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Introducing Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a nature lover's dream travel destination. Hike to hidden waterfalls, fly through the rainforest on a zip line, raft amazing white-water, or catch a wave on one of the many epic surf breaks.

When is the best time to visit?
Due to Costa Rica's location in Central America, near to the equator, it enjoys just two seasons annually as opposed to four. The dry season lasts from mid-November through April, and the rainy season lasts from May to mid-November. The latter is also referred to as the "green" season due to the brilliant vegetation that thrives during this period.  

Travelers often opt to visit during the dry season. Peak crowds hit in December, with folks continuing to come during January and February and (for many North Americans) during spring break. However, there are advantages to visiting Costa Rica in the "green" season, from less crowds to lower prices.  Read our travel guide for visiting Costa Rica in the "green" season to find out more.

Still not sure when to go, read our guide on the best times to visit Costa Rica.

Where to go in Costa Rica?
The people of Costa Rica are happy to welcome travelers and teach them about adventure and the pure life, or 'Pura Vida'. This country relies on the eco and adventure tourism that put it on the map, read about the main regions of the country to decide where you want to visit. Visit a baby sloth rescue, get to know Manuel Antonio National Park, see Arenal Volcano, and explore the Osa Peninsula Rainforest.

How many days do I need?
Costa Rica is a small country (size of West Virginia), with many sights situated fairly close together.  With great roads (mostly), throughout the country, makes it easy to get around. In one week, you can explore a number of sights and get a great sense of the country if you are ready to be on the go. With 2 weeks, you have a bit more time to relax in each destination or explore more of the country.  Still not sure how many days you need, read our guide to help you decide.

Getting around Costa Rica
Shuttles or private transfers are great options to get around in Costa Rica. Driving is not always straightforward, but still a great choice if you feel comfortable driving on curvy or unpaved roads.  For longer transfers, Costa Rica has a network of domestic airports that connect the main locations in the country. Read more

Looking for inspiration? See our top Costa Rica itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Costa Rica Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by Costa Rica trips other travelers loved
Storm clouds over Arenal volcano
Map of Best of Costa Rica in 7 Days: Explore Jungles, Volcanoes and Beaches
Best of Costa Rica in 7 Days: Explore Jungles, Volcanoes and Beaches

With a mix of rugged jungles, active volcanoes and world-class beaches, Costa Rica offers some of the best natural sights and experiences in the world, all conveniently packed into one country. Almost a quarter of the land is preserved within national parks, allowing a wide range of animals and plants to flourish, making Costa Rica an ideal destination for ecotourism. With this itinerary, you'll discover the best attractions Costa Rica has to offer in just a week.

Beautiful Rio Celeste in Tenorio National Park
Map of Best of Costa Rica - 14 Days
Best of Costa Rica - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary includes many of Costa Rica's greatest hits. You'll venture into the country's most beautiful national parks and enjoy zip-lining adventures, nature hikes, beach excursions, and more. All the while you'll spot exotic animals as you traverse some of the most virgin rainforest landscapes in Central America.

Monteverde Cloud Forest
Map of Classic Costa Rica: 7-Day Self-Drive Tour
Classic Costa Rica: 7-Day Self-Drive Tour

Taking a road trip through Costa Rica gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore where you want. You'll pass through stunning natural scenery — from lush cloud forests to picturesque beaches — in seven days of scenic driving. This tour can be extended or shortened depending on how much time you have.

Whitewater rafting down the Pacuare river
Map of Costa Rica Adventure: Whitewater, Beaches & Volcanos - 8 Days
Costa Rica Adventure: Whitewater, Beaches & Volcanos - 8 Days

Explore Costa Rica's amazing natural scenery through a thrilling series of activities including whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and more. This tour will take you to a wide range of coasts, jungles, and rivers, all while keeping your adrenaline pumping.

