travel costa rica solo

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Central America » Costa Rica » The ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Costa Rica | Destinations & Tips for 2024

The ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Costa Rica | Destinations & Tips for 2024

With cascading waterfalls, luxurious yet affordable hostels, golden sand beaches, and a thriving population of some of the world’s most exciting wildlife, Costa Rica is an adventure-packed destination not to be missed.

The Central American country straddles the subcontinent with the Pacific Ocean to its west and the Caribbean to its east. Its geographical location makes it one of the most biodiverse places in the world, scattered with unique flora and endangered animals.

There truly is something for every type of solo traveler in Costa Rica.  A coast lined with tropical beaches and shimmering clear water, impressive jungles packed with wildlife, and cities with more culture and history than you can absorb.

Traveling alone is one of the most liberating and best self-learning experiences you will ever experience. Put yourself outside of your comfort zone and explore this magnificently diverse country.

If you want to embrace the Costa Rican national motto of ‘Pura Vida,’ translated to ‘Pure Life’ – this is your chance. In this article, you’ll find the top places to visit alone, the resources you need, and things to do when traveling to Costa Rica.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

5 Things to Do in Costa Rica When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in costa rica, the best travel apps for solo travel in costa rica, safety tips for solo travelers in costa rica, tips for solo traveling in costa rica, how to meet people when solo traveling in costa rica, final thoughts on solo travel in costa rica.

Costa Rica is a country of activity and adventure. Chances are your reason for visiting is to explore some of the fantastic national parks, exquisite coastlines, and dramatic inland jungles the country has to offer. Here is our pick of the top five things to do in this incredible Central American country:

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

1. Join a Whitewater Rafting Trip on the Pacuare River

Doable with a day trip or a multiple-day activity, rafting down the Pacuare River is an adrenaline-pumping activity like no other. The river gorge is surrounded by steep lush walls, offering the perfect combination of natural wilderness beauty and excitement. Organized tours depart from multiple locations and are a great adventure to meet other active travelers.

2. Enjoy the Surfer, Yogi Lifestyle in Santa Teresa

Surfing and yoga retreats in Costa Rica go hand in hand with one another. This is the idyllic location to practice your poses and learn to surf while living the quintessential ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle.

A salty seaside town that rolls into the Pacific Ocean, Santa Teresa is the heart and soul of the Costa Rican beach experience. With six miles of beaches offering waves from beginner to advanced surfing conditions, this activity is the crowning jewel of Santa Teresa. 

3. Trek Through Rainforests to Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano is one of Central America’s coolest volcanoes , rising 5,436 feet above sea level and towering over the jungle around it. A long time ago, the not dormant volcano would erupt a handful of times every day, changing the landscape as it did so.

Hiking through the surrounding rainforests is an incredible way to explore the verdant jungles of Costa Rica. Visit the crashing waterfall at La Fortuna, raft along the Penas Blancas River, or explore the Venado Caves.

4. Snorkel along the Caribbean Coastline at Cahuita National Park

On Costa Rica’s tropical Caribbean coastline, Cahuita National Park is a preserve that protects one of the country’s most attractive coral reefs. As you submerge yourself in the crystal clear water, a new world will be revealed. Corals, crustaceans, and multicolored sea life are everywhere.

One of the best things about this park is that it is surrounded by a coastal jungle, which can be explored on foot. Perfect for both hikers and snorkelers, this park shows off some of the most impressive natural treasures for Costa Rica solo travelers .

5. Experience Nature at its Finest at the Tortuguero National Park

Located in a remote and isolated part of the Caribbean coastline in the north of the country is Tortuguero National Park. It draws thousands of visitors annually to admire its incredible population of leatherback, hawksbill, and green sea turtles. 

The park is the perfect destination for a slow-paced Costa Rican solo travel adventure. Relax and watch as some of the country’s most precious wildlife go about their daily activities. Join a group hike, a canoe tour or explore the park at your own pace for a snippet into Costa Rica’s impressive biodiverse landscape.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Choosing only a few top places to visit in a country as diverse and exciting as Costa Rica is no easy task. However, there are definitely a few cities and towns that are specifically suitable for solo travelers, especially solo female travelers in Costa Rica.

Below are five of the most solo travel-friendly destinations to add to your Costa Rican itinerary :

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is one of Costa Rica’s most welcoming Caribbean seaside towns. Dotted with colorful cantinas, bars, and eateries with an oura of reggaeton in the air, what was once a local fishing village is now a buzzing town of surfers and yoga experts.

The town is home to a legendary barreling wave that breaks over a reef at Salsa Brava, as well as a famous beach break at Playa Cocles. Great for regular surfers, this unlikely Caribbean coastline provides reliable swell when the Pacific fails to.

The town is also known for being the perfect place to venture into the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. This lush landscape is home to an exciting variety of fauna and flora. Slithering snakes, squeaking parakeets, and even a few elusive jaguars lurk in the jungle. Here, you can visit the Jaguar Rescue Center and learn how this species is protected in Costa Rica.

Set just on the edge of town between the beach and the jungle, La Ruka Hostel is one of Puerto Viejo’s most loved hostels.

If I had to attribute Costa Rica’s eco-tourism to one location in the country, Monteverde would be it. 

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is relatively small, yet large enough to offer tons of activities for hikers and wildlife fans. It’s one of the most biodiverse jungles in the world! Follow a range of trails and cross a suspension bridge that carves its way through a canopy of dense tropical foliage for an epic time.

Suitable for solo travelers in Costa Rica, the region has accommodations ranging from high-end eco-hotels to sustainable hostels and timber cabanas. Santa Elena is the hub for budget travelers, with the most affordable places to stay found here. From here, you can also join in on a bunch of adrenaline-pumping activities, day trips, and tours ranging from whitewater rafting to horseback riding.

If you’re looking for a social place to rest your head, you’ll meet great new friends at the buzzing bar at Monteverde Backpackers . I had a great time at this hostel and the staff were some of the nicest folks ever!

Chances are you’ll arrive in San Jose as your first destination in Costa Rica. Most visitors choose not to stay here long, but the capital sure has its assets worth checking out.

Avenida Central is the heart and soul of the capital. The long street passes through the central part of the city, connecting many of the most desirable neighborhoods. 

While in the area, visit the Central Market (which is especially vibrant on Saturday mornings) along with the Cultural Plaza.

San Jose is packed with exciting restaurants, shops, historic sites, and attractions. All of which will give you a good idea of Costa Rican culture, cuisine, and tradition. There are also many affordable ways to explore the city, with plenty of budget accommodations and street food vendors serving up a local feast.

Set in the heart of San Jose, Capital Hostel de Ciudad embraces diversity and offers comfortable rooms that create a space for relaxation and socialization.

Santa Teresa

Costa Rica’s premier beach town, Santa Teresa, has recently become one of the trendiest towns to visit as a solo female traveler in Costa Rica. The remote town seems a world away from the bright lights and bustling traffic of the city. It’s set against a jungle backdrop along the Pacific coastline of the Nicoya Peninsula.

Although remote, it certainly isn’t boring. There’s a buzzing nightlife scene, trendy restaurants and bars, and regularly-hosted beach parties. All of which are brought about by the growing population of digital nomads and young travelers. 

The highlight of this town is that it boasts some of Costa Rica’s best beaches , which are palm-tree lined and great for surfing. Visiting the town to learn to surf is a great idea, with waves suitable for everyone from beginner to advanced surfers. Some of the area’s top beaches include Playa Hermosa, Playa Santa Teresa, and Playa Carmen.

While the beaches are the central meeting place, the town also offers a laid-back atmosphere. It’s packed with new restaurants and bars, street food vendors, and sociable hostels. The Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is the perfect day activity for those looking to hike through the Costa Rican outback.

The perfect spot for an aspiring surfer, Zeneidas Surf Garden in Santa Teresa features an indoor/outdoor living space surrounded by a tropical garden.

Surrounded by rocky headlands, Tamarindo Beach is a long stretch of beach recently famed as one of Costa Rica’s most famous beach towns. Founded as a surfing haven in the ’70s, the town has only recently blossomed into the trendy surf town that it is today.

Suitable for all budgets, you’ll find everything from fancy hotels to low-cost surf hostels, surf camps, and homestays in this small town. 

Surfing is the most popular activity in town, with endless waves for beginners to practice on. When you aren’t hitting the waves, Marino Las Baulas National Park offers a wealth of natural biodiversity. Oh, and it’s home to thousands of leatherback sea turtles during the breeding months of October and March.

One of the most unique places to stay while traveling solo in Costa Rica’s Tamarindo is Pipe House Playa Grande . It’s a hostel with private eco-rooms, a full kitchen, a BBQ area, and separate men’s and women’s bathrooms.

Having some of these great travel apps will make your solo traveling a hell of a lot easier.

• Hostelworld – for booking hostels, backpackers, and homestays
• Booking.com – for booking hotels and guesthouses 
• Airbnb – for booking self-catering vacation rentals
• Couchsurfer – great for budget travel but not recommended for solo females
• Viator and Get Your Guide – the top tour booking apps
• Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble – great for meeting other singles or solo travelers in your vicinity
• Expedia – an all-rounder platform for booking flights, accommodations, and tours
• Uber and Lyft – to get from A to B safely
• Moovit – to plan out routes on local buses and transport networks
• Waze and CR Maps – to help you safely navigate and plan your route around the country
• WhatsApp – the leading social networking application used by most locals in Costa Rica 
• Windy, Magic Seaweed, and Wunderground – the most trusted weather reports
• Holafly  – An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

It is also a good idea to join local Facebook ex-pat groups designed for foreign travelers and ex-pats in Costa Rica. These groups often post events and social gatherings where you can make new friends.

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

Like any solo adventure, protecting yourself from danger is never 100% possible. The best we can do is stay aware of our surroundings and use common sense to ensure we don’t put ourselves in any undesirable situations. 

Trust your instincts – they’re usually correct. When something feels ‘off,’ there is usually a reason why! 

Party responsibly, and don’t leave your drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers. Especially as a solo female traveler in Costa Rica , make sure you don’t get too intoxicated after dark when there is no one to look after you.

Read reviews of tours and accommodations. Other travelers’ experiences are the best way to get a good idea of a location and if it’s worth the expense and the journey.

When traveling from location to location, keep your valuables on your person. Take special care of your passport, phone, and any cash. On that note, while you will need cash to purchase things from informal sellers, try not to carry too much cash during the day. 

As a solo female, you must take extra precautions after the sun goes down. Avoid certain areas, including the beach, at night time.

• Stay in a hostel ! Budget accommodation is of high quality here, and you could easily afford a private suite within a low budget. Hostels are among the best places to make new friends and meet other travelers. Casa Aura Beachfront Premium Hostel in Tamarindo is as close to a luxury hotel as you will get from a backpacker’s. For a more social experience, Poshtel Arenal is La Fortuna’s premier party hostel.
• Plan a few booked adventures , tours, and activities throughout your stay. Walking tours are a great way to learn a bit of history and meet others at the same time. Visiting national parks with a tour group is an excellent idea for a solo traveler in Costa Rica.
• Keep some flexibility in your schedule . While following an itinerary is a good idea, try booking refundable tours that don’t require an upfront payment. This makes it possible to chop and change your plans according to who you meet along your journey. Chances are you will want to extend your time in one place or entirely miss out on another after chatting to other travelers.
• Always plan your own itinerary . Template itineraries and advice from others are excellent sources of inspiration. Still, you should always do your own research and figure out which places and activities most attract you personally. It’s YOUR Costa Rican Adventure ! Traveling solo is one of the few times in life when you can be totally selfish and do as you please.
• Download an AirSim or purchase a prepaid local SIM card on arrival. Having an internet connection and a local phone number will allow you to change bookings and plans.
• Download all the necessary applications that you might need during your adventure. These include booking platforms to make it easier to communicate with accommodation and tour companies. Translation apps, airline apps, and local transport apps are all great.
• Do your research. Like many places, some parts of Costa Rica are less safe to explore than others. You should be able to figure out which neighborhoods are good places to stay in Costa Rica and which aren’t.
• Share your travel plans with someone back home as a safety measure. Also with a new friend that you trust in the country (such as someone staying at your hostel). One of my best Costa Rica solo travel tips; I always like to share my phone’s location with friends and family, just in case.
• Pack light . Costa Rica is stacked with things to do and places to visit. You’ll need to take a fair share of busses, taxis, and planes to get around. It is always much easier to navigate with minimal luggage. Conveniently, the tropical weather requires minimal clothing, so you shouldn’t have an issue fitting things into a small bag.
• Get good travel insurance . Costa Rica is generally safe , but traveling without insurance is never a good idea.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Stay in hostels: Occupied by budget travelers from across the globe, hostels offer an exciting social atmosphere that makes it easy to meet people and make new friends. Especially when sharing a dorm room, friendships grow fast in hostels. Most of the top hostels in Costa Rica also have communal areas and even bars.
• Attend cultural events and social gatherings: Hostels in Costa Rica often organize regular events and activities, including hikes, boat trips, walking tours, and even pub crawls. Here you can experience a location, all while meeting new friends. 
• Download some dating applications: Even if finding a date while traveling solo in Costa Rica isn’t a priority, these applications can be used to meet friends. Browse through a plethora of different locals and tourists in your area and make plans to meet up with new friends in safe spaces.
• Join Facebook groups and follow local Instagram pages: Most cities and towns in Costa Rica have social media groups that post regular activities, pop-ups, and events. Ranging from weekly markets to cooking courses and everything in between. Other visitors or ex-pats typically attend these activities, making this a great way to meet people in Costa Rica.
• Join in on some group tours: As mentioned, group tours are an exceptional way to meet like-minded travelers. Most of whom will likely have similar interests to your own. 
• Sign up for exercise classes or short-term memberships: If you intend on spending more than one week in a location, exercise classes and weekly membership packages are great. You can stay fit while meeting others. 
• Smile and be friendly to others: Make yourself available and approachable to others. Sometimes, it takes some effort and energy to be social and friendly with complete strangers.

Tumbling waterfalls, dense jungles, pristine beaches, and colorful underwater playgrounds are just a taste of what Costa Rica has to offer. It’s home to some of the world’s most well-known national parks (a staggering 29 in total). It also has the highest percentage of protected land of any country in the world.

The Central American country stretches across the Caribbean and Pacific coastline and has a thriving culture blending indigenous heritage with Spanish colonial influence. The result is a nation of laid-back, relaxed, and friendly locals who are always glad to welcome you into their beautiful country. 

The combination of culture, natural beauty, and welcoming locals make it the perfect location for solo travel in Costa Rica . Costa Rica is a haven that deserves a place at the top of all solo travelers’ bucket lists. Whether you’re looking to explore the jungles, marvel at some of the world’s most endangered species, or take in the vibrant culture of the capital city.

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• PR & Marketing
• Privacy Policy

Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Costa Rica

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Adventure GatG, Beach GatG, Nature GatG, Ocean GatG, Wildlife GatG

Costa Rica is a wonderful eco destination to explore especially if you love nature and wildlife. I spent two weeks travelling solo in the country and share my guide for female solo travel Costa Rica below. 

If you are planning to travel to Costa Rica alone, I've included the best places to visit in Costa Rica, what to do in Costa Rica, how to travel around Costa Rica, and the best tours in Costa Rica for solos.

Discover where to go when traveling to Costa Rica alone, how to get around when you solo travel to Costa Rica, plus ideas for a Costa Rica itinerary. All recommendations are from both myself and our solo female community and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. 

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

• Volunteering & Working in Costa Rica

Things To Do in Costa Rica

• Best Costa Rica Tour Companies

Best Areas To Stay in Costa Rica

Best places to stay in costa rica.

• Costa Rica Yoga Retreats

Costa Rica Travel Insurance

Costa rica airports, getting around costa rica.

• Costa Rica Solo Travel Itinerary

Travel Guide For Costa Rica

Packing list for costa rica, best time to go to costa rica.

• Crossing the Nicaragua, Costa Rica Border

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Costa Rica

Planning a trip to costa rica, costa rica map, related posts.

The Frio River that passes through Nicaragua

Is Costa Rica Safe For Female Travellers?

If you're asking “Is Costa Rica safe for solo female travellers?” Costa Rica in Central America is a beautiful country but you do have to be careful here as there is some petty crime. Avoid walking anywhere at night and in certain areas such as Puntarenas, Liberia and San Jose, especially by the bus stations.

As the sun goes down you are more prone to thieves. Locals even advise not to walk around after the sun has set in the capital. There is prostitution in Playa Jaco so be careful walking around here by yourself and avoid any beaches alone at night.

Beware of travel scams in Costa Rica too. At San Jose bus station be wary of anyone who tells you that the bus has just left and that you need to hurry and get into a car which is waiting with a driver to take you to the bus. Don’t get into any cars.

Costa Rica solo travel may seem a little intimidating at first but if you can speak a little Spanish it will make you feel more comfortable as you can converse with the locals. La Fortuna de San Carlos is a safe area and people speak English so it is easy to arrange tours and accommodations here.

Is Costa Rica safe to travel alone? In my opinion, yes. I spent two weeks solo backpacking Costa Rica and recommend Costa Rica for solo travelers as there is so much to see. B ut if you feel uncomfortable about exploring Costa Rica on your own you may feel more comfortable on a group tour.

Adrenalin solo – If you are looking for adventurous things to do in Costa Rica, the country is a mecca for the adventure solo. You can go horseback riding, trekking or even zip-lining amongst its rainforests. Monteverde and Arenal are popular destinations for zip-lining adventures.

Backpacking solo – If you are backpacking Costa Rica alone, Santa Teresa attracts European travellers and you’ll meet lots of Americans in Playa Carmen to the south. During the day make sure you visit a soda (small traditional restaurant) to try typical cuisine with the locals.

Culture solo – Costa Rica is renowned for its high-quality coffee, and you can visit coffee plantations to learn about the production process and sample some delicious brews. The Central Valley region is known for its coffee tours.

Language solo – There are Spanish schools in Costa Rica where you can take an immersion course and learn about the culture as you improve your Spanish. These are a great way of traveling to Costa Rica alone if you're feeling intrepid about not speaking the language and will give you the confidence for the rest of your solo Costa Rica trip. Schools can be found in Manuel Antonio, Jaco Beach, San Jose and all around the country.

Nature solo – If you love nature, you can lace up your boots and explore diverse trails, from Chirripó's challenging summit to the scenic paths of Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Costa Rica has many beautiful landscapes and you can enjoy bird's-eye views with canopy tours and hanging bridges.

Ocean solo – If you prefer the water, there are plenty of water sports to get your blood pumping such as whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing. Costa Rica's rivers offer thrilling water rafting experiences, from beginner-friendly to adrenaline-pumping rapids. The Pacuare and Sarapiqui Rivers are renowned for rafting. Dive or snorkel in Costa Rica's pristine coral reefs at Cahuita National Park, Manuel Antonio, and the Catalina Islands.

Experience world-class surfing along the Pacific coast at Tamarindo, Playa Hermosa, and Santa Teresa. The Pacific Coast is a must do in Costa Rica for scuba divers with the chance to get close to bull sharks. On your Costa Rica solo trip, go wreck diving at the Tortuga Islands, or snorkel or kayak at the bays of the Papagayo Peninsula. You’ll discover coves and beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Spiritual and wellness solo – Costa Rica's natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for yoga and wellness retreats. There are various retreat centers and resorts that offer yoga classes, meditation sessions, spa treatments, and holistic wellness programs. Read the Costa Rica Yoga Retreats section  

Wildlife solo – For wildlife solos, Costa Rica is an amazing country to visit with endemic birds and animals and migrations of whales and turtles passing through. You’ll find sloths, four different species of monkeys, pumas and jaguars within its jungle landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for the yellow beak of the toucan flying past too.

Consider volunteering when travelling alone in Costa Rica

Volunteering & Working in Costa Rica 

If you're thinking of working in Costa Rica, Global Work & Travel helps you to organise placements in Costa Rica and around the world. Choose from sea turtle conservation Costa Rica to being a   sloth sanctuary Costa Rica volunteer or even teaching in Costa Rica .

They also have programs for working remotely in Costa Rica where you can experience life as a digital nomad for a month. Their placements are ideal for solos and include all the support you need for a life-changing adventure. * Discover all their Costa Rica volunteering and working placements 

One of the many waterfalls that Costa Rica has to offer

Costa Rica is the number one destination in Central America, and it's easy to see why. Home to 5% of the world's biodiversity, this country boasts tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and 185 miles of Caribbean sea coastline. The country has 28 National Parks and it even has its own Venice with the jungle canals of Tortuguero and river valleys.

Home to turtle nesting sites, three-toed sloths and the national bird: Quetzal, Costa Rica has some of the best wildlife in the neotropics. From the north to the south, I’ve covered all my favourite areas for solos in the country.

* Before you solo female travel in Costa Rica, check what paperwork or visas are required for Costa Rica .  

The view of Arenal volcano on a clear day but be prepared to not have this visibility

Arenal & La Fortuna

Active Girl about the Globe, Adrenalin GatG, Nature GatG

Start in the north of the country for the  Arenal volcano.   This area of Costa Rica is for the adventurous backpacker. Those who want to fling themselves along one of the world’s longest zip lines, abseil (or rappel) down waterfalls and rock faces or windsurf on Lake Arenal.

Base yourself in   La Fortuna ,  one of the main tourist attractions in Costa Rica as it's the best city to stay in Costa Rica to see the Arenal Volcano National Park where you can hike the extinct Chato Volcano and see Arenal Volcano from the top. It's also one of the best places in Costa Rica for solo travelers as it's easy to meet others here. 

Arenal Volcano is a bit of a trek so be prepared for some serious hiking. You can also take rainforest hikes and go horse riding near here too. Don’t forget to check out the La Fortuna waterfall where you can hike to the base. Be prepared to not have good visibility when you get to the top and make sure to take a fleece or rain jacket with you too, just in case the weather changes.

If you prefer a waterfall that's less of a tourist attraction, the Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park is stunning. But the 4-mile trail to get there can be a bit muddy so pack those walking boots.

If you prefer something less strenuous, how about a rainforest chocolate tour instead? Visit a cocoa farm and learn all about the chocolate making process whilst admiring the views of the volcano without the trek. 

Solo tip – “I don't recommend hiking Cerro Chato alone as it isn't a straightforward hike and is easy to get lost. Join a tour if you can or if you're staying in a hostel, ask others if they want to do it with you.” – Lisa, solo female traveller

The sun sets on the Papagayo Peninsula

Papagayo Peninsula

Hiking GatG, Surfing GatG

In the northwest, the Papagayo Peninsula boasts Playa Hermosa, a stunning beach renowned for its surfing. Santa Rosa National Park offers hiking trails and abundant wildlife for nature solos, and Marina Papagayo with its luxurious yachts and vibrant waterfront is worth a visit. Adventure solos should head to Rincon de la Vieja National Park for some exhilarating zip-lining and then relaxing in the hot springs.

Costa Rica is great for ocean lovers as you can snorkel, surf or kayak

Shopping GatG, Surfing GatG

Tamarindo offers more surfing opportunities and is an ideal place to try a surf lesson. Take a stroll along Tamarindo Beach, renowned for its golden sands and great surf breaks, or venture into the nearby Marino Las Baulas National Park, home to nesting leatherback turtles.

During your Tamarindo solo travel, head here for their Saturday market where you can buy figs in wine, and vegan produce as well as funky bikinis and jewellery hand-made by the local women. Plus, don’t miss the chance to witness breathtaking sunsets and indulge in delicious seafood at one of the local beachfront restaurants.

You have to experience a hanging bridge in Monteverde cloud forest. If you're scared of heights, hold on tight!

Active GatG, Bird-watching GatG, Nature GatG

Moving southwest, Monteverde is a lush paradise known for its famous cloud forests. This town, originally founded by Quakers, offers a cooler climate compared to the rest of the country.

As one of the best places to travel Costa Rica, the Biological Reserve is one of the most biodiverse areas in Costa Rica and one of the tourist attractions. Walk the hanging bridges spotting tropical birds along the 3km walkway. Take one of the hiking trails through the cloud forest passing waterfalls, giant plants and streams as you go. For adrenalin junkies, you can zip-line at the Sky Trek at Monteverde. This is an ideal area for hiking alone in Costa Rica. 

The reserve provides volunteering opportunities and a way of getting involved in the country’s conservation projects. One of the best things to do in Costa Rica at night is to take a Monteverde  night tour  to see native nocturnal animals such as sloths and snakes. * Read my experience off seeing sloths in Monteverde

Walking through a forest reserve at night gives an added element to animal spotting. Selvatura Park is more than 850 acres and you can spot hummingbirds and butterflies within its grounds.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is also the place to visit in Costa Rica if you enjoy spotting birds. It is home to 450 different birds, half of the 900 bird species in the country. Humming Birds are prevalent here too and look out for the quetzals, whose colourful feathers were once admired by the Mayans.

Cano Negro, also in the north is ideal for birdwatchers who can take boat and kayak tours along its mineral-rich rivers.

Tortuguero Beach is known for its turtle nesting sites

Nature GatG, Wildlife GatG

From one National Park to another, in the east, Tortuguero stands out with its jungle canals and river valleys, earning it the nickname “Costa Rica's Venice.” This area is known for its turtle nesting sites and abundant wildlife, including three-toed sloths and the national bird, the Quetzal. It is also a great destination for culture.

Tortuguero village combines its indigenous roots with tourism infrastructure. The best way to see its waterways are on a canoe or kayak so you can explore this natural area at your own pace. Find out how chocolate is produced on a multi-day cacao tour or just squeeze it into a half-day tasting day instead.

Costa Rica is just an abundance of nature

Sarapiqui & Braulio Carrillo

Costa Rica is also home to colourful tree frogs. Frogs Heaven at Sarapiqui Costa Rica is one of the best places to go in Costa Rica to spot red-eyed frogs and tiny poisonous dart amphibians.   This area is also ideal for the adrenalin lovers who want to experience white-water rafting along a river. The rapids range from Class I to Class VI with the Sarapiqui river and Pacuare river being amongst the best.

Also located in the west are the ecoregions of Braulio Carrillo National Park with even more cloud forests and waterfalls. There’s an aerial tram that takes you on an 80-minute tour where you spot a sloth in its natural habitat. If you’re lucky you may even see a jaguar.

Only stay a few nights in San Jose and instead explore the area on day trips (photo by Eelco Bohtlingk)

Arty & Museum GatG, City & Sightseeing GatG, Shopping GatG, Wildlife GatG

Continuing south, the country's capital, San Jose, is primarily known for its 19th-century architecture. While there aren't many solo activities in the city, it serves as a good base to visit attractions such as coffee plantations in the Central Valley and Poas Volcano National Park where you can gaze into a steaming crater and photograph a lagoon.

Surprisingly, you can see sloths and wildlife in the capital. The University of Costa Rica campus is home to a variety of birds, insects and sloths that you can see on a walking nature tour. It's a ideal opportunity to see wildlife.

If you need to buy some souvenirs to take home with you, then check out the Mercado Calle Nacional de Artesania y Pintura market in San Jose for almost anything Costa Rican. Plaza de la Cultura is the nicest area in the city, and the National Theatre and Museum are worth a visit too.

Just outside of San Jose is La Paz Waterfall Gardens where you can spot pumas, jaguars and toucans amongst the five waterfalls cascade. You can pay a visit to the Jaguar Rescue Centre near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, to see the wild cats that have been rescued. Carara National Park is also near San Jose (a 2-hour drive away), and is the area to see crocodiles, monkeys, sloths, ocelots and jaguars within its 5,000 hectares. 

There aren’t really any beaches near San Jose Costa Rica so you do have to travel for a couple of hours to reach the coast. From San Jose Costa Rica to beach towns it’s at least 2 hours drive.

Solo tip – “For Costa Rica solo female travel, there isn't really much to do in San Jose so I recommend taking day trips from here. You can take a day tip to Irazu Volcano or book a day tour to a coffee plantation. La Paz waterfall is cool too!” – Jo, solo female traveller. 

View from the boat from across the Nicoya Peninsula

Nicoya Peninsula

Beach GatG, Surfing GatG

Moving towards the west coast, a good place to visit in Costa Rica for the surfing GatG is the Nicoya Peninsula which offers stunning beaches and is easily reachable from the port town of Puntarenas.

If you're wondering where to base yourself in Costa Rica, Montezuma has a hippy, funky vibe and is one of the best places to travel solo in Costa Rica for those looking to chill by the beach. Take the ferry to Paquera then a public bus for 90 minutes to get there. If you’re in Montezuma on a Saturday make sure that you visit the colourful market. * Read: Montezuma Beach

Tortuga Island is great for a day trip! You can snorkel here and enjoy a beach barbecue too

Tortuga Island

Festival GatG, Ocean GatG

Although the islands are not as known as some of its Central American neighbours,  Tortuga island   (Spanish for ‘Turtle Island’) is easily reachable for a day trip from here. Snorkel around Rainbow Rock and spot turtles and reef sharks in the waters. Another island you can visit (that is further away) is Isla del Cano where you can spot dolphins and whales. * Read: My Experience of Isla Tortuga

Further along the coast is Santa Teresa, with supermarkets like delis and a superb beach with equally magnificent sunsets. This is where they hold bull riding festivals and it’s one of the good places to visit in Costa Rica to meet other solos.

Solo tip – “Santa Teresa is the best beach town to surf in. It may take you a while to get there but it's definitely worth it.” – Adalieth, solo female traveller. 

Take a boat trip along the calm waters in the country

Caribbean Coast

Costa Rica has two coastlines: the Caribbean and the Pacific. If you like reggae and calypso music then head to the Caribbean Coast for a laid-back vibe, rainforests and palm-fringed beaches. Go surfing at Puerto Viejo, or visit Manzanillo – a tropical fishing village with turquoise water. Take a boat trip here and spot whales and dolphins or join a chartered fishing trip to catch some barracuda.

Limon is a bustling city but cruise ships dock at Limon so don’t expect to be the only one here during the cruising season. From here you can take a day trip to Limon to visit Cahuita National Park.

See a sloth at the Sloth Sanctuary near Cahuita

Wildlife GatG

The Sloth Sanctuary near Cahuita rescues sloths and they also offer a rainforest canoe trip during your visit. It's a Costa Rica must do if you want to see a sloth. If you want to escape the crowds, Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge offers wetlands and lagoons where you can spot crocodiles and bull sharks.

Seeing a toucan flying in the air for the first time is amazing!

Osa Peninsula

Beach GatG, Wildlife GatG

Heading to the southwest, The west coast is rich in marine life with idyllic beaches and the Osa Peninsula offers some of the best wildlife viewings without the crowds.  Corcovado National Park is a hotspot for tourism, with diverse species such as armadillos, monkeys, sloths, ocelots, and jaguars, but it can be remote. It’s a good place for trekking. Drake Bay is perfect for relaxation, surrounded by lush vegetation and calm waves.

Make sure to enjoy one of the sunsets

Manuel Antonio National Park

Beach GatG, Ocean GatG, Wildlife GatG

Continuing along the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park showcases stunning beaches and is a popular destination for tourists. Piedras Blancas National Park is a great spot for bat watching, while Uvita Beach offers the chance to spot humpback whales. The region is known for its marine life and idyllic beaches.

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best beaches in Costa Rica and one of the most popular Costa Rica things to do. There’s a reason its stunning beaches make it the most popular in the country.

The canopy bridges are for those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the floor and admire the rainforest crossing high bridges as you go. If it’s some relaxation that you’re after, this region has several hot springs from budget options to the most luxurious spa resorts. Marino Ballena National Park on the Pacific Coast is a great place to spot humpback whales. 

Solo tip – “I spent a week in Manuel Antonio. This is a beautiful town on the beach and very safe. It has an amazing rainforest too.” – Jodi, solo female traveller. 

Jaco Beach is ideal for catching some sun rays

Active GatG, Beach GatG, Wildlife GatG

Jaco Beach   on the Pacific coast is popular with sunbathers and is a good place to learn how to surf. Enjoy the beautiful sandy beach and take part in various water activities like surfing and paddleboarding. Explore nearby rainforests, go on wildlife tours, or visit the Carara National Park to spot exotic birds and crocodiles.

Legend even has it that pirates buried gold on Cocos Island off the Pacific coast. Its wilderness is home to armadillos and more than 100 different mammalian species. You can kayak, rent bikes and go on a tour with a fisherman.

For a cultural experience, visit one of the tribes in Talamanca

Adrenalin GatG, Cultural GatG, History GatG, Tribal GatG

If you are wanting cultural things to do in Costa Rica, Indigenous tribes live in Costa Rica and some welcome travellers. You can sit around a fire with the Bribri tribe in the Talamanca Mountains and gain insights into their traditions, or listen to the shaman from the Cabecar community as he tells you about their culture.

The Veragua Rainforest Eco-Adventure in the Talamanca Mountains offers even more zip-lining as well as a canopy gondola ride through the jungle. 

In the south of the country are remains of pre-Colombian settlements. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Diquis Delta has mysterious stone spheres and is worth a visit.

Liberia is the gateway to Nicaragua. Buses leave from here across the border.

City GatG, Nature GatG

When you are visiting Costa Rica, it’s just as easy to combine this lush country with its neighbour too, and if you’re travelling to Nicaragua,   Liberia   is a good stopover.

Liberia is the capital of the Guanacaste province in the north. There isn’t really much here and most travellers use this city as a base to explore the mountains and rainforest of Rincon de la Vieja National Park which is only 2 hours from the city. 

You can explore the volcanic landscapes and hiking trails of this National Park, relax in the natural hot springs or take a canopy tour to observe diverse wildlife. Liberia also serves as a gateway to beautiful Pacific beaches such as Playa Hermosa, Ocotal and Tamarindo – known for its surfing and nightlife

You can do day trips from here or just choose to spend the night before taking a local bus to the border in the morning. The local buses to Nicaragua are cheap and easy if you're travelling across the border. 

Final thoughts…

I hope that this article has given you some ideas for the best places to solo travel in Costa Rica. With rainforests, volcanos and plenty of natural Costa Rica attractions, it’s easy to see why this country is the number one destination in Central America. The locals definitely know how to live life to the full. Solo female travel to Costa Rica and you'll experience an abundance of nature and wildlife and what the locals call the ‘pura vida.' For Costa Rica travel, solo is the best way to go.

Best Costa Rica Tour Companies 

If the thought of Costa Rica female solo travel sounds a bit daunting, you can always join a group tour for all or part of your trip. This way you have guaranteed company and an itinerary and activities already planned out for you so all you have to do is just turn up. Below I've listed recommended tour companies for all ages. 

Tours For Any Age

G Adventures Costa Rica

If you feel more comfortable in a group for your solo travel to Costa Rica, G Adventures is a responsible tour company offering group trips to Costa Rica, which mainly caters for budget travellers. Most tours have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any Costa Rica activities you want to do when you’re there.

Their tours in Costa Rica start from a 5 days Classic Tour to San Jose, Monteverde and La Fortuna, to a 14-day G Adventures Basic Costa Rica tour beginning and ending in San Jose, to a 28-day Volcano Adventure including Panama, Guatemala, and Honduras. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female-friendly company.  * Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Intrepid Travel Costa Rica

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people using their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear more costly than G Adventures.

Their tours to Costa Rica include getting to know the country on a 15-day Classic Costa Rica tour, a 9-day Costa Rica Experience, and many more. Read our   Intrepid Travel Reviews .

Both of these companies have some of the best Costa Rica tours and with both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room *  Click here for full itineraries, prices and start dates

Green World Adventures

With a strong model of sustainable tourism, this boutique tour operator base in Costa Rica personalises your tour whether you are looking for nature, adventure, cultural interaction or even an educational experience in Costa Rica. As well as standard tours they also offer customised trips so you can combine beaches with adventure, or culture with hiking. However you want your trip to be. * Save 5% discount with your FREE Solo Travel Card (women only)

Tours For 18-39s

For the backpacker solo, TruTravels offers a classic 10-day trip to Costa Rica travelling from San Jose to Santa Teresa. Visit the capital as well as San Juan, La Fortuna, Monteverde and Santa Teresa whilst seeing jungles and volcanic hot spots as well as exotic wildlife with a group of like-minded others. This trip is a mix of culture, adventure, beaches and partying, staying in hostels, beach huts, boats and homestays.

International flights aren’t included but all your transport when you get there is. Trips have a maximum of 20 people with most travellers between the ages of 18 and mid 30’s. The price is from £1295 based on a twin share. * Check TruTravels Costa Rica full itinerary

* Save 10% discount with the code ‘Girlabouttheglobe10’  

Tours For Over 40s (& Costa Rica Tours for Seniors)

Just You – Just You offers Costa Rica tours for solo travelers. In a group of both men and women (usually more women), you will have your own room, time for yourself (if you want it) and other solo travellers to sightsee and dine with. Their Costa Rica-escorted tours for solo travellers is a 12 day tour discovering the real Costa Rica including San Jose, Puerto Viejo, Cahuita National Park, Tortuguero, Arenal and more. The tour is from £4399. * Check prices and dates for all solo holidays Costa Rica

Explore Costa Rica  

Explore offers every kind of trip for solos for all ages, especially if you’re 40 plus. You can take a short break, a trip that specialises in food and drink and you also have the option of private or self-guided tours too. They have several trips to Costa Rica whether you prefer to see the highlights of Costa Rica in 9 days or combine it with the beach for 11 days.

You can cycle Costa Rica in 2 weeks or go coast to coast to see the country’s wildlife. If you have longer you can even combine Costa Rica with Nicaragua or Panama from 2 to 3 weeks. Group sizes are between 12 to 18 and you share a room with another member of the group or can upgrade to a single room. Prices exclude flights. * Check all Costa Rica tours and prices for Explore  

Costa Rica Day Tours

Get Your Guide – Day Tours 

Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities in Costa Rica and other worldwide destinations. Choose from a tour to Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall and the hot springs, a trip to Manuel Antonio National Park, or a canopy tour adventure.

Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are several excursions in Costa Rica to book as a solo  including Costa Rica tours from San Jose and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability for one before booking tours in Costa Rica, then click ‘checkout.' * Check all Costa Rica day tours, prices & availability

The best area to stay in Costa Rica depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. I’ve included some recommended areas for different types of solos below.

Beach solos – Puerto Viejo is a small town on the Caribbean coast that is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. The town has a laid-back vibe, with plenty of restaurants and accommodations from hostels to boutique hotels.

Nature solos – Monteverde is a beautiful cloud forest region that is known for its nature. The area is known for its hiking trails, wildlife, and beautiful scenery. There are several accommodations in the area, from hostels to eco-lodges. I loved it here.

Ocean solos – Tamarindo is a laid-back beach town on the Pacific coast that is popular with travelers. The beach is great for surfing and the town has a relaxed vibe with hostels to luxury resorts. Or you could stay in Montezuma, a small beach town where I stayed on the Nicolya Peninsula near to the surf beach of Playa Grande.

Below are the best places to stay in Costa Rica for budget and comfort accommodation as recommended by myself and other solo female travellers.

When you're planning your solo trip Costa Rica, there is accommodation in Costa Rica for all types of solos. Whether you prefer luxury resorts , eco jungle lodges, boutique b&bs, hostels or Costa Rica hotels. Stay in an upmarket resort at the Golfo Dulce, a jungle eco-resort on the Caribbean coast or a luxury hotel beneath the Talamanca Mountains. There are so many best places to stay in Costa Rica for singles and solos. 

There is also Airbnb Costa Rica which connects you to staying with locals whether you choose to just book a room or a whole apartment.  If you are planning to solo travel Costa Rica, I've included the best hostels for solos and the best hotels in Costa Rica for solo travelers below. For all other accommodations in Costa Rica, click on the link below and search for the solo reviews. * Check rates & availability for all Costa Rica accommodation

Budget Accommodation – $

Jaco – If you prefer to stay on the coast and are looking for the best beach near San Jose Costa Rica, then Jaco is the closest one and Selina Jaco is perfect for wellness solos. I love the Selina concept and this one offers yoga classes and has a surf club. It feels like a community and is located close to the bars and restaurants. Just take some ear plugs if you’re a light sleeper. Prices from $28 for a bed in a large dormitory. * Check prices and dates: Selina Jaco

La Fortuna – Arenal Poshpacker is in a great location, close to the volcano and waterfall. It’s really sociable, with a garden, cocktail bar and hammocks. They even have female-only dorms too! I met other solo travellers here. Prices from $21 for a bed in 4-bed female dorm room. * Check prices and dates: Arenal Poshpacker

Monteverde – Hotel & Hostel Sloth Backpackers is really sociable. It has both dorms and rooms and because it’s so small, you get to know the other guests (I met nearly everyone!) It’s a 5 minute walk to the bus station and close to supermarkets, an ATM, bars and restaurants. Prices from $24 for a mixed-dorm room. * Check prices and dates: Hotel & Hostel Sloth Backpackers

San Jose – The Chillout Escalante Hotel has a cosy vibe with helpful, friendly staff. It’s near a supermarket, cafes and bars and they offer free tea and coffee! There’s also a hitch so you can cook your own meals. Prices from $27 p/n for a 6-bed female-dorm. * Check prices and dates: Chillout Escalante Hotel

Comfort Accommodation – $$

Arenal – Arenal Xilopalo is located close enough to La Fortuna and you can see the Arenal volcano from this 3-star property. The restaurant is in the open air and the view from the terrace is great plus if you’re lucky you can spot the local wildlife. Prices from $50 for a standard double room. * Check prices and dates: Arenal Xilopalo

Jaco – Boutique Hotel IBIZA is a 3-star hotel in a beautiful location. The staff are wonderful and the property is safe with a 24 hour reception. The beach, supermarkets and restaurants are just a short walk away. Prices from $71 for a classic room. * Check prices and dates: Boutique Hotel IBIZA

Monteverde – Hotel Santa Fe B&B is a colourful 3-star B&B located close enough to the town but tucked away on the hill. The owners are really helpful and offer breakfast included and an airport shuttle. Prices from $55 for a double room. * Check prices and dates: Hotel Santa Fe B&B

San Jose – Casa Jardin del Mango is a homely choice in a quiet area. The staff are really helpful and there’s a garden and a nice garden to chill out in as well as a mini gym. They even have a dog if you’re a pet lover! Prices from $45 for a double room. * Check prices and dates: Casa Jardin del Mango

Santa Teresa – Casa Zen Guesthouse is perfect for yoga lovers and those who are looking for some zen. It’s close to the beach in Santa Teresa and arranges yoga classes, surf lessons, snorkelling and bike hire. You can even go zip-lining with other guests that you meet. Prices from $40 for a double room with a shared bathroom * Check prices and dates: Casa Zen Guesthouse 

Costa Rica Yoga Retreats 

Costa Rica is also known for wellness so when you're travelling Costa Rica solo you may want to experience a retreat here. Not only are retreats a good way to relax but you can also meet like-minded others too and possibly even find a travel partner for the rest of your trip. 

For all yoga retreats in Costa Rica, I recommend Book Yoga Retreats . I love this platform. I booked my last yoga retreat through them and found it really easy to use. They list yoga and meditation retreats all around the world including Costa Rica so you can find the perfect duration for you.

Whether you're searching for a 5-day Diva’s Detox retreat near Dominical or a week-long Kundalini Yoga retreat in Guanacaste. They have many to choose from including a surf and yoga retreat Costa Rica and horseriding with yoga too. I've included two recommended yoga retreats in Costa Rica below but for all other yoga retreats just search by duration or price to find the one that resonates with you. * Check prices, dates and duration for all yoga Costa Rica retreats

4 days Rainforest Yoga Holiday in Lake Arenal

Arenal is one of my favourite places in Costa Rica. This 4 day rainforest yoga holiday in Lake Arenal is perfect for a short yoga retreat. The gorgeous setting provides you with a chance to renew your mind and meet other like-minded solos, all here to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the eco property.

There’s a pool and jacuzzi and you can hike in the surrounding areas with great views of the volcano. Yoga classes are daily and you also have the opportunity to learn about permaculture and receive advice from a certified naturopath so you'll leave Arenal feeling healthier and more relaxed. * Check prices, accommodation and availability: 4 days Arenal Retreat  

7 Days Yoga Retreat in Guanacaste

If you have 7 days, join this 7-day yoga retreat Guanacaste Costa Rica. This retreat is for all levels so it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or more advanced. It includes 2 daily yoga classes, both in the morning and the afternoon and 3 meditation sessions and because it’s just a short drive to the beach, there’s a daily beach shuttle too.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful place to relax and harmonise your body, this yoga holiday is a great place to rejuvenate. * Check prices, accommodation and availability: 7 days Guanacaste Retreat

Costa Rica is a beautiful country to explore but travel insurance is always recommended for your Costa Rica trips to cover you for any travel delays, medical assistance and activities.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Costa Rica. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

When you are travelling to Costa Rica, the country has two international airports: Juan Santamaria International Airport near San Jose, and Liberia International Airport in the north. Costa Rica is well connected with direct flights to North America, Europe, and London.

From San José – Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is only 30 minutes away from the city by bus. A taxi will cost approximately $30 for the 17-minute journey one way or you can take one of the bus operators: TUASA or Station Wagon which cost approx $2 and leave every 15 minutes.

From Liberia – From Liberia International Airport (LIR) a taxi will cost approximately $22 for the 15-minute journey or there are private shuttles which you can pre-book. Line 513 bus takes 12 minutes into the city. 

When solo travelling Costa Rica, the country may look quite small but the distances can be misleading making travelling in Costa Rica a bit challenging to plan. Below are some ways on how to travel around in Costa Rica to help you plan your trip. 

Travelling Costa Rica by bus – The country does have a good bus system and can be the best way to get around Costa Rica if you are travelling on a budget or on a solo backpacking trip Costa Rica. But you may find yourself having to travel back to San Jose between destinations. Buses from San Jose can take you all over the country, but some of the roads may not be as good as you’re used to.

For example, when you are touring Costa Rica on your own, the bus from San Jose to Fortuna takes 4.5 hours, and Fortuna to Monteverde takes 7 hours. Don’t expect there to be air conditioning on the buses or for them to stop for toilet breaks. You can’t buy bus tickets online and only from the stations.

The best way to travel Costa Rica in comfort and an alternative transportation option to the public buses is s hared shuttle services such as Interbus Costa Rica . They are more pricey than the local buses but they are the best way to travel around Costa Rica as they are air-conditioned and you'll arrive at your destination in less time than if you took local transport. 

If you are planning on driving in Costa Rica, the country’s road network is good enough to self-drive your way around but hiring a rental car can be expensive because you have to add insurance “mandatory by the government” even if your credit card already includes it. I have personally used Discover Cars and recommend them. * Check car rental prices here . This article is good if you are considering driving alone in costa rica

If you're not keen on Costa Rica public transport and prefer a private transfer you can also use Uber for your Costa Rica trip. It is a quick and easy way of getting around in Costa Rica. For Uber buy a prepaid SIM card as you’ll need a number for them to contact you. Sit in the front seat of your Uber ride.

Water taxis operate from Playa Jaco to Santa Teresa. Ferries from Puntarenas to Paquera Costa Rica take 1.5 hours. Buy your ferry ticket beforehand if you can.

Solo Travel Tips – Rome 2 Rio is a great resource for traveling Costa Rica alone as it helps you to plan your route. 

Costa Rica Itinerary

How long do you need for your Costa Rica solo travel female trip? When you are planning your solo trips to Costa Rica, you do need to allow enough time to explore Costa Rica properly especially if you want to see all the Costa Rica tourist attractions. Travelling around Costa Rica can take a while so plan ahead if you are only here for a short time. 

Whether you are planning to spend a week in Costa Rica or a fortnight, b elow are examples of a Costa Rica solo travel itinerary to help:

1 week itinerary Costa Rica – For 1 week in Costa Rica stay in San Jose (2 nights), Monteverde (3 nights), and Arenal (2 nights).

Costa Rica itinerary 10 days – You can also use this itinerary for a Costa Rica road trip 10 days. Stay in San Jose (2 nights), Monteverde (3 nights), La Fortuna Costa Rica (2 nights), Montezuma (3 nights)

Costa Rica itinerary 14 days: For 2 weeks in Costa Rica stay in San Jose (2 nights), Manuel Antonio (3 nights), Monteverde (2 nights), La Fortuna (2 nights) Tortuguero National Park (2 nights), Cahuita National Park (2 nights)

Two weeks in Costa Rica: For a Costa Rica road trip 2 weeks stay in San José (2 nights), Montezuma (3 nights), La Fortuna (3 nights), Monteverde (3 nights), Isla Tortuga (2 nights), Liberia (1 night).

If you need a guidebook for your Costa Rica vacation I recommend Rough Guides. Covering where to go and when to go, things not to miss, itineraries, getting around, festivals and events, history, and maps, they are amongst the most comprehensive guides on the market. If you prefer Lonely Planet click here for all Costa Rica guide books.

If you are planning a solo trip to Costa Rica, the Rough Guide to Costa Rica covers topics such as: booking your trip, about Costa Rica and its culture, the best things to do in Costa Rica, where to stay in Costa Rica, getting there, how to get around Costa Rica, food and drink, Costa Rica itineraries and travel essentials.

They also include low-key, tourist-free spots, hot springs, and enjoying some of Costa Rica’s best coffee. If you are unsure where to fo in Costa Rica, it is your travel Bible.

* Check prices and availability on Amazon

If you’re unsure what to pack for your solo adventures in Costa Rica, I've created a guide of my favourite solo travel products to help you decide what to pack. One of my must-have travel products when traveling to Costa Rica alone is a head torch.

If you are planning on taking a night safari and spotting the Costa Rican wildlife on your walking tour then a head torch is a must. Find out why I love this head torch and click on the link to discover all of my favourite travel products:

*  Click here for all of our recommended travel accessories for solos

This LED headlamp has 5 settings including a high and low beam and a red light to not attract flying insects. It’s also water and shock resistant and the bulb lasts for up to 100,000 hours. It allows you to be hands-free so you can use your hands to take photos on your night safari. * Check prices and buy from Amazon

If you're wondering when to go to Costa Rica, the country has several micro-climates. Having cloud forests and highlands means that you can experience different weather as you travel around the country. The dry season is from mid-December to April and it’s the most popular time to travel but it is also the most expensive.

If you are going to Costa Rica for wildlife, you can watch sea turtles lay their eggs at Santa Rosa National Park, or see them in Tortuguero National Park between July to October. If you are wondering what to do in Costa Rica in July, visit between here to April for humpback whales at Uvita in the Pacific Ocean, or the Caribbean Sea from December to March.

For what to do in Costa Rica in February, visit  the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge between February to April for a greater chance of seeing sloths and toucans. Costa Rica is a year-round destination so just choose the time of year depending on what you want to do there.

Costa Rica is one of the greenest countries on the planet making it easy to be a conscious traveller here. Take part in community-based tourism, such as visiting a cocoa farm or banana plantation during your stay to help preserve indigenous communities and local cultures.

Purchase hand-crafted arts and weaving from markets in local communities to sustain their traditions. If you see them making it directly at a workshop you know it will go directly to the craftsman or woman.

Help protect the sea turtles by visiting a marine conservation project on the Talamanca coast, and staying in an eco-lodge at the same time!

For getting around Costa Rica, Nature Air is a Costa Rican airline that offers internal flights in the country. Although they are still an airline, they are doing its best to reduce its carbon emissions. The airline has a NatureKids Foundation and donates funds to forest conservation. 

Wellness in Costa Rica

Wellness in Costa Rica doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You don’t even need to go to a spa to pamper yourself as nature provides it for free. One of the unique things to do in Costa Rica is take a mud bath near Rincon de la Vieja National Park before relaxing in a hot spring.

Costa Rica is the perfect destination for transformational travel. Toby Israel offers yoga, nature and writing retreats to reconnect with yourself and come away rested, rejuvenated and transformed. Upcoming retreats include “Yoga and The Art of Listening” in Finca La Flor, and “Find Your Flow Balance Your World,” a yoga and nature retreat in Samara.

Volunteering in Costa Rica

If you are planning to volunteer in Costa Rica, Raleigh International offers volunteer placements such as environmental projects and improving access to conservation areas. Or join a community project to build and improve school facilities. Find out more about their projects here.

Or volunteer with turtles at a Sea Turtle Conservation Project in Ostional through Global Work & Travel, nurturing sea turtle nests and their eggs and making a contribution to Costa Rica’s marine life. Or choose a 2 to 10-week placement at a Sloth & Wildlife Rescue Sanctuary , dedicating your time to caring for injured rainforest animals such as sloths, monkeys and macaws.

Global Work & Travel offer complete volunteering and teaching packages including transfers, accommodation, insurance and ongoing support.  

Social Impact Projects

Kekoldi Indian Reservation Hike – This hiking tour is not your average hike but is part of a larger project implementing sustainable and community-based tourism within the region. By taking this tour, which is guided by an experienced local guide, you not only get to learn about indigenous history and plants but also contribute to the further implantation of self-sustaining jobs.

Café Monteverde – This café is a whole experience! Not only do they offer a cup of sustainably grown coffee but everyone is welcome to take a tour of their farm as well! The tour takes you on the journey of the coffee bean in its environmental, social and economic context. Café Monteverde also offers educational programs where visitors can learn about sustainable agriculture and the history of conservation in Monteverde.  

Stay Eco in Costa Rica

Monteverde Lodge and Gardens  

Monteverde Lodge and Gardens is a hotel nestled in the forests close to the city of Monteverde. It offers stunning views and comfortable, modern rooms. Their strong commitment to the environment can be felt in every corner of the 28 guest rooms.

Solar energy heats the water of the swimming pool and rooms, their recycling program has been in place for over 30 years, and all guests are offered a stainless steel, reusable water bottle. For the eco-conscious traveller staying a night at the Monteverde Lodge and Gardens will certainly be a luxurious experience.  

• Prices from £245 / $311 p/n for a forest view downstairs room
• Check prices, dates and availability: Monteverde Lodge and Gardens

Rancho Margot Sustainable & Self-Sufficient Eco Lodge

Nothing screams more ‘off the grid’ than Rancho Margot. This hotel is not only eco-conscious but self-sufficient as well! Enjoy a meal from their organic farm, learn how to milk a cow, dip your toes into their natural pools, or immerse yourself in the community with their volunteering programs!  

• Prices from £175 / $220 for 2 nights for a bungalow

Issues affecting v ulnerable girls in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has rather successfully implemented programs dedicated to education, specifically girl’s education. In 2012 the literacy rate of girls (98.7%) even surpassed the literacy rate of boys (97.9%). The government is working closely with UNESCO to identify a set of educational standard goals to be reached by 2030. Read more…  

Costa Rica has established well-respected child development initiatives, however children, especially young girls, fall victim to child trafficking. Many are exploited for the purpose of sex tourism. Children living on the streets are especially vulnerable. Read more…  

The government of Costa Rica raised the minimum wage for marriage to 18 in 2017, in order to help girls receive an education and avoid teenage pregnancy. Previously, one in five Costa Rican girls was married by the time she turned 18, sometimes to older men. Child marriage is especially prevalent in indigenous communities where enforcing the law could be seen as a challenge. Read more…  

FAQs For Costa Rica

• Can I drink the water? Yes but not in the rural areas. Buy bottled water or take your own water filter with you.
• Is tipping expected? 10% is expected.
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price but you can try and barter at the markets.
• Any ATMs? There are ATMs in the main tourist destinations.
• Which side of the road do they drive? The right-hand side.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes.
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No but the country is very biodiverse and lush!
• Are there any Costa Rica Beaches near San Jose? There aren’t really any San Jose Costa Rica beaches. Jaco Beach would be the closest but it’s a 2 hour drive from the Costa Rican capital
• Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica alone? Yes but you do need to be careful in certain areas. See the solo travel section above for ‘is Costa Rica safe for solo travelers?'

Current time in San Jose, Costa Rica

Budget – At least $80 a day. This website is useful for costs

Capital – San José

Population – 5.15 million

Language spoken – Spanish

Local Currency – Costa Rican Colón 

Do I need a visa? British Citizens don’t need a visa for Costa Rica and can stay up to 90 days. 

Vaccinations Required  

Useful Info

Airlines to Costa Rica  

Which Plug Do I Need?  

UNESCO Sites in Costa Rica  

Events and Festivals in Costa Rica  

Local Cost Guide  

Local Customs & Etiquette  

• Crossing The Nicaragua, Costa Rica Border
• Expert Interview – Costa Rica With Erin
• Transformation Travel in Costa Rica
• Teaching English in Costa Rica
• Blog Adventures in Costa Rica
• Costa Rica Travel Scams

Current Time in San Jose

Join the GatG Facebook Group

Your solo travel journey…., most popular post, g adventures review, join our gatg facebook community, contact us....

[email protected]

Search the site...

The small print....

Girl about the Globe Copyright © 2012-2024

Web by Eldo Web Design Ltd

[Updated 2024] Costa Rica Solo Travel Guide for First-Timers (From a Seasoned Traveler)

“If you want to be immersed in nourishing nature and reconnect with yourself, go to Costa Rica!” – Kassia, BookRetreats Social Media Manager

Mmm yes, please!  

We’ve done the hard work for you and collated our team’s top solo travel tips, their must-see Costa Rican sights, and ways to make your trip more affordable. 

One complete solo traveler guide to Costa Rica, coming right up.

• Google Maps Bucket List: Costa Rica  
• Top 10 Yoga Retreats in Costa Rica You Could Be At Tomorrow
• 7 Curated Costa Rica Vacation Packages You’re Sure To Love
• 8 Costa Rica Yoga Teacher Trainings For Your 200HR Certification

Why Costa Rica is a Great Place for Solo Travel

For us, Costa Rica stands out as an exceptional destination for solo travel due to its reputation for safety, welcoming culture, and diverse range of experiences. 

From the stunning beaches of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts to the lush rainforests teeming with wildlife, Costa Rica’s natural beauty provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. 

Costa Rica boasts 30 National Parks!

So whether you’re hiking through one of these national parks, surfing one of the many infamous breaks, or indulging in local cuisine, solo travelers can fully immerse themselves in the pura vida lifestyle, embracing the freedom and independence that Costa Rica so effortlessly embodies.

Pura Vida ‘A way of life in Costa Rica. It encourages people to appreciate the present moment, find happiness in the little things, and prioritize relationships and experiences over material possessions.’

Top Costa Rica Destinations for Solo Travel

Perfect for: Yogis, surfers, families, couples, and solo travelers of all ages.

This laidback town in the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica is known for its world-class surfing beaches, spiritual community, and cute cafes.

Dominical serves as a gateway to nearby attractions such as the lush rainforests of Manuel Antonio National Park and the breathtaking Nauyaca Waterfalls, offering solo adventurers a variety of activities to enjoy. 

Our Team Recommends: Nauyaca Waterfall, Poza Azul Waterfall, Cano Island Snorkeling Tour, a Chocolate Tour, and the Farmer’s Market every Friday morning in town.

Perfect for: Families, couples, solo travelers, and nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Serving as the gateway to Arenal Volcano, it offers opportunities for hiking, ziplining, and relaxing in hot springs. 

The town’s vibrant plaza provides chances to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. With its adventurous spirit and stunning natural beauty, La Fortuna ensures solo travelers an unforgettable experience in Costa Rica.

Our Team Recommends: The Rio Celeste Hike, Tabacon Hot Springs, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hanging Bridges in Mistico Park, and the Rainforest Chocolate Tour!

Manuel Antonio

Perfect for: Families, couples, solo travelers, nature enthusiasts, surfers, and yogis of all ages.

This adventure-packed destination offers great hiking, beautiful beaches, and wildlife-spotting opportunities. 

The National Park may be one of the smallest, but it’s also one of the most popular. And we can see why…just look at that picture!

Our Team Recommends: El Santuario Canopy Adventure Ziplining, Chocolate and Coffee Tour, Spectacular Jungle Tour on Horseback, Full Day Waterfall Tour, Manuel Antonio National Park Tour with a guide, Espadilla Beach (aka Manuel Antonio Beach), and Biesanz Beach.

Perfect for: Surfing enthusiasts, beach lovers, couples, friends, and solo travelers

This very cool coastal town offers everything you expect and more! Fun nightlife, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches.

Our Team Recommends: Beach Horseback riding on Playa Tamarindo, Moonlight Night Market, fishing, diving, and Las Baulas National Marine Park to see turtles nesting.

Perfect for: Families, couples, and solo travelers 

San José is great for solo travelers due to its central location, cultural richness, and accessibility. It offers plenty of cultural experiences like museums and historical sites. 

Plus, it’s a convenient hub for day trips to nearby attractions! 

Our Team Recommends: the National Museum of Costa Rica, Children’s Museum, National Theater of Costa Rica, and La Sabana Park

Top Things To See and Do in Costa Rica

1. Explore Arenal Volcano

Hike through Arenal Volcano National Park, soak in natural hot springs, and marvel at the stunning views of this iconic volcano. Don’t miss the chance to take a canopy tour or zipline adventure through the surrounding rainforest.

2. Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife in one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks. Hiking trails offer opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds, while the park’s stunning beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing.

Kassia told us that this is an experience that cannot be missed!

3. Experience Monteverde Cloud Forest

Immerse yourself in the magical world of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive resplendent quetzal. Explore hanging bridges, canopy tours, and nature trails for a truly unforgettable adventure.

Amanda , from our Support Team, told us that this is an experience that cannot be missed!

4. Surf in Tamarindo

Discover why Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise by catching waves in Tamarindo, a bustling beach town on the Pacific coast. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Tamarindo offers surf breaks for all levels, along with surf schools and board rentals.

5. Relax in Tortuguero National Park

Explore the remote wilderness of Tortuguero National Park, accessible only by boat or plane. Known as the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” Tortuguero is a haven for wildlife, including nesting sea turtles, monkeys, crocodiles, and countless bird species. Take a guided boat tour through the park’s intricate network of canals for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Where to Stay and Eat in Costa Rica

We reached out to our team again for accommodation and food recommendations! Check them out below or on our Google Map Guide . 

You’ll want to add these to your Costa Rica Itinerary.

• Tropical Sands Hotel
• Danyasa Yoga Retreat
• Tribe Hotel
• Cool Vibes Hostel
• Rio Lindo Hotel
• Cafe Mono Congo – great for co-working
• Cafe Olas – great for co-working
• Phat Noodle
• Little India
• Dominical Sushi
• Mama Toucans
• La Casita Pizza
• Cafe Ensueno
• La Parcela – for sunset

Yoga Studios and Healing Spaces

• Danyasa Yoga 
• Rockstar Yoga
• Alegria Spa
• Live Latin music every Friday night at Fuego
• Live rock/country music every Thursday night at Rum Bar

Aren’t we lucky to have Kassia? She lived in Dominical for over a year, and thinks it is ‘the best place’ , so you can trust her recommendations!

• Selina Hostel – great for co-working
• Alojamientos N&S La Fortuna San Carlos- Wifi / Fan 
• Yellow Bark
• Pollo Fortuneno 
• Soda La Hormiga
• Rain Forest Café
• Tabacon Hot Springs
• Espacio Intuitivo
• Wellness with Reya 

• Selina Hostel – great for co-working 
• Casa Geraldo Hotel/Airbnb
• Emilio’s Café
• Falafel Bar
• Café Milagro
• Rafaelas Taverna

Yoga Studios and Healing Spaces 

• Selina Hostel

• Selina Tamarindo
• TamaHostel & Glamping
• Boho Tamarindo
• Waffle Monkey 
• Caprichos Resto & Bar
• Nalu Bagel & Café
• SER Om Shanti Studio
• Rythmia Life Advancement Center

• Nativus Art Hostel
• Selina San José
• Aldea Hostel San Jose
• Alma De Cafe
• La Mancha Coffee Shop
• Luz de Luna Breakfast Cafe & Coworking
• Bosque Urbano Cafe – Vegan

Yoga Studios 

• Yoga Prasanna
• Ashtanga Yoga SATYA
• Yoga Savana

Safety Tips for Traveling Solo Around Costa Rica

Traveling solo in Costa Rica is such a rewarding experience! You’ll meet incredible people and tick off bucket list-worthy adventures. Let’s look at ways to make your trip the safest possible.

The emergency number for all services in Costa Rica is 911.

Here are Kassia’s top safety tips for Costa Rica – “Never leave your stuff alone especially on the beach, never walk alone in the dark or on the beach at night.” 

Here are some other tips to consider:

• Use reliable transportation: Opt for reputable taxi services or rideshare apps, especially when traveling at night.
• Secure your belongings: Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Stay connected: Keep friends or family informed of your whereabouts and check in regularly, especially if venturing into remote areas.
• Trust your instincts: If a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.
• Learn some Spanish : While many Costa Ricans speak English, knowing some basic Spanish can help you communicate better and navigate local situations more effectively.

Staying safe as a Solo female traveler in Costa Rica

Sadly, we have to write about it, but safety as a solo female traveler comes with some key considerations:

• Join supportive Facebook communities: Host A Sister and Yogis Who Travel are two that we recommend. Whether you’re looking for travel tips, meet-ups, or are looking for somewhere to stay, these groups are full of friendly like-minded individuals. 
• Read reviews : Before booking accommodations, tours or transport check the reviews, specifically from other solo female travelers. 
• Check out solo female traveler blogs : Key information included is how safe they felt in places they have traveled, and offer advice on how to feeler safe there.

Visa Information for Costa Rica

Plenty of countries are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) when traveling to Costa Rica. With the majority being granted a stay for up to 180 days. You can check the list of countries here .

As always, make sure to check any other requirements before purchasing your ticket!

When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

• December – April: This is the summer season, so you can expect most areas to be very busy. And it’s hot!
• May – July & November: Shoulder seasons. Kassia described these months as “ideal for the not-too-horribly-rainy part of the rainy season and less busy”.

Public Holidays and Important Dates in Costa Rica

You’re going to want to make note of these dates, as they might affect your travel plans!

• Holy Thursday (Jueves Santo) and Good Friday (Viernes Santo): These dates mark the religious observance of Easter, with many Costa Ricans participating in religious processions and ceremonies.
• Labour Day (Día del Trabajo) – May 1st: A public holiday honoring workers, often marked by rallies and demonstrations.
• Annexation of Guanacaste (Anexión del Partido de Nicoya) – July 25th: Commemorates the annexation of the Guanacaste province from Nicaragua in 1824, celebrated with parades, rodeos, and cultural events, especially in the Guanacaste region.
• Independence Day (Día de la Independencia) – September 15th : Celebrates Costa Rica’s independence from Spain in 1821, marked by patriotic parades, concerts, and traditional dances.

It’s worth noting that some holidays, like Independence Day, are celebrated with festivities throughout the entire week leading up to the official date. 

Best Ways to Travel Around  Solo in Costa Rica

As the bus system is quite limited, you are going to want to research your transport options before your trip. Car rental and rideshare, like Uber, will make your travel a lot easier! 

Another great option is private shuttles, Kassia recommends EasyRide. 

Costa Rica Travel Costs and How to Budget

Costa Rica is not a cheap country, let’s just start with that! 

Team members who have traveled extensively around Costa Rica as solo travelers told us that they spent around $2000 – $3000 per month.

• Accommodation: Costa Rica offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury resorts and eco-lodges. 
• Transportation: Renting a car gives you flexibility but can be costly. Public buses are a budget-friendly option, with fares typically ranging from a few dollars for short distances to around $10-20 for longer journeys between cities.
• Food: Dining out in Costa Rica can range from budget-friendly street food stalls and local sodas (small, family-run restaurants) to upscale restaurants and international cuisine. On average, expect to pay around $5-10 for a meal at a soda or casual eatery, while dining at mid-range restaurants may cost $10-20 per meal. To save money, consider shopping at local markets and cooking your meals if your accommodation provides kitchen facilities.
• Activities and Excursions: Costa Rica offers a wide range of activities and excursions, from zip-lining through the rainforest to snorkeling in pristine waters and exploring national parks. Prices for activities can vary widely, so it’s essential to research and prioritize the experiences that align with your interests and budget. Keep in mind that many national parks and attractions charge entrance fees, which can range from $10-20 per person.

By planning and being mindful of your expenses, you can enjoy an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure without breaking the bank.

Top Travel Cost Tip – Everywhere accepts both USD and Costa Rican Colones currencies. If you do pay in USD, you will most likely get your change in Colones. Be aware of the conversion rate, to make sure you get the correct amount back. 

Top Tips for Making Your Solo Costa Rica Trip Affordable

We’ve already said it, Costa Rica is not a cheap country to visit. It’s actually one of the most expensive places in Central America… but come on, the National Parks are just too incredible to resist!

• Work exchanges, through sites such as Workaway 
• Stay in shared accommodation 
• Choose accommodation with a kitchen 
• Travel in the shoulder season 
• Use public transport 

Costa Rica Packing List

Take a screenshot of this epic packing list for your solo trip to Costa Rica:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (T-shirts, tank tops, shorts)
• Long-sleeve shirts and pants (for protection against bugs and sun)
• Light rain jacket or poncho
• Comfortable walking shoes/sandals
• Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• Sarong or beach cover-up
• Pajamas – especially if you’re planning on staying in shared accommodations!

Outdoor Gear

• Daypack or backpack for day trips
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent 
• The UV is very strong in Costa Rica!
• Travel towel or microfiber towel

Health and Safety

• First aid kit with basic supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers)
• Prescription medications and copies of prescriptions
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.)
• Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
• Laundry sheets perfect for handwashing your clothes
• Padlock for when you’re staying in dorm rooms 
• Travel insurance information and emergency contact numbers

Electronics

• Remember your charging cable!
• Waterproof camera or GoPro (optional, for water activities)
• Portable power bank
• Universal travel adapter

Important Documents

• Passport and copies of important documents (ID, travel insurance, itinerary)
• Cash (both local currency and US dollars for emergencies)
• Credit/debit cards

Remember to consider the activities you have planned and the weather conditions in the areas you’ll be visiting. 

