Matthew Houde's Blog, page 19

Rainy Season in Costa Rica: How Wet Is It?

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

You probably know that Costa Rica has two distinct seasons, dry season and rainy season. But what is rainy season really like? After living in Costa Rica for almost a decade, we can say that rainy season is our favorite time of year. Everything is lush and green, it’s cooler, and less busy. If you’re visiting during these wetter months, you can still have an amazing time with some careful planning. In this post, we’ll let you know what to expect for weather during the rainy season in Costa Rica.

Background

Costa Rica may be a small country, but it has over 30 microclimates. This means that the weather varies a lot. You can be in one town in a heavy rainstorm, then drive 20 minutes and be under clear blue skies.

Costa Rica is in the tropics, so temperatures remain pleasant year-round. The climate and topography varies a lot, though, which can make for very different weather in different regions.

The country is divided by towering mountains, which separate the Pacific and Caribbean slopes. In this mixed topography, you can find cool cloud forest, steamy rainforest, arid tropical dry forest, humid mangrove, and many more ecosystems.

Below, we will give general information on the typical rainy season weather patterns. Keep in mind that it can be hard to make generalizations, as some areas differ from the general trends.

Note: We are talking here primarily about the Pacific coast and Pacific slope (inland areas with weather dominated by the Pacific Ocean). The weather on the Caribbean coast and Caribbean slope is a lot different. We’ll cover that in a separate section below.

Early Rainy Season – May, June, July

Dry season typically runs from December to the end of April. During these months, much of the country receives little to no rain.

In mid-April, the first rains usually begin along the Pacific coast. It may rain only a handful of times between mid-April and May, but the forest will start to green up again. Many regions of the country will be dry and barren since they haven’t received much, if any, rainfall since December. It can be especially dry in northern Guanacaste.

In early May through June, the weather is still really nice along the Pacific coast. Usually mornings are warm and sunny, with showers in the afternoon or evening as the heat builds. These are typically downpour-type tropical rains or thunderstorms that last an hour or two. However, there can be some days where the sky is overcast or rain is more intermittent.

In July, Costa Rica typically experiences what’s called a veranito or mini-summer. This is usually during the first two weeks of the month. The country tends to see less rain during this time. Keep in mind, though, that this is when Costa Rican schools are out for mid-year break and locals take time off. So beach towns can be busier.

Pavones, on the southern Pacific coast, in early JulyMid-Rainy Season – August to Mid-September

Early to mid-August usually has fairly good weather along the Pacific coast. Rain may be increasing some, but usually there are parts of the day that are sunny and dry.

Mid-August through mid-September can be more rainy; it depends on the year.

We often travel to Tamarindo and other towns in northern Guanacaste in mid-September, and usually have excellent weather.

Playa Danta/Las Catalinas in northern Guanacaste in mid-September

One year when we visited Tamarindo in late August, it was quite rainy. We had a couple of days of sun, and one day out of the four days we were there was sort of a washout.

In the central Pacific, in places like Jaco and Manuel Antonio, the weather is usually fairly good during this time too.

Peak Rainy Season – October to Mid-November

Typically, the rainiest month on the Pacific coast is October. That doesn’t mean it rains all day, every day. There are still nice days with not too much rain, but they are less common.

Thick clouds and intermittent rain in the mountains during peak rainy season

Ondas or tropical waves are common during this time and into November. These are weather systems that bring large amounts of rain and sometimes thunderstorms. They can last anywhere from one to several days.

Hurricanes, although rare, are most common during October into mid-November. Some of the most devasting hurricanes to hit Costa Rica recently have been Eta (October 31-November 14, 2020), Nate (October 4-11, 2019), and Otto (November 17-26, 2016).

We don’t usually recommend October for visiting the Pacific coast since it can be hard to fit in activities with the frequent rains.

Early-to-mid November still can be rainy. It really varies by year. In recent years, we have been having quite a bit of rain in mid-November, at least where we have lived in the central and southern Pacific coast.

Transition Time – Late November to Early December

By late November, the rain tends to taper off along much of the Pacific coast. As we said above, though, we did have a big hurricane in late November recently.

In early December, every year, it is like a switch is flipped and the weather turns from humid and unstable to drier with sunny skies. The exact timing of when this happens varies by region, but generally it is in the first or second week of December. There may be some rain during this time, but it’s usually just a short burst.

Regional WeatherPacific Coast

The weather varies a lot as you go up and down the Pacific coast.

Looking at a map, the northernmost region, Guanacaste Province, is the driest area. It receives little to no rain during the dry months and often gets its first significant rains of rainy season later in May. The climate is very hot and dry in general. You’ll notice that the forest here is different than in wetter areas. The tropical dry forest is adapted to long stretches without water.

Popular destinations in the Guanacaste region are Tamarindo, Flamingo, Potrero, Playa Hermosa, Playas del Coco, the Papagayo, Nosara, and Samara.

Playa Flamingo looking lush and green in September

As you go down the Pacific coast, the climate becomes more wet. The Nicoya Peninsula (Montezuma, Santa Teresa) and central Pacific coast (Jaco, Manuel Antonio) receive a little more rain. The forest here is actually a mix of tropical dry forest and tropical rainforest. This makes sense since it is a transition area in terms of climate.

South of Manuel Antonio is the southern Pacific coast. This region gets the most rain and has the longest rainy season. It is still a nice place to visit, though, during non-peak rainy season. We lived in this area for several years and loved the climate. Major towns in this region are Dominical and Uvita as well as Puerto Jimenez and Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula.