Arenal Volcano
Map of Family-Friendly Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park- 9 Days
Family-Friendly Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park- 9 Days

Fun for the whole family, this itinerary covers two of Costa Rica's most famous areas. Arenal and Manuel Antonio are some of the best representations of Costa Rica; Arenal area features one of the most famous volcanos in the country, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, while Manuel Antonio National Park is renown for its white sandy beaches and vast diversity of tropical plants and wildlife.

Arenal Volcano
Map of Arenal Expedition Self Drive Tour - 4 Days
Arenal Expedition Self Drive Tour - 4 Days

This itinerary is one of the shortest, yet most action-packed options for travelers looking for a compact Costa Rica experience. Zip-line, rappel, and horseback ride your way throughout the Arenal region and enjoy some of the best volcano views the country has to offer.

How Many Days To Spend in Costa Rica

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Read this first to maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Relax on your Costa Rica Vacation
How Many Days to Spend in Costa Rica

You can have a great adventure in Costa Rica in as short as a long weekend. With only a few days to spare you will have enough time to hike through a rainforest, see an active...

Costa Rica Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica

For access to all the country has to offer, visit during the dry season that runs from December through April—winter is the most popular time, with great weather and sizable...

Manzanillo
Essential Costa Rica: 4 Regions to Visit

Costa Rica is proof that big things can come in small packages. Although this Central American gem is barely the size of West Virginia, it’s the most biodiverse country on the...

Visit Costa Rica on your next kimkim trip
How kimkim Trips Work in Costa Rica

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Here's a quick introduction to kimkim, how our trips work, and what makes us unique. We'll go over how our itineraries are customized to your...

A road to Arenal Volcano
Driving in Costa Rica: Road Trip FAQ

Costa Rica has a way of igniting the adventurous spirit within. This is, after all, one of the world's most biodiverse countries loaded with rainforests, wildlife species,...

Costa Rica Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Explore Monteverde
Where to Eat in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Monteverde is known for its stunning cloud forest, but there's also plenty of incredible dining options to fill you up after those long sky walks and zip-line adventures . The...

A colorful toucan perches on a tree branch in a Costa Rican forest
7 Best Places for Birding in Costa Rica

More than a quarter of Costa Rica is protected jungle, home to a wide variety of native wildlife—including 850 colorful species of birds. Learn about the country's best areas to...

Costa Rica Travel Guides

Detailed travel guides for the main regions of the country
Manzanillo
Essential Costa Rica: 4 Regions to Visit

Costa Rica is proof that big things can come in small packages. Although this Central American gem is barely the size of West Virginia, it’s the most biodiverse country on the...

Costa Rica Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Enjoy the Views in Manuel Antonio
The Best Boutique Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio National Park has it all: rainforests, coral beaches, and wild rivers. Make the most of your time in this exceptionally scenic and diverse area with a mix of...

Best Things to do in Costa Rica

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Rio Celeste Waterfall
Map of Best Waterfall Hikes in Costa Rica
Best Waterfall Hikes in Costa Rica

With ample mountains and rainforests, Costa Rica’s fortunate topography is a breeding ground for rivers and streams that turn into rushing waterfalls. Climbing these picturesque...

Best Hot Springs in Costa Rica
Map of Best Hot Springs in Costa Rica
Best Hot Springs in Costa Rica

As a result of Costa Rica’s volcanoes and their geothermal activity, the country has a plethora of natural hot springs. These healing pools are a relaxing place to soak after a...

6 Family-Friendly Activities in San José
6 Family-Friendly Activities in San José

Costa Rica abounds with wildlife and outdoor activities, setting the scene for an ideal family vacation. But you don't need to head straight to the beach—travelers flying into...

Costa Rica's beautiful scenery
Top Nature Experiences in Costa Rica

With 28 national parks, nearly 800 miles of coastline, over 300 beaches, and more than half of its land covered in forests, Costa Rica's nature excursions are its biggest draw....

Our Latest Costa Rica Content

Red-eyed tree frogs are one of the nocturnal creatures you may meet in Monteverde
How to Choose the Best Night Walk in Monteverde

The lush landscapes and brightly-colored birds Monteverde is known for are undoubtedly worth seeing during the day. However, with 80 percent of the area's wildlife active after dark, a night walk affords the opportunity to experience all that the region truly has to offer.

Keep an eye out for the resplendent quetzal in Monteverde's cloud forests
How to Choose the Best Cloud Forest Experience in Monteverde

The colorful wildlife (yes, the resplendent quetzal resides here), lush vegetation, and abundance of hiking trails found in the misty cloud forests of Monteverde make it an appealing destination for travelers looking to immerse in nature. But with so many activities, parks, and private reserves to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. Our expert tips can help you choose a memorable cloud forest experience in Monteverde.

Hike to a waterfall during a short stay in Costa Rica
Map of 4 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
4 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With four days to spend in Costa Rica, it's wise to focus on one region. A popular choice is a highlights tour of the Arenal area, featuring volcano hikes and a dip in hot springs. Head to Manuel Antonio National Park for an active itinerary that includes surfing and kayaking, or travel to Monteverde for zip line adventures and horseback riding in the cloud forest. Alternatively, opt for a wildlife-themed luxury tour around the Osa Peninsula, or mix wildlife spotting with cultural experiences in Tortuguero National Park.

Costa Rica Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Costa Rica map: 10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Costa Rica map: 2 Weeks in Costa Rica: 5 Unique Itineraries
2 Weeks in Costa Rica: 5 Unique Itineraries
View article
Costa Rica map: 5-Days in Costa Rica : 5 Unique Trip Itineraries
5-Days in Costa Rica : 5 Unique Trip Itineraries
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Costa Rica
Travel specialist Randall Jiménez
active 6 hours ago

Randall Jiménez

Phrases like “The trip was wonderful beyond my dreams”, “I came back home being a different person…I have grown physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually”, “A job well done my friend”,...

read more...
Travel specialist Olman Romero
active 6 hours ago

Olman Romero

I was born in Turrialba, it is a region famous for hosting the Guayabo Archeological Monument, which is the oldest and most important pre-hispanic archeological site in the country. Turrialba is...

read more...
Travel specialist Bryan Leon
active 6 hours ago

Bryan Leon

Growing up in a coffee plantation area near San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me a deep love and appreciation for nature. As a certified...

read more...
Travel specialist Yuliana Valverde
active 6 hours ago

Yuliana Valverde

I am originally from Tarrazú, located in the mountains of the Cordillera de Talamanca. Over these mountainous regions, visitors can find the best coffee in Costa Rica comes from. Additionally,...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Costa Rica also visit these destinations

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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
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Trip Reviews for Costa Rica

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Costa Rica - Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Corcovado
Costa Rica | Feb 18 - Feb 26, 2023

Tara
Tara Z.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Mar 01, 2023

We had a fabulous time in Costa Rica, and really appreciated the planning help we received from Nuria. We particularly loved Sunset Lodge in Drake Bay, and the guided trip in Corcovado National Park. In Manuel Antonio, our lodging at Hotel San Bada was a wonderful location just steps from the park entrance and a short walk to the beach. Our night hikes were amazing, and we were happy with the choice to not use a guide inside Manuel Antonio NP. There were so many guides around that we didn't... read more

We had a fabulous time in Costa Rica, and really appreciated the planning help we received from Nuria. We particularly loved Sunset Lodge in Drake Bay, and the guided trip in Corcovado National Park. In Manuel Antonio, our lodging at Hotel San Bada was a wonderful location just steps from the park entrance and a short walk to the beach. Our night hikes were amazing, and we were happy with the choice to not use a guide inside Manuel Antonio NP. There were so many guides around that we didn't feel like we missed anything.
Kimkim and our specialist Nuria were really helpful to us. I think the Corcovado region in particular would have been difficult to plan and navigate without inside knowledge.
I will say, however, that we learned a bit about ourselves while planning. In general, we like to make decisions based on value. The Kimkim system didn't allow us to do that since prices of individual activities and expenses aren't shared, and we found that to be a bit difficult. Whether or not we want to do something is often balanced with the cost tradeoff in a typical situation. With Kimkim, we didn't know the relative prices of trip components, so when it came time to trim or change, it was difficult. Ultimately, that has to do with our own travel and decision-making style, not a flaw with Kimkim.
The trip was amazing and everything came together without a hitch. All car pick ups and drop offs; boat transfers; activities; shuttles; etc. went smoothly. Thank you!

Hotel Reviews
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
San José

This hotel was perfectly fine for what we needed. Nothing too fancy, but comfortable. A great place to stay before a flight.

Authenticity & Character
Kind of a chain/corporate feel, but fine.
Location
Near airport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa
Manuel Antonio

Excellent location right near entrance to Manuel Antonio NP. Comfortable room facing the ocean was great for early morning bird watching and howler monkey listening. Included breakfast was an excellent buffet.

Authenticity & Character
Location
right near national park; no need to drive
Staff
friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sunset Lodge
Drake

This place is absolutely beautiful and the hosts were wonderfully kind and friendly.

Authenticity & Character
Location
beautiful views
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Corcovado National Park Hike - Estación Sirena
Costa Rica

This was really a high adventure. We left Drake Bay very early in the morning (before 6am) via boat transfer to arrive as early as possible at the national park. Our guide was excellent and we saw some amazing animals including tapirs, spider monkeys, howler monkeys and more.

Quality of Experience
Food
We preordered restaurant lunch with our tour group in the morning and then when we returned to Drake Bay we all went to lunch together. It wasn't my favorite meal, but it was fine.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Coffee Experience and Nighttime Nature Walk
Monteverde

This was excellent. The coffee and chocolate portions of the tour exceeded expectations and were really fun and engaging. The night walk was great! We saw lots of wildlife including kinkajous and vipers. We also enjoyed the gift shop.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hanging Bridges
Monteverde

We did the self-guided trip to hanging bridges and really enjoyed it. It was nice to just listen to the birds and enjoy the quiet as we walked through the canopy. We didn't see lots of wildlife, but really enjoyed the experience.

Quality of Experience
Manuel Antonio Jungle Night Walk
Manuel Antonio

This was really fun! We had a private guide and he was really informative and great at spotting frogs, insects, snakes, etc. He was less interested in mammals, but we did see 2-toed and 3-toed sloths. He was really great with his spotting scope also and took photos with our phones through the lens for us, which was pretty cool.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving at Isla del Caño Biological Reserve
Drake Bay

This was so fun! We joined a small group on a catamaran for a morning of snorkeling and playing off the boat, with lunch included. The snorkeling was guided and we were tightly monitored and kept in a group. I hadn't experienced that before on a snorkeling trip, but it worked out. We saw a huge stingray, several turtles, and lots of fish. The visibility was ok, not amazing, but we all had a great day. We also saw turtles and dolphins from the boat.

Quality of Experience
Food
Lunch was served on the boat and was tasty
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Nuria Oliveira

Costa Rica We'll Never Forget!
Costa Rica | Feb 3 - Feb 16, 2023

Alison
Alison C.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 01, 2023

Took a chance on KimKim and it was a wonderful experience. From the very beginning, Sergio, from Serendipity Tours, took what we could and couldn't do into consideration. A little worried about being 65, long hikes and heights. Ends up we could do everything and it was an unforgettable trip. They took care of everything and took care of us. We did have to contact them a couple of times to confirm times and them got back to us quickly. They even changed the time of the car drop... read more

Took a chance on KimKim and it was a wonderful experience. From the very beginning, Sergio, from Serendipity Tours, took what we could and couldn't do into consideration. A little worried about being 65, long hikes and heights. Ends up we could do everything and it was an unforgettable trip. They took care of everything and took care of us. We did have to contact them a couple of times to confirm times and them got back to us quickly. They even changed the time of the car drop off in San Jose when our flight time changed.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Costa Verde
Manuel Antonio

From the moment the door to our room opened, and I gasped, I knew we were just maybe in the best room at the hotel. The large room looked out on the ocean and sunsets every night. Gorgeous.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Balmoral
San José

This is a tough one. Our room didn't have a window, or it had one which looked like you were in a basement apartment with the glass frosted over. And no hot water. Yes, we let it run. But the location was great and we were only there one night. Therefor the three star rating, versus one star.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
Fortuna

A gorgeous hotel to stay at during our first nights in Costa Rica. We enjoyed the hot springs, location, and the pools. The breakfast was amazing, as were the staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Sunset Cruise with Wine & Cheese on Lake Arenal
Arenal/La Fortuna

Lots of fun, and there were very few of us on the boat. I think that allowed for learning how to make some signature Costa Rican drinks and learn the merengue. We were lucky to have a full moon over the Arenal volcano.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catamaran Adventure from Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio

I should have done my homework on this one. I imagined a smaller group and this was a party boat. 120 on board a ship that could take 200. My partner did get to snorkel, though I stayed on board. One of the best pictures of the trip was taken aboard this boat though at sunset.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Asis Wildlife Rescue Center, Feeding Tour
Arenal/La Fortuna

An informative tour and getting to prepare their food was fun.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nature Safari Float and Tortilla Making
Arenal/La Fortuna

Very nice being the only two people on board the float. A great informative guide. The tortilla making was fun, as were the hair nets and aprons.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit to Maleku Indigenous Reserve
Arenal/La Fortuna

Only two in our group again. It was informative and we were able to pick up some lovely artwork for home. A walk through the jungle (wear bug repellent) to discuss the medicinal plants. Entertainment, which we got to take part in. We also shot arrows and had lunch. They very sweetly had prepared to pieces with our names on them which they gave to us. A lovely visit.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sky Adventures Tram, Hanging Bridges and Arboreal Tree Climbing
Monteverde

I was terrified. Especially as the wind was howling the night before. It was one an experience I'll never forget. The hanging bridges were incredible, including the monkeys (and the monkey poo I ran my hand through, yuk). The sky tram was a piece of cake after the bridges. The viewed amazing. We peeked in on tarantulas, and saw sloths as well. My partner climbed the 30 meter tree and rang the bell. Very proud of him!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sloth Observation - Day or Night Walk
Arenal/La Fortuna

Just the two of us and a guide for this walk. We spotted sloth and frogs, and other wildlife.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Self drive from {{start_location}} to {{end_location}}
Costa Rica

Stopped at the Rio Grande bridge to look over at the crocodiles. Huge, prehistoric.

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

Get a guide. We saw more with a guide than the solo visitors who would listen in. Having someone to locate, zoom in with their telescope, and take pictures for you was amazing. Very informative and easy hike.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Damas Island Boat Tour
Manuel Antonio

Loved our guide. Very nimble and entertaining, he climbed over the mandrake roots to point out the wildlife. It was very enjoyable. I think Tolkien must have seen the mandrake groves when he created the Ents.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Sergio Bolaños
Sergio
Sergio Bolaños
Local specialist in Limon, Costa Rica | Reviewed on Mar 02, 2023

Hola Alison! I'm glad to hear that you had a wonderful experience with us! As someone who takes pride in providing personalized experiences for travelers, it's always great to hear when we're able to meet the unique needs and concerns of our clients. I'm thrilled that you were able to enjoy everything on the itinerary, despite any initial worries, and that you found the trip to be unforgettable. So I'm pleased to hear that we were able to take care of everything and ensure that you had a... read more

Hola Alison! I'm glad to hear that you had a wonderful experience with us! As someone who takes pride in providing personalized experiences for travelers, it's always great to hear when we're able to meet the unique needs and concerns of our clients. I'm thrilled that you were able to enjoy everything on the itinerary, despite any initial worries, and that you found the trip to be unforgettable. So I'm pleased to hear that we were able to take care of everything and ensure that you had a stress-free trip. Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience, and we hope to have the opportunity to work with you again in the future! Pura Vida!

Wonderful last-minute 9 day get-away to Costa Rica!
Costa Rica | Feb 15 - Feb 23, 2023

Steven
Steven B.
Fort Lauderdale, FL | Reviewed on Feb 27, 2023

My wife and I had (both early 60's and fairly fit) had a truly wonderful and memorable trip to Costa Rica. I usually plan my own trips, but since this was kind of last minute, I left all the planning to Kim Kim and kept my fingers crossed. They put me in touch with their local specialist, Nuria, who did a great job tailoring the trip to what was important to us. Our tours and transportation were totally private (a wonderful splurge). All guides and drivers were super friendly, prompt, and... read more

My wife and I had (both early 60's and fairly fit) had a truly wonderful and memorable trip to Costa Rica. I usually plan my own trips, but since this was kind of last minute, I left all the planning to Kim Kim and kept my fingers crossed. They put me in touch with their local specialist, Nuria, who did a great job tailoring the trip to what was important to us. Our tours and transportation were totally private (a wonderful splurge). All guides and drivers were super friendly, prompt, and knowledgeable; but a special shout out to Jacamar Naturalist Tours. These guys were 5 star! With 9 days of tours, and transportation to 3 towns and airports it was incredible that their was only one very minor glitch the entire trip (no biggie). We hiked to volcanos and waterfalls, saw wildlife that we wouldn't have noticed without the guides' knowledge and telescopic equipment, zip-lined, bungee jumped, rode horses, relaxed in Tabacon's hot springs, did a cooking class, a coffee/chocolate tour, and a city tour of San Jose. Nuria even went above and beyond by reserving a few restaurants for us. Accommodations: Finca Paraiso Mtn Retreat in the hills outside San Jose is an absolute 5 star gem. Their property and views are sublime. Tabacon Spa and Resort is also 5 star all the way. Our 3rd hotel, Hotel Senda in Monteverde is a bit more complicated. The service level is 5 star, but the rooms and the property landscaping is just 3 star. Having said that, we did really enjoy our time at Hotel Senda. Staff is very friendly and helpful, free laundry!, free snacks and beverages from the mini bar, hot water bottles left during turndown to warm your bed, etc. . Some nice touches. All in all, we loved our time in Costa Rica and would certainly recommend KimKim and Nuria. Pura Vida!

Hotel Reviews
Finca Paraiso Mountain Retreat
Heredia

This hotel is an absolute gem! Gorgeous grounds, great owners/hosts, wonderful breakfasts. Loved the included wine happy hour watching the sunset with the owner/Ken along with the small group of other hotel guests from around the world. Can't say enough. Just go here.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Fortuna

5 star hotel all the way. Wonderful breakfast buffet and of course those amazing thermal springs!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Senda Monteverde Boutique Hotel
Monteverde

I am conflicted about this hotel. We DID enjoy our stay here but...for the high cost they command.. I'll nitpick a bit. First the good. The service was 5 star. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Nice touches include: FREE laundry returned folded in 12 hours, some free minibar snacks and beverages, and old style hot water bottles left near your pillow during the turn down service (must request turn downs). We also liked the ability to access the Aguiti Reserve for a hike, right from the property. The less good: Its an older property. The common buildings are decent but the rooms are in very old separate bungalows. Supposedly, they were renovated a few years ago, but not well. Grounds/Landscaping- This was our last stop in Costa Rica. The first two hotels had amazing manicured landscaping and flower beds. This hotel does the minimum, ie; cut the grass. So, mostly good, but visually this hotel needs some work.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Up a very steep hill from town. Easy walk to town, but a very athletic walk back. Think San Francisco X 2.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Nuria Oliveira
Nuria
Nuria Oliveira
Local specialist in Costa Rica | Reviewed on Mar 01, 2023

Hello Steven,

Thank you so much for traveling us and for taking the time to leave us this amazing review. I'll definitely pass your feedback to my colleagues. I was more than glad to assist during this time, and I am so happy that you had a great time here.

I hope you will visit Costa Rica in the future and can explore the different destinations in our beautiful country.

Pura Vida!