With this packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for your adventure in Costa Rica!

Language and Cultural Information to Know About Costa Rica

The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. While many Costa Ricans (Ticos) speak some English, especially in tourist areas, it’s helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals and enhance your travel experience.

It’s good to note that tipping is not mandatory in Costa Rica, as a 10% service charge is often included in restaurant bills. However, it’s customary to leave an additional tip for exceptional service, such as for your tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff.

Tips to Book and Plan Your Trip to Costa Rica

Like all solo travel, you’ll want to have some key things planned and booked, balanced with the flexibility to allow your travels to evolve and flow. 

It’s a very fine balance, but one that allows to you feel more at ease. 

You can relax knowing key trips are booked, but you have space for spontaneity. 

Our team has shared their booking and planning tips below: 

• Research and Book Accommodations : Start by researching and booking accommodations in advance, considering both budget and location. While it’s tempting to stay off the beaten path, be sure to factor in transportation options to access these remote areas.
• Plan Transportation: Once accommodations are secured, research transportation options to and around your chosen destinations. Consider renting a car for flexibility or using public transportation for a more budget-friendly option.
• Book Tours and Excursions: Don’t wait too long to book tours and excursions, especially during the busy summer season when things book up fast. Research reputable tour operators and book your desired activities in advance to avoid missing out on popular experiences.

Our Top 3 Retreats in Costa Rica 

1. 6-day reset yoga retreat at vida asana in costa rica.

Playa Hermosa, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica | Vida Asana School of Yoga and Retreat Center Prices from $895 | Available year-round | 5-Star Reviews

Perfect for: Those looking to disconnect from everything not serving them and reconnect to what does.

Take a break from your daily routine and give yourself the reset you deserve with this Heal and Reset retreat at Vida Asana. 

Whether you’re new to yoga or an advanced practitioner, you’ll benefit from daily yoga practices, nourishing vegetarian and pescatarian meals, and unlimited access to our serene jungle property. 

Join for a transformative experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed.

What’s Included? 

• 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals
• Daily yoga classes
• Water, tea, and coffee served throughout the day
• Daily meditation classes
• Wifi connection
• Pre and post-retreat support from our team
• Accommodation
• Luggage storage
• Welcome drink
• 30-minute massage

2. 10-Day Detox Holiday with Daily Yoga in Alajuela, Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica | Essence Arenal and Spa

Prices from $1,415 | Available year-round | 5-Star Reviews

Perfect for: Those seeking to unwind and rejuvenate.

Imagine staying in your own luxury private room that comes with an orthopedic mattress! Doesn’t that just sound like the perfect solo travel experience?! 

The eco-hostel has majestic views of the Arenal Volcano, the Arenal Lake, and the El Castillo Valley. Seriously, wow!

During your stay, you have unlimited access to the jacuzzi, swimming pool, rainforest trails, volleyball court, and yoga/exercise deck.

Enjoy a range of treatments and therapies in our jungle spa with Temazcal sweat lodge, or consultation with your on-site naturopathic doctor.

• 1-hour treatment
• Specialized workshops

3. 5-Day Farm Life and Yoga in Costa Rica

Platanillo, San José Province, Costa Rica | Rancho Rana Roja

Prices from $500 | Available year-round | 5-Star Reviews

Perfect for: Adventurous nature lovers!

Rancho Rana Roja provides a unique experience that combines participating in a yoga retreat with living on a traditional Costa Rican farm.

Located in a rural village near the mountains of the South Pacific coast, the property includes 10 hectares of primary forest, a waterfall, a variety of farm animals, and a river for swimming.

Enjoy daily yoga classes on a deck with a view, fresh meals made with local food, massages, and above all an escape into nature and an opportunity to connect deeper to yourself.

• Rest yourself for 5 days and 4 nights in one of our rustic cabins in the forest with the sound of the river
• Enjoy 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners that are delicious, healthy, local, and prepared with love
• Start your day with a dynamic class in the morning
• Appreciate your free time to rest or do extra activities

Final Thoughts

Solo travel is not just a journey; it’s a transformative experience that has the power to enrich your life in countless ways. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure, self-discovery, or simply a break from the routine, solo travel offers a path to personal growth, mindfulness, and connection with the world around you. 

Remember, solo travel is for everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience level. So why wait? 

Take the first step towards your next adventure by exploring the diverse retreats available through BookRetreats and join our Yogis Who Travel community. 

Your journey awaits!

Enjoyed reading it? Spread the word!


Hannah, a Travelling Yoga Teacher, shares her love of yoga and travel through her writing, whilst teaching at retreat centers all over the world. Yoga has taken her all over; Australia, Italy. Guatemala, Ecuador, Mexico, Sri Lanka and not forgetting, online.

Table of Contents

Related articles.

Magical Morocco: My Yoga Retreat Experience of a Lifetime 2024

By Dave Anderson

A Deep Dive into My Freediving and Breathwork Retreat 2024

By Daniela Jentsch

Summer 2024: Europe’s Best Beaches Ranked

By Chelsea Westman

Stay Up To Date

Get all of our recommendations

7 of America’s Most Epic Road Trips in 2024 (The Only Guide You Need)

By Ally Kendall |

Updated February 2, 2022

[Updated 2024] Solo USA Travel Guide for First-Timers (From a Seasoned Traveler)

By Dave Anderson |

Updated April 15, 2024

How to ask for days off (and actually get them)

By Marquis Matson |

Updated November 25, 2021

WHO ARE WE?

Why choose us.

We aren’t just a business, we are family. When you book with us, you can be sure that your experience will be full of love, security, understanding, and joy every step of the way. From helping you find the perfect retreat to taking care of you when things go wrong, we treat you like family.

• Cancellation Policies
• Wall of Love
• Add a Retreat
• Family Blog
• Group Retreats

SECURE PAYMENTS

100% CARBON NEUTRAL

Bookretreats offsets 100% of its carbon emissions

© BookRetreats.com 2024

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Your privacy settings

Manage consent preferences, embedded videos, google fonts.

• Central America
• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Costa Rica

There is something very special about solo travel in Costa Rica . If you’ve never embarked on an adventure alone, then this destination in Central America offers the opportunity to reconnect with yourself in magnificent wilderness, meet travelers in the many excellent hostels and step outside your comfort zone with the retreats on offer. Want to know more? Here’s a guide to traveling alone in Costa Rica.

If you’d like a solo experience but in the company of kindred spirits who you are as passionate about travel as you are, join our action-packed nine-day adventure through Costa Rica – led our Local Insider to ensure the most authentic experience.

Best towns for solo travelers in Costa Rica

While there is really no part of Costa Rica that is inadvisable to visit, there are some towns especially suited for solo travelers. Unless you are specifically seeking solitude (which is also amazing sometimes), you will most likely want to be somewhere where there is the opportunity to meet other travelers, try a variety of foods, have nightlife options and be within close proximity to different types of activities. Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, Nosara, and La Fortuna are all very solo traveler-friendly destinations.

How to get around as a solo traveler in Costa Rica

During your solo expedition, it is likely that you will want to move around a bit. Private transportation can get pricey if you are the only one paying for it, but fortunately there are some reasonable and easy transportation options available here. Nature Air and Sansa are Costa Rican airline companies that fly small planes to dozens of small airports around the country. This is probably one of the easiest ways to jump from place to place without wasting time and money. There are also shuttle companies, such as Grayline and Interbus that offer transportation all over the country.

Hostels for solo travelers in Costa Rica

There are plenty of cool hostels in Costa Rica . They’re a great way to meet fellow travelers and often come at budget-friendly prices. But staying in one necessarily mean you’ll have to share a room and bathroom with guests you’ve never met. There are several high-quality hostels in Costa Rica where you have the option of a private room for an affordable price.

What to do on your own in Costa Rica

Traveling solo in Costa Rica doesn’t necessarily mean you have to do everything alone. There are plenty of activities where you can meet and share your experiences with others. If you want to take a tour, just let the tour operator know that you are traveling solo and ask if there are any groups to join. Take a surfing lesson, go on a sunset sailing excursion, sign-up for a yoga class, or join a guided nature tour. The beauty of traveling alone is that you get to do whatever you want and not worry about anyone else.

Solo female travel in Costa Rica

Traveling alone in Central America is a brave endeavor – particularly if you are a first-time solo female traveler. However, Costa Rica is renowned for its outstanding tourism infrastructure – and this makes it a very safe place for solo female travelers. You can easily join day trips and activities as a solo traveler, without worrying about feeling vulnerable. English is widely spoken, not just among other travelers but locals too.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,656 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

More experienced solo female travelers might want to avoid typically busy spots like Tamarindo, Jaco and – if you’re not interested in surfing – Puerto Viejo. Instead, consider a stay in the Monteverde Cloud Forest for the chance to see two-toed sloths stealthily hanging in the trees. Or venture east to the Caribbean coast – Tortuguero National Park , in Limón Province, is a major nesting site for green turtles, and a thirving wetland sanctuary for wildlife like jaguars, tapirs and white-faced capuchin monkeys.

Best retreats for solo travelers in Costa Rica

There are many different retreats taking place throughout the year in Costa Rica. Spend a week doing yoga, surfing, paddleboarding, detoxing, or learning how to live in an environmentally sustainable way. Everything will be set up for you (accommodation, transportation, food, classes and activities) and you will be surrounded by like-minded individuals from around the world.

Best schools for solo travelers in Costa Rica

If you don’t fancy a full-on retreat, there are several great Spanish schools on the coast and in the Central Valley in Costa Rica. There are programs that are as short as a few days and as long as several months. Joining a Spanish language program is a wonderful way to spend a portion of your day learning Spanish and the rest of your day exploring and participating in activities of your choice. Spanish schools are also a great place to meet other travelers. There is often the option to stay at the Spanish school, which is similar to staying at a hostel. Wayra Spanish Institute, Coastal Spanish Institute, Nosara Spanish Institute, Monteverde Institute and Academia Tica Spanish School are all fantastic choices.

Feeling inspired? Solo travel doesn’t have to be solitary the whole time. Join our thrilling nine-day adventure through Costa Rica to experience this amazing country in a small-group of like-minded travellers, led by our Local Insider.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Guides & Tips

How to roll all the best parts of costa rica into one eco-adventure week.

‘Costa Rica is at the forefront of eco-tourism in Latin America’: Why you don’t need to fear travel greenwashing here

See & Do

Monteverde cloud forest: a guide to costa rica's wildlife paradise.

The Secret of Costa Rica’s Hidden Cloud Forests

Top Trips for Disappearing into the Jungle

Places to Stay

The best solar-powered stays in costa rica for sustainable travelers.

Why Costa Rica Is the Ultimate Food Lover's Destination

Why You Should Visit Costa Rica in 2023

The Best Hotels to Book in Samara, Costa Rica

Top Tips for Travelling in Costa Rica

The Best Bed and Breakfasts to Book in Costa Rica

Five Best Eco-Tourism Activities in Costa Rica

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1346428
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

These Are The Best Destinations In Costa Rica For Solo Travelers

Costa Rica can be a great destination for solo travelers, and these places will make for an incredibly memorable trip.

Read update

More Of The Best Places To Visit In Costa Rica For Solo Travelers

The Central American country has done a great job preserving its forest, which has now nurtured and bred a large number of plants, animals, and insects. Costa Rica is one of the most peaceful and cherished travel destinations in the world. Its diversity not only consists of plant and animals but also includes a number of beaches and active volcanoes that creates a natural paradise suitable for maximum enjoyment.

With such an amazing environment, it becomes difficult for solo travelers to decide where to begin the exploration. These destinations in Costa Rica offer the best experiences for travelers who want to travel solo and look for their own paths.

UPDATE: 2023/01/08 15:29 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Costa Rica is a great destination for solo travelers, and there are plenty of activities and attractions to explore while there. This article was updated to include more of the best places to visit as well as things to see and do (such as viewing wildlife and staying in treehouses in Costa Rica). Costa Rica is considered one of the most dramatic and traveler-friendly countries in Central America.

12 La Fortuna, Costa Rica

One characteristic of La Fortuna is the heavy presence of vegetation which creates the perfect environment for interesting outdoor activities.

The Arenal Volcano national park, which is close to the active Arenal Volcano, offers an easy way to begin a solo adventure in Costa Rica. In Arenal Volcano National Park, solo travelers can:

• Explore the bone-soothing hot springs.
• Hike and explore the path to La Fortuna waterfall.
• Swim in the pool of La Fortuna Waterfall.
• Engage in Zipline activities.
• Enjoy the delicacies of La Fortuna town, which includes – Picadillo de Papa, Patacones, and lots of fruits.
• Engage in white water rafting in Balsa and Sarapiqui rivers.

To get the most out of this experience, a guide is essential, and solo travelers also need to engage in tours for more adventurous outdoor activities.

11 San Jose, Costa Rica

The capital city of Costa Rica is a popular destination for many. It is the largest Costa Rican city, and is due to its location at the center of the Bio-diverse country, solo travelers can enjoy:

• An adventure in La Sabana Metropolitan Park.
• A visit to the National Center of Art & Culture.
• Explore the forest and engage in Zipline activities with canopy tours.

Whitewater rafting also tops the activity list for solo travelers. In San Jose, and the Pacuare River, particularly, is the place for this outdoor activity as it poses a challenging and rocky path.

ATM Centers abound in San Jose, and so many hotels and restaurants accept visa credit cards but solo travelers also have to come with some cash needed in order to avoid getting stranded when in local villages.

In addition and due to San Jose’s status as one of the largest coffee cultivating regions, travelers are sure to get lots of coffee.

Related: San Jose Spotlight: Everything You'll Be Lining Up To Do In This Costa Rica City

10 Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Santa Teresa brings in the beach package for lovers of beaches. This city in Costa Rica is a hot spot for activities such as – surfing and swimming. Solo travelers also have a long list of beaches they can explore; although La Lora, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Carmen will always be on the list of beaches travelers should explore as they offer the best experience among the rest.

In Santa Teresa, travelers can also check out the wildlife and other natural characteristics of the town. For wildlife exploration, the Cabo Blanco nature reserve offers a view of beautiful birds, and the Curu Wildlife refuge offers views of wild animals.

Food in San Teresa, like many other parts of Costa Rica, consists of rice and beans, although some restaurants such as Taco Corner, Koji’s, The Bakery, Eat street, El Falcon, and some Argentinean restaurants offer other varieties.

Other things Solo travelers will also enjoy in San Teresa include:

• Outdoor activities such as Zip Lining.
• Viewing attractions.
• Getting some ice cream, some beers, and enjoying some nightlife.

9 Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Puerto Viejo Talamanca is known to have the strongest sea wave, which can be potentially dangerous for surfers but at the same time challenging and exciting for those who need a more extreme adventure. One of the beaches with a very strong wave is Playa Cocles. Due to the strong waves, professional lifeguards always stand nearby to save those in danger.

The most powerful Costa Rican wave-producing beach – Salsa Brava, is also located in Puerto Viejo, and surfers are advised not to surf too deep if they are inexperienced.

Other activities solo travelers get to enjoy in Puerto Viejo include:

• Fishing in some of the waters with guides.
• Hiking in the Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge.
• Experience Snorkeling.

For accommodation in Puerto Viejo, the options available include – hostels and lodges, as hotels are usually scarce.

8 Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Tamarindo is considered a small town due to its population of 6,375 in 2011, according to Wikipedia. The weather in Tamarindo is typical of the Costa Rican humid weather; however, it typically rains heavily from June to October.

Tamarinda is an ideal location for solo travelers looking for beach surfing, swimming, and a relaxing sunbath in the scorching summer sun. Sunsets in Tamarindo also create colorful skies.

Foods in Tamarindo also most commonly feature rice and beans, which is typical of the Costa Ricans, but Travelers can also enjoy other food types in Tamarindo, such as – Sushi, Seafood, and some Argentinean grills.

Other things to do in Tamarindo include:

• Engage in tours.
• Visit the Tamarindo night market.
• Engage in outdoor activities such as – zip-lining, horseback riding, and boat sailing.
• Explore nature, wildlife, landmarks, and sights.
• Eat good food, drink sweet wine and enjoy the nightlife.
• Bathe in hot springs.

Related: 10 Reasons To Visit Costa Rica During The Rainy Season

7 Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

One of the most exciting wonders and top attractions in Manual Antonio is the Manual Antonio National Park, and even though there are many other things to do in Manuel Antonio, the national park steals the entire spotlight. This is well deserved since the park features a heavy wildlife presence, charming beaches, and soft white beach sand. Travelers who visit once are often lured back again due to their unforgettable experiences in this National Park.

Activities available for solo travelers here include:

• Eating different types of rice-inspired dishes.
• Swimming and surfing.
• Exploring the beaches within the park, which includes – Manuel Antonio beach, Espadila Sur, Tesoro, and Playita beaches.
• Witnessing the magical sunset

Manuel Antonio might be a small settlement but luxurious and comfortable accommodation, synchronized with nature, abounds for solo travelers.

6 Guanacaste, Costa Rica

This Costa Rican northwestern province features an arrangement of lots of natural elements and welcoming beaches for those seeking an escape from the unfavorable hot weather conditions of the province or other parts of the world. Here, travelers will find peace in Hermosa beach and Mataplo beach.

Other activities travelers will enjoy here include lots of sugar canes and visits to interesting national parks such as - Rincon de la Vieja National Park and Tenorio national park.

The Tenorio National Park is one of the most interesting destinations in Guanacaste. Here, travelers will find the Rio Celeste and Bijagua. The Rio Celeste is one amazing natural wonder. It is a waterfall that features a glowing blue river at the bottom of the waterfall. This creates a totally unique view for the spectators.

Interesting Foods to try in Guanacaste include:

• Arroz de Maiz is made from corn, basic vegetables, and spices.
• Gallina Achiotada is made from – chicken, garlic, bacon, mushrooms, potatoes, and other interesting ingredients. Sadly, this meal is only popular during Christmas or during celebrations.

To enjoy the most adventure in Guanacaste, solo travelers should book accommodations close to national parks and ensure they enroll in tours to meet other people and get to engage in other activities available for travelers.

5 Corcovado National Park

Located in the southwestern parts of Costa Rica is this small settlement that is heavily surrounded by plants and animals of all kinds. It is a place with a warm temperature and beaches.

Corcovado is considered one of the most biodiverse places on earth, where plants, trees, animals, and insect species live in abundance. In Corcovado, travelers can surf, hike and engage in diving activities as the region is filled with beaches and nature-rich national parks.

One major and popular destination in Corcovado is the Corcovado national park, where travelers can hike all the way into the jungle and join in on some outdoor activities.

Other things solo travelers can do in Corcovado include:

• Visit national parks.
• Whale watching.
• Engage in wildlife and Bird watching tours.
• Go fishing.
• See unique sunset colors.
• Engage in outdoor activities such as horse riding and kayaking.

Travelers should be aware that they can only hike in Corcovado national park with professional guides to ensure safety.

4 Stay In A Rainforest Treehouse

If one is traveling to Costa Rica and flying solo, then perhaps one is looking for some solitude and a chance to meditate and reflect. One of the best ways to do that is by going off the grid and staying at a treehouse in Costa Rica's tropical rain forests. Perhaps the best option is Finca Bellavista which is an excellent off-the-grid community set in around 600 acres of rainforest. They have a range of off-the-grid treehouses to pick from.

3 Sloth Sanctuary

Perhaps Costa Rica's most famous animal is the iconic sloth . Sloths are just bizarre animals - they move so slowly in the humid jungle that moss grows on them. Visitors can learn all about the sloths by going on a tour; there are plenty of tours to choose from. Consider taking the Buttercup Tour offered by the Sloth Sanctuary and see these particular animals in the flesh up close. The tours are for an hour and cost around $28 per adult.

2 Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park is one of the best places in the country and Central America to see turtles, and visitors can find a number of species of turtles (the name means "region of turtles" in Spanish). It is another of the great places to go and discover the rich wildlife of Costa Rica. Counted among the turtles in the park is the iconic leatherback turtle. The best time for seeing turtles varies by species, although the high season for leatherbacks is March to April.

1 Parque Nacional Marino Ballena

Another great national park to see while exploring Costa Rica is the Parque Nacional Marino Ballena. It is famous for its 4km or 2.5-mile-long beach, and it protects some of the nation's best coral and rock reefs. The beach largely disappears at high tide, but it emerges from the waves in the shape of a whale's tail. The park is intended to help protect humpback whale migrations and is also a great place to see dolphins and sea turtles.

Traveling Costa Rica Solo: A Guide to Solo Exploration in a Tropical Paradise

Home » Traveling Costa Rica Solo: A Guide to Solo Exploration in a Tropical Paradise

Costa Rica, a jewel nestled between two oceans, beckons solo travelers with its enchanting blend of tropical wilderness and cultural richness. A land where the roar of howler monkeys resonates through misty cloud forests and waves caress golden sands, this Central American paradise offers a vibrant playground for the solo explorer. From the vibrant streets of San Jose to the tranquil beauty of its national parks, Costa Rica is a symphony of diverse experiences.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll venture into the heart of Costa Rica’s magic, unveiling the myriad of adventures that await the solo traveler. Whether it’s your inaugural solo journey or you’re a seasoned wanderer, Costa Rica’s allure lies in its promise of discovery, adventure, and moments of serene introspection.

Embrace the spirit of ‘pura vida’ as we take you through the essentials of traveling solo in Costa Rica – from exhilarating zip-line tours above the rainforest canopy to peaceful moments watching sunsets on a secluded beach. Prepare to embark on a journey that’s not just about the destinations, but also about the transformation that solo travel in Costa Rica promises.

Costa Rica: A Diverse Destination for Solo Explorers

This Central American gem, renowned for its environmental stewardship, offers landscapes that range from volcanic mountains to lush rainforests, and pristine beaches to bustling cities.

See our guide: Is Portugal safe for solo female travelers?

Embracing ‘Pura Vida’ as a Solo Traveler

It’s an expression of eternal optimism, a way to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of life. For the solo traveler, this philosophy is an invitation to slow down, soak in the surroundings, and connect with oneself on a profound level.

Whether it’s sipping freshly brewed coffee in a quaint café in San Jose or meditating on a serene beach at sunset, ‘Pura Vida’ is about embracing each moment to its fullest.

The Rich Culture of Costa Rica: A Solo Traveler’s Delight

The country’s vibrant mix of indigenous traditions, Spanish influences, and modern flair create a captivating cultural landscape. As a solo explorer, wander through the artisan markets of San Jose, experience the lively festivals, or unwind to the soothing rhythms of marimba music.

Each cultural encounter in Costa Rica offers a deeper understanding and connection to this beautiful country and its people.

Experiencing Costa Rica’s Natural Beauty Alone

Whether you’re hiking through the lush rainforests of Manuel Antonio National Park, spotting exotic wildlife, or basking in the serene beauty of its secluded beaches, the natural landscape offers a profound sense of connection to nature.

Here, solo travelers find a space for reflection, relaxation, and rejuvenation, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet.

The Vibrant Capital: San Jose Through Solo Eyes

This city, brimming with life, offers a unique blend of the contemporary and the historical, set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty. San Jose is a city where traditional markets rub shoulders with chic urban cafes and is a haven for solo explorers.

The Central Market, a labyrinth of local crafts and culinary delights, is perfect for those who wish to delve into the local culture. Meanwhile, landmarks like the National Theatre and the Jade Museum offer glimpses into Costa Rica’s rich historical tapestry.

The city’s nightlife scene is equally inviting. From lively bars playing local and international tunes to quiet spots where you can enjoy a nightcap, there’s something for every mood. San José’s friendly locals make it easy for solo travelers to feel at home, often leading to enriching conversations and valuable travel tips.

Exploring La Fortuna: A Solo Traveler’s Dream

This small yet vibrant town serves as the gateway to some of Costa Rica’s most spectacular landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities. La Fortuna’s charm lies in its natural wonders. The Arenal Volcano itself, a symmetrical cone rising from the lush landscape, offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

Nearby, the La Fortuna Waterfall cascades into a pristine pool, inviting a refreshing swim. Solo travelers can embark on guided hikes through the rainforest, unveiling hidden natural hot springs – perfect spots for relaxation after a day of exploration.

Adventure seekers are spoilt for choice in La Fortuna. From zip-lining through rainforest canopies to whitewater rafting on the rapids of the Río Balsa, every activity pumps adrenaline while offering unique ways to connect with nature.

For a more serene experience, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Arenal provides peaceful solitude along with stunning views of the volcano. La Fortuna’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for solo visitors to make new friends, whether joining group tours or sharing stories with fellow travelers at local eateries.

The town’s array of cozy hostels and guesthouses also provide comfortable and sociable accommodations, perfect for those traveling alone.

The Beaches of Costa Rica: Solo Adventures on the Coast

From the sun-kissed Pacific shores to the laid-back Caribbean beaches, each coastal destination in Costa Rica has its unique charm and opportunities for exploration. The Pacific Coast, known for its vibrant beach towns like Tamarindo and Santa Teresa, is a haven for surfers.

Whether you’re a beginner eager to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer looking for challenging breaks, these beaches offer the perfect setting. Surf schools and rental shops along the coast provide everything you need, making it easy to dive into the sport.

But if we have to mention a special surf beach in Costa Rica, that would be Jaco Beach. It is the perfect place to make one of your day trips and spend a few hours getting surf lessons. It can be easily reached by local bus from the most popular bus stations.

On the Caribbean side, places like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita boast a more relaxed vibe. Here, solo travelers can unwind on the pristine beaches, explore the lush jungle backdrops, or snorkel in the clear waters teeming with marine life.

The unique blend of Afro-Caribbean culture in this region adds an extra layer of richness to your solo travel experience. For those seeking solitude, Costa Rica’s coastline is dotted with hidden coves and secluded beaches. You can find your own piece of paradise, where the only sounds are the waves crashing and the tropical birds singing.

Whether it’s watching a spectacular sunset or enjoying a peaceful beachside yoga session, the coast offers countless moments of serene bliss.

Costa Rica’s Adventure Activities for the Lone Traveler

Costa Rica is a playground for solo adventurers seeking thrills in the lap of nature. The country’s diverse landscapes offer a plethora of activities that cater to the adventurous spirit of every solo traveler.

Wildlife and Jungle Excursions for Solo Enthusiasts

The country’s national parks, such as Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, offer guided tours where solo explorers can witness an array of wildlife in their natural habitats. From spotting sloths in the dense canopy to observing the majestic jaguars, these excursions provide an intimate encounter with Costa Rica’s biodiversity.

Birdwatching is another activity that attracts many solo travelers. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is an ideal spot for this, offering the chance to see rare species like the resplendent quetzal.

For a more immersive experience, solo travelers can embark on multi-day jungle treks, camping in the heart of the rainforest, and waking up to the symphony of tropical birds.

Adrenaline Rush: Adventure Sports for Solo Thrill-Seekers

The country’s varied terrain makes it perfect for extreme sports. Solo travelers can go whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, known for its exhilarating rapids and stunning rainforest scenery. Zip-lining in Arenal or Monteverde offers an exhilarating ride above the treetops, providing unmatched views of the lush landscapes below.

For those who prefer water-based adventures, Costa Rica’s rivers and coastlines are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Solo travelers can navigate through the mangroves, exploring the diverse ecosystems at their own pace. Scuba diving and snorkeling along the coasts, particularly in areas like the Catalina Islands, reveal the rich marine life beneath the waves.

Practical Insights for Solo Travel in Costa Rica

Navigating Costa Rica as a solo traveler is both exciting and manageable, thanks to the country’s well-developed tourism infrastructure. Here are some practical insights to help you plan your journey smoothly.

Accommodations: From Hostels to Boutique Hotels

Hostels are a popular choice, providing not only a budget-friendly option but also opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Many hostels in Costa Rica offer communal activities like group tours or cooking classes, perfect for those looking to make connections.

For a more serene and private experience, consider staying in boutique hotels or eco-lodges. These accommodations are often nestled in stunning locations, offering unique experiences like waking up to the sounds of the rainforest or ocean waves. They also provide a higher level of comfort and amenities, which can be a welcome luxury for solo travelers after a day of adventure.

Getting Around: Transport Tips for Solo Visitors

Public buses, a common sight in Costa Rica, offer an affordable and authentic way to travel between cities and even to remote areas like Drake Bay or the Osa Peninsula. These buses connect major destinations like San José, La Fortuna, and beach towns, allowing you to explore the country’s beauty at your own pace.

For more flexibility, consider renting a car, which can be especially useful for visiting less accessible areas like Corcovado National Park or exploring the Pacific Coast. Remember, driving in Costa Rica offers a mix of well-paved roads and rugged paths, particularly in rural areas. When renting a car, a 4×4 is often recommended, especially if you plan to venture off the beaten path.

Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available in larger towns and cities. Official taxis in Costa Rica are red with a yellow triangle on the side, ensuring a safe and regulated service. In more remote areas, like the tranquil Caribbean coast or the small town charm of places like Playa Hermosa, local transportation options like shared shuttles or even boats can add a unique element to your solo travel experience.

Costa Rica’s Culinary Delights for the Solo Palate

Coffee and Cuisine: A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Costa Rican Flavors

Coffee culture in costa rica..

Solo travelers can indulge in this rich tradition by visiting coffee plantations in regions like the Central Valley. Here, you can witness the bean-to-cup process and enjoy tastings that highlight the unique flavors of Costa Rican coffee.

Traditional Costa Rican Meals

A Costa Rica trip is incomplete without trying ‘Gallo Pinto,’ a staple at breakfast. For lunch, ‘Casado’ provides a hearty meal, showcasing the simplicity and wholesomeness of Costa Rican cooking.

Street Food and Markets

Here, you can try ’empanadas,’ ‘chorreadas,’ and other local specialties. These markets, found in towns and cities across Costa Rica, including San Jose, provide a window into the daily life and culinary habits of Costa Ricans.

Fine Dining and Fusion Cuisine

Chefs creatively blend local ingredients with international styles, giving solo travelers a taste of Costa Rica’s modern culinary evolution.

Connecting with Locals and Fellow Travelers

Community and Culture: Engaging with Locals as a Solo Traveler

Building connections with costa ricans.

Solo travelers often find that engaging with locals enhances their travel experience, whether it’s through a shared bus ride, a chat in a local café, or an impromptu language exchange.

Learning a few phrases in Spanish can greatly enrich these interactions, opening doors to deeper understanding and authentic experiences.

Language and Communication

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in building rapport with locals. Even simple greetings or expressions of gratitude can break the ice and lead to more engaging interactions.

Joining Costa Rica Tours and Activities

Whether it’s a guided hike in Tortuguero National Park or Cahuita National Park, a surfing lesson in a beach town, or a canopy tour in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, these activities offer safe and enjoyable ways to meet fellow travelers and locals.

Connecting with Fellow Solo Travelers

Hostels and social spaces in tourist towns often organize events where solo travelers can meet. Digital platforms and social media groups dedicated to solo travel in Costa Rica can also be useful resources for finding travel buddies or joining group activities.

Safe and Solo in Costa Rica: Tips for the Solo Traveler

While renowned for its safety and welcoming locals, it’s important for solo adventurers, especially women, to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind as you explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Costa Rica solo.

See our guide: Iceland Solo Travel

Traveling Costa Rica Solo & Safely: A Guide for Solo Female Travelers

Accommodation and Security

Choose reputable accommodations with positive reviews, particularly from fellow solo travelers. Look for locations with convenient access to public transportation and vital services, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay. In tourist hubs like La Fortuna or along the Pacific Coast, opt for well-rated hostels or eco-lodges that prioritize guest security.

Local Knowledge and Awareness

Educate yourself about the areas you plan to visit. Familiarize yourself with local customs, basic Spanish phrases, and regions to avoid to enhance your safety. Engaging with local communities and fellow travelers in places like San Jose, La Fortuna, or the lush Caribbean coast can provide valuable insights and add depth to your journey.

Transportation Wisdom

Use reliable and trusted transportation methods. In urban areas like San Jose, opt for official taxis or verified ride-sharing services. If exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations like Corcovado National Park or remote areas of the Osa Peninsula, consider organized tours as they offer safer and more informed travel options.

Health and Insurance

Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and unforeseen trip alterations. Exercise caution with food and water, especially when indulging in local street food or in rural regions. Stay informed about health advisories and have a plan for accessing medical care if needed.

Emergency Preparedness

Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and your country’s embassy. Inform someone trustworthy, such as a hotel manager or a local contact, about your travel itinerary, especially if venturing into less-traveled areas like Drake Bay or secluded beach towns along the Caribbean coast.

By integrating these safety practices, you can fully immerse in the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle, exploring Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes with peace of mind. Remember, being prepared and aware is the key to a fulfilling and safe solo travel experience in Costa Rica.

Concluding Thoughts: Visit Costa Rica for an Enriching Solo Travel Experience

From the lush canopies of Corcovado National Park to the bustling streets of San José, each experience in Costa Rica enriches your spirit and broadens your perspective.

Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable tourism makes it a particularly rewarding destination for solo travelers. Whether you seek peace in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, adventure in national parks like Tortuguero, or cultural immersion in quaint beach towns, Costa Rica caters to every solo traveler’s dream.

Embracing its ‘Pura Vida’ ethos encourages you to relish life’s simple joys and live in harmony with nature. For solo female travelers, Costa Rica offers a safe, welcoming, and empowering setting.

The combination of modern amenities, untouched wilderness, and the warmth of Costa Ricans ensures you feel both adventurous and secure throughout your journey.

Reflecting on your travels, the scenic views of Arenal Volcano, the diverse wildlife of national parks, and peaceful moments in places like Playa Hermosa and Santa Teresa, will remain etched in your memory.

In conclusion, traveling solo to Costa Rica is a journey into the heart of Central America, offering an exquisite mix of adventure, relaxation, and personal growth. So, pack your bags, embrace the ‘Pura Vida’ spirit, and discover the wonders of Costa Rica on your own terms.

Whether you’re embarking on a solo journey, seeking a retreat, or in search of an adventure, Costa Rica welcomes you with open arms, ready to offer a myriad of experiences, just a short walk or bus ride away.

Enjoy Costa Rica!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Costa Rica Alone

Is costa rica safe.

Yes, Costa Rica is generally considered safe for travelers, including those who choose to travel solo. Like any destination, it’s important to follow basic safety tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

In popular tourist areas, such as Puerto Viejo, while generally safe, it’s recommended to stay vigilant, especially at night, and to keep valuables secure. For solo travelers, staying informed about the local areas and adhering to general travel safety tips can greatly enhance the overall safety of the trip.

Female solo traveler – is it a good idea for a solo woman to travel to Costa Rica?