In the mountains near Dominical on the Southern Pacific coast in SeptemberInland Areas

Generalizing about the weather in inland areas is tough because it varies a lot. The mountainous terrain creates many microclimates, which can cause big differences in rainfall from town to town. We’ll talk about three major inland destinations below.

San Jose in Costa Rica’s Central Valley follows a similar wet and dry pattern as the Pacific coast; however, the rains can be more intense. For example, if early rainy season brings some short downpours to the beach areas, San Jose may get more substantial rains that last several hours.

Monteverde is very high altitude and gets a lot of rain year-round. Dry season or early to mid-rainy season is usually a good time to visit.

La Fortuna/Arenal Volcano has its own unique weather patterns and rain is more frequent. The typical dry season months like December through March can be rainy there. While September and October can be a great time to see the volcano.

Arenal Volcano looking gorgeous in early SeptemberCaribbean Coast

The Caribbean coast (Tortuguero, Cahuita, and Puerto Viejo) has completely different weather from the Pacific slope. There aren’t really any bad times to visit. The Caribbean receives similar amounts of rain by month year-round. Since the rain is spread out, it usually doesn’t feel like it’s rainy all the time at any given point. Unless, of course, there is a tropical storm.

July does tend to receive the most rainfall by number of days and precipitation amount, if you are looking at that month.

September and October receive the least rain by far. This makes it a great time to visit the Caribbean coast. These months are peak rainy season on the Pacific coast, so the timing is perfect.

Punta Uva in Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean Coast in late SeptemberWeather Charts

For more information on Costa Rica’s weather, see our post, Weather in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know.

We give some graphs that show, for each province, precipitation by month and number of days with rainfall. This can help with your planning if you’re trying to decide which month to travel to a certain region.

Conclusion

We hope this post gives you a better idea of what to expect for weather during rainy season in Costa Rica. Rainy season can be a wonderful time to travel. With less visitors, lush forest, and still plenty of sun and blue skies, it offers a lot more than many people realize.

Have a question about visiting during the rainy season in Costa Rica? Ask us below.Looking for more information to plan your trip to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

Why You Should Visit Costa Rica in Rainy Season: Learn about attractions and activities that are better with more rain. Also covers some disadvantages of visiting during rainy season.

Packing for Costa Rica: The Essentials – Know what gear and clothing to bring for those wetter months.

Driving in Costa Rica – If you’re thinking of renting a car, check out our article for info on road conditions and what to expect.

The post Rainy Season in Costa Rica: How Wet Is It? appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Orosi: A Valley of Green

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

As you turn the corner into the Orosi Valley, you will immediately see its appeal. From the hilltop, steep green mountains surround a village of small rooftops. A swift river winds through town. Descending into the center of Orosi, you’ll see its quaint central square. It sits beside a historic church with shops, restaurants, and modest homes nearby. Here, you’ll find authentic Costa Rica, where tourism comes mostly from San Jose’s weekend locals. But for any visitor, there is a lot to see. In this post, we will share everything you need to plan your stay in Orosi. 

Orientation

Orosi is located about 40 km (25 miles) southeast of Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose. Though close in distance, plan on at least 1.5 hours of driving, with traffic. From San Jose Airport (SJO), plan on around two hours. The closest large city is Cartago, just 17 km (10 miles) away. 

Because this area was one of the first to be settled after the Spanish arrived, it has a lot of history. Orosi is even home to Costa Rica’s oldest operational church, dating back to the 1700s (see below).  

The church courtyard with main street in the backgroundActivities

While Orosi is a small town, it has a lot to explore. We would recommend staying at least a few nights so you are not rushed.  

Orosi’s Historic Church

Costa Rica has a strong Catholic heritage, and you can visit many historic churches around the country. The oldest church still in use today can be found right in Orosi’s town square. 

Iglesia Colonial de Orosi (Colonial Church of Orosi) was constructed back in 1767 and is a National Heritage site. It has walls made from adobe, terracotta roof tiles, and a small bell tower.

The small, but beautiful, Catholic church still holds mass. It is open to the public. 

Next door is the old monastery. This building has been converted into a museum. In the few rooms, you can see artifacts from the church like old confession booths and alters. There are also several display cases with religious statues, candelabras, and ornate silver and bronze crowns. 

Admission to the museum is 500 colones (less than a dollar). 

The simple, but beautifully adorned, nave of Iglesia Colonial de OrosiCoffee Tours

Coffee has been an important crop in Costa Rica since it was introduced back in the 1700s. To experience some of Costa Rica’s culture and history, we highly recommend a local coffee tour. 

Several smaller coffee farms dot the steep slopes around the valley. On a tour, you’ll get to see how the beans are grown, harvested, and processed. Of course, you’ll also get to enjoy a freshly brewed cup! 

One tour that we really enjoyed was just minutes from town. For more information, read our post, Orosi Valley Coffee Tour: Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces. We share our experience and tell you how to visit for yourself.

Natural Hot Springs

With temperatures in the 70s°F during the day and 60s°F at night (15° to mid-20s°C), taking a dip in the local hot springs offers the perfect contrast. While many of Costa Rica’s hot springs are heated by volcanic activity, in Orosi, it is underground tectonic plates that warm the water.

There are two places in Orosi with hot springs. One is Balneario de Aguas Minerales de Orosi, right in town. This is more of a recreational-type facility, with picnic areas, sