I spent three weeks in Costa Rica and I loved it. I took my time to explore each city I was in, that’s why I didn’t go to a lot of places. Here, I will tell you my honest review about where I went in hopes it will help you plan your trip.
Tamarindo
Tamarindo was the first city I visited when I landed in Costa Rica. It is more Americanized than the rest of the country, but I still loved it there. The main activity is the beach and let me tell you, the water is so good. It isn’t too cold so I spent my days swimming and floating around.
Check out 7 Of The Best Things To Do In Tamarindo, Costa Rica to learn more!
- If you like playing soccer/football, you will make a lot of friends at the beach.
- Great place to learn surfing. Don’t be shy to walk around the center and ask for the best prices.
- There are a lot of cute restaurants and markets to eat at, but be ready, the food is expensive.
- The sunsets are absolutely gorgeous.
- It is effortless to get to Tamarindo from Liberia airport. That’s what I did.
- If you want to relax at the beach and take some me-time, Tamarindo is definitely for you.
Monteverde
Monteverde was an absolute surprise. I wasn’t expecting much going there, but I enjoyed 100% my trip.
- The route to get there is magnificent. The views are incredible. However, it is a long journey to get to this town. You need to be ready for long hours of travel. It took me 9 hours to get from Tamarindo to Monteverde on public transport.
- The sunset is once again gorgeous. You need to go to Mirador El Milano. Go up the street on the left of the Hotel Tropico Monteverde until you see a gate. It costs 2 US to have access to the site. It is 1000% worth it.
- There are a couple of free activities you can do such as Ficus Tree Bridge & Cerro Plano Viewpoint. As of July 2023, the Hollow Ficus Tree is closed.
- If you have a smaller budget, I wouldn’t recommend spending more than 2 full days in Monteverde. The majority of activities there are very expensive. If, like me, you prefer free activities, you will get bored after 2 days.
La Fortuna
My favorite place in Costa Rica. There are so many activities to do. Check out What To Do In La Fortuna to learn more!
La fortuna is also where I adopted my dog, Matéo. For more information concerning Matéo’s adoption, check out: How To Adopt A Dog From Costa Rica To Canada.
- Do you want free activities? Here is a list: El Salto, Arenal Volcano Trail to go to the Cerro Chato, Hot Springs, Angelina Garden, Cataratas Escondidas (free waterfall).
- Here are some cool activities you need to pay for: Bogarian Trail, Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges, Kalambu Hot Springs.
- Do you need a scooter? Go to Scooter Rental La Fortuna Rentals. Valentina is simply the nicest person I have ever met.
- It is very simple to get to La Fortuna by public transport. From San Jose, you only take 1 bus.
San Jose
Honestly, I didn’t enjoy my time in the capital of Costa Rica. It isn’t worth your time, please don’t book a lot of days there.
To learn more check out The Ultimate Truth About San Jose
You will most likely land or leave at San Jose airport. That’s why booking one night is the only option I would recommend.