Absolutely, Costa Rica is a highly recommended destination for both female solo travel and solo female travel. The country is renowned for its safety, welcoming culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for women looking to explore on their own.

With the increasing number of Internet searches for “female solo travel” and “solo female travel”, it is evident that there is a strong desire among women to embark on solo adventures, but not before being informed about safety and local customs.

Experienced solo female travelers who have been to Central America many times, especially Costa Rica, would surely say that it is a fantastic idea and a wonderful experience as long as the necessary safety tips and measures are taken.

Costa Rica trips – Is it worth visiting tourist places like the coral reefs and Paz Waterfall Gardens?

When someone travels solo, it is normal to go to tourist places like these. If you have time and do not plan to return to Costa Rica, it can be interesting to visit them, as well as other places like the Central Valley region or some national parks. But in the same way that some people prefer to go to luxury resorts, it all depends on your preferences and travel objectives.

Carlos De Lanuza

• Cheap Places to Travel in Portugal – A Detailed Guide October 16, 2023
• The 10 Best Hiking Dogs October 18, 2023
• Punta Prima Travel guide November 1, 2023
• Is Portugal safe for solo female travellers? November 4, 2023
• Menorca vs Mallorca: Which Balearic Island is Your Perfect Paradise? October 18, 2023

Recently Posted

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

• Using Worldpackers
• Work exchange
• Social impact

Plan your trip

• Women traveling
• Budget travel
• Solo travel
• Language learning
• Travel tips
• Get inspired
• Digital nomads
• Travel jobs
• Personal development
• Responsible travel
• Connect with nature

Top destinations

• South America
• Central America
• North America
• More destinations
• WP Life WP Life
• Exclusive discounts Discounts
• Latin America

How to master solo travel in Costa Rica

Costa Rica solo travel: my experience traveling alone in Costa Rica, places to visit, how to move around the country, how to save money and how to stay safe.

Tiffany Tiff Travels

Mar 23, 2023

Are you planning a solo trip to the beautiful Central American destination of Costa Rica , but don't know where to start? In this article, you'll find the best tips to enjoy your journey and stay safe as you travel solo in Costa Rica. 

I'll give you  budgeting tips , talk about accommodation and transportation, and how to plan an overall successful trip.

My experience with solo travel in Costa Rica

As a full time digital nomad , I've been traveling the world alone for the past 2 years. I've had so many people tell me I was crazy, that I needed to stop traveling and go to college, or even worse- that I didn't need to be traveling anywhere as a single woman.

Despite the negativity and fears other people projected onto me, I still followed my dreams and have unlocked so many amazing things for myself. And out of all the places I've traveled to, Costa Rica   is one of my favorites.

The country is simply gorgeous. Not only does it offer incredibly biodiverse wildlife , there are so many fun things to do for solo women! I met so many other women in their early 20s like me, that were also either alone or traveling with a friend.

In my opinion, Costa Rica is one of the more friendly countries towards women traveling alone .  

I commonly study the local people of everywhere I go and see how they treated foreigners, more specifically solo women . I felt extremely welcomed by the Costa Rican locals and they commonly helped me whenever I needed a hand. 

The people truly live by their national motto of "Pura vida" or, in English, "pure life".

The best way to enjoy Costa Rica

If you want to feel safe, save money and have the experience of a lifetime in Costa Rica , my top recommendation is to do a work exchange or volunteer program, exchanging a few hours of work for free accommodation and other perks. You can find some super cool volunteer positions at the Worldpackers website.

Not only will you save hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars, you'll also be able to easily meet local people and make friends with other solo travelers . 

If you like this idea, read our article explaining what is a work exchange and how does it work  and check out some of the awesome opportunities for volunteering in Costa Rica :

• Build a website and live in the Costa Rican forest
• Teach your native language at this eco lodge in San Ramón
• Get spiritual at a healing sanctuary

Solo travel in Costa Rica: fun things to do

Costa Rica is the country of fun. There are so many activities to participate in that it's impossible to get bored! From the crystal clear beaches and Jamaican influence of Limon, to the jungles of La Fortuna, this country is certainly a gem of Central America.

I'll share below my recommendations of what to do during your solo trip to Costa Rica, and then I'll give tips on safety, getting around and much more.

You might also like our article about the best time to visit Costa Rica .

Visit the jungle of La Fortuna

La Fortuna is one of the most popular spots tourists run to when they reach Costa Rica, and for good reasons. This jungle offers so much to see, such as a wide variety of waterfalls, volcanoes, hikes, lakes, and hot springs.

There are so many things to do in this beautifully rich coast! You can spend a day at the La Fortuna waterfall, grab your camera to check out some sloths, go ziplining across a tropical jungle , have fun adventure rafting, or enjoy a rejuvenating bath at one of the many hot springs. 

Apart from the amazing scenery you'll come across, don't forget to try some of the delicious food such as bean empanadas or rice and beans.

Want to spend some weeks in this beautiful place? Get free accommodation at this hostel in La Fortuna by housekeeping and working at the reception desk!

Relax in the Caribbean coast of Limón

Located on the Caribbean coast of the country, Limón was probably my favorite experience out of my time of solo travel in Costa Rica.

I spent my time in the popular beach destination of Puerto Viejo, I felt so safe as a woman . There were plenty of other solo female travelers I met from all over the world, it was like my soul was being heard and recognized. 

I highly recommend Puerto Viejo to all solo female travelers coming to Limón, especially first timers. This town will remind you a lot of Jamaica (if you've ever been) as many people immigrated from the Caribbean nation a few generations ago. 

Limón, Puerto Viejo especially, has such a rich and blended Latin and Caribbean culture , it was something I had never before experienced. There are lots of young people that mingle and events going on every weekend. 

Although you may be traveling alone, you will not feel lonely because of all the fun and friendly people you'll meet. 

When you go to this area, don't forget to try some delicious rice and peas and jerk sauce from one of the many Jamaicans that live in this town . I, as a vegan, so luckily came across a delicious mouthwatering all vegan Jamaican restaurant called Jammin. If you're ever in Puerto Viejo you have to check this place out. When you go, tell the owner Tiffany said hi!

Check out all the volunteeering opportunities in Puerto Viejo , such as being assistant in this beautiful eco-hostel .

Besides Puerto Viejo, there are many other  great beaches in Costa Rica .

Go off the beaten path in Osa Peninsula

One of the lesser known spots for tourism, the Osa Peninsula does not receive as much attention as the other more popular cities in the country. But it's a great destination for solo travel in Costa Rica if you appreciate more of a small town feel .

It's usually in small towns like this where you can genuinely interact with local culture and get the feel of what it is like for a native of Costa Rica. 

I met up with a friend in a little town called Puerto Jiménez , that you would literally walk across within 20 minutes, but it is a spot that has welcomed expatriates from all over the world and loves the occasional traveler.

In order to get to this destination, you have to leave from San José (it's about an 8 hour bus ride to Puerto Jiménez). Be sure to charge your devices and bring lots of snacks, as these busses are known to break down several times on one ride.

Located on the same peninsula, there's a wonderful destination that goes by the name of Drake Bay . This is another safe spot for solo travel in Costa Rica.

If you want to experience something really special, you can  volunteer at this eco-farm  or at one of these work exchange programs in Drake Bay to have a fully immerged nature experience in the wild.

Visit the capital city of San José

Last but not least, there's San José, the capital of the rich coast (english for Costa Rica). San José is commonly the airport most travelers will fly into from other countries and typically move out to other destinations the next day.

As a solo traveler, it's good to have your accommodation ready and booked when arriving to San José, as some places aren't the safest, especially at night.

Stray Cat Hostel is located only a 7 minute walk away from the San José bus station, a great location to stay at if you've got a bus ride early the next day. Another great hostel I stayed at the night I flew into the country was called Capital Hostel de Ciudad. 

If you're on a budget or if you like the city so much that want to stay for a long time, you can easily do that by helping in   this hostel in San José in exchange for free accommodation . 

Female solo travel in Costa Rica: safety concerns 

The tips I would give for women to stay safe in Costa Rica would also apply to every other country a woman would visit by herself: have common sense when traveling anywhere alone . 

I always be sure to stay safe when I go anywhere alone, even when I leave my home town to go to another state in the USA. I like to see how people treat foreigners, more specifically women that are not from that country.

I felt very safe traveling alone in Costa Rica but that doesn't mean you should let your guard down at all times, especially at night. Here's a few tips on safety:

• Never walk alone at night (especially in certain areas in San José).
• Try not to arrive at destinations at nighttime, but if you do, keep your host updated of your whereabouts.
• Knowing simple Spanish phrases made me feel safe in case I needed help from a non-English speaking person and also kept me from getting scammed *cough cough taxi rides*.
• Never look at your phone while you're walking. Keep your eyes on your surroundings.
• Be sure to get a reputable accommodation in San José (preferably a hostel that has other solo travelers) as not all areas are the safest there.

Do I need to know Spanish for solo travel in Costa Rica?

As we already know, most countries in Central (and South) America have one thing in common:  the Spanish language . 

When I was in Mexico , panish conversational skills were certainly needed. English is not commonly known, especially in smaller towns.

During my solo travels in Costa Rica, I surprisingly did not use as much Spanish, which was a big difference from Mexico . Most of the people were able to speak some English. The country is not too big, many towns get tourists and guides typically speak English . 

Although I did not have to speak Spanish as often, it's good to know some basic words to help you get around, especially if you're traveling by yourself. 

 Here are some phrases that really helped me out while traveling solo in Costa Rica:

How much is this?:  ¿Cuánto es?

Where is...:  ¿Dónde está...?

I need to go to...:  Necesito ir a...

Hundred:  Centenar/Cien

Thousand:  Mil

The currency of Costa Rica is the Colón . A way to not get ripped off when making purchases is to check the conversion rate and learn numbers from one to nine hundred, as well as one to nine thousand and higher. 

When you say prices in Spanish, you will save yourself lot of money .  Trust me, I've had experience with it.

Avoiding scams in Costa Rica

I believe that one of the only downsides to traveling solo in Costa Rica is the possibility of  getting scammed . This is not specific to Costa Rica, it happens everywhere. 

One of the main ways people usually get scammed is by taxi rides or vendors. When I landed by myself in San José, it was super late at night and I needed to get to my hostel asap before it got any darker. I tried my hardest to get an Uber only to realize that they weren't allowed to come to the airport. I ended up spending $30 on a taxi to my hostel that only should have costed $15. 

It's best to have an arranged transportation when you land, or at least aim at arriving earlier in the day so you'll have time to look for more affordable transportation.

Keep reading: The best places to travel as a solo female

Getting around Costa Rica during your solo trip

Getting around Costa Rica is not too hard. The country is fairly small, sitting around the same size as the American state of West Virginia. 

It's good to always let someone know where you're going , even if they're your family or friends back home. When I start moving around I always make sure to let someone know where I am at all times.

For example, when I boarded my shuttle from San José to Puerto Jiménez, I shared my location with my Airbnb host via WhatsApp, just in case anything went wrong.

When I was going from San José to Puerto Jiménez, the bus broke down several times (what a welcome into the country huh?). Instead of arriving at my location at 7 PM as planned, we reached around 1 AM, but I kept communicating with the friend I was meeting at the location and everything ended up fine. 

There are many different ways you can get around Costa Rica:

The most affordable option to travel solo in Costa Rica is the public bus transportation system .

If you're a laid back person, this is the option for you. The bus rides are not too bad and are very beautiful, as you drive across the countryside and see planes of palm trees dotted across the seaside. 

The most popular bus station in the country is the MEPE (located 7 minutes walk away from the popular backpacker's hostel Stray Cat) and has many busses departing to popular locations each day. 

The best way to reserve a seat is to simply go to the station either the day before or a few hours before the bus you wish to ride on.

Private Shuttle

Purchasing a seat in a private shuttle is like a bus ride but smaller. There are only few seats in the shuttles and they don't typically sell out, especially if you're leaving later in the evening. So, there are empty seats, air conditioning, arranged bathroom and food stops, and even Wi-Fi! But of course, all good things come at a price. 

The price of a seat on a private shuttle can generally be about 3 times the price of a public bus ticket. For example, I rode on a private shuttle when going from San José to Puerto Viejo in Limón. It was about $60 compared to an affordable $10 MEPE ticket, but as said before, I got Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and was dropped off directly at my accommodation. The public bus drops everyone off in a central location.

Renting a car

Renting a car in Costa Rica isn't the cheapest option if you're traveling alone and don't have someone to share the price with, but you might find a goot rate. There are various websites you can look at, like Expedia, Kayak, and Hertz. 

Renting a car for a day can be as low as $20 USD, so be sure you're not getting ripped off, or renting a car that has noticeable damage or other issues. It's best to not rent a car directly from the airport as they can get up to be about 15% higher than elsewhere.

Surprisingly, Costa Rica has quite a few airports to chose from, considering it being such a small country. Although there are many small domestic airports, there are only two international terminals, which are located in Liberia and San José. 

If your budget is bigger, you can certainly consider flying from city to city instead of taking a long bus ride to get across the country.

My bus ticket from San José to Puerto Jiménez was only $15 whereas a plane ticket would have costed around $100. Of course it is more expensive, but compare an 8 hour unconditioned bus ride to a 45 minute flight.

Ready to travel solo in Costa Rica?

I hope these tips help you gather that courage to book your ticket to Costa Rica!

From a solo traveler to another, take my advice: don't wait for company to see the beauty of the world . Discover the greatness of this country, even if its by yourself, and you'll see just why they call it "the rich coast".

Keep planning your solo travel in Costa Rica and Central America with these articles:

• How to visit Costa Rica on a budget
• 11 best things to do in Costa Rica
• Best Central American countries to visit

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Tiff Travels

Hello beautiful people of the internet! My name is Tiffany and I've been traveling the world solo for the past 2 years (I'm currently 21) and been to 5 countries including Zanzibar. My first 2 experiences with worldpackers have been in Ocho Rios, Jamaica and San Francisco, California and I plan on continuing my travels with the company. Let's go explore the world together!

Be part of the Worldpackers Community

Already have an account, are you a host, leave your comment here.

Write here your questions and greetings to the author

More about this topic

8 best Central American countries to visit and tips to plan your trip

The safest Central American countries to visit

11 amazing things to do in the Dominican Republic

How do worldpackers trips work.

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

Things to Do in Costa Rica, Especially For a Solo Woman Traveler

Last Updated on October 2, 2023

For a woman on a budget traveling alone, there are many things to do in Costa Rica…

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

By Carla Marie Rupp

Many travelers to South America head for such household names as the Galapagos , Machu Picchu , and the Amazon .

Unwittingly, en route there they pass Costa Rica, a phenomenal country with many things to do for many travelers. And it’s an especially welcoming place for those on a budget, ever more so for a female solo traveler.

But first of all, just where is Costa Rica? In Central America between Nicaragua and Panama, it’s a Latin American country at peace. It’s also where you meet travelers from all over the world and find friendly locals who welcome you. (See the map of Costa Rica below).

It’s a safe place to travel, so on my Costa Rican adventure I went budget. Leaving the big city of San Jose, I went to small, fun towns I heard about along the way.

Costa Rica is fine for solo traveling but you need to keep your wits about you, as anywhere. Still though, surprises and amazing moments await at nearly every turn.

Airports in Costa Rica

The airports in Costa Rica are Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO) in San José, and Liberia Airport (LIR) in Guancaste. Both airports accept international flights.

I started my solo travel in lively San Jose (see the map of Costa Rica below), where my lodging reference had come from a friend. I spent a few days there before moving on to four or five smaller, easy-to-like, lovely and friendly towns.

A few days there was a good introduction to the country since it gave me an understanding of the beautiful Costa Rican urban culture and its special Latin and international flavor. I strolled about the city visiting its museums (there’s even a museum for gold) and lingering in coffee shops watching people strolling every which way, just absorbing the culture.

Map of Costa Rica: Where to Go

This map of Costa Rica depicts the tour taken by the author by public bus. It is interactive; press +/- to enlarge it or make it smaller. It can also be viewed, and the route followed, on your smartphone.

Things to Do in Costa Rica

After a few days I decided to move on to some little towns out in the country. Solo travel, in Costa Rica or anywhere, allows you not to be tied to a rigid schedule. My travel adrenaline was in high gear and and I soon found there are many things to do in Costa Rica, no matter what your interest. I was loving every minute of it, just serendipitously finding things to do.

I usually took public bus transportation (the map of Costa Rica shows the bus routes taken) although tour vans can be purchased for more money. Also, I walked a lot and traveled without hotel reservations, finding rooms as I went.

I found that sometimes the low-cost little hotels have their touts who surround you as you get off the bus. But I learned to give them a chance and they worked out fine. Some even peddled low-cost tours to jungles, horseback riding, spas and trips to waterfalls, and volcanoes.

Cute Montezuma

After a bus ride from San Jose, I arrived in cute Montezuma, a town full of galleries and little shops. In one shop I found a perfect, cool traveling dress and some shirts I couldn’t resist buying. 

I never wanted to leave this small town since it was filled with fun-loving people of all ages. There was so much to do here, including horseback riding on the beautiful beach. Some restaurants even offered movies in the evening, and I enjoyed relaxing in one that did. In the mornings I would have breakfast at a favorite cozy cafe. There I would sit on the deck and watch the monkeys play in the tropical trees.

Other adventures included several boat trips, and one a day-trip to an island with, of course, swimming on a pristine little beach and eating a delicious fish lunch. Another time I took a speedboat (unfortunately) to another town and beach near Jaco Beach across the way.

I soon found a resort with a great brunch and took in more of the seashore. In the water, a few Costa Rican families chatted with me, sharing their holiday experiences. We took pictures of each other.

Things to Do In Costa Rica

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, I don’t think visitors ought to leave Costa Rica without hiking in the forest. I, for one, couldn’t resist the combination of beach, butterflies, bird watching and lush jungle vegetation, and when I learned about Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park I had to go there for at least a few days.

Quepos turned out to be the most economical town for finding a little guesthouse (perfect for a solo traveler) near the beach and Cost Rica’s national park. I loved my sweet room, strolling around the town, which is known for its sport fishing and plenty of friendly people.  It’s even a great spot for finding gelato of all kinds!

The world-known Manuel Antonio National Park is only a short public bus ride away from town.  I blissfully enjoyed everything the park had to offer, including its amazing blue butterflies and the spectacular landscapes in the forest and on the beach.

I admired the European bird-watchers who had traveled here with all their gear. They were in heaven and they even let me view some birds through their lenses, a thrilling experience.

Zip-Lining Through the Jungle

Today in the forests and jungles around the world zip-line canopy trips – “flying through the trees” from platform to platform above the canopy of the forest – are very popular and I did a number of them around Costa Rica.

When I first tried it in Quepos I hardly knew what it was, except that it was something I’d be brave enough to try. I totally loved the canopy ride since it made me feel so alive, and the tour included picking me up at my little budget low-rise hotel. There are also trips across the jungle in ski-lift type chairs.

La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano

Finally, it was on to the town of La Fortuna, famous for its view of the Arenal Volcano, which I endlessly enjoyed looking at, even at sunset. As a woman traveling solo in Costa Rica, I found it to be a fun town to walk around, meet new people, and take lots of tours. If you go, don’t miss the spa just outside the town with the hot springs soaking pools.

I ended up staying longer in La Fortuna to experience more walks into the jungle since I loved looking at all the wildlife. (I even admired the beauty of cows in a field on one nature tour, I was delighting in the animals so much.)

The sightings of iguanas provided even more exotic enjoyment. A walk to a waterfalls and horseback riding (and you guessed it, another canopy zip-lining ride) completed my visit here before moving on.

In Playa Hermosa Guancaste (there are actually two Playa Hermosa towns), I was just walking along a lovely stretch of beach and signed up for a snorkeling trip on a boat. What a dream time it was, a fantastic trip with others laughing and joking. Plus I saw plenty of pretty, colorful tropical fish and was able to explore a little island we visited. There’s also some good diving there.

You may also enjoy: The Real Value of Traveling with Grandchildren / Costa Mediterranea’s Caribbean Potpourri / Things to Do in Prague…With a Map for a Walking Tour / A 2-Day Walking Tour of Paris, With Map

Making Friends

I made friends with several different Americans and a Canadian who stayed and made lives for themselves in this pleasant part of Costa Rica, opening a dive shop (I took a refresher course!), a hotel, and a restaurant. If you’re a solo traveler in Costa Rica it’s worth visiting the area and relaxing on the rarely crowded beach.

Seeing the spectacular sunset gave me one of my last memorable views of a country I’d come to love after having a travel adventure in Costa Rica, so easily taken solo as I did. Costa Rica can be a paradise of pleasure in sports, hiking, taking joy in wildlife and fauna and meeting people.

Being there made me feel so alive. I’ll certainly go back one day – and fly through the air again on another canopy ride! Costa Rica, I miss you…especially the small towns I shared with the enchanting attractions all around them.

Visit Costa Rica – The Costa Rica Tourism Board

www.visitcostarica.com

Montezuma, Costa Rica

www.playamontezuma.com

Manuel Antonio Park, Costa Rica

www.manuelantoniopark.com

March 6, 2013 at 6:46 pm

beautiful descriptions! photos are awe-inspiring, as well ….

February 1, 2016 at 10:27 pm

Thank you very much Donna for your compliments on my writing! What I wrote is all true…and being there is even better. You’ll write home and your loved ones will praise your descriptions, too.

March 8, 2013 at 12:08 pm

Wonderful writing as always Carla! I would love to see costa Rica “some day” although after reading your story I feel like I just went there. Thanks for such a great story.

March 8, 2013 at 12:33 pm

I always feel like I am with you as you travel these exotic places. Maybe someday?

February 1, 2016 at 10:29 pm

That would be great to meet and travel!

March 8, 2013 at 12:46 pm

Thanks Donna and Candace for the compliments on the article. I enjoyed writing it so much, and Jim Ferri, the editor, is great with photos, too.

March 9, 2013 at 12:45 pm

Sounds like a great adventure. You make it sound so inviting. Never wanted to go to Costa Rico before now!

March 9, 2013 at 9:53 pm

Glad you want to go to Costa Rica now after reading my story!

August 16, 2013 at 4:16 pm

How long were you there for? I have never traveled out of the country by myself and I am trying to find time around Christmas!

December 4, 2013 at 7:46 pm

I stayed for several weeks. I hope you have a really good time when you go to Costa Rica! Best wishes.

November 17, 2013 at 2:55 pm

I am going in March alone. Nice to read a story that does not dwell on the “don’t walk at night” part of CR. My problem is I don’t want to take local buses but I can’t find transportation to some locations unless you are two or more travelers.

December 4, 2013 at 7:49 pm

I have to admit I took some local buses, which were very inexpensive. The first local bus I took was in San Jose, and you need to keep watch on your belongings for sure. It was interesting stopping in the little towns to see people get on and off. I also noticed there are tourist vans as well for visitors to the country.

January 29, 2014 at 12:24 am

I’m thinking about going to Costa Rica this April alone. I’m a single girl and I want to know if you felt safe? Also, where do recommend me staying? And please provide any other tips. Thanks!

September 22, 2015 at 6:30 pm

Hi! Just reading the thread, did you ever get to Costa Rica? Im planning on going alone in January, my first real travelling experience. Am i going to be able to cut it alone? An English girl in Costa Rica. Thanks 🙂

October 23, 2015 at 11:11 pm

I just read this as well, and also traveling to Costa Rica in January…. My first solo international trip, very excited.

November 1, 2015 at 11:49 pm

I’ll be going solo in January as well

November 11, 2015 at 9:31 pm

I am traveling in January solo as well. I am very excited. Maybe our paths will all cross? lol

November 15, 2015 at 7:17 pm

Same! January 😀

December 23, 2015 at 10:26 am

I’ll be going in January for a month. Spending a week in San Jose since so many tours pick up from there. Though I’ll try to be brave enough to take a bus and explore like the writer did.

December 26, 2015 at 6:58 pm

Yes! Maybe! January 12-23

January 6, 2016 at 6:00 pm

Still going??!

February 1, 2016 at 10:33 pm

I hope this trip turned out great for you!

October 26, 2015 at 3:58 am

I really enjoyed your article!

I’ve been to Costa Rica, also. I visited some of the same places you went to: San Jose, of course; La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano, including Tabacon Springs; Montezuma — the best!

I hope to return there and produce a short “travel video” of the experience. I’m also just beginning to create a WordPress blog site, which is how I (somehow) found your article.

Keep up the great work!

February 1, 2016 at 10:42 pm

Thank you very much for finding me and this story. Good luck in your excellent work, too!

January 3, 2016 at 7:55 pm

LOVE this article. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I’m heading solo to Costa Rica this summer and am SO excited. I’d love if you could share names/addresses/contact info of the places your lodged at throughout the country. Seems like you found some really special places!

January 5, 2016 at 12:38 am

I am leaving for CR towards end of Feb. and am also traveling alone. I’m thinking of starting off the trip with Envision Festival then staying for bal of 90 days backpacking around the country.

January 26, 2016 at 12:59 am

I find this really helpful! I just found out my friend might not be able to travel with me to Costa Rica and I’ve never traveled alone before and was feeling quite freaked out and scared but this gave me hope and made me excited for my journey to come! I’m leaving in like a week and ending with envision 0.o

January 27, 2016 at 2:08 pm

I am travelling solo to San Jose CR this weekend and have found all of this information to be extremely helpful and informative. I look forward to sharing my adventures upon my return.

January 27, 2016 at 5:58 pm

Have a great trip, Danielle! I’d like to hear about your adventures when you return.

February 1, 2016 at 10:37 pm

I look forward as well.

February 1, 2016 at 2:22 pm

I am 21 years old & am going March 7. I’ll be doing a 1 week volunteer program in San Jose, then i want to backpack around. I definitely want to go to Montezuma, I have been there before but always with family. I want to go to other nearby places like that as well. How did you set up and plan how to get from place to place? Where are all of the places that you went to? I need help figuring this out, its alot to think about and plan on my own.

February 1, 2016 at 3:24 pm

Hi Gabbi, I’ll try to track down Carla Marie Rupp, the author of the article, and ask if she could answer your questions. I’m certain you’re going to have great and exciting trip! Jim

February 1, 2016 at 10:54 pm

I’m happy to start with advice. Ask your family if possible since you went with them before. The Costa Rican Tourism Board would be helpful. I didn’t book ahead in these small towns. I just walked around and picked a place. That’s part of the excitement. You will make new friends along the way; just trust your instincts! I stayed in mostly family-run places that are more budget if you get them when you arrive in the towns mentioned. Good luck and write again. Your adventure will be yours!

February 3, 2016 at 8:08 pm

Yeah i was planning on just going with the flow- How did you get from city to city? Did you take a boat or bus or did you fly to the peninsula that Montezuma is on? Im not planning on booking anything before hand, I was just going to pick a place and go but i dont know what the best way to go about it is. When i go with family we usually stay at a house that is on the beach in the middle of nowhere. So this will be very different.

February 12, 2016 at 5:51 am

Just come back. From. Costa. Rica great place felt very. Safe solo female the locals were very respectful towards. Woman would go back. Again

April 12, 2016 at 8:26 am

I really loved how you described your trip! I am thinking of going there by myself as well.

My only concern: is it safe for a girl to go there alone?

Thanks a lot 🙂

June 20, 2016 at 9:33 pm

Hi Laya, did you end up going by yourself? If so, how was it? Did you feel safe? I’m going there alone in August and am worried about safety – but I hope it will be worth it 🙂

July 12, 2017 at 11:32 pm

If you want to go to Costa Rica have 6 days want to do snorkeling , enjoy the jungle with monkeys and river … being away from City but close enough to restaurant and beach… where would your stay?

February 1, 2016 at 10:35 pm

I hope you go to Costa Rica and let me know about it! Very happy to hear from you.

[…] have never been here, but it’s on my list! I saw this post about female solo travel to Costa Rico and I’m sold. Good news for Philippine passport […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Why to consider solo travel in Costa Rica (and what to expect)

I first fell in love with Costa Rica after watching an episode of The Jeff Corwin Experience . I had seen it so many times that I could recite the line, “It’s time to go from a quadruped to a biped in search of a no-ped!”

The country is famous for its gorgeous reptiles, and he was referring to snakes. In the episode, he travels from the cloud forests of Monteverde to the secluded shores of the Caribbean, encountering nesting sea turtles, a troop of Capuchin monkeys, a silky anteater, and a Bushmaster serpent along the way.

I was mesmerized, and just had to visit this magical, critter-filled world. Years went by before I could realize my dream. It was only after a breakup that I decided to pack my bags and head south from the concrete jungle of New York to the rainforests of Costa Rica .

At a market in Manuel Antonio

I signed up for the Intrepid’s Classic Costa Rica 15-day tour and, in the footsteps of my favorite TV host, I fearlessly ventured into the jungles and rugged shores, in search of not just exotic wildlife, but a new perspective.

Here’s what happened and what it was like…

Endless beauty, for everyone to enjoy

The country is small, but it’s abundant with natural beauty, boasting 28 National Parks, three of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The parks range from lush rainforests to complex freshwater and marine ecosystems that preserve natural resources and diverse animal population. Ever-present clouds give Monteverde National Park a sense of mystery, while turtle heaven, Tortuguero National Park, is perpetually bright with sandy shores and sunshine. Manuel Antonio, the crown jewel of Costa Rica, located in the Central Pacific Coast, is the smallest, yet most biodiverse National Park in the country.

Lapping up the beauty of La Fortuna

Natural hot springs, warmed by the volcano’s underground magma, make Arenal Volcano National Park another must-visit. Just the excitement of seeing these incredibly unique sights was enough for me to forget that I was newly single. And it was all the better to be in the company of fellow nature lovers on the Intrepid Tour who came from all corners of the world, from North America to Australia.

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S RANGE OF SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES IN COSTA RICA

With more than 2,000 species of plants, 320 bird species, and 100 different types of mammals, Monteverde is a wildlife lover’s paradise, but I was more drawn to the suspension bridges. These hanging bridges, that gently swayed above deep ravines and verdant virgin forests, allowed me to walk amidst a mist-covered canopy, surrounded by the cacophony of bird calls and monkey chatter. 

Loving Monteverde

Going North to Arenal Volcano National Park, one of the most recognized attractions in the country, I stood in awe looking up at the Arenal Volcano sending off a puff of white smoke. The imposing, dormant volcano rises 5,437 feet over pastured green hillsides and provides ample opportunities for hiking and exploring. Nearby, I enjoyed the benefits of soothing natural hot springs at Tabacon, courtesy of  the volcano’s geothermal activity. The hardest decision was choosing which natural pool to swim in!

SUBSCRIBE TO INTREPID’S NEWSLETTER FOR TRAVEL TIPS, COMPETITIONS, GIVEAWAYS & MORE

Animals, everywhere – but safety nonetheless

On our first night in Manuel Antonio, to my delight, a 20-foot-long boa constrictor crawled from the nearby jungle onto the front yard of our hotel.  As the security guard gently held this non-venomous creature to move it away, I admired its ornate layers from a distance.

It turned out that it wasn’t the only reptile I would encounter. Sunbathing iguanas rested on the sidewalks as I made my way around the property. On one of the hikes, our guide pointed out an eyelash pit viper, a venomous beauty with, you guessed it, long eyelashes curled up on a branch. I took a picture of it through the lens of a telescope. Even though there seems to be wildlife everywhere, it’s best to admire from a distance.

Casual lizard sighting in Costa Rica

The easy trail running through the park in Manuel Antonio was perfect for our tour which encompassed all physical levels and ages. On our short hour-long hike through the park, my Intrepid group witnessed two and three-toed sloths, colorful land crabs, iguanas, toucans, and monkeys. Our excitement only doubled when we discovered the white sand beaches at the end of our hike. At Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur, the rainforest plunges into the turquoise seas and offers picture-perfect vistas and a refreshing break.  

READ MORE: THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TRAVEL TO COSTA RICA

Tortuguero, on the North Caribbean coast, is home to 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered animals, including manatees, ocelots, and jaguars. It’s also the nesting grounds for green sea turtles, which come ashore between July and October to lay eggs on the sandy beaches. I will forever cherish quietly walking along the beach, holding onto my fellow travelers in complete darkness in search of turtles digging in the sand to leave their precious eggs. They then waddled across the beach and disappeared into the water, never to meet their offspring. Afterwards, we all sat in the sand under the cloudy sky, giggling with excitement over what we had just witnessed.

Calm, serene beaches can be found on the Caribbean side, but some of the Pacific beaches are known to have riptides. Beware of signs with warnings, and use caution when venturing out to the sea. At Playa Espadilla at Manuel Antonio, it was refreshing to jump into the water after a hike, and I made sure to stay in waist deep waters, within sight of rest of the group.

READ MORE: 6 BEACHES IN COSTA RICA YOU HAVE TO VISIT

Countless opportunities to meet people

Thousands of tourists travel to Costa Rica seeking adventure, relaxation, and the pura vida (pure and simple) lifestyle, and I was no exception. Everywhere I ventured, I was greeted by friendly locals and like-minded travelers. Being part of a friendly tour group provided an instant community.

Gazing at Arenal Volcano with new Intrepid friends

Having a homestay with a local family in Santa Rosa de Pocosol, near Juanilama agricultural community, allowed us to meet locals and learn more about everyday life in Costa Rica, and practice Spanish. It was also a pleasant surprise to run into fellow New Yorkers at Tabacon Hot Springs in La Fortuna. We sipped cocktails in a swim-up bar overlooking Arenal Volcano and talked about the wonderful experiences we’d had.

From the moment I landed in Costa Rica until my flight home departed, I was grateful for the opportunity of new experiences. My heart felt lighter and my mind reawakened from being around such pristine wilderness. I made new friends and memories that would last a long time, and this was just the beginning of many future trips to this captivating country.

Ready to explore the endless delights of Costa Rica? Check out Intrepid’s range of small group tours.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Lavanya Sunkara x2, Intrepid Travel, Lavanya Sunkara, Intrepid Travel x3.)

Feeling inspired?

Lavanya Sunkara

Lavanya Sunkara is a New York City-based writer, animal lover, and traveler. She has lived in three time zones, and explored all continents except Antarctica. She is currently working on visiting all 50 states. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter @nature_traveler.

You might also like

From delhi to udaipur, here are the five..., travel globally and think locally with intrepid leader..., follow the leader: tu vu will never stop..., turkey’s most underrated experience: mountain biking in cappadocia, the best thing about a family tour seeing..., why ninh binh and lan ha bay should..., love elephants here’s why you should visit mandalao..., why you should visit the most peaceful place..., what it’s like spending the night in a..., 10 things i wish i knew before hiking..., what i wish i knew before hiking to....

The Ultimate 7-day Costa Rica Itinerary

Near Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

For many reasons, Costa Rica is one of my absolute FAVORITE travel destinations. Is it the rustic jungle waterfall hikes? Sloth sightings? Luxury hotels sitting on black sand beaches? Adventurous activities like zip-lining and white water rafting? Maybe it’s just that “ Pura Vida ” lifestyle.

