shoes – sandals and hiking boots cover most activities
- Hair dryer or straightener – humidity wins every time
For hikes in places like Manuel Antonio National Park, closed-toe water shoes save your feet on rocky trails and river crossings.
Booking Flights and Transportation
Most international flights land in San José (SJO). Liberia (LIR) in Guanacaste is the second option if you’re staying primarily on the Pacific coast.
Ground Transportation Options
- Rental car: Best for flexibility, required 4WD in rainy season for many routes
- Private shuttle: Door-to-door between destinations, no haggling
- Domestic flights: Time-saver for long distances like San José to Tortuguero
- Public buses: Cheapest option but adds significant travel time
Planning Your Itinerary
The biggest mistake first-timers make is cramming too many destinations into one week. Costa Rica’s roads are slow — what looks like 2 hours on a map takes 4.
Realistic Timeline
- 7 days: Pick 2 destinations max (example: Arenal + Manuel Antonio)
- 10 days: Add a third stop (example: Monteverde + Tamarindo + Tortuguero)
- 14+ days: Comfortable pace for 4-5 regions
Activities and Tours Worth Pre-Booking
Some experiences sell out weeks in advance during high season. Others you can book the day before.
Reserve Ahead
- Monteverde Cloud Forest guided night tours
- Corcovado National Park permits (limited daily entries)
- Turtle nesting tours during peak months
- Popular zipline canopy tours in Arenal and Monteverde
Book Locally or Last-Minute
- Surf lessons at beach towns
- Snorkeling trips
- Hiking trails (most don’t require reservations)
- Horseback riding tours
Health and Safety Preparation
No vaccinations are required for Costa Rica, but hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended if you’re eating street food or visiting rural areas.
Common Sense Precautions
- Drink tap water in major cities – it’s safe
- Don’t leave valuables visible in rental cars
- Rip currents are serious – only swim at beaches with lifeguards if you’re unfamiliar
- Bring key medications if you have specific needs
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cash should I bring to Costa Rica?
$50-100 per day in cash covers meals, tips, and small vendors. Use cards for hotels and major tours. ATMs are reliable in tourist areas.
Do I need travel insurance for Costa Rica?
Not required for entry, but recommended. Medical care is good and affordable, but evacuation from remote areas is expensive. Insurance also covers trip cancellations and lost luggage.
Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?
Yes in cities and major tourist areas. San José, Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Jaco have safe tap water. In very remote regions, stick to bottled water.
What’s the best way to get from San José to Arenal or Manuel Antonio?
Private shuttle is the easiest (3-4 hours). Rental car gives you flexibility. Public buses are cheapest but take longer with multiple stops.
Ready to Plan Your Costa Rica Trip?
We handle the entire checklist – flights, hotels, transfers, tours – so you don’t spend weeks researching. You tell us what kind of trip you want, and we build a complete itinerary that actually flows. Visit why travel with us to see how Vacation Pura Vida coordinates every detail.
Call +506 6214 4422 or visit Vacation Pura Vida to schedule your Esterillos Este appointment.