While Costa Rica has a well-established tourism industry, it still has many hidden gems away from the crowds. This country offers something for *every* type of traveler! It’s phenomenal for solo female travelers and families alike. And one of the best parts? It’s less than a 3-hour flight from Miami!

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Costa Rica multiple times as a solo traveler, so it seems fitting to share some of my favorite spots around the country with this Ultimate 7-day Itinerary to Costa Rica!

Check out the Ultimate 7-day Costa Rica Itinerary, perfect for solo female travelers!

PSA: I’m hosting a group retreat to Costa Rica in May 2024! Skip the research and travel with me!

Costa Rica Itinerary Highlights:

Manuel Antonio

To optimize your time in Costa Rica and see as MUCH as possible, this itinerary contemplates flying into Liberia (LIR) international airport and flying out of San Jose (SJO) international airport . You can mix and match stops based on your specific travel plans and how much time you have in Costa Rica!

It’s fun to road trip around the country and see various ecosystems and topography. But, a word to the wise, this country is *known* for terrible roads, so make sure to rent an SUV or a car with all-wheel drive while in Costa Rica !

If you’re a solo traveler in Costa Rica and concerned about driving the roads alone, check out shared shuttle and bus options in Costa Rica — that’s how I got around during my most recent solo trip!

Nosara, Costa Rica

The Nomadic Hotel, Nosara, Costa Rica

Day 1-2: Nosara

One of my favorite little beach towns in the entire WORLD, Nosara, Costa Rica , is a mecca for yoga and surf enthusiasts. This place embodies Costa Rica’s famous “ Pura Vida ” lifestyle. Full disclaimer — while this itinerary only contemplates two days in Nosara, you’re going to want to extend your time!!

Nosara is a tourist town, but it still flies under the radar for most international visitors. There are also many expats living in Nosara, so it has a young and global vibe. If you’ve been to Bali, it reminds me a lot of Canggu !

I’d imagine that Nosara is what the busy touristy town of Tamarindo, Costa Rica felt like 20 years ago. Part of why Nosara is a hidden gem is that, until recently, none of the roads around the town were paved! Even now, small dirt paths through the jungle connect the beach to local (delicious!) restaurants and luxe hotels.

If you need a true retreat from the daily grind, this is the place to go!

Top Things to See and Do in Nosara:

Surf Playa Guiones ! This beach is known as a “swell magnet.” It’s particularly fantastic for beginners and intermediates because the waves are mild and consistent, but experts seem to flock there too! Because Nosara is a surf town, there are *loads* of affordable surf shops and stands to book last-minute lessons or rent a board.

I loved taking surf lessons with Nosara CR Surf School , but there are many resorts in the area that also offer surf lessons. If you’re interested in REALLY progressing, why not stay at one of the many surf camps in the area? I’ve had Surf Simply on my bucket list for quite some time!!

Find some zen with a yoga class! Since Nosara is primarily a surf and yoga town, there are also TONS of yoga classes, private yoga instructors, and yoga retreats. If you’re interested in individual classes, I’d check out the beautiful, Nalu Nosara , which offers a variety of fitness classes. Looking for a multi-day, comprehensive yoga experience? Check out the Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort , which offers multiple types of daily practices so that you can bounce from one class to the next!

Hike to the beautifully untouched Malanoche Waterfall . This place is such a hidden gem that it’s tough to find unless you’re hiking with someone who has been before!!

Relax during a spa appointment. I love the Swedish massage at The Gilded Iguana to heal post-surf, sore muscles!

SO MANY great accommodations in Nosara to choose from! Seriously — I’ve stayed at local Airbnb’s in Nosara , I’ve stayed at budget hostels, and I’ve stayed at luxury resorts. And I’ve enjoyed them all for different reasons! I’d highly recommend checking out the Instagrammable Nomadic Hotel , which pairs its chic boho vibes with free (yummy!) breakfast and a central pool! Other hotel options I suggest? The Harmony Hotel for low-key luxury, Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort for yoga enthusiasts, Selina for trendy backpackers, and The Gilded Iguana for a little bit of everything!

Monteverde Zip Line Canopy Tour

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Day 3-4: Monteverde

Next stop… Monteverde ! While it’s a rough and rocky uphill drive, Monteverde is a MUST-SEE while in Costa Rica!

This area was founded in the 1950s by a group of American Quakers! Monteverde is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the heart of the lush Costa Rican jungle, try some adventurous activities, and see unique wildlife.

Because Monteverde is in the rainforest, you should expect some rain here, even during Costa Rica’s “dry” season from December through April.

One of my favorite things I’ve done in Costa Rica was zip line through Monteverde ; this is NOT your standard American zip line! The main town of Santa Elena, Costa Rica has just enough to feed and house you without feeling *overly* touristy (ahem, looking at you, Jaco!).

Monteverde is definitely worth the trek up into the mountains!

Top Things to See and Do in Monteverde:

Fly through the jungle on the Monteverde Zip Line Canopy Tour run by 100% Aventura ! This tour was such a highlight of my last trip to Costa Rica; I HIGHLY recommend it!! But, you should know that this zip line tour is for TRUE thrill-seekers. It boasts:

The *longest* zip line in Costa Rica — it’s almost a MILE long without anything beneath you!

Two superman zip lines — these have a special harness that holds your feet so that you’re catapulting headfirst through the air like superman himself!

The famous Tarzan swing zip line — this is a ~150-ft free-fall drop-off of a platform (it felt like an introduction to bungee jumping!) before the rope catches tight and swings back and forth like Tarzan! You can easily opt-out of this one if you’re not up for it!!

Hike the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve . Explore the Costa Rica jungle on foot with mini waterfalls, red hanging bridges, and if you’re lucky, some local wildlife (birds, sloths, etc.)! Interestingly, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve also sits along the continental divide, which spans from Canada down to Argentina!

Check out the Monteverde Butterfly Garden . See dozens of species of butterflies, as well as various local insects like leaf bugs, stick bugs, scorpions, etc. Candidly, I skipped this popular spot because I'm terrified of the multiple spiders and tarantulas on display!

There are TONS of hotel options in Monteverde. For a backpacker hostel option, check out Selina , a trendy and FUN hostel chain located in major cities throughout Costa Rica, as well as much of central and South America! For a mid-tier option, I’d recommend El Establo Mountain Hotel , where I stayed — you get central and clean accommodations, plus a lovely pool! I’ve also heard fantastic things about Hotel Senda Monteverde if you’re seeking something more upscale!! Lastly, if you can book in advance, I’d HIGHLY recommend snagging one of the many Monteverde treehouse Airbnb’s in the area!

Day 5-6: Arenal (La Fortuna)

Like Monteverde, Arenal is a hub for adventurous activity in Costa Rica, and the main town nearby is called La Fortuna . The GEM of this area is the Arenal Volcano , and the natural hot springs formed after its 1968 eruption. Whether you’re into hiking, white water rafting, zip-lining, canyoning, or just soaking in a natural hot springs spa, there’s something for everyone in the jungles of Arenal. Similar to Monteverde, the roads to Arenal can be a bit treacherous, so take your time driving!

Top Things to See and Do in Arenal (La Fortuna):

Relax in one of the natural hot springs spas! There are a whopping 12 hot springs in La Fortuna , each of which caters to a different desire for budget and VIBE. Some hot springs are luxurious and quiet spa-like retreats, while others are social environments with swim-up bars. Some cost hundreds of dollars for a day pass, while others are inexpensive and draw nearby school kids. I’m not going to dive into each one here, but I would recommend researching these before your visit and deciding which may be right for you! A few I’d recommend checking out are Tabacon , EcoTermales , and Baldi ! We’ll be staying at the luxurious 5-star Tabacon resort with unbelievable thermal hot springs onsite during The Soloist Retreat to Costa Rica this May!

Visit Arenal Volcano National Park . Trek through sugarcane and rainforest trails, across hanging bridges, and see postcard-worthy views of the Arenal volcano! You’ll also see cooled lava flows from the last eruption in 2010! While the volcano isn’t dormant, it’s considered safe to explore at a distance.

Hike to La Fortuna River Waterfall . Descend MANY paved steps to this popular waterfall and refresh with a dip in the swimming hole!

If you missed your chance to walk across hanging bridges or zip line through the canopy in Monteverde, Arenal has you covered! There are various tour operators to guide you through the hanging bridges at Mistico Park , as well as through Arenal zip-line courses ! You can also try other adventurous activities in La Fortuna, including but not limited to white water rafting and canyoning!

Where to stay in La Fortuna? Check out Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa or The Springs Resort & Spa (where you can combine your lodging with a hot spring soak!), or if you’re seeking a budget-friendly option, I’d again recommend the local Selina ! The Selina properties have hostel-style bunk rooms, as well as private rooms with ensuite bathrooms for those who want a bit more privacy!

Manuel Antonio National Park , Costa Rica

Day 7: Manuel Antonio

Have a day to spare before flying out of San Jose (SJO) international airport ? If you’re hoping to see a sloth, Manuel Antonio National Park is a necessary stop! This park is exciting because, in addition to offering various hiking trails through the jungle, it also has an absolutely *stunning* beach!

I recommend paying the extra cost for a Manuel Antonio tour guide expertly trained in spotting all of the critters hiding in the trees. You can easily book a guide when you buy entrance tickets on the day of your visit. I would’ve NEVER noticed the sleeping sloth in the picture above (in real life, they’re smaller than I expected!), and our guide also pointed out some unique birds and crazy colored tropical frogs!!

Make sure to pack a picnic for the park so that you can fully enjoy the beach after your wildlife adventure! Because it’s part of National Park, the white sand beach at Manuel Antonio is perfectly preserved, and the water is crystal-clear!!

This place is the perfect place to spend a half-day and an ideal way to end your 7-day Costa Rica itinerary!

Interested in joining my next Retreat to Costa Rica in May 2024? Contact me for availability!

Top 10 Travel Bucket List Ideas

8 carry-on travel skincare essentials.

Costa Rica Solo Travel Tips

Welcome to our page which covers a list of Costa Rica solo travel tips.

Let’s be real, Costa Rica is a unique country to explore .

With dense jungle, a host of exotic animals and birds, world-class beaches and some of the friendliest people on earth, this country is perfect for a solo trip.

What's in this guide?

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about traveling solo to Costa Rica.

How Safe is Costa Rica?

Here we’ll take a look at the current safety situation in Costa Rica.

The 2020 Global Peace Index is a great way of comparing countries’ current stability, by looking at both tangible and qualitative indicators .

• Costa Rica ranked as 32nd out of the 163 nations measured, whilst for comparison, The United States ranked as 121st.
• Out of all of the countries in Latin America, Costa Rica ranks as one of the safest to visit. Having said this, there can be some not-so-nice areas in San José, where carjackings and theft are common.
• Be sure to read up on the best neighborhoods to visit in the capital around the time you decide to go.

Places in Costa Rica for Singles

Costa Rica as a whole is perfect for solo travel! There truly are countless destinations to be enjoyed, however here we’ll cover the very best.

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a very laid-back town on the Caribbean coast, close to the border with Panama and you can easily reach Bocas del Toro from here.

Known for its chill vibes and stunning beaches, it’s a very friendly place with some good nightlife going for it.

It’s great for solo travelers because the town feels like one big community , and here you’ll find it easy to meet others, as well as many activities to do such as bike rides through the jungle or surfing on its turquoise waters.

La Fortuna is a place to go for hiking and adventure enthusiasts. Located around 50km inland, La Fortuna and its national park are home to to the infamous Arenal Volcano .

One of the most popular to hike in Central America , this 1650m high cone-shaped volcano looks something out of a prehistoric film.

Other cool things to see nearby include La Fortuna Waterfall, and also to explore the hanging bridges at the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park (where you can also see lots of cool animals).

Other places that are worthy of mention include Manuel Antonio National Park, Santa Teresa and Jaco.

Costa Rica Travel Insurance

Getting solid insurance is your priority before traveling to Costa Rica!

Let’s be honest – getting ill or having an accident is something we all avoid thinking about, and that it will never happen to you personally.

However when traveling it’s natural you’ll be taking more risks, so it’s vital to get this sorted beforehand. Even if nothing happens, just knowing that you’re covered will help you relax and enjoy your trip even more.

Click the button above so we can help you get a realistic quote to see how much your backpacking insurance will cost for the entire duration of your trip.

Is Costa Rica Expensive?

There’s no beating around the bush here – Costa Rica is expensive .

At least in terms of backpacking, with it being one of the more costly to travel in Central America, and it even tops the cost of travel in South America too.

We suggest having a budget of $30 a day, which is roughly 19,000 CRC in the local Costa Rican Currency (Colones) at this time of writing (March 2022).

This is for the classic backpacker style of living, which involves sleeping in a dorm bed, eating at a cheap local restaurant and also buying some food to prepare in the hostel.

There’s also extra leftover for a couple of bus tickets, daily activities and for some beers or drinks at night.

Below we’ve outlined some of the costs you can expect on your average day backpacking in Costa Rica .

Of course, these can vary depending on where you are and your travel style, but it’s a good start for expectations.

• Inexpensive meal at a local restaurant: $4.50 (3000 CRC)
• Mid-range meal at a nice restaurant: $8.50 (5500 CRC)
• 1.5L Bottle of water at the local shop: $1.50 (1000CRC)
• SIM card average price: $1.80 (1200 CRC)
• Dorm bed: $11 (7000 CRC)
• Private room in a hostel: $25 (16,000 CRC)
• One-way bus ticket within a city: $0.50-1.00 (300-600 CRC)

Things to do in Costa Rica

As with any new country, you’re eager to explore, it’s good to get to know the places before you head out. This also includes the must-dos and also any other activities that take your fancy.

Costa Rica in particular is popular for many different reasons, and below we’ll cover the top activities and things to do.

See these EPIC things to do in Costa Rica

• Learn to Dive in the Pacific waters of Santa Teresa.
• Explore the city of San José with a free walking tour.
• Lace up your boots and hike up the incredible Arenal Volcano .
• Get immersed in nature with an organized night jungle tour in Monteverde.
• Chill out on the beaches of Puerto Viejo and breathe the Caribbean vibes.
• Explore Punta Uva and less visited beaches along the wild Pacific coast.
• Head out to Jaco for an intense weekend of partying followed by recovering on its beautiful beaches.
• Visit Tortuguero National Park to get up and close with Green Turtles that nest here annually.

Backpacking Costa Rica

Having already spent time backpacking Costa Rica ourselves, we know exactly what’s it like and what to expect.

We also learned of some of the challenges, and also hacks to traveling this country from our own raw experience . We’ll cover these below now.

Tip 1: Don’t use the Airport ATM’s. I mean this one is pretty standard wherever you are, however in Costa Rica the fees were astronomical, not to mention giving a pretty poor rate. Take out some Colones before your trip, and use the ATM’s in the city or town centers instead .

Tip 2: Take advantage of the Buses. Despite Costa Rica being one of the most expensive countries in Latin America, the buses (especially between cities and destinations) were super cheap! You can easily check timetables and prices online, which can sometimes be as low as $5 for a 2/3 hour trip!

Tip 3: Start a morning with Gallo Pinto . The famous national dish of Costa Rica is a must-try, with lots of different ingredients merged including dark beans and rice. We recommend everyone tries this at least once on their trip. Who knows, it may become your go-to when in Costa Rica.

Best Places to stay in Costa Rica

Now let’s take a look at our favorite hostels to stay in Costa Rica.

We’ve explored the best hostels in Central America on this blog before. Below are two from our own experiences in Costa Rica for you to try.

So… without further ado let’s take a look.

Selina San Jose

Hostel Features:

• Safe Neighbourhood
• Range of Accommodation Options
• Many Nightlife Options Nearby

Get Price via HostelWorld

Selina in our experience is the best hostel to stay in San Jose. It’s located in a safer area of the capital and is close to lots of busy areas with lots of eating and nightlife options. There’s also a good range of sleeping options here to accommodate all budgets.

• 🏠 Address: Av 9 15, Otoya, San José, 10101, Costa Rica
• 🏘 Neighbourhood: San Francisco Centre
• 🚌 Nearest Bus station: Parada Antigua Fabrica de Licores

Casa Zen Guesthouse

• Perfect Location
• Relaxing Atmosphere
• Nice Eco-Friendly Feel

Located just steps from the beach, Casa Zen is a great place with a more chill vibe going for it. Here you can take part in daily yoga classes and also surfing close-by. The hostel itself has a really cool and eco-friendly feel to it, with the layout really adding to its off-the-beaten-path experience.

• 🏠 Address: Casa Zen Beach Access Rd 30103
• 🏘 Neighbourhood: Santa Teresa
• 🚌 Nearest Bus station: Parada de Buses de Santa Teresa

Getting Around Costa Rica

You’ll first arrive in San José (if flying into Costa Rica), or by bus from Nicaragua or Panama.

Getting around Costa Rica is very cheap by bus, and we recommend taking advantage of the numerous operators that connect the major destinations well.

The duration of the buses tends to be quite quick as well, especially if you’re used to travelling around much larger countries in Latin America.

In San José, the major bus station is called the Terminal 7-10 , and here the buses depart to all the different corners of the country.

For example, the bus from San José to Puerto Viejo takes around 5 hours, and another popular route of San José to Jaco takes just 2.5 hours.

In other destinations, they all have their own major bus terminal or stops, with timetables easy to find online or in the terminal . Again you can either book online or head there in person.

It’s worth mentioning that if heading more off the beaten path, then it’s worth trying to find out logistics before you leave, unless you’re confident in your Spanish-speaking abilities.

Costa Rica Itineraries

Once you’ve worked out a few places where you’ll want to visit in Costa Rica, now comes the time for organising your trip.

Whilst you could just arrive and see where it goes (this is also a fun way of traveling), it’s best to have some kind of itinerary or rough idea for your trip .

Below we’ll cover some of our best itineraries for backpacking around Costa Rica. All of these itineraries will start and finish from the capital of San José.

However it’s worth mentioning that you can also arrive from Nicaragua to the north and also Panama from the south.

Itinerary 1: (1 Week) San Jose > Jaco > Manuel Antonio National Park.

Itinerary 2: (1 Week) San Jose > Monteverde > La Fortuna.

Itinerary 3: (2 Weeks) San Jose > Puerto Viejo > Punta Uva > Manuel Antonio National Park.

Itinerary 4: (3 Weeks) San Jose > Jaco > Manuel Antonio National Park > La Fortuna > Tortuguero National Park.

Itinerary 5: (1 Month) San Jose > Puerto Viejo > Tortuguero National Park > La Fortuna > Monteverde > Santa Teresa > Manuel Antonio National Park.

And that’s all for our solo backpacking guide to Costa Rica!

This beautiful yet comfortably-small country is home to picturesque beaches and some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the World .

In this guide, we’ve explored everything you’ll need to know about backpacking Costa Rica, including how to stay safe, budgeting, itineraries, the best things to do and much more.

See the best time to visit Central America here and learn about the micro climates in each region before booking your trip to Costa Rica.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

Similar Posts

Backpacking Central America

Comprising of seven small yet vibrant countries, backpacking Central America is seen as a rite of passage. This region is home to many exciting and lesser known destinations, including some truly incredible Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches and cultural cities. It’s also inexpensive, meaning you can travel around this region for longer! Due to its comparative…

How to get from Tulum to Chichén Itzá

One of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is a truly remarkable site to visit in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico. With towering temples, hidden ancient mysteries and a site which was once the focal point of the Mayan kingdom, we think that visiting Chichén Itzá is a must on any…

How To Avoid Altitude Sickness in Cusco

When traveling around South America, we often tend to think that our safety is only at risk from people, such as getting our things stolen or from other human-related issues. However in Peru, we also need to think about altitude sickness which can be an issue in popular Andean destinations such as Cusco. Without proper…

Central America Backpacking Route

Welcome to our Central America backpacking route! Although the smallest region in the Western Hemisphere, Central America is a really fun area to explore. Not only is it full of Mayan ruins, towering volcanoes and beautiful beaches, it’s also relatively easy to travel through. From southern Mexico down to Panama, you need much less time…

Backpacking Panama Itinerary

Welcome to our backpacking Panama itinerary. Panama is one of the most popular destinations in Central America because its a tropical paradise that has much to offer. You can spend your leisure time on the beach, explore lush rainforests, head to the mountains, or enjoy the cosmopolitan city. Panama Itinerary Today, we will provide a…

How to get from Cancún Airport to Playa del Carmen

A popular town to visit along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Playa del Carmen and its surrounding region has lots going for it. Here we can enjoy numerous cenotes, swim in crystal-clear waters, visit nearby ancient Mayan ruins as well as live it up in a town that has a pulsating atmosphere. Cancún Airport to Playa del…

Solo Female Travel in Costa Rica — Is Costa Rica Safe?

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

I love traveling alone in Costa Rica. It’s a place brimming with joy. A nature destination filled with rainforests, volcanoes, cloud forests, golden beaches, coral reefs — oh, and tons of adorable sloths! And more than that, it’s a very easy place to travel, ideal for first-timers.

“Pura vida” is a phrase you’ll hear throughout your solo trip to Costa Rica. It means “pure life” and you can say it as a response for anything. “How are you?” “Pura vida.” “What did you get up to last night?” “Pura vida!” It’s more than a feeling — it’s a peaceful, happy state of mind.

I think Costa Rica is one of the best countries for first-time solo female travelers as well as first-time international travelers. I know that most people head to Europe for their first solo trip — but if you’re looking for something with a cheaper flight from the US or Canada, somewhere that’s warm in the winter, a place where you can delve deep into nature, a country where the people will welcome you with open arms — think Costa Rica .

Costa Rica is an excellent solo travel destination. I think you’re really going to like it here.

Table of Contents

Why Travel Solo to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is the perfect introduction to traveling alone in Latin America. It’s one of the easiest and safest countries to travel in Latin America, making it a bit of a “soft landing” of a country. Even if you can barely speak a few mangled Spanish words, you’ll get by fine here.

Costa Rica has excellent travel infrastructure. Costa Rica has been welcoming tourists for quite some time and they have accommodation, transportation, and tours designed and priced for budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers. No matter what kind of traveler you are, Costa Rica has the goods for you.

Costa Rica is one of the best destinations in the world for sustainable travel. Back when eco-tourism was a buzzword at best, Costa Rica was leading the way on sustainable wildlife tourism, and thanks to laying that early groundwork, it’s one of the world’s leaders today. If you’re interested in responsible travel, Costa Rica is brimming with options.

Costa Rica packs a lot of diversity into a small country. If you’re visiting Costa Rica for a week, you’ll be able to fit in jungle, cloud forest, and beach time — and maybe even a few volcanoes! The diversity extends to the climate — if it’s too rainy in the rainforest, you can always pack up and move to a sunny beach within a few hours.

Also — Costa Rica is beautiful and warm and outdoorsy, but you aren’t expected to lie on the beach all day, like many Caribbean destinations. This is a big reason why my pale-skinned friends have traveled to Costa Rica — to enjoy the weather and a little bit of beach time but getting to do other things, too, with less of a risk of sunburns.

Is Costa Rica Good for First-Time Solo Female Travelers?

Costa Rica is one of the BEST possible destinations for women traveling alone for the first time ever. And it’s my top recommendation in Latin America for first-time international travelers.

What makes Costa Rica a great destination for first-timers? The whole country is outfitted for tourism with excellent infrastructure at a variety of price points. Every tourism spot has tons of day trips and activities that you can join as a solo traveler. English is spoken extensively. There is a large expat community and it’s easy to find connections.

But more importantly than that, Costa Rica makes it easy . All you need to do is book flights and accommodation, and fill your days in with cool tours and activities.

This is a significant difference from other countries in Central America. Guatemala and Nicaragua are wonderful places to visit, but they involve rougher travel and I think they’re more enjoyable if you have more solo travel experience.

Costa Rica has been in the tourism business forever — and as a result, they’re great for everyone. Costa Rica is great for families. Costa Rica is great for honeymooners. Costa Rica is great for retirees. Costa Rica is great for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free folks. And Costa Rica is fantastic for solo female travelers.

Costa Rica Tours for Solo Travelers

If you’re not quite sure if you’re ready to travel completely solo, another option is joining a group tour! G Adventures is a company with whom I’ve traveled before and I recommend. Their tours are very solo-friendly, they keep their groups small, they’re sustainability-minded, and they have a ton of tour options in Costa Rica . Here are some of them:

• Costa Rica Quest (9 days from San José) — the perfect intro to Costa Rica with jungle, beach, wildlife, and canopy.
• Costa Rica Adventure (16 days from San José) — Costa Rica Quest plus three more exciting destinations.
• Costa Rica Volcanoes and Surfing (9 days from San José) — An active tour with hiking, climbing, and kayaking.
• Costa Rica & Panama Quest (16 days, San José to Panama City) — The best destinations in Costa Rica and Panama in two weeks.
• See all their Costa Rica tours here.

Is Costa Rica Good for Experienced Solo Female Travelers?

Costa Rica is great for all kinds of solo travelers! I had visited more than 50 countries before I made it to Costa Rica and really enjoyed my time there. That being said, I do think experienced solo travelers would enjoy Costa Rica more if they got off the standard tourist trail.

I would especially recommend avoiding the most popular tourist spots — particularly Tamarindo, which is nicknamed Tamagringo for a reason. You may also want to avoid places like Manuel Antonio National Park, La Fortuna, and possibly Puerto Viejo. Getting off the beaten path in Costa Rica can be its own reward.

Some cool places in Costa Rica that aren’t as overcrowded are Montezuma on the Nicoya Peninsula, which has more of a backpacker/hippie beach vibe; Turrialba, a chilled out town with easy access to whitewater rafting; and the Osa Peninsula, which is home to half of Costa Rica’s species and is the place to go for wildlife retreats.

If you’re traveling solo in Central America for several weeks or months, like I did, you may have the urge to limit your time in Costa Rica as it’s one of the more expensive countries in the region. I understand the impulse — but don’t limit it TOO much. Try to visit at least three to five places in the country.

Is Costa Rica Safe?

Many Central American countries have a reputation for crime — a reputation that is often not unfounded. But one of the biggest mistakes that travelers make is painting the whole region with one brush and assuming that a low-key beach town in Costa Rica is just as dangerous as a gang-controlled neighborhood in Tegucigalpa.

Please know that Central America is a big and diverse region, and destinations vary enormously. Central America may be home to cities with high murder rates like San Pedro Sula and San Salvador, but the region is also home to safe, peaceful destinations that have very little crime.

And Costa Rica is one of the safest parts of Central America — a country where I am very comfortable sending women who have never traveled solo before.

Petty crime is the biggest risk in Costa Rica, particularly in San Jose and on public transportation throughout the country. It’s important to keep your valuables on you in transit and keep them locked up when at your accommodation, ideally in a portable safe . I also recommend using a lockable backpack while in Central America, like my Pacsafe bag — more on that below.

Most crimes committed against travelers in Costa Rica are opportunistic. If you’re the only room that leaves your door unlocked, you’ll probably be the one room that gets broken into. If you leave your passport under your pillow in a dorm (yes, I’ve seen this happen MANY times on my travels), it’s pretty likely to be stolen.

Occasionally you hear terrible news about a traveler dying in Costa Rica — from drugs, from drowning, from an adventure activity go wrong. Please understand that these tragedies make the news because they’re such rare occurrences. If they happened all the time, they wouldn’t be newsworthy.

Anything can happen anywhere, anytime. You could survive dozens of trip to dangerous destinations, then come home and get killed by a drunk driver. It’s impossible to protect yourself from harm 100% of the time.

Most solo travel safety in Costa Rica comes down to common sense. Keep your valuables on you in transit, don’t drink too much, budget extra money to upgrade to safer experiences, and keep in touch with someone who has a copy of your itinerary at home.

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Where to Go in Costa Rica

What I love about Costa Rica is that it has so much diversity within a relatively small space. Most travelers will be spending at least a week to 10 days in the country, and that gives you time to visit a few different destinations.

The best Costa Rica trips, in my opinion, combine wildlife, jungle, and beach. These are three elements that make up the perfect Costa Rica solo trip.

Santa Elena/Monteverde

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of the places that people picture when they visit Costa Rica. Here you can zip-line, hike, and bungee jump through the clouds. Santa Elena is an adorable small town and makes a nice base for a few days.

Manuel Antonio National Park

One of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations, Manuel Antonio is like Costa Rica in a nutshell — it’s got beach, forest, and tons of outdoor activities. It’s also an LGBTQ hotspot. While a lot of fun, it’s also one of the most crowded places in the country.

Tortuguero National Park

If you’re hoping to see sea turtles nesting, Tortuguero National Park is the place. The best months to see nesting are from July to October, with September and October being the best months. Outside of nesting season, it’s still a great wildlife destination with canals to explore by boat.

Arenal/La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a town headed by Arenal, one of the country’s fiercest volcanoes. In this popular jungle destination you can go wildlife viewing at night, trek Arenal volcano, explore the lake by boat, or spend your days soaking in the surrounding hot springs.

An enormously busy beach town in Costa Rica. This is the place to stay if you want all the creature comforts of home; go further afield if you want something more special.

Corcovado National Park

If you’re intent on exploring Costa Rica’s wildlife, Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula is the best place — it’s one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and home to half of Costa Rica’s species. It’s also less touristed than other parks in Costa Rica.

Puerto Viejo

This town on the Caribbean coast is a stone’s throw from the Panama border, making it a good stop if you’re visiting both countries. Here you can surf, horseback ride, snorkel, and dive in the reefs of Cahuita National Park — or party with the backpacker crowd.

Nobody comes to Costa Rica to spend time in its capital — but if you have a day here in transit, there are some nice museums and markets to visit.

A chilled out beach town and my personal favorite spot in Costa Rica. Sámara has a gray sand beach and calm waters. It’s a good environment for paddle-boarding if you’ve never done it in the sea before, and there are lots of great cafes and yoga spots.

These are just some of the destinations — Costa Rica has plenty more!

In Search of Perfect Beach Towns: Sámara, Costa Rica

Best Things to Do in Costa Rica on a Solo Trip

See sloths in the wild. The really are the more adorable animals, and you can find them hanging out in trees in towns! I spotted this guy outside by hostel in Monteverde. You can even visit the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica in Limón on the Caribbean coast!

Please don’t touch any sloths you see — just touching them scares them and sends their heart rate through the roof. Even the sloth sanctuary doesn’t let you handle them for that reason. But they are super cute to look at!

Learn to surf. If you’ve never surfed before, Costa Rica is a great place to learn! Most of the best surfing beaches are on the Pacific coast like Jacó, Dominical, Tamarindo, and Montezuma, though Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean side has become another surfing hotspot.

Watch sea turtles nesting. One of the signature activities of Costa Rica! Tortuguero National Park is the best place to see this in action, and nesting season is July to October with the best sightings in September and October. Tour operators say you have a 90% chance of seeing the turtles during the season. Book a turtle tour here.

Get into yoga and fitness. There’s something about being in a natural environment surrounded by healthy food that inspires you to have healthy habits. Join a yoga or meditation class in one of the towns — they’re everywhere — or even join a yoga retreat!

Go ziplining through the canopy. Another signature experience of Costa Rica! You can find this everywhere, and I enjoyed my experience in the Monteverde Cloud Forest. If you’re not a fan of zip-lining, you can still walk through the Monteverde Cloud Forest and its hanging bridges .

See the smallest orchid in the world. I loved visiting the Monteverde Orchid Garden — and was delighted at the tiniest orchid in the world!

Go whale watching. Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a great place to spot whales in their natural habitat.

Watch a fútbol game with locals. Whether it’s on TV at a local bar or a real-life game at La Sabana stadium in San José, it’s a fun and passionate cultural experience!

Find your own perfect beach and chill. That’s what pura vida is all about.

Costa Rica Travel and Safety Tips

Get a day bag that locks.  This is my top piece of advice for Central America. While petty crime is rarer in Costa Rica than other Central American countries, you should be prepared, especially in San José and on public transit. I ended up buying a  Pacsafe bag  and some padlocks; Pacsafe makes an excellent selection of bags that lock.

Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Even if you’re not lying on the beach all day! A lot of people don’t realize you can get burned even when it’s cloudy, which it often is in Costa Rica. Hydrating keeps you from suddenly feeling ill; sunscreen and cover-ups keep the nasty burns away.

See a travel doctor before your trip and be prepared on what to do if you get sick.  On the Central America tours that I led in 2015, I was shocked that roughly half of my attendees got sick. Your doctor may advise you to take antibiotics that are easily available at pharmacies throughout Costa Rica. As I am not a medical professional, you should ask your doctor what you should do.

Costa Rica requires a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve traveled to a country with yellow fever is present. You can see the full list of countries here. Budget for this, as there it’s pricey and there is a vaccine shortage. I paid around $200 in the US and you can’t get it cheaper anywhere; the price is set. Get it for cheap while abroad if you can. If not, get it when you see the travel doctor.

Whether you’re actually checked for yellow fever in Costa Rica is unlikely, but it’s better to have it just in case.

Costa Rica has malaria in some regions : “the Distritos of Cutris and Pocosol in San Carlos Canton of Alajuela Province. Rare local cases in other parts of Alajuela, Heredia, Limón, and Puntarenas Provinces.” Some travelers choose to take malaria prophylactics; others do not. Again, that’s a conversation for you and your travel doctor. You may decide to take pills; you may decide not to. Either way, wear mosquito repellant and cover up, especially in the affected regions.

The zika virus has been documented in Costa Rica. Read more on this from the CDC. Zika should be a concern of pregnant women, partners of pregnant women, and women who intend to become pregnant soon, but if you’re none of those things, you don’t need to worry. Once more, this is a conversation to have with your travel doctor.

Is the water safe to drink in Costa Rica? The water is safe to drink in parts of Costa Rica, but it’s not safe to drink in all of Costa Rica, particularly rural areas. While most travelers rely on bottled water, it creates a major waste problem. For this reason, I recommend you bring a  LifeStraw , a bottle that purifies water as you drink it through its straw. Altneratively, you can bring a  reusable bottle  and invest in a  SteriPen water purifier  (much better and faster than tablets).

Learn a bit of Spanish. It’s not totally necessary in Costa Rica, where most people in tourism speak a bit of English, but it’s kind to the people you’re visiting to greet them and thank them in their language. If you’re going off the beaten path in Costa Rica, definitely spend time practicing your Spanish.

Haggling is the way to purchase at markets.  Never accept the first price — people are expecting you to lowball them. Have fun with it, but don’t get so caught up in it that you’re arguing for five minutes over the value of 25 cents with someone who makes far less money than you.

Keep your valuables locked up in your accommodation and only take with you what you need that day.  I do this with my  Pacsafe Travelsafe  and I consider it  the most important thing I pack . Keep an extra debit card and at least $100 hidden in obscure parts of your luggage.

Get an extra debit card. You should have two debit cards to two different bank accounts. If you only have one, I recommend you get a debit card from Transferwise . Keep a few hundred dollars in your account, hide the card deep in your luggage, and use it if your primary debit card is stolen.

Never leave your bags anywhere unattended.  Even if you’re used to asking someone at the next table to watch your things while you use the bathroom in a coffeeshop at home, don’t do that in Costa Rica. Take your belongings with you. If you’re keeping your bag under the table or otherwise out of sight, keep it between your feet or hook the strap around one of the chair legs.

Don’t flash your valuables or wear expensive jewelry.  There’s no need for fancy jewelry or purses in Costa Rica. I wouldn’t wear an Apple Watch in San José or on public transportation.

If you carry a purse, hold it close to you. I recommend a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut.  I recommend many purses in this post.  Never let it hang behind you — always keep it in a place where you can see it, and keep your hand on it if you’re in a crowd.

If you carry a wallet without a purse, don’t keep it in your back pocket. This is obvious to thieves. They will grab it and run.

Be careful about your drinking.  Drink less than you ordinarily would at home — two drinks is a good limit. Only take drinks from bartenders, never take a drink from a stranger, and always keep it with you and keep an eye on it. Be especially cautious in party spots like Tamarindo, but drink spiking can happen anywhere.

Do not take drugs, even if you’re a party drug enthusiast.  Drugs in Costa Rica can be cut with poisonous substances that can often lead to your death, and if you’re caught by the police, you’ll be in life-changing trouble.

Spend extra money on staying safe.  If it costs you money to take a taxi rather than walk, or to stay in a guesthouse in a well-lit, central neighborhood, do it. It’s worth the peace of mind. Don’t pinch pennies on your safety.

Get a digital guidebook and keep it on your phone.  Even today, I always keep a guidebook PDF on my phone — it’s great for calculating approximate time of journeys, knowing which days places are closed, and it lists medical centers you should go to in case of emergency.

I’m a big fan of Lonely Planet guidebooks — get the digital version of Lonely Planet Costa Rica or if you’re hitting a few countries,  Central America on a Shoestring . You can buy individual country chapters if you’d like, only through the Lonely Planet site.

Most importantly, you have no obligation to be nice to anyone.  Women often feel the need to be nice and please people at all costs. You don’t have to — not to locals, not to travelers, not in Costa Rica, not in your hometown. If anyone is making you feel uncomfortable, just leave. Trust me — you won’t be the rudest person they meet that day. And so what if you were? You’re never going to see them again.

Best Time to Travel to Costa Rica

The best time to travel to Costa Rica is during the dry season — roughly January to April. During this time, you’ll have pleasant temperatures and the least amount of rain.

Rainy season in Costa Rica, or “green season,” lasts roughly from May to December. This doesn’t mean it rains all day — it may mean that you’ll experience a brief rainstorm each day and have nicer weather for the rest of the time.

There’s a bit of geographical variance within this. The Nicoya peninsula in the northwest, home to many of Costa Rica’s best beaches, is the driest part of the country. If you’re looking for reliably sunny days, your best bet is Nicoya from January to April.

The Caribbean side of Costa Rica tends to have heavier rain year-round, but paradoxically, things tend to be sunnier in September and October, which tends to be the rainiest time of year in Central America and the Caribbean!

One very seasonal activity is sea turtle nesting in Tortuguero National Park — you’re most likely to see nesting from July through October, with the best months being September and October.

In terms of prices, Costa Rica tends to be the most expensive during North America’s winter — from December to March, with the peak being between Christmas and New Year’s. This is when Costa Rica will be the absolute busiest and prices will be at their highest. If you’re looking to book a trip to Costa Rica between Christmas and New Year’s, I urge you to book accommodation as early as possible .

If you’re traveling from a snowy region in winter, or connecting through a city like New York or Toronto, consider the possibility of your flight being cancelled due to snow. That almost happened to me on a flight to Costa Rica and it’s a reason why you should get travel insurance for your trip .

One major tip — visiting during the “dry season” is not a guarantee of dryness. I was in the Arenal/La Fortuna area for three days in January and it poured buckets the whole time! But the good thing about Costa Rica being a small country is that you can hop on a bus and be somewhere sunnier in just hours.

How to Get Around Costa Rica Solo

Most Costa Rica trips begin with a flight to either San José, located close to the center of the country, or Liberia in the northwest, close to the Nicoya peninsula. I use Skyscanner to find flights to Costa Rica, as they tend to have the cheapest rates.

From there, it’s easy to get around the country through a mix of buses and tourist shuttles — or even renting a car if you’d like.

Getting Around Costa Rica by Bus

If you want to get around Costa Rica the cheapest way possible and the way Ticos do, travel by bus! Costa Rica’s buses are safe, cheap, and while they’re basic, you’re not paying much for the experience.

Keep in mind that Costa Rica’s buses tend to be based on where locals go — not where tourists go. If you’re hopping between major transit points, I recommend traveling Costa Rica by bus; but if you’re going between two random tourism hotspots in two different regions, you may be better off taking a direct tourist shuttle.

Getting Around Costa Rica by Tourist Shuttles

Another option and one that doesn’t get talked about as much is “tourist shuttles” in Costa Rica. These are typically minibuses or vans that focus exclusively on taking tourists from place to place.

Tourist shuttles are more expensive than local buses, but they are almost always more comfortable and convenient. Some of them follow a set route between tourist hotspots (say, from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio National Park); others go to a nearby destination and you’re able to book your final route separately.

I’m a huge proponent of taking tourist shuttles in Central America — they save you a ton of time and effort. You can book them at tourist agencies right in the town you’re visiting.

Getting Around Costa Rica by Private Transfer

A lot of travelers in Costa Rica get around by private transfer — essentially a private driver to take you from place to place.

For the most part, I don’t think private transfers are necessary for a solo traveler — it will end up costing you a lot more money. The only exceptions would be if you were traveling somewhere really random and isolated or if you had no choice but to travel at night.

But you can book private transfers here and there, as complements to public buses or tourist shuttles. It’s much more economical, for example, to join a tourist shuttle from, say, Tortuguero to Tamarindo, getting in most of the mileage for less, then getting a taxi to your beach town of choice on the Nicoya peninsula.

Renting a Car in Costa Rica

Renting a car is another option for solo travelers in Costa Rica. For the most part, roads are in good condition, much more so than in other Central American countries. Speaking on a personal level, Costa Rica is the only Central American country where I’d feel comfortable driving alone, with the possible exception of Belize.

If you want to have the ultimate flexibility in your travel plans, or if you’re hauling around big equipment like a surfboard, renting a car may be the best option for you.

Check out car rental rates here on RentalCars.com.

Eating Alone in Costa Rica

Traditional Costa Rican food, frankly, isn’t the most exciting food you’ll ever eat — there’s a lot of rice and beans (or gallo pinto , rice and beans cooked together), served with plantains, meat or fish or eggs, sometimes fruit or other side dishes.

Those ingredients, along with corn, are the basic building blocks for most Costa Rican dishes. As you can imagine, Costa Rican food can be very tasty but a bit repetitive.

Luckily, Costa Rica excels when it comes to health food, international food, and especially vegetarian and vegan food (though always ask if the beans were cooked in meat). There are tons of healthy dishes to choose from and in popular tourist spots, it seems like there are half a dozen healthy cafes. If you eat a plant-based diet, you’ll do very well in Costa Rica.

This is how I ate in Costa Rica — lots of fresh, healthy food, salads, vegan dishes, fruit shakes and vegetable juices, occasionally splurging on tacos and eating plenty of local Costa Rican meals, too. Mix that in with hiking and surfing and you might come back a few pounds lighter!

You won’t be judged for eating alone in Costa Rica — Costa Rica is such a popular tourism destination that nobody will bat an eye at you sitting by yourself. Plenty of solo travelers do the same thing, as do locals who just want to get a bite to eat on their own.

And don’t forget to indulge in delicious Costa Rican coffee!

How to Meet People in Costa Rica

Costa Ricans are friendly, fun, and always quick to laugh! Whether you want to meet Costa Rican friends or hang out with other travelers, you’re in an easy place to meet new people on your Costa Rican trip.

Frankly, I met a lot more Ticos in Nicaragua than anywhere else! But I met a lot of fellow travelers in Costa Rica, especially at my accommodation.

Stay in social hostels and guesthouses.  Read through the reviews of hostels and guesthouses (and keep in mind that many Costa Rica hostels have private rooms!) and spend time in the common areas. I met these guys above at a hostel in Santa Elena.

Check out local meetups via  Meetup.com .  Whether you’re into travel, running, movies, board games, or just want to meet a group of nice people, there’s a Meetup for that. 

Couchsurfing.  The Couchsurfing Costa Rica community isn’t just for free accommodation, it’s also for socializing. The local Couchsurfers often put on events and meetups in a variety of destinations.

Join local tours and events.  Costa Rica is all about activities! Going horseback riding or learning to surf or hiking a volcano is a great way to meet other travelers in Costa Rica! Once the day is over, ask them if they feel like getting a drink or dinner.

Put out feelers on social media.  You never know — often a friend of yours will have a cousin or friend in Costa Rica at the same time as you, or knows someone who is living there long-term.

Tinder.  If you’re looking to date or hook up in Costa Rica, it’s as easy as swiping right.

What to Pack for a Costa Rica Solo Trip

If you’re traveling to Costa Rica, you should be prepared for the outdoors! Here are the items that I found particularly useful on my Costa Rica trip:

Trail runners — the best shoes for hiking in Costa Rica. They work equally well as sneakers and hiking shoes, as long as you’re not doing super-intense mountain hiking, which you won’t be doing in Costa Rica. I love my Merrill Siren Edge Q2 Waterproof Trail Runners .

Sports sandals — Lightweight supportive sports sandals, better than flip-flops for light walks in the outdoors. I’ve been wearing my Teva Tirra sandals since 2010. I’ve worn them on cave swimming hikes in Thailand and Belize and was the only person who didn’t soak her sneakers.

Flip-flops — Essential beach footwear. I can’t wear most flip-flops due to arch issues but I ADORE my Abeo flip-flops with arch support .

Warm clothing — Parts of Costa Rica can get cold at night, especially in the mountains, and public transportation often has the AC blasting. I usually bring a hoodie and a pair of leggings or yoga pants.

A  Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf .  These scarves are ideal for travel — they all have a hidden passport pocket and some come in light fabrics perfect for Costa Rica. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ).

Lifestraw water bottle — The water is safe to drink in most of Costa Rica, but not some rural areas. Be on the safe side with a Lifestraw water bottle, which filters any kind of water as you drink it. I love mine.

Reef safe sunscreen.  Even if you’re not planning on diving or snorkeling, this helps protect Costa Rica’s reefs off shore.

A  portable safe .  By far the most important thing I pack — it keeps your valuables safely locked up in your room.

A  Divacup , if you menstruate.  A great way to avoid buying pads and tampons and ultimately creating more waste in Costa Rica.

Travel Insurance for Costa Rica

One last note — it’s absolutely vital to have travel insurance before traveling to Costa Rica.  If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin.  I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Costa Rica.

I had one instance where I almost had to use my travel insurance in Costa Rica — my flight to Liberia was scheduled on a day when a major snowstorm was about to hit New York City. JetBlue offered me the chance to move my flight a day early before the storm hit, but most airlines won’t do that.

If I hadn’t had that option, I would have been stuck paying for a new, more expensive flight booked at the last minute — and travel insurance would have covered the difference. One of the many reasons why it pays to have it.

Costa Rica is Waiting for You!

Costa Rica is a destination brimming with adventures. I know you’re going to have a wonderful trip — and I hope this is the beginning of many wonderful solo trips around the world. Costa Rica this year, maybe Italy or Thailand or even Colombia next year?!

And when you come back from your trip and your friends ask you how Costa Rica was, turn to them with a grin and say the phrase you now know well: “Pura Vida.”

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Visiting the Cloud Forest of Monteverde

A Perfect Beach Town: Sámara, Costa Rica

Guide to Traveling Alone in Central America

See all posts about Costa Rica  here .

Have you traveled solo in Costa Rica? Share your tips!

8 thoughts on “Solo Female Travel in Costa Rica — Is Costa Rica Safe?”

Great post! I used to live in Costa Rica, and one other tip I’d give is: leave the shorts at home! It’s borderline taboo for women to wear shorts, and men don’t really wear shorts outside of beach areas. If you are a woman wearing shorts, you will attract a LOT of attention.

GREAT tip, Luisa. That’s a tip that I usually put in my Latin America guides but somehow didn’t make it into this one. I’ll change that.

And of course, beach is beach, but if you’re not at the beach, don’t dress like you’re at the beach!

LOVE the tip of “not feeling obligated to be nice” at risk of your safety! This is a big one for female travellers, ignoring your gut is especially dangerous.

Fab post 😀 being Australian, Costa Rica isn’t as big a travel destination from here as it is from say – the states. I don’t have plans to go there in the near future, but like everywhere, its on my list haha. I am more and more interested in Central America (and South America) these days!

If you’re Australian, do as the Aussies do and come to Central America for a loooooong trip!

One of my favorite activities when I was in Costa Rica was white water rafting! I’ve gone a few times since but Costa Rica was definitely the best, I highly recommend.

I visited Samara, on your recommendation, and also Nosara up the road. Very different towns, Nosara was very quiet, but there’s a lovely hostel there and a yoga center. I’d recommend trying both towns for anyone who’s made it that far, as it’s a bit of a hike to that part of the Guanacaste peninsula, so might as well check out two towns.

Thanks for the recommendation! Sounds like a cool place.

Funny how I listened to all this advice on the Internet and chose Costa Rica for my solo vacation based on these glorious reviews. Sounds like a lot of this Pura Vida stuff is sponsored by Costa Rican ministry of tourism. I did not feel safe in this country, neither I saw any happiness these promotional articles talk about. Costa Ricans are very poor, not just in material things – I haven’t seen a lot of playgrounds for kids, most people walk alongside the roads that don’t even have shoulders, forget about sidewalks, there is no music or dancing, no art scene, and in my two weeks traveling across the country I haven’t seen a single bookstore, or something like a yoga studio. People seem to be worried about getting their daily bread. Outside of a 3 star hotel in La Fortuna, which had a 24/7 guard and a gate (it annoyed me at the time) and plenty of staff, I didn’t feel safe anywhere. Outside of my cell phone being stolen in broad daylight from a peaceful almost empty beach (they call it petty theft – not so petty if you have all your credit card apps, various services apps opening to your acct without passwords, email, personal photos and memories etc) and being conned by a guy who sold me a pre-paid phone plan, — the desolate roads where I found myself driving alone for long stretches of time, the unpaved roads leading to world famous destinations and hotels that somehow get 9 points on Booking.com, where it was easy to damage your vehicle, and no services or gas stations for miles, the way locals stared at me getting out of my car, at my wallet, when I walked alone in national parks, the near absence of developed areas, locals who sit around their shacks and shack like stores and watch you, people, both locals and tourists, refusing help when you are running around distressed without a phone (your only means of getting help provided there is a cell service, and that was absent in many areas), most locals don’t speak English which I find strange for a place that makes money off tourism and that has millions of Americans visiting every year – all of these things gave me a an unsafe uneasy vibe that ruined my vacation. When you have to constantly watch your back and your bag, you don’t enjoy nature so much. I don’t recommend Costa Rica for solo female travelers. I felt safer in Mexico and Peru. Read about all the crimes committed in Costa Rica, including armed robberies. P.S I’m posting similar posts on other similar websites, as I feel I should warn solo female travelers.

I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy your time in Costa Rica, Irene. I understand that getting robbed can put a damper on your whole trip. That’s why I don’t feel too warmly toward Indonesia as a whole — my boat accident put a damper on the whole country.

I think your experience is unusual and atypical. It is completely untrue that Costa Rica has no arts or music scene — it has both in spades. From what you wrote, it sounds like you might be more comfortable traveling in more developed places.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. Clicking on them may earn Costa Rica Vibes a commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Solo Travel in Costa Rica – What to Expect

Are you considering solo travel in Costa Rica? It is a great country to explore on your own with plenty of things to do for all budgets and interests

Typically we find that solo travelers usually fit in one of two groups. They either join a group tour in which everything is handled for them and there are built in travel companions, or they go the more backpacker route and try to stay at hostels so they can meet other travelers. 

These are both great options if you want social contact. However, if you are truly looking for an experience in which you just do your own thing, that is definitely possible as well.

We created this guide to give you a better idea of all the choices you have so you can determine how solo travel in Costa Rica can work best for you.

Let’s get to it!

Join a Tour

Often people think that joining a pre-planned group tour is expensive. However, that does not have to necessarily be the case. It is very possible to find budget-friendly group tours. 

Typically, group tours will start on a predefined date and will last for one week, two weeks, or three weeks. 

One of the great things about opting for a tour is that you can usually find an option with likeminded people. For example, you can find a tour focused mostly on birdwatching throughout the country, or a tour in the language you speak.

Usually there will be a schedule of set destinations, activities, and meals. However, most tours have some downtime in which you are free to explore on your own.

Participate in a Retreat

Another amazing opportunity for solo travelers is participating in a retreat. I’ve seen yoga retreats , permaculture retreats, digital nomad retreats, and female-centric retreats in Costa Rica.

In other words, do you have a skill that you want to further while surrounded by like minded people in paradise? A retreat could be a great solo traveler option.

Typically these take place for a few days to a week at one location. The host company will provide workshops, fun day trips, and meals. 

If you have an interest that you are particularly interested in, we suggest doing a Google search for “ (interest name) retreat Costa Rica” and see what you can find.

You can also ask us in the comment section below. We might have some good retreat ideas for you. 

Take a Course

Similar to the retreat vibe, taking a multi-day course in Costa Rica will allow you to leave the country with a new skill or further experience in a skill you are interested in. This is a great way to enjoy your solo travels with like-minded people in an organized setting.

Some of our favorite course ideas are; Spanish courses at a language school, PADI diving certification, and surf schools .

Try Day Tours

If you do opt to plan your trip to Costa Rica completely on your own, day tours are a great way to socialize with other people. This also takes the stress off of you to plan a full day of action.

One of our favorite ways to spend a day in Costa Rica is with a combo tour. This is usually a mix of activities such as zip lining, ATV riding, relaxing in a hot spring, etc.

The best way to find great day tour options in the area you are visiting is by asking at your hotel or hostel. They usually partner with local companies and can direct you to great options, sometimes even with a discount.

Safety Tips

In general, Costa Rica is fairly safe. The most common safety problem tends to be petty crime or injuries due to participating in activities you may not be used to.

However, we still strongly suggest not walking alone at night or in remote destinations. More violent crimes (especially against solo female travelers) have been known to happen. 

I’m not saying this to freak you out, I just want to make sure that you are aware that it is not 100% free of crime so you can take the precautions you feel are necessary for you.

Check out our guide to safety in Costa Rica for more info.

If you would like social contact, hostels are always a great option for meeting other solo travelers. 

Keep in mind that staying at a hostel doesn’t necessarily mean you need to stay in a dorm with several other people. Most hostels have private rooms available as well and these can actually be quite nice. 

You can then make a point of hanging out in the common areas or participating in activities that the hostel hosts.

Tips for Getting Around

We usually always suggest renting a car because it tends to be the cheapest option. However, as a solo traveler you can most likely save money by taking shuttles or public busses.

Adobe Rent-a-Car

• 10% discount for Costa Rica Vibes readers
• Free second driver
• 0% deductible on Liability Protection Insurance
• Excellent customer service
• New fleet of well-maintained vehicles

The downside of taking shuttles or public busses is that it leaves you without transportation in each of your destinations.

However, there are always taxis to get around or you can stick to participating in a lot of day tours which include transportation.

Destination Suggestions

For solo travelers we suggest areas which are more popular with tourists, have many day tour options, and are easy to get to.

Our suggestions are: 

Tamarindo is a good beach destination for solo travelers because there is a busy downtown area with tons of restaurants, bars, and stores. It’s a great spot to meet people and not feel too remote. There are also tons of activity options here from surfing to ATV rides.

La Fortuna is home to Arenal Volcano and is an adventure-lovers paradise. This is a popular place with backpackers, so there are always tons of solo travelers. There are also tons of companies here that provide combo day tours with transportation to and from your hotel.

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is in a remote corner of the country, but it is a popular surfing destination that actually isn’t too difficult to get to. From San Jose, it is possible to take a public bus, to a ferry, to another bus which then will take you the rest of the way to Santa Teresa after crossing the waterway.

I like this spot for solo travel because the downtown area is easily walkable and has a fun vibe. There isn’t a ton to do here besides surfing, fishing, and renting ATV’s, but it is a great place to just chill.

Puerto Viejo

Located on the southern part of the Caribbean Coast, Puerto Viejo is a popular backpacker destination. We suggest this area if you enjoy surfing, nightlife, and bike rides to pretty beaches.

Activity Ideas

As I mentioned above, I love day tours for solo traveling. This makes it easy to experience fun things with other people and you don’t need to worry about organizing anything. 

If you prefer to do things on your own, such as hiking in national parks, I suggest just letting someone back home know your itinerary just in case anything goes wrong.

Do you have any questions about solo travel in Costa Rica or have suggestions for other solo travelers? We would love to hear from you! Just write in the comment section below and we will get back to you ASAP!

You Might Also Like:

Costa Rica Hostels – Read This Before Booking a Place

Mexico vs costa rica: where should you visit, is costa rica expensive what to budget for vacation costs, costa rica tours – 8 guided vacation ideas, costa rica digital nomad visa: plan your move, backpacking costa rica – a first-timers guide.

Costa Rica Travel Details : What You Need to Know

🚗 Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?

Having a rental car will give you the most flexibility when traveling in Costa Rica. This will also allow you to take fun day trips on your own.

• Save 10% Plus Other Perks with Our Adobe Rental Car Discount
• You might also consider; shared shuttle services or private transfer services

🏄🏽 How can I book things to do?

We find that Viator tends to have the most comprehensive selection of activities with secure booking and good cancellation policies.

🍍 I’m overwhelmed with planning. Can you help?

Of course! I suggest joining our Facebook group for specific questions and head to our Start Here Page to get started planning.

✈️ What is the best way to book a flight?

Usually, we have the best luck finding great prices with Skyscanner . Check for flights to both San Jose Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR).

🛏️ What is the best way to book my Costa Rica hotels?

We highly suggest Booking.com for hotel bookings and typically use VRBO for Costa Rica vacation rentals.

🗣️ What is the main language in Costa Rica?

The main language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Most people working in tourism speak at least some English.

💰 What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in most tourist areas

📞 What is the best way to stay connected?

An eSIM from Airalo is the easiest way to get 4G data while traveling in Costa Rica.

🌴 Is Costa Rica safe?

Generally, Costa Rica is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s best to use caution and be aware of your surroundings.

🛂 Do you need a passport to go to Costa Rica?

Yes, Costa Rica is its own country. You will need a passport to visit.

Hi! We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er)

We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and since 2016 we have lived in sunny Costa Rica. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision! Now we spend our days roaming the country to bring you the very best in Costa Rica travel here on Costa Rica Vibes. Sarah is the writer. Thomas is the one keeping it all together. Want the whole crazy story?

Sarah McArthur

Sarah McArthur is the co-founder and main writer of Costa Rica Vibes. She is originally from the United States but has lived in sunny San Jose, Costa Rica since 2016.  She has traveled all over the country and now considers herself a self-proclaimed Costa Rica travel expert.  Want the whole crazy story?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get directly to your inbox, new Template Releases, Latest News and Special Offers!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form

make friends. see the world.

On Apple Podcasts , Stitcher , & Spotify .

Solo Travel Guide to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is an incredible country to experience as a solo traveler. Welcoming people, incredible beaches, impressive volcanoes, and biodiversity that will blow your mind, so it’s no wonder that Costa Rica is the adventure capital of Central America!

After my first trip to Costa Rica in 2012, my perspective on life completely changed. I ditched my stressful lifestyle in New York City and decided to live the life of my dreams in my twenties and early thirties. I moved to Costa Rica and started traveling the world. Learning to surf, becoming fluent in Spanish, and living in paradise is something I’ll never regret. 

In this guide to solo travel in Costa Rica, I’ll lay out where to visit, what adventure activities to do, how to save money while traveling, and even point out a few places to skip on your itinerary. Specifically, I’ll cover the main areas solo travelers enjoy including:

• San José & Alajuela 
• La Fortuna & Arenal
• Monteverde and the cloud forest

Tamarindo, Guanacaste, & the Nicoya Peninsula

The caribbean including limón, puerto viejo, and tortuguero, the central pacific including quepos, manuel antonio, dominical, & uvita , the osa peninsula & corcovado national park.

Best time to visit Costa Rica: November 15-April 15 is considered the dry season, however, it can rain in November and April. Avoid the week before Easter, as “Semana Santa” is a big holiday for Costa Ricans. Prices will be higher and beaches will be packed.

Here is why you should consider visiting Costa Rica in the off-season .

Currency : The Costa Rican Colon, but all places do accept dollars at a worse exchange rate. Credit cards are accepted in most places except rural areas. Bring unripped bills from the United States. Many ATMs do not dispense more than $100 US.

Safety : Costa Rica is pretty safe overall, but petty crime is an issue. Be careful at night, especially at bars, or walking alone. Be extremely careful in the water, as rip currents can be strong. Sadly, I lost a good friend in the Caribbean Ocean. TLDR Itinerary : Skip San José and head for La Fortuna. Explore the rainforest around Lake Arenal and the Arenal Volcano. Then head to the beach near Manuel Antonio or in Guanacaste.

San José and Alajuela 

I usually say that seeing a country’s capital is a great way to see what a place is really like, but San José really sells Costa Rica short in my opinion. If you came to Costa Rica, you probably have high expectations and San José isn’t the best representation of the country. Traffic is bad, and there isn’t much beautiful architecture, but there are still some gems to be found in the Central Valley region. You are still always surrounded by lush green mountains!

The urban center of San José

“El Centro” of San José features Plaza de la Cultura, or the cultural plaza, where you will find the Mercado Central, National Theater, including several museums like the Jade Museum and National Museum of Costa Rica. The botanical gardens and Spirogyra Butterfly Garden aren’t far from the center of San José. There are some pedestrian streets, but don’t venture off the beaten path, as some areas of the capital city are dangerous. Barrio California is a party district, but be especially careful at night. 

When I’m visiting San José, I like to stay in Escazu at Aparthotel & Suites Villas del Rio. Raw Co. Juicery & Food is one of my favorite little places to work from my computer. I have Maricruz, our Costa Rican team member, to thank for taking me to Madfish, another excellent restaurant in the area. Escazu has a much more suburban feel to it than the center of San José. It is a very safe, high-end district. And if, for some reason, you needed to go to a high-end shopping mall or the US Embassy in Costa Rica, you can find them here too.

Day trips & places around San José

All around San José you will see beautiful mountains so in some of the more suburban areas you will have access to nature. The weather can get cooler quickly as you head higher in elevation so always have a waterproof jacket with you.

Alajuela is the town nearest Juan Santamaría International Airport. Again, traffic can be bad in this area, so leave yourself plenty of time if you decide to visit Alajuela before your flight. That being said, it’s nice to see a typical “Tico” (Costa Rican) town. Go to the main plaza, check out the Juan Santamaría Museum to learn some Costa Rican history, and walk by the Catedral de Alajuela. This area is very safe. The best outdoor adventure in this area is Poas Volcano. Keep in mind that it is an active volcano, so at times it is not open. 

In the mountain towns like Heredia, there are several coffee plantations that are well worth checking out. Starbucks owns one in this area, but I’d really prefer if you visited something locally owned like Dota Coffee. 

La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park is one of the most beautiful areas near the airport. The waterfalls are beautiful but don’t expect rugged hiking trails. Most of the walking paths are paved, which is great for accessibility. La Paz is the largest nature sanctuary in Costa Rica with over 100 types of animals, including jaguars, pumas, sloths, monkeys, hummingbirds, snakes, and frogs. These animals were mainly illegal pets now under the care of the Costa Rican Wildlife Ministry and can not be released back into the wild. 

For more check out our Guide to San José, Costa Rica .

La Fortuna & Arenal  ‍

The first thing I’d do on a trip to Costa Rica is head for the rainforest. If you’ll be visiting the beach on your trip, I’d save that for the end of your trip. You are visiting the rainforest, so after a few days of getting wet, it’s nice to relax and dry out at the beach. The best place to access the rainforest in Costa Rica is the town of La Fortuna. This region of Costa Rica changed my life and many of our travelers' lives! 

La Fortuna is a small town, once known for agriculture, but now a hub for adventure travel. There are plenty of hostels, backpacker bars, and local tour operators based here. Any type of white water rafting, canyoning, trekking, zip-lining, horseback riding, ATVing, etc. can all be done in this area. Lake Arenal and the Arenal Volcano are the two big attractions near La Fortuna.

Until 2010 the Arenal Volcano frequently erupted hot molten ash and hotels were built all around the base of the volcano to take advantage of the thermal hot springs. While the volcano is no longer erupting, there are plenty of hotels with naturally heated pools to relax in. However, if you want one of the best eco-lodge experiences in the world, I highly recommend staying at Rancho Margot .

Arenal National Park is always a fun stop, but in my opinion, it’s not a “must-do” in the region. Don’t get me wrong, I like the park--it’s a good place for light hikes without much elevation change, nice views of the volcano and lake, and an amazing ceiba tree. But do keep in mind, you can’t climb the volcano. 

I actually prefer Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park over Arenal National Park. Mistico is privately owned and has fantastic hanging bridges like the name implies. I’ve also seen spider monkeys at Mistico, but never at Arenal National Park.

The top activity in the region, in my opinion, is Sky Adventures’ Sky Trek Zip-line. I’ve been on many canopy tour ziplines in the country, and Sky Trek is by far the best. Instead of a zip-line strung from tree to tree, imagine zipping through the jungle from mountain to mountain. Skytrek has the level of infrastructure that you’d find at a major ski resort. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the top of the Arenal Volcano and have an impressive view of the lake where a large percentage of Costa Rica’s renewable energy comes from.

Like I mentioned before, there is no shortage of adventure activities to do based in La Fortuna. I’d recommend whitewater rafting with Flow Trips on the Rio Sarapiquí. If you stay at Rancho Margot, there are plenty of hikes, horseback riding, and kayaking to do in and around the ranch.

Looking for a local spot to eat? Check out Soda La Hormiga in La Fortuna where you should be able to get a full Costa Rican “casado” with rice, beans, your choice of protein, a tortilla, “natilla” (a sweet Tico sour cream), and a small salad or plantains for just $4-$5 USD! 

If you want to check out La Fortuna Waterfall, you are more than welcome. It’s not the most adventurous waterfall hike in Costa Rica, and it’s overpriced at $18, but if you don’t plan to visit the waterfalls I recommend below in the Central Pacific, then go for it! 

Check out these 6 Tips and Travel Hacks for Costa Rica .

Monteverde and the Costa Rican Cloud Forest

If you liked the rainforest, you’ll certainly enjoy the cloud forest… imagine similar biodiversity, but you guessed it, less rain and more clouds! Monteverde isn’t nearly as visited as La Fortuna, but if you are looking for something a little more off the beaten path than Arenal, then this is your spot. You won’t have a view of the volcano or the lake, but the cloud forest experience is an excellent one. 

The town of Monteverde was originally settled by a group of draft-dodging Quakers who fled the United States during World War II and became dairy farmers deep in the Costa Rican jungle. You can still see Quaker culture in this area today.

There are several options for activities in Monteverde including low-cost options for hiking like Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, Curi-Cancha Reserve, Selvatura Adventure Park with hanging bridges, and finally Sky Adventures Monteverde where you can take the tram to the top, hike, visit the reptile exhibition, and zip-line down.

From Monteverde or La Fortuna, I’d recommend driving up to the northern province of Guanacaste and basing yourself near Tamarindo. There is also an international airport in Liberia that is just an hour from the beach that is a lot less hassle than San José.

Tamarindo is a world-famous surf town, popularized by the “Endless Summer II” surf documentary. Here you’ll find a half dozen surf breaks, plenty of good food, and robust nightlife during peak season. I spent my first winter in Costa Rica here learning to surf before I decided it was time to try somewhere a little quieter. My favorite day trip was walking up to Playa Grande north along the beach to the estuary, paying a guy operating a tiny ferry less than a dollar to bring me to the other side, and walking along this untouched beach. Playa Grande is part of Las Baulas National Marine Park where the leatherback turtles seasonally nest. Just don’t return past sunset, or your ferry driver might have gone home for the evening. I did this and had to swim back across with crocodiles. 

Two of my favorite places to hang out are Witch’s Rock Surf Camp where they offer nachos “as big as yo ass” and the Volcano Brewing Company, each featuring Costa Rican craft beer .

Noguis is a great spot for coffee and desserts and Chiringuito is great for seafood, owned by locals.

Heading south on the Nicoya Peninsula, there are a few great towns that you may want to consider as a solo traveler. Nosara is a dusty town with several yoga retreat centers and good surf at Playa Guiones. I wish I had more recommendations for Samara, but the road between Nosara and Samara was flooded when I tried to go! Santa Teresa is another sleepy beach town near Malpais and Montezuma. All these towns are slices of paradise!

If you want to round out your trip to Costa Rica, I suggest visiting the Caribbean side of the country. Far fewer people visit the Caribbean, but it’s worth the drive if you have the time. You can also fly around the country using Sansa, the domestic airline of Costa Rica.

Some of the best whitewater rafting in Costa Rica is on the Caribbean side of the country on the Pacuare River. I’d recommend staying at the remote Pacuare Lodge where we run our Costa Rica Adventure trip and raft through class II, III, and IV rapids. This riverside eco-lodge is an incredible place to spend a night during your rafting trip. This area also has excellent coffee plantations near the mountain town of Turrialba. 

In Limon, ride the tram at Veragua Rainforest Park, and then head to the beach. Cahuita National Park is well known for its waterfall and protected coral reefs close to shore. You should also consider visiting the Jaguar Rescue Center , a home for sick, injured, and orphaned animals. 

Puerto Viejo is one of the cuter towns in Costa Rica, where you’ll see the influence of people who’ve been settling from Jamaica over the last 100 years. Amidst the colorful homes, you’ll notice many of the locals speak either English or an Afro-Caribbean dialect referred to as “patois”. Consider extending your trip to Bocas del Toro, Panama as I recommend in my Guide to Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean . 

One of the most remote regions of Costa Rica you can explore is Tortuguero National Park, accessible only by boat or plane. The flight into Tortuguero is stunning if you don’t mind flying in a puddle jumper. Otherwise, the bus can only get within 20 miles (32 kilometers) of Tortuguero, and you’ll need to take an hour boat ride through the jungle. 

Tortuguero is where the leatherback turtles lay their eggs and one of the most biodiverse areas of the country. There is a small village in Tortuguero and very few cars, which is an excellent feature in my opinion! ‍

If you are driving from San José, Guanacaste, or Monteverde on your way to the Central Pacific region of Costa Rica, I’d suggest skipping the town of Jacó and continuing to Playa Hermosa. Stop for lunch in Jacó if you must, but I think you’ll enjoy Playa Hermosa a lot more. Over the last fifteen years, Jacó has become an overdeveloped party town, and you can still see remnants of abandoned high-rise condos that went bust.

Playa Hermosa is normally my first stop on my way back home to Manuel Antonio where I lived for 6+ years. Costa Rica is a small place, but there are three “Playa Hermosas” in the country, and one just north in Nicaragua. But what can I say… these beaches are beautiful (“ hermosa” translates to ‘beautiful’  in Spanish)! The black sand beach here in the province of Puntarenas has big waves and a dangerous current, so if you are going to swim or surf, use extreme caution. Say hello to Roger, the Tico owner of the oceanfront Bowie’s Point Restaurant… but more than likely he’ll be in the water surfing.

Just an hour south you’ll find Quepos, a sleepy fishing village that is now home to a world-class marina. Here you’ll find some of the best sportfishing in the world, but not much else until you go up the hill to Manuel Antonio. There is a local bus to ride from Quepos to Manuel Antonio that stops anywhere you’d ever want to go in town. Be sure to visit the farmer’s market on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. Quepos is fairly safe to walk around during the day, so it’s a good opportunity to check out small-town life in Costa Rica. Catch the sunset on the Malecon seawall. For cheap, authentic eats, visit my favorite hole in the wall, Soda La Tiquicia, for gallo pinto , the traditional rice and beans breakfast dish.

Manuel Antonio is a tourist town that sits on the hill above Quepos. You will not be disappointed going to Café Milagro, rated the best cup of coffee in Costa Rica . I ate several meals per week here for years. Across the street, you’ll find Emilio’s Café which has good food and an even better view. If you rented a 4x4 vehicle, continue down the road past Emilio’s to Playitas, the best surf beach in town.

If you are looking to splurge on accommodations, consider staying inside a Boeing 727 at Hotel Costa Verde. For a cheaper place to stay, consider Selina’s Hostel. Selina’s has a co-working space, yoga studio, and fun nightlife around the pool. ‍

My favorite activities in Manuel Antonio are Quepo Canyoning where you get to rappel down a waterfall. A few years ago, we decided to stop going to Manuel Antonio National Park because of its issues with sustainability. The situation is improving, so we may reconsider, but regardless if you go to the park or not, there is a high chance you’ll see sloths and monkeys in this area outside the park. Whatever you do, please don’t feed the monkeys in Costa Rica .

Heading 45 minutes south of Quepos you’ll find the hippy town of Dominical. They have an outdoor market, a fantastic natural food store, and great surfing. If you like yoga, consider staying at Danyasa . Another one of my favorite places is Café Mono Congo, where they have fantastic coffee and vegetarian food. Don’t leave without trying their “monkey balls.” Tortilla Flats is another fun spot to have a beer and crush some tacos at sunset.

Finally, continue south to Uvita to see the “whale’s tail” landmass that appears at low tide at Marino Ballena National Park. This region is even more sleepy than Quepos and Dominical. There are tons of waterfalls along this stretch of the Central Pacific. I’d suggest Los Campesinos, Eco Chontales, La Ceiba, Nauyaca, Uvita, Pavon, and Ojochal… these waterfalls can be difficult to access as a tourist, so consider going with our friends at Paddle9 on a day tour. 

On the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica, we have the “crown jewel” of Costa Rica: Corcovado National Park. The Nicoya Peninsula is a long way from the airport in San José, so you may want to consider flying on Sansa Airline into Drake Bay or Puerto Jimenez. It might seem far, but Corcovado’s remoteness is what makes it so special. It is one of the world’s most biodiverse places and the only place I’ve ever been with signs instructing you what to do if a jaguar attacks you. No worries, I couldn’t find a record of a single incident in my research for this article.

Corcovado can only be accessed with an official Costa Rican tour guide, who you can hire in any of the local towns, and can help you get your park permit. The ultimate Corcovado National Park adventure is to hike 6-9 hours to the Sirena Ranger station or arrive by boat from Drake Bay. The best nightlife comes out at night, so spending a night in the rustic ranger station is an amazing experience. 

There are a few other ways to enter the Corcovado National Park, including a shorter hike to get to La Leona Ranger Station. This is how I entered the park for my day trip, and it ended up being about a 4 mile (6+ kilometer) hike round trip just to get to the entrance. I was really blown away by the wildlife I saw on my trip and really enjoyed the hike along this tropical fjord. Here is a great guide to Corcovado National Park .  

If you are still looking for adventure, consider extending your stay to Panama and head to the mountain town of Boquete. More on this in my Solo Travel Guide to Central America .

For more information on solo travel check out my book, The Millennial Travel Guidebook: Escape More, Spend Less, and Make Travel a Priority in Your Life .

More Popular Posts

Thailand Trip Planner: A 10-Day Itinerary Recap

The Highlights of Buenos Aires and Patagonia

10 Days in Thailand: My Group Travel Recap

Current Trips on Sale

Prague, Vienna, & Budapest

LOOKING FOR A SWEET TRAVEL DEAL?

Follow the adventure, as seen in....

Quick Links

© 2012-2024 Shadow Concepts LLC. All rights reserved. “Under30Experiences,” “U30X” & all associated proprietary marks are trademarks of Shadow Concepts LLC & its related entities. Other third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service

• Active Adventures
• Beach Escapes
• Bucket-List
• Escape The Crowds
• For First-Timers
• Group Bookings
• Short stays
• Wildlife Trips
• Winter Getaways
• Safari Adventures
• Ambassador Adventures

Trip Styles

• Bucket List
• Short Stays

Trip duration

Collections

• For First Timers

New and trending

• Our Newest Adventures
• Bestselling Adventures
• Iconic Flash Pack Experiences
• Coming Soon
• Meet Your Travel Experts
• Meet your Pack Leaders
• Don’t be a tourist. Be a Flashpacker.
• The Flash Pack Foundation

How it works

• Payments, deposits & instalments
• Travel Extras
• About Solo Travel
• Careers at Flash Pack
• Partner as a Travel Agent
• Trip terms and conditions
• Safety with Flash Pack
• Flash Pack’s privacy policy

Latest deals

• Your latest travel offers
• Your last chance to book

Insider trips

Sorry no insider trips are available right now, check back soon.

• Feed your inspiration with all the latest stories from our content hub.
• Relationships

Career Tips

Top stories

Friendship Tips

Travel Tips

• See all articles

Favourite Trips

Destinations

Destination Guides

• The ultimate solo travel guide to Costa Rica: Everything you need to know

Tamsin Wressell 22nd Oct 2022 10 min read

Sunny, stress-free Costa Rica is a prime solo travel destination – and is often ranked one of the world’s happiest countries thanks to its pura vida way of life . Instead of chasing pay rises and promotions, the chilled-out ticos of this cucumber-cool Central American country like to focus on connecting with nature and focusing on life’s daily joys. This footwear-optional attitude is especially prevalent on the Caribbean coast, where life unfolds at an altogether slower pace. But all around the country, you’ll find a seemingly low-key, tread lightly ethos that makes Costa Rica appealing to surfers, yogis and real-world escapees from far beyond its borders. 

Wherever you choose to go, you can expect remarkable wildlife, from nesting turtles to the country’s signature sloths. Adventure is also a big part of Costa Rica’s desirable DNA. So, take your pick from white water rafting along rainforest-wrapped rivers, trekking around the cone-shaped Arenal Volcano and swinging through the treetops via a network of suspension bridges. 

With so much choice, some people decide to join a group for solo travel in Costa Rica , giving space for independence while sharing experiences and taking the stress out of arranging your trip. Here, we lay out what you’ll need to know before a solo holiday to Costa Rica, including where to go, what to pack and how to get around.

Costa Rica travel facts

Costa Rica has more than 500,000 species of wildlife, yet covers just 0.03% of the Earth’s surface, meaning it lays claim to the highest level of biodiversity on the planet. But beyond the wildlife, there are also 200 volcanoes to explore, notably at Arenal, Rincón de la Vieja and Poás. 

On the northern Pacific coast, the wave-rolled Nicoya Peninsula is home to one of the original five Blue Zones (areas in the world where people typically live the longest, often reaching over 100 years old), which still attracts surfers, yogis and wellness-lovers today.  

Naturally, this is one of the world’s most sustainable travel destinations, thanks to fierce protection of its parks, jungles and natural landscapes, including its offshore marine life and reefs. Indeed, three of its natural habitats are protected by Unesco : Area de Conservacion Guanacaste just north of Nicoya, La Amistad International Park and reserves on the far southern border with Panama, and Cocos Island National Park in the Pacific, 550 km southwest of the mainland.

Is Costa Rica good for solo travel?

Costa Rica is a great introduction for solo travel in Central and Latin America . There’s a great tourism infrastructure in place, plenty of adventurous activities and friendly   locals who take treating travellers well to heart. The main hubs of Arenal and La Fortuna are solid bases for English speakers, where it’s easy to arrange tours and accommodation. If you don’t want to go it totally alone on your solo trip to Costa Rica , joining on a group adventure with Flash Pack and other solo travellers can take care of some of the logistics of booking with accommodation, transport and activities, amplifying and simplifying your experience.

Best places to visit in Costa Rica

With the Caribbean Sea on the east coast, the Pacific Ocean on the west, and a network of knitted rivers, jungles and volcanoes in between, there’s a whole range of places to visit with different activities and scenery to sample. 

On the north Caribbean coast, remote Tortuguero National Park has incredible wildlife as a nesting ground for sea turtles. In the middle, Arenal is awesome for trekking alongside a giant smouldering stratovolcano. Over towards the Pacific, Guanacaste – and the Nicoya Peninsula especially – is a good spot for surfing. 

Don’t miss the Pacuare River for white water rafting and the Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park for its otherworldly brilliant blue waters. With all that to take in, this is a country to experience  – something that Flash Pack takes care of with its group solo trips to Costa Rica .

Where to stay as a solo traveller in Costa Rica

There’s a huge variety of places to stay in Costa Rica, from boutique beach hotels to eco-friendly jungle lodges that have sustainability at heart. Colourful Caribbean guesthouses and luxury resorts are also popular with solo travellers, and you’ll find plenty of surf lodges and yoga retreats around Nosara and Sámara, with Puerto Viejo de Talamanca acting as a hub for the country’s growing digital nomad scene, too. Travelling as part of a group solo trip to Costa Rica means you can choose to share a room (swerving the single supplement that often prices out solo travellers from the smartest hotels) or elect to have your own private space.

How to get to Costa Rica

Costa Rica borders the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, with cruises calling at ports on both the east and west coasts. But the best option is flying. Most international flights land at San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport in the Central Valley, though if you’re travelling from the US, Canada and UK, you can also land at Guanacaste Airport in the northern city of Liberia. 

Due to some flight arrival times, you might choose to book the first night in San José to bed down before heading on to your next destination. There are buses and border crossings to get to Costa Rica from Panama in the south and Nicaragua in the north if you’re travelling overland as part of a long Central American adventure, but it’s always best to check the current status of border controls.

How to get around Costa Rica

You can fly internally in Costa Rica, if you’re tight on time. But all flights go via San José, so sometimes, given the airport waiting times, it’s actually quicker, more scenic and better for the environment to get around Costa Rica by bus. 

Buses tend to be reliable, frequent, inexpensive and the most common mode of transport used by solo travellers in Costa Rica – often acting as great places to meet other people on the road. The shared shuttle service Interbus is a good option and can cut down on travel time to efficiently get from A to B; Ride CR is also another option. 

Many people also hire a car. Though, it’s worth nothing that roads vary hugely in different regions, from newly paved main roads to river-fording, off-road adventures where you’ll need to know how to cross the water carefully without flooding your engine – especially around Guanacaste, Nicoya, Puerto Viejo and the far-flung Osa Peninsula (and especially during the May to November rainy season). It can be expensive though, so travelling as part of a group solo trip to Costa Rica can ease the expense, while also cutting out the need to navigate the country’s roads on your own.

Best time to visit Costa Rica

What’s the best month for solo travel to Costa Rica? Well, weather-wise, it operates on a two-season cycle: dry and rainy. The dry season runs from mid-November to April, while May to mid-November tends to be rainy (also known as the “green season”). That said, this can present a less-crowded time to take in Costa Rica and should not be overlooked. Depending on the region, rain might only bring a short, sharp shower in the afternoons, cooling off the heady midday heat effectively. September and October are usually the wettest. Travelling in November or April tends to be the best when the weather is toasty, sunshine lasts for 12 hours and it’s a little out of the peak season so it’s a bit quieter.

Costa Rica travel itineraries

You’ll find a lush ecosystem in Costa Rica that’s largely unspoilt. The best itineraries for solo travel in Costa Rica embrace nature and fully absorb the surroundings, while being mindful to travel consciously, respecting the land and its inhabitants. Flash Pack’s Untamed Costa Rica trip harnesses all of this, allowing solo travellers to immerse themselves in the jungle after river rafting to a rainforest lodge, see Arenal Volcano National Park from above on aerial adventures, and relax with downtime on the beach via a private catamaran off the Pacific coast.

What to pack for solo travel in Costa Rica

Consider the different environments while keeping your luggage light – Costa Rica is great for exploring, after all. Pack what you’d usually take for a beach trip (sunscreen, micro towel, swimwear), but don’t forget the more tropical, active side of the country. You’ll want some lightweight breathable hiking shoes and sweat-wicking trousers to keep legs protected from mosquitos, as well as taking repellent. A pack of playing cards can go a long way for making connections while travelling solo.

Solo travel advice for Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a beautiful philosophy and way of life centred around a joyful outlook and easygoing nature. So, roll with it. Learning a little Spanish might help you feel more comfortable and confident to get around and converse with locals. Travelling solo in Costa Rica doesn’t have to mean that you do everything alone. By joining a group solo trip, you can have all the perks of solo travel, while having the support system of other like-minded people to share experiences with.

Is it safe to travel solo in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular destination for tourism and thousands of visitors travel there every year with most trips being trouble-free. However, do check out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (UK), the Department of State Travel Advisories (US) or your country’s local government guidelines for the latest advice before travelling. Once there, follow local advice and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Stick to the usual safety precautions you might take, like avoiding dimly lit areas and keeping valuables on you. For extra peace of mind, consider travelling with a group of other solo travellers. 

Ready for your next adventure? Try group solo travel to Costa Rica with Flash Pack – designed exclusively for people in their 30s and 40s, seeking the independence of solo travel within the safety of a group.

A cool 98% of Flashpackers arrive solo to join our group adventures . So, you’ll be in good company – whether a first time solo traveller or a seasoned pro looking for like-minded new friends.

Images: Flash Pack

The best places to go in March: Our top travel picks for a solo holiday

By Nina Zietman

FLASH PACK STORIES

Your latest travel inspiration

How to escape an unhappy job and find real work-life fulfilment

Feeling miserable at work but don’t know how to leave? Check out this expert advice to help you take the next step.

Anna Brech 6th June 2024 10 min read

Making friends in unexpected places: advice for men over 30

Men over 30 struggle to make friends, but travel can help to break down barriers.

Paul Watson 6th June 2024 10 min read

Mental Health

I became Insta-famous with dog videos during the lowest moment of my life

TikTok star Charlie, of Life Like Charlie, was reeling from the traumatic loss of his Dad when a video of his dog Nala took the internet by storm.

Charlie from Life Like Charlie 30th May 2024 10 min read

The ultimate solo travel guide to Laos: Everything you need to know

Discover Southeast Asia’s off-radar gem, steeped in tradition, spirituality and rare natural beauty.

Nicola Gibbs and Amy Swales 29th May 2024 10 min read

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter.

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else.

Be the first to hear about exclusive Flash Pack offers.

Access exciting competitions.

Receive weekly inspiration and travel stories from solos just like you.

You are browsing our US website.

Please choose your current location below:

You are browsing our UK website.

The Fearless Wanderess

Let’s Get Social

Costa rica solo female travel: the ultimate guide.

The Ultimate Costa Rica Solo Female Travel Guide

With lush jungles with canopies for ziplining, tall mountains in the clouds, and sandy tropical beaches on two coasts, Costa Rica really is all it’s cracked up to be.

Because Costa Rica has been without a military since the 1940s, the country also enjoys some of the highest quality of living in Central America because of increased investment in healthcare and education. Costa Rica is also incredibly safe, making traveling Costa Rica solo just perfect for a female traveler!

From my time spending two full months traveling every corner of the country, I put together this ultimate Costa Rica solo female travel guide. With this guide, you can find out all about Costa Rica solo female travel with the best places to visit in Costa Rica and the best times to visit Costa Rica, as well as how to get around Costa Rica, staying safe as a solo female traveler in Costa Rica, the cost of a trip to Costa Rica, and my recommended Costa Rica tours.

So whether you’re a nature-lover and adventurer, prefer just to bum on the beach, or all of the above, Costa Rica definitely will not disappoint. This country of paradise belongs on every solo female traveler’s bucket list! So what are you waiting for? Keep reading to discover the amazing country of Costa Rica!

Click below for destination-specific posts & guides!

The ultimate costa rica solo female travel guide: page contents.

• Best places to visit in Costa Rica for solo female travel
• Top things to do in Costa Rica
• What to expect in Costa Rica: climate, language, money, and more
• Is Costa Rica safe to travel alone?
• How to stay safe in Costa Rica as a solo female traveler
• Costa Rica trip cost
• How to get around Costa Rica
• Costa Rica tours & activities I recommend
• Essential gear for a trip to Costa Rica
• Favorite Costa Rica booking resources
• Latest & most recent Costa Rica posts

The Ultimate Costa Rica Solo Female Travel Guide:

Best places to visit in costa rica.

Read more: Adding Monteverde to your itinerary? Check out my top 10 things to do in Monteverde as a solo female traveler.

Top Things to Do in Costa Rica

Related: Ready to book your flight to Costa Rica now?! Search now using the tool from one of my favorite flight-booking search engines, Skyscanner !

What to Expect in Costa Rica

As a solo female traveler, what language is spoken in costa rica.

The official language in Costa Rica is Spanish.

Spanish is spoken in all of Costa Rica. Generally, the Costa Rican dialect can be difficult to understand unless you’re used to it. Don’t be afraid to ask locals to slow down.

Money in Costa Rica

💱 what is the currency of costa rica.

Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican Colon (CRC). 1 USD = 668 CRC in 2022.

💳 Do I need cash in Costa Rica?

In many larger and more developed restaurants, credit cards are accepted. However, most  hostels  don’t accept credit cards, so be prepared to pay cash for your stays. You’ll also need cash for a lot of local food and grocery stores. I always carried around a  change purse  to organize all of my cash.

Click here for my favorite 0% foreign transaction fee credit cards you can use in Costa Rica, including one that got me a free flight there. Bonus: they come with some sweet travel rewards!

Costa Rica Plug Type

Costa Rica uses the same Type A/B 120 V plugs as North America. You don’t need a plug adapter unless you come from outside of North America. Get my favorite universal plug adapter here !

What is the Climate in Costa Rica?

There are two distinct seasons in Costa Rica: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season runs from December-April and has daily average temperatures from 70-95 degrees Fahrenheit. There’s generally lots of sun and very little rain. The wet season runs from May-November and has daily average temperatures ranging from 75-90 degrees Fahrenheit with an average of 20 rainy days/month, depending on which coast you’re on.

The dry/wet season distinction matters more on the west coast than on the east coast. You can visit the west coast of Costa Rica (e.g. Jaco, Santa Teresa, Tamarindo) during the dry season and still experience plenty of rain when hopping over to the east coast (e.g. Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo).

Pro tip: Generally, it’s very humid in Costa Rica, with humidity levels frequently ranging from 80-90%. It was so humid there that the entire motherboard of my Macbook had to be replaced because the humidity condensed on it and ruined it from going in and out of the AC. Learn from my mistakes and protect your laptop from the humidity with a waterproof laptop sleeve !

Read more: Be prepared for anything the weather throws at you while traveling Costa Rica solo with my 13 travel essentials that will change your life .

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Generally, January-April is the best time to visit Costa Rica. You’ll have many long, sunny, hot days. However, expect a lot more crowds than the rainy season. If you want to avoid more crowds while sacrificing some (but not all) good weather, then April/May and November are good times to visit, too.

The Best Costa Rica SIM Card

I always recommend getting a local SIM card at your destination to save money on roaming fees. Alternatively, you can get an eSIM easily online before leaving! This saves so much time so you don’t have to bother finding a shop in town once you’re in Costa Rica. Just download the app, purchase the eSIM card, activate it, and you’re good to go! No having to fiddle with physical SIM cards and pins to remove them.

If you’re still interested in getting a physical SIM card, the best Costa Rica SIM card to get for traveling Costa Rica solo is a Kolbi prepaid SIM. Load it with at least 5000 colones to start. You can recharge it later if need be.

The Kolbi network is the best in Costa Rica so you’ll (almost) always be connected. A Kolbi stand isn’t available at the airport at the time of writing, so go to a local store in any town to get a SIM. These stores will have a Kolbi sign out front – there are many of them. Make sure to bring your original passport with you as they’ll need this to issue a SIM card.

Is Costa Rica safe to travel alone? Yes! Costa Rica is very safe for female solo traveling. In fact, traveling in Costa Rica is safer than the United States. Costa Rica is actually the safest country in Latin America and one of the safest countries in the world. Landing 39th on the Global Peace Index , Costa Rica has a rating of 1.74 as of 2021. In comparison, the United States ranks 122 out of 163 countries, with a rating of 2.34. To put this in perspective, the safety of the United States is ranked on par with countries like El Salvador. Violent crime is rare in Costa Rica. Petty theft is the most common type of crime.

The Ultimate Costa Rica Solo Female Travel Guide: Costa Rica Travel Safety

As stated above, Costa Rica solo female travel is generally very safe. Overall, if you simply practice the same precautions that you do back home, you will stay safe in Costa Rica. However, there are still some basic precautions you should take. Most of these apply for all solo female travel in general, not just in Costa Rica!

Avoid walking around alone at night

Make friends at your hostel and go out with them. Stay in a group when it’s dark to avoid any unwanted attention or trouble.

Keep your wits about you

When you’re unfamiliar with where you are, it’s just not a good idea to get too drunk. This is especially true when you’re solo traveling, and especially especially true when you’re a solo traveling woman. If you choose to drink on your Costa Rica solo female travel tour, always make sure you’re alert and aware. You want to be able to respond appropriately and remove yourself from a situation if something goes wrong.

Keep an eye on your drink

Keep an eye on your drink at all times. It’s uncommon, but just like anywhere, your drink could be “spiked” with drugs or other unknown substances by other partygoers. If you’re really concerned about this, watch the bartender pour/make your drink.

Use the buddy system

If you’re out at a bar or club, go to the bathroom with a buddy. This will make sure you both have an eye on each other and no one gets lost.

Take care in San Jose

Gang-related activity has somewhat increased in San José over the past few years. So, if you stay in San José, make sure to stay in a good area and avoid walking alone at night. I skipped San José altogether on my travels since I wasn’t there for cities, but I know plenty of women traveling Costa Rica solo who had a great time checking out the art and nightlife there.

Keep your passport locked up

Don’t ever bring your physical passport with you unless you’re traveling to another country at that moment (like, you’re going to the airport) or you’re getting a SIM card. Your passport is much more likely to get stolen on you than it is to be stolen from or damaged in your accommodation. If you really need to have your passport photo page with you, carry a photocopy instead.

Don’t carry large amounts of cash

It’s just not smart to have a bunch of physical money on you. Split your stash and only bring what you need. Keep the rest in your hotel or hostel. Likewise, only bring the credit and debit cards you need when you go around town. I try not to carry around cards with direct access to my bank accounts unless I’m planning to withdraw cash on that particular excursion from my accommodation.

Carry a flashlight in rural areas

If you’ll be staying in smaller villages or more remote areas of Costa Rica, bring a headlamp or flashlight. If you’re walking home at night when it’s dark, you’ll be happy to have one. Not only will it make you more visible to oncoming drivers, but it will also help you avoid stepping on anything you’d rather not – like snakes!

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Coming from a girl who is naturally terrible at asking for help, do not be afraid to ask for help from a local, or anyone, especially if you’re in immediate danger. Be confident and assertive.

Ask accommodation staff for important notes

Sometimes where you’re staying is perfectly safe, but there might be a nearby attraction that is locally infamous for robberies (true story for a hiking trail near Puerto Viejo). To make sure you’re properly informed, ask your accommodation staff if there’s anything important to know regarding the safety of the area you’re staying in.

Ignore catcalling

Like many places in the United States and abroad, catcalling can happen in Costa Rica. Just ignore it and keep walking. It’s very rarely a real threat to your safety – just an annoyance.

Read more: Many solo female travelers make Costa Rica their first solo trip. I met so many first-time solo travelers and most of them were women. So don’t be afraid to have Costa Rica on your itinerary when you take the plunge and go solo! And if it’s your first time, I highly recommend reading my complete guide to traveling alone for the first time .

Costa Rica Trip Cost

Accommodation

• Budget hostel : $7-25/night
• Mid-range hotel: $50-100/night
• Luxury hotel: $189+/night

Transportation

• Local buses & ferries: $0.50-7/ride
• Uber in a major city: ~$0.80/km
• Shared tourist shuttle: $30-70/ride
• Budget meal at a local soda: $3-7 for dinner plate
• Meal at a “Western” restaurant: $15-45
• Domestic beer: $2
• Cocktail: $4

Activities & Tours

• Guided hike: $20-50
• Boat day trip: $70-120
• Wildlife tour: $30-60

Overall Average Spend

Budget backpacker: $42.53/day (this was my calculated average cost of travel over 2 months)

Mid-range traveler: $72/day

Luxury traveler: $182+/day

• Suggested daily budget: $50-70/day

How to Get Around

🚍️ public transportation.

To save a lot of money, I almost exclusively took public transportation over the 2 months I spent traveling Costa Rica solo. This is the best option if you have more time than you do money. Below are some frequently asked questions about public transportation in Costa Rica.

Is public transportation safe in Costa Rica?

Public transportation in Costa Rica is very safe. I was often the only “gringa” on the bus and even as a solo female traveler, I never felt unsafe. However, make sure to always keep your valuables on you and never put any of your bags in the overhead compartment above the seats. Additionally, if your backpack is on board with you instead of under the bus, make sure to keep it within eyeshot. Stay vigilant, as always, and you’ll be absolutely fine.

How easy is it to find public transportation in Costa Rica?

Public transportation is widely available across Costa Rica. There are both smaller, intracity buses and larger, intercity buses that frequently run throughout the country.

What is the cost of public transportation in Costa Rica?

With most bus rides costing less than $2, and long-distance rides to or from San José for less than $10, traveling with public transportation is the best way to save money in Costa Rica.

How do I find the bus schedules in Costa Rica?

There are websites that list some bus schedules. Luckily for you, there are way more online resources for this now than even when I was a first-time Costa Rica solo female traveler just a few years ago. My favorite secondary resource these days is  Costa Rica Guide . However, your best option is always to ask the reception at your accommodation. Ask for the current schedules and how to get to your next destination. Local staff are usually the best source of information.

Do I need to speak Spanish to use the public transportation in Costa Rica?

Speaking Spanish is definitely helpful, but it’s certainly not necessary. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish before you go. Worst comes to worst, never underestimate the power of charades and just saying the name of the place you want to go to.

🚐 Private shuttle

For a higher price, private shared tourist shuttles are also commonly available around the country. Transport in one of these shuttles typically costs $30-60 for a one-way trip. If you’re short on time and/or have the money, these shuttles are the best option for getting around. However, in my opinion, they’re an easy way to waste a lot of money that could otherwise be saved by using public transportation.  More money for food!

If you’re in a larger city like San José or Jacó, Uber unofficially operates. It’s cheaper and more reliable than local taxis. However, in most other cities, Uber doesn’t run.

It’s worth noting that Uber is the best way to get to San José from the airport, and vice versa. It will cost only about $15, as opposed to twice as much or more with a local taxi. Additionally, local taxis are known for taking inefficient routes in order to charge unaware tourists more.

While not the cheapest option, a rental car is hands-down the most convenient way to see Costa Rica. Cars are especially useful for exploring more rural areas (which, in my opinion, are the areas really worth exploring in Costa Rica) and taking as many photography stops as you want. If you’re an avid hiker and most of your time in Costa Rica will be spent seeing national parks, I highly suggest a rental car. It will make things a lot easier. Just consider that gas costs at least $5/gallon in Costa Rica in 2022. Diesel is cheaper than gas in Costa Rica, so diesel cars are more common. Keep this in mind when you fill up at the pump!

Other helpful tips for renting a car in Costa Rica:

• The majority of cars outside the U.S., including in Costa Rica, are manual. If you can’t drive manual (like me), make sure to check that the car you book is an automatic. Unfortunately, this usually costs more.
• Consider your style of travel and destinations. All things considered, Costa Rican roads can be pretty decent. However, some roads are in absolute disrepair or even nonexistent. If you’re really planning to get off the beaten track (e.g. the Osa Peninsula or the tip of the Nicoya), consider a 4-wheel drive off-roading vehicle. Just keep in mind the larger the car, the more gas it will guzzle.
• Always book with a reputable rental company with good reviews. And make sure to actually read the fine print before you drive the car away. It’s just not worth doing a cheaper, shady deal to save a few bucks. I am embarrassed to admit I did this in Saint Martin, and it became a legal and logistical disaster when our bags, and then rental car, got stolen at the beach. I’m lucky I had travel insurance or else I would have been left to pay $1,000’s for the rental car damage in addition to replacing my stolen camera!

Rentalcars.com has a great interface for finding and booking the best deals on rental cars all over the world from reputable companies! I recommend using them as a starting point for booking your rental car in Costa Rica.

Tours & Activities I Recommend

Essential gear for a costa rica trip.

Read more: Interested in putting Monteverde on your Costa Rica solo female travel itinerary? Check out my guide to the top 10 things to do in Monteverde for solo female travelers.

Favorite Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use while traveling in Costa Rica. They consistently return the best deals and user experience. I’ve mentioned some of these already above, but have condensed them into a one-stop-shop list for your convenience here:

Flight booking tools

• Skyscanner – a great tool for finding the cheapest flights with lots of filter options.
• Kiwi.com – one of my favorite flight search engines, especially when you’re really flexible with the dates you travel. Kiwi allows you to choose specific dates, date ranges, or length of travel to multiple destinations at once so comparing prices is easy. Their Nomad tool is also handy if you’re planning multiple flights in a row and aren’t sure about the cheapest order in which to do things!
• Google Flights – I’ll often start with this tool to get a broad overview of flights available. Their discovery map tool is also helpful.

Accommodation booking tools

• Agoda – Agoda has got some fantastic deals lately. Using their booking system, I was able to stay in a presidential suite at a 4-star resort in Mauritius for practically half the price offered on most other sites!
• Booking.com – a gold standard in accommodation booking. If a hotel is anywhere, it’s probably on Booking.com. I also really love Booking’s loyalty program Genius, which has allowed me to score some pretty sweet deals in some of my favorite Costa Rica solo female travel destinations.
• Hostelworld – also a gold standard in accommodation booking, but for hostels. If you want to get the best, most comprehensive reviews of hostels from travelers just like you, check Hostelworld first. Then see whether Hostelworld or Booking.com gives you a better deal with loyalty rewards.

Transportation tools

• Rentalcars.com – the most comprehensive rental car search tool to price compare between the top reputable companies.

Guide- and attraction-finding tools

• GetYourGuide – if you’re interested in finding guided tours at your destination, GetYourGuide is the way to go. From food tours to private walking tours, you’ll definitely find something you’re interested in. Seeing reviews from other travelers and booking is easy.
• Intrepid Travel – if you want to go on a group tour in Costa Rica, Intrepid Travel offers the best. Their tours are small, intimate groups led by local guides and with a small ecological footprint.
• Viator – Viator has tons of activities, experiences, and tours available for thousands of destinations around the world. They’re a great way to add a fun activity onto the itinerary.
• TripAdvisor – TripAdvisor has loads of travel booking tools, but my favorite use for them is looking up top-rated restaurants by other travelers. Their tour/activity recommendations can be decent. However, their lists of top attractions at certain destinations might not be more than “which attractions will be the most crammed with tourists?”

Favorite $0 foreign transaction fee travel rewards credit cards

• Chase Sapphire Preferred – my first travel rewards card, this $0 foreign transaction fee card has mighty rewards for the frequent traveler. At the time of writing, meet the $4,000 spending minimum within the first 3 months and get 80,000 bonus miles worth at least $800 to put towards flights, hotels, and more! In addition, this card has excellent insurance to cover expenses if your flight gets delayed or cancelled, or your baggage gets delayed or lost.
• CapitalOne Venture Rewards – my current favorite travel rewards card with $0 foreign transaction fees. Besides their price prediction and protection travel booking portal, I love their comprehensive car rental insurance. At the time of writing, earn 60,000 bonus miles worth over $600 when you meet the $3,000 spending minimum in the first 3 months.

Costa Rica travel insurance tools

• World Nomads travel insurance – after getting covered for the thousands of dollars in rental car damage and my stolen camera after thieves stole my belongings on a beach in Saint Martin, I never travel without it. Sh*t happens sometimes when you travel. Don’t risk it.

Top 10 Things to Do as a Solo Female Traveler in Monteverde, Costa Rica

• Destinations
• Terms & conditions
• Opt-out preferences
• Privacy Statement (US)

• Video library

• Costa Rica Culture Facts
• History of Costa Rica
• Map of Costa Rica
• National Parks of Costa Rica
• Weather in Costa Rica
• By Hotel Type
• By Vacation Style
• By Location
• Tips & Insights
• Costa Rica Travel Requirements
• What to bring?
• Camino Travel
• About Our Dedication to Sustainable Tourism in Costa Rica
• Job Opportunities
• Pack for a Purpose

Navigating Costa Rica as a Solo Woman: Tips and Tricks

Are you a single, female-presenting traveler considering a trip to Costa Rica? You’re in luck! This beautiful Central American country is a popular destination for travelers of all kinds, and offers plenty of opportunities for solo female travelers to have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable vacation. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to Costa Rica as a single woman, from safety tips to recommendations for accommodations and activities.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

First things first: let’s talk about safety. Costa Rica is generally considered a safe country for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, like any destination, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. 

Tips for Staying Safe as a Woman in Costa Rica

Some tips to keep in mind include staying in well-lit, populated areas at night, staying off the beaches at night, avoiding dangerous areas of cities, and being cautious with your personal belongings (especially your passport and money). If you do find yourself in an emergency situation, there are plenty of resources available to help you, including the local police and the U.S. Embassy in San Jose.

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

Now that we’ve covered safety, let’s talk about where to stay. Costa Rica has a wide range of accommodations available to suit any budget, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. For single, female travelers, we recommend staying in a hotel or resort that has good reviews and a reputation for being safe and comfortable. 

Some popular tourist areas to consider include the Manuel Antonio area, Arenal Volcano, Guanacaste, and Monteverde. Each of these areas has a variety of accommodation options available, so you’re sure to find something that fits your needs.

Getting Around Costa Rica

When it comes to getting around Costa Rica, solo travelers have a few options. We recommend hiring a private driver from a reputable travel agency or taking guided tours to ensure a safe, reliable, and comfortable journey. 

Public buses are a cheap and convenient way to travel, but they can be crowded and not always the most comfortable or safe. Taxis are also readily available, but be sure to use a reputable company. Hailing a taxi in the street will most likely be safe, but taxi drivers have been known to take the long way in order to bump the meter up when transporting tourists. Airport taxis are expensive, but are usually very safe. 

Uber is one of the most popular options for locals, though it isn’t quite legal yet in Costa Rica. That’s why most Uber drivers will request you sit in front. You’ll still have all the same safety features of Uber in any country, including the option to share your real-time ride trajectory with a friend, making this a safe option most of the time.

If you prefer to have your own transportation, rental cars are also an option, but be aware that driving in Costa Rica can be challenging due to the poor condition of some roads and the local driving style. 

Popular activities and attractions in Costa Rica

Of course, no trip to Costa Rica would be complete without experiencing some of the incredible activities and attractions the country has to offer. From exploring national parks and wildlife viewing, to adventure sports and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Costa Rica. 

Some popular activities include visiting Manuel Antonio National Park, hiking Arenal Volcano, and zip-lining in Monteverde. Additionally, Yoga and wellness retreats, volunteer opportunities, surfing camps, and other beach activities are particularly well-suited for solo female travelers. For solo female travelers, we recommend taking a guided tour or excursion to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Top Destinations for Solo Travelers

Now, let’s talk about the best destinations for solo female travelers in Costa Rica. San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, is a great place to start your trip, as it offers a good balance of culture, history, and nightlife. Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-see destination for its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and incredible wildlife. Arenal Volcano is another popular destination, known for its hot springs and adventure activities. Guanacaste offers many different beach towns, from luxurious Nosara to fun-loving Tamarindo, as well as lots of tour options. And finally, Monteverde, a small town in the cloud forest, is known for its beautiful nature and ecotourism opportunities.

Solo Female Travel in Costa Rica: Make the Most of Your Trip

In conclusion, Costa Rica is a wonderful destination for solo female travelers. With its friendly people, beautiful nature, and wealth of activities and attractions, there’s something for everyone in this Central American paradise. 

Remember to stay aware of your surroundings, be mindful of local customs and etiquette, and take advantage of the many resources available to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Costa Rica has something to offer. So pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

If you’re looking for the safest and most reliable vacation in Costa Rica, book with Camino Travel! From proven tour providers to hotels we have actually stayed at ourselves, we take care to recommend and book the best options for your trip, plus we don’t charge any commission. Book with Camino Travel for a smooth and stress-free solo trip! 

Related Posts

Costa Rica Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

230 costa rica tours for singles / solo travelers with 1,928 reviews.

• Jungle Trekking
• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Manuel Antonio National Park

"We booked the superior hotels and they were wonderful and food was great. All the transportation worked out." Diane, traveled in February 2024

Essential Costa Rica - Package with Guanacaste

"We had a great time. We would highly recommend our friends to book their vacations with Tourradar." Chandradevi, traveled in November 2023

Eco-adventure in Costa Rica

"This was a trip of a lifetime! Zip lining, snorkeling, and white water rafting were all on my bucket list." Robin, traveled in March 2024

Raft, Hike and Explore Costa Rica

"Well organized and communicated" Jennifer, traveled in February 2024

• In-depth Cultural

Costa Rica Quest

"The tour and our tour guide as a whole was great!" Edwin, traveled in February 2024

Costa Rica Adventure

"I had an epic adventure in Costa Rica for 16 days with G Adventure. Can't wait to book my next adventure!" Deborah, traveled in November 2023

Classic Costa Rica

"We have seen beautiful spots and wildlife. We had the right amount of organized activities and free time." Ilaria, traveled in February 2024

Journeys: Highlights of Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys

"Helpful, no issues. Helpful" Joyce, traveled in January 2024

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders

"The hotels were clean and welcoming especially Cala Lodge in Monteverde. The beaches made up for this weakness though. Playa Blance was paradise." Ruth-Anne, traveled in October 2023

Costa Rica Experience

"Costa Rica has much to offer. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a pleasant environment." Gary, traveled in April 2023

Journeys: Explore Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys

"Great nature, great travelling companions." Stewart, traveled in February 2024

Highlights of Costa Rica

"We were happy to see the monkeys, sloths, and different insects, but were disappointed that we only saw one toucan and one parrot." Gail, traveled in November 2023

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7 Day Best of Costa Rica

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour

"The hotels were generally acceptable but not luxurious. The weather (rain most days) may have impacted wildlife viewing." Elaine, traveled in December 2019

Costa Rica: San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park & Monteverde - 8 days

"The adventure was fun and informative. Over all the drivers and boat captains were skilled and inspired confidence." Carol, traveled in October 2022

What people love about Costa Rica Solo Tours

The trip was absolutely amazing and a beautiful country! The booking was great and filled with a good amount of activities at each location, but also was able to have some free time in each location to visit the town, hang out at the pool or ocean, or just relax if needed. All transportation pickups were relatively smooth and on time. The hotel in Monteverde was a little disappointing compared to all the other hotels.

Very organized. Good communication. Always kept me informed and answered all my questions in a timely manner

We had the best time on this tour; the adventures, the guides, the drivers, the hotels and the food were all great! What an amazing and fun experience. This trip is a bit frontloaded with activities so after a few days a break is needed.

More Tours in Costa Rica for Singles and Solo Travellers

• Monteverde tours (60)
• Northern Lowlands Costa Rica tours (36)
• Costa Rica Caribbean Coast tours (11)
• Costa Rica Pacific Coast tours (10)
• Guanacaste tours (6)
• Tortuguero National Park tours (17)
• Manuel Antonio National Park tours (15)
• Rincon de la Vieja National Park tours (5)
• Seniors tours (188)
• Young Adults tours (7)
• Costa Rica Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Costa Rica Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Travel Styles

• Budget (37)
• Luxury (18)
• Singles and Solo (221)
• For Couples (115)
• Young Adults (7)
• Seniors (188)

Discover TourRadar

• Serengeti Safari
• Switzerland Tours
• Incredible Rajasthan 11 Days Tour | Royal Rajasthan Travels
• Best time to visit Botswana for a Safari
• 10 Best Budget Adventure Tours
• Best Time to Visit Antarctica
• Qwerty Travel Argentina - Ask a Question

3 Costa Rica Vacation Packages for Solo Travelers

Home » Vacations » Solo

Our Costa Rica solo vacation packages can be purchased as-is or customized to create your perfect escape:

Show Me The Wildlife

Getaway from the busy world on this nature-focused vacation on the Osa Peninsula. Surround yourself with monkeys leaping from tree to tree, scarlet macaws flying overhead and dolphins playing in warm turquoise waters.

$3335 per adult, double occupancy $5565 per adult, single occupancy

Price valid until: October 31, 2024

Destinations Visited

San Jose, Osa Peninsula

8 days / 7 nights

Costa Rica Highlights

Our Costa Rica Highlights vacation package includes all the must-see destinations and tours you don’t want to miss!

$3850 per adult, double occupancy $7535 per adult, single occupancy

Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, Guanacaste

9 days / 8 nights

Classic Costa Rica Deluxe

Our Classic Costa Rica Deluxe vacation includes visits to Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio National Park. We offer this same itinerary in a luxury version with upgraded hotels in the same destinations.

$2995 per adult, double occupancy $5880 per adult, single occupancy

Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio

Friendly Ticos

Lots of tourists, english speakers are easy to find., there are lots of other solo travelers., it's easy to make friends., you can do what you want., you can book your whole trip in advance with a costa rica expert., you deserve a vacation planned by experts., us headquarters, costa rica office.

Barrio La California, Calles 27 & 29, Ave 2, Ed #2798 Oficina #8 San Jose, Costa Rica 10104

READ OUR REVIEWS

Dreaming of cooler weather?

• DESTINATIONS
• THINGS TO DO
• PLAN YOUR TRIP

Privacy Overview

This is a necessary category.

Costa Rica for Solo Travelers: Volcanoes, Jungles & Beaches

4.5 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Mother Nature pulls out all the stops on this spectacular, solo-friendly tour.

Where better to connect with the outdoors—and other solo travelers—than the hiking trails, national parks, and golden beaches of Costa Rica? You and your tour mates will soak in caldera and lake views in the country’s volcano region, jungle scenery (and sounds) along its Central Pacific Coast, and plenty of sun and surf in Manuel Antonio National Park. Get to know even more of the country’s unspoiled scenery, precious wildlife, and warm hospitality by extending your tour: You’ll visit two sought-after national parks, Tenorio and Arenal, as well as a pioneering sustainability-driven ranch.

Your tour package includes

• 8 nights in handpicked hotels
• 8 breakfasts
• 3 dinners, some with beer or wine

Included highlights

• Coffee farm & tasting
• Toucan Rescue Ranch
• Tárcoles River cruise
• Mangrove reforestation project
• Manuel Antonio National Park

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Fly to Costa Rica and settle in at your hotel in San José. Enjoy a light dinner this evening.

Please note: If you arrive after 9pm, dinner will be served in your hotel room.

Make your way from your hotel to a local farm and discover one of Costa Rica’s finest exports—coffee. Regarded as some of the best in the world thanks to a Goldilocks combination of growing conditions, Costa Rican coffee accounts for close to 8% of the country’s gross domestic product.

• Tour a family-owned estate to learn how coffee cherries yield coffee beans, and how those pips—after a multi-step process of cleaning and roasting—eventually become the flavorful drink in your mug each morning.
• Learn how the estate protects and preserves the biodiversity of the area, and how it employs traditional methods to cultivate its crop.
• Indulge in a tasting of some of the farm’s coffees, then sit down to a welcome lunch and continue getting to know your fellow travelers.

Afterward, continue on to the Toucan Rescue Ranch. Dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native wildlife, this nonprofit organization looks after toucans, sloths, and other animals. Join a rancher for a guided walk of the grounds, hear the stories of the various creatures in their care, and come to a better understanding of the importance of conservation in Costa Rica.

What better way to get to know authentic Costa Rica than through its traditional food and dance? Kick up your heels with an optional excursion that highlights the local folklore. Or, if you’d prefer, use your free time this evening to explore some of San José’s modern and colonial architecture.

Costa Rican Folklore Dinner

From $95 per person

Spend a free day in the San José Region or add an excursion.

Cartago & Irazú Volcano National Park with Lunch

From $75 per person

Travel to Tárcoles, a quiet town that boasts beautiful vegetation, abundant wildlife, and ocean views. Climb aboard a boat for a guided tour of the Tárcoles River, which is known for the large number of American crocodiles that inhabit its waters.

• Soak in views of lush mangrove forests and jungle scenery.
• Look out for crocodiles, iguanas, lizards, and monkeys, as well as scarlet macaws, kingfishers, and over 50 species of birds.

This afternoon, continue to your hotel along the Central Pacific Coast, where you’ll find tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, and an impressively diverse ecosystem.

This morning, head to Playa Palo Seco, one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in Central America. There, take part in a mangrove reforestation project, one of Costa Rica’s key efforts to promote environmental sustainability.

• Learn about the importance of the island mangrove forests and how they serve as natural barriers that protect the mainland from storms and high tides.
• Hear about mass deforestation caused by ocean currents, tides, increased flooding from upland rivers, and business development.
• Take part in a hands-on activity, like planting mangroves or seeds in the nursery.

Please note: Travelers should wear clothes they don’t mind getting dirty during today’s activity.

Enjoy a free afternoon on the Central Pacific Coast or add an excursion.

Please note: On some departures, the reforestation project and Rainforest Sky Cable & Ziplining optional excursion will take place on day 6 and the visit to Manuel Antonio National Park will take place on day 5.

Rainforest Sky Cable & Ziplining

From $105 per person

Make your way to the small but stunning Manuel Antonio National Park, popular for its breathtaking beaches and scenic hiking trails. Uncover its incredible biodiversity and postcard-worthy beaches on a guided tour.

• Keep an eye out for some of the 109 mammal species and 270 bird species that call the park home, including howler monkeys and yellow-throated toucans.
• Walk to the top of rocky Cathedral Point to view the lush park from across the Pacific.
• Visit Escondido Beach, where a blowhole sends plumes of seawater skyward during high tide.
• Take in views of the saw-like cliff and sea caves at Punta Serrucho, a landmark whose sawtooth appearance is the result of numerous tectonic movements.
• Relax on the beach or take a dip in the Pacific Ocean.

Please note: Manuel Antonio National Park closes on Tuesdays. Depending on the departure, your visit may take place on day 5. In that case, the reforestation project and Rainforest Sky Cable & Ziplining optional excursion will be moved to day 6.

Travel north along a scenic route to the coastal province of Guanacaste, which is known for its unspoiled beaches and biodiverse parkland. Along the way, stop to explore El Jardín, a family project providing a welcoming experience. Take time to explore the beautiful gardens, nursery, and souvenir shop featuring unique items made by local artisans. Then, enjoy an included lunch of authentic dishes prepared in their traditional kitchen.

Settle into your hotel on the Guanacaste coast: a mecca for surfers, hikers, and sunbathers that’s home to some of Costa Rica’s most sought-after beaches and landscapes.

Spend a free day relaxing along the Guanacaste coast or add an excursion.

This evening, celebrate your trip with your fellow travelers at a farewell dinner.

Guanacaste Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch

From $119 per person

Transfer to the Liberia airport for your flight home or extend your stay in Costa Rica to explore the volcano region.

Head back inland to the country’s volcano region and set out on a guided walk through Tenorio Volcano National Park. The nearly 5,000-square-mile park is home to a variety of wet and rainforests, as well as white-faced monkeys, pumas, orchids, palm trees, and other flora and fauna.

• Join your Tour Director for a walk along the milky blue Rio Celeste, and see where two mineral-rich volcanic streams come together resulting in the river’s distinctive turquoise color.
• View the famous—and powerful—Rio Celeste waterfall from above, or walk down a series of stairs for a closer look from a dedicated viewpoint.

Transfer to your hotel, where you’ll have free time for the rest of the day.

Please note: We recommend wearing sturdy shoes for the Tenorio Park visit.

Join your Tour Director for a guided walk through Arenal Volcano National Park, named for the nearly 5,500-foot-high volcano that towers over the pastures and hillsides that surround it. Though Arenal hasn’t erupted since 2010, you might still spot steam snaking skyward from its caldera.

• Marvel at the mile-high volcano, a near-perfect conical shape that emerges from the Sierra de Tilarán mountain range.
• Try to spot slow-moving sloths, snakes coiled around tree limbs, and spiders resting in their webs.
• Gaze at placid Lake Arenal—Costa Rica’s largest lake—and watch for birds, such as northern jacanas, woodpeckers, and kingfishers, wading and soaring along its shores.

Please note: Costa Rica’s rainy season runs from May through November. During these months, clouds and mist can obscure the volcano’s peak from view. Additionally, hardened lava makes up some of the park’s terrain, and travelers should be able to navigate these uneven surfaces for around two miles.

This afternoon, visit an eco-friendly ranch in La Fortuna.

• Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring fresh ingredients harvested on-site, as well as local dairy products
• Explore the ranch with a local guide, and learn how it became the first carbon-negative community of its kind in Costa Rica

Spend the evening to kick back and relax, explore the area your own, or add an excursion

Arenal Hot Springs & Dinner

Spend a free morning in the volcano region before traveling back to the San José region.

Tonight, celebrate your trip during an included farewell dinner, served with beer or wine, at a local restaurant.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.5 out of 5

3 out of 5 stars

We had a wonderful tour guide. There was some things about the trip that I was not too impressed with. We had to be at breakfast at 7:00 in the morning which was fine, but then we didn't have lunch until 2:00 or 3:00 in the afternoon. There was one day where we didn't even have lunch we were just to...

Patricia, thank you for your input. We're sorry to...

Our guide Heidi was great and knowledgeable about her country. We all think there should be less time in San Jose and more in the coast / Tamarindo . There was a too much/ lot of bus travel for me. I would like to have enjoyed the resort more in the extension. Great people on the tour. I probably wi...

Mary, thank you for your review. We appreciate you...

5 out of 5 stars

What an awesome tour and tour guide I had for my tour through Costa Rica. I plan to do another tour. Meeting 28 strangers from all over and leaving with 28 friends was the best part. I traveled with the most amazing people.

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This modern hotel is centrally located in San José’s Sabana Park area. Guests enjoy the rooftop pool, spacious rooms, and fitness center. Nearby, you’...

This luxury hotel is located on Jaco Beach, on the Central Pacific Coast. Guests enjoy the outdoor pools, an on-site coffeehouse, and beach access. Ne...

This serene hotel is located perched on a hillside of Tamarindo on the Guanacaste coast. Guests enjoy sweeping ocean views, outdoor infinity pool, a l...

This tropical hotel is located in Muelle San Carlos, right in the heart of Northern Costa Rica’s volcano region. Guests enjoy the surrounding botanica...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Costa Rica, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code CR6.
• You will walk for at least 2.5 hours daily across moderately uneven terrain, including paved roads, unpaved trails, and muddy paths, with some hills.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times, as well as getting in and out of boats.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and they cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in San José and depart from Liberia (or San José on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. Comfortable, casual clothing and a sturdy pair of walking shoes are a must for sightseeing.
• A lightweight jacket is recommended, as the temperatures will change with the elevation throughout your tour.
• A sun hat, sunglasses, and rain gear will help you stay comfortable in all types of weather.
• You may also wish to pack a swimsuit.
• A small bottle of hand sanitizer may be helpful when other facilities are not readily available while on the road.
• Binoculars are handy for a closer look at local wildlife and scenery.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
• There are inherent risks associated with snorkeling and other water sports, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Discuss your planned activities with your doctor or healthcare provider for the best advice on participation.
• Drink bottled water only. Refrain from ingesting tap water, including when brushing your teeth.
• Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables unless they’re cooked or washed in clean water and peeled.
• Travelers prone to seasickness should note that this tour includes boat rides.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour and any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• Costa Rican cuisine is based on staples like rice, black beans, and corn with beef, chicken, or fish. Fresh, locally grown fruits include bananas, mangoes, pineapples, and avocados. Traditional desserts include custards, puddings, and simple cakes. Locally grown coffee is served strong and black, but hot milk is often available if you ask.
• Costa Rica operates on 120 volts and uses Types A or B plugs. As these are the same as the plugs used in the U.S. and Canada, a voltage adapter is not needed.
• The strength of the air conditioning in some hotels in this region may not be as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply. In more remote locations, internet access may be limited and is not guaranteed.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Costa Rica is six hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and one hour behind Eastern Time (ET). Costa Rica does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
• When it’s noon in New York City, it’s 11am in Costa Rica from November through March and 10am from April through October.
• You will use the Costa Rican colón on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency or USD. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

Compare similar tours

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.4 out of 5 stars

4.1 out of 5 stars

• South America Tours
• Costa Rica Tours

Costa Rica Solo Trips and Holidays 2024/2025

The best solo trips and solo holidays in Costa Rica. We currently offer 226 Costa Rica solo tour packages, many of which are guided tours . You can also read 860 customer reviews for solo vacations, often written by solo travelers.

226 solo trips in Costa Rica

• Starts San Jose, Costa Rica
• Ends San Jose, Costa Rica

Eco Adventure Trip in Costa Rica

• Trip customizable
• Best price guaranteed
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Rafting & Natural landmarks sightseeing Rafting , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Canyoning , National parks , Hot springs , Horseback riding , Zip lining , Beach & Rainforest and jungle visits 'data-more-tripid='16632'>+7 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat & Jeep
• Age Range 12-79 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,020
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 404
• Total Price from: US$ 1,616
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Discover Costa Rica

• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Wildlife & Marine wildlife Wildlife , Marine wildlife , Bird watching & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7985'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Villa
• Transport Boat & Bus
• Age Range 16-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,948
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 238
• Total Price from: US$ 4,710
• Jul 06 Only 6 seats left
• Jul 27 Only 3 seats left

• Ends Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Costa Rica Adventure

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Rainforest and jungle visits & Adventure Rainforest and jungle visits , Adventure , Local culture & Hot springs 'data-more-tripid='37266'>+2 more
• Accommodation Home-stay, Hotel, Hostel & Resort
• Transport Private Vehicle, Ferry & Minibus
• Age Range 18-40 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,850
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 370
• Total Price from: US$ 1,480
• Jul 04 Only 8 seats left
• Jul 25 Only 5 seats left

Classic Costa Rica

• Activities Adventure & National parks Adventure , National parks , Wildlife , Waterfalls & Safari 'data-more-tripid='3488'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,485
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 497
• Total Price from: US$ 1,988
• Jun 29 Only 6 seats left
• Jul 04 Only 1 seat left

Arenal Volcano & Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Activities Nature and bush walks & Natural landmarks sightseeing Nature and bush walks , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Volcanoes , Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking , Family & Safari 'data-more-tripid='19120'>+5 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Age Range 2-79 yrs

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4636'>+2 more
• Accommodation Lodge, Hotel & Villa
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,049
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 615
• Total Price from: US$ 1,434
• Jun 29 Only 7 seats left
• Jul 01 Only 7 seats left

Costa Rica Quest

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4648'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,299
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 325
• Total Price from: US$ 974
• Jun 13 10+ seats left
• Jun 15 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Liberia City, Costa Rica
• Ends Liberia City, Costa Rica

Costa Rica: Rainforest & Beach Adventure

• Activities National parks & Zip lining National parks , Zip lining , Beach , Sailing, yachting and motor boating & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='19110'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Hostel
• Transport Boat & Private Vehicle

Costa Rica Experience

• Activities Active and outdoor & City sightseeing Active and outdoor , City sightseeing , Waterfalls , National parks , Wildlife , Fishing & Safari 'data-more-tripid='3489'>+5 more
• Accommodation Home-stay & Hotel
• Transport Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,640
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 164
• Total Price from: US$ 1,476
• Jul 22 Only 2 seats left
• Aug 12 Only 10 seats left

Best of Costa Rica

• Activities Adventure
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jun 12 Only 6 seats left
• Jun 13 Only 6 seats left

Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets

• Activities Marine wildlife & Wildlife Marine wildlife , Wildlife , Bird watching & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7987'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge, Villa & Resort
• Transport Boat, Bus & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,148
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 613
• Total Price from: US$ 5,535
• Jul 27 Only 8 seats left
• Aug 10 Only 4 seats left

Trek Hidden Costa Rica

• Activities Wildlife & Trekking and Hiking Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking , Rafting , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4637'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping, Bungalow & Home-stay
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,949
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 488
• Total Price from: US$ 1,461
• Jun 22 Only 2 seats left
• Jul 13 Only 9 seats left

• Free cancellation
• Activities National parks & Volcanoes National parks , Volcanoes , Rainforest and jungle visits , Beach & Zip lining 'data-more-tripid='24701'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge, Eco Lodge & Resort
• Age Range 6-79 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish

From the Caribbean Coast to the Pacific Side

• Activities National parks & Natural landmarks sightseeing National parks , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Rainforest and jungle visits , Zip lining , Beach , Local boat rides , Waterfalls , Volcanoes , Rafting , Wildlife , Cooking classes & Safari 'data-more-tripid='16633'>+10 more
• Age Range 10-79 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,582
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 716
• Total Price from: US$ 2,866

Traveling to Costa Rica alone? Chat with a local travel expert in Costa Rica who can help build the perfect solo trip in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Solo Trip Reviews

• Lauren Farrell
• Fiachra O Brolachain
• Mateja Novaković

Solo trips and solo holidays

• South America solo trips
• Central America solo trips
• Peru solo trips
• Argentina solo trips
• Ecuador solo trips
• Chile solo trips
• Bolivia solo trips
• Brazil solo trips
• Costa rica trips
• Costa Rica budget tours
• Eco tours in Costa Rica
• Costa Rica guided tours
• Costa Rica family tour packages
• Costa Rica luxury tours
• Costa Rica private tours
• Costa Rica self-guided tours
• Costa Rica small group tours
• Costa Rica tailor-made vacation packages
• Costa Rica tours for senior citizens
• Costa Rica tours for young adults
• Costa Rica group tours
• Costa Rica last minute deals
• Costa Rica travel deals

Costa Rica upcoming departures

• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• Spring 2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Solo Travel

I've Traveled Alone to 65 Countries – Here Are My Top 5 Destinations for Flying Solo

Where to find adventure, group activities, affordable luxury hotels, and total relaxation as a solo traveler.

Katie Jackson/Travel + Leisure

Lewis may have needed Clark, but for most trips, I think it’s OK to be a party of one. In fact, my favorite style of travel, # solotravel , is now trending on TikTok and in real life. But if there’s anything I’ve learned from adventuring alone in 65 countries, it’s this: some countries cater to lone wolves better than others. Whether you’re looking to lay on the beach, climb a volcano, or explore the big city, here are my top five destinations for flying solo. 

Giacomo Augugliaro/Getty Images

Western Europe’s most affordable country, Portugal has been my second home since 2016. Whether in Alentejo or the Algarve, I can always find a €2 glass of wine and five-star hotels, including IHG’s new Vignette Collection properties in Porto and Lisbon , for under €200 per night. It’s the fifth safest country in Europe, according to the Institute for Economics & Peace 2023 Global Peace Index (for comparison, Spain ranked 23rd and France 34th) and is home to the world’s largest standing wave. Since surfing solo is dangerous, I go with Onda Pura . In Lisbon , visit the Oceanário , voted the world’s best aquarium . Alone, you can linger at exhibits for as long as you want. I’ve traveled the country by train and bus, but I recommend renting a car for as little as €25 per day. Pro tip: Learn how to drive manual first.

South Africa

Katie Jackson/Travel + Leisure

While it’s not the safest country on the Mother Continent, ranking 32nd in Sub-Saharan Africa in the Global Peace Index , South Africa is the easiest for Americans to visit. United Airlines offers nonstop service from multiple U.S. cities to Cape Town, English is widely spoken, and there are restaurants catering to every diet. I use Facebook to join group hikes and dinners and Airbnb to book guided, local experiences. I recommend doing the “From Prisoner to President Tour” hosted by Nelson Mandela’s former prison guard and friend, Christo Brand . To visit the wineries, take the Franschhoek Tram . I’ve also enjoyed solo safaris. Alone, you can choose your start time (I hate waking up at 5:30 a.m. for game drives), and you always have the best seat. During low season, some lodges waive the single supplement. Year-round, the new Loapi Tented Camp only charges solo travelers 62% of what it would charge a couple. For travel within the country, book a package with a company like Kensington Tours ; it includes all transfers.

Since I lived in Nicaragua, I have an impressive collection of passport stamps from Costa Rica . It’s the safest place in Central America , and it offers everything from volcano trekking to beach hopping on two incredible coastlines. I want to check out the new SP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge , which hosts wellness retreats and is part of the Red Sofia Program (designed to make travel safer for single women). Meanwhile, in Monteverde, solo travelers can’t go wrong at Hotel Belmar where you don’t have to venture off site for adventure (book the canopy immersion and coffee tasting). For an all-inclusive, I recommend Secrets Papagayo .  It’s not the place to stay if you don't want to be around couples, but it’s adults-only and hosts theme nights, beach games, and cocktail parties where singles can mingle.

FilippoBacci/Getty Images

Good news! You don’t need to be with a romantic partner to visit the Maldives . I solo-mooned there and had a blast falling back in love with me, myself, and I. Highlights include visiting Coco Palm Dhuni Kohlu’s turtle rescue center , reading by my plunge pool (“Eat, Pray, Love” is a must for solo travelers), and when I wanted company, hitting up the beach barbecues. You also don’t have to be a millionaire. The island of Maafushi caters to backpackers, and even at a resort, I stayed under $350 per day. Have a bigger budget? Consider booking the Gili Solo Experience . Boasting an underwater suite and restaurant, the Conrad Maldives is also on my list. For flights, try Emirates ; round-trip fares from New York's JFK to Malé start at $1,265.

Not having anyone to split expenses with, domestic travel is cheapest. I explore my backyard in Montana where I staycate at Lone Mountain Ranch . With its queen bed, the Meadowlark Cabin is ideal for one, and the group activities offer opportunities to socialize. For an urban escape, I prefer New York City , where I stay at NH Collection New York Madison Avenue . Its lobby has a community table, fireplaces, and live jazz most nights. Since there’s no shame in doing the Great White Way without a date, I went to see “ The Notebook ” in April. Finding one center orchestra seat is easier than finding seats together. For getting around, use the MTA’s new OMNY credit/debit card tap program ; it’s the best value.

Related Articles

Is Costa Rica Safe To Visit?

C osta Rica is a quaint country within Central America that borders Nicaragua and Panama. Although many travelers mistake it for one, Costa Rica is technically not an island. On the west side of the country is the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is located on the east. Costa Rica is an ideal location with a tropical climate and incredible natural beauty, alongside thriving biodiversity and vast landscapes that are quite impressive. This mountainous country is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

Travelers visiting the country will not have a dull moment. There is plenty for travelers to do in Costa Rica. Some of the top tourist attractions in the country include the Nicoya Peninsula, Ecotermales Hot Springs, Manuel Antonio National Park and Arenal Volcano. There are countless other natural attractions that travelers enjoy exploring. Although a lot of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions are naturally made, the country has metropolitan areas as well. Safety in metro areas can be somewhat questionable. This is especially true in situations where travelers face unfamiliar environments abroad. To establish whether or not Costa Rica is safe , we compiled all the important information on the country for potential visitors.

Best Travel Advisories

An important factor of traveling abroad safely is having information on the status of a potential travel destination. Travelers that are unsure about the safety level of their upcoming trip location should do their research. Seeking out reputable resources is wise so that travelers stay well informed. These are the top organizations that provide up to date safety information on travel destinations.

Crime Safety

The U.S. Department of State provides a well updated travel advisory. It has important information regarding the general safety of different countries and their regions. Costa Rica, for example, is categorized by the department of state as a level two destination. This means that travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling there. This caution is due to crime in the country. The types of crime are described in the safety and security portion of the travel advisory. Costa Rica’s tourism website is a good place to start for travelers with concerns for their safety. There travelers will find information about tourism and safety. To access the most secure information, online platforms like the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) are appropriate. The World Factbook on the CIA’s website describes the country’s history, U.S. Embassy contact info , local customs and travel safety tips. These pieces of information could offer travelers an opportunity to secure a safer environment while traveling.

Health Safety

Health safety is just one part of a travel destination’s overall safety level. But personal health is incredibly important for all travelers. This is especially true when tourists are traveling to a particular destination for the first time. It is important for travelers to stay informed about their potential travel destination and prepare accordingly. There are different online platforms that provide helpful information concerning the health status of locations abroad.

One of the top resources for travelers is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s traveler’s health page presents travel health notices, available medications, preventable illnesses and specialized travel tips for particular countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) is another reputable resource that will help travelers assess the health safety of their potential travel destination. On Costa Rica’s official country webpage, travelers can find a profile for the destination, location specific travel advice and health statistics. There is even contact information for the WHO offices in Costa Rica.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Tourists and Solo Travelers?

Yes, Costa Rica is a relatively safe destination for travelers. It is pretty well known by the tourism community as a safe country for solo and family travel. The country is considered secure. Technically Costa Rica is among the few countries in the world without an active army. The money that does not go to the military is for public healthcare and education. This serves as a testament to the safety level of Costa Rica. But that does not mean that crime does not occur in the Central American country.

Costa Rica does experience some crime, even though the majority of tourists feel safe there. Tourists are not disproportionately impacted by crimes in the country, but crimes do occur mostly in populated areas. Some of these may include areas frequented by tourists. The most common crimes in Costa Rica impacting tourists are petty. These include pickpocketing and theft. Generally, travelers that exercise basic travel precautions avoid being targeted by criminals.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

Exercising a baseline of travel safety precautions is a wise way for travelers to secure their safety. Some of the basic precautions include staying alert in crowded areas, never leaving valuables unattended, maintaining awareness and avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas. It is also important for travelers to know the contact information of local emergency services. This ensures that they are well informed of precautionary and preventive measures that may impact their overall safety abroad.

Travelers often rely on public transportation while abroad. In Costa Rica, the bus system is the most common way that both locals and visitors get around. So, it is important to know the best ways to stay safe on public transport while in unfamiliar surroundings. Travelers should at the very least be sure to stay alert while in public spaces, secure their personal belongings at their accommodation and avoid flaunting valuables or expensive things. Additional security measures while riding public transportation in Costa Rica include verifying driver’s certifications and confirming fares before entering vehicles.

Where to Stay

Costa Rica is quite vast and overall safe, so travelers have plenty of options for where to stay . But there are some options that stand out as the top selections for travelers. Tamarindo, Drake Bay and Atenas are some of the safest places for travelers to stay in. Tamarindo is located on the Pacific coast and is a popular destination in Costa Rica. Despite its popularity, Tamarindo does not have swarms of tourists in the area. The town is popular for water-sports, nightlife and culinary experiences. Drake Bay is a southwestern coastal area that offers travelers a family friendly environment. The slight privacy and peaceful ambiance of Drake Bay make it one of the safest areas of Costa Rica. Atenas is another option for travelers that stands out due to its tranquility. This small town is considered to be one of the safest areas for families or travelers that prefer to be out of all the hustle and bustle.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Costa Rica is dependent on the preferences of travelers but should be considerate of the weather conditions. The weather varies by region, but travelers can premeditate the weather conditions with forecasts before their trip. The dry season is the most popular season due to the pleasant weather. From around December to April travelers can enjoy the most ideal amount of sunshine. The characteristics of the dry season also mean that travelers should expect crowds and higher prices. If travelers do not mind rain or warmer temperatures, visiting in the rainy season or during summer may be best. The rainy season is between May and November and the highest temperatures occur during June and July.

People Also Ask

Is Costa Rica safe to live in? Yes, Costa Rica is actually one of the safest countries in Central America to live in.

Are tourists safe in Costa Rica? Tourists are perfectly safe while in Costa Rica as long as they exercise some basic travel safety precautions.

Flight search

• Adults Remove adult 1 Add adult
• Children Aged 2-11 Aged 2 to 11 Remove child 0 Add child
• Infants In seat Remove infant in seat 0 Add infant in seat
• Infants On lap Remove infant on lap 0 Add infant on lap
• Premium economy

Find cheap flights from United States to anywhere Close dialog These suggestions are based on the cheapest fares to popular destinations in the next six months. Prices include required taxes + fees for 1 adult. Optional charges and bag fees may apply.

Useful tools to help you find the best deals, popular destinations from united states.

Frequently asked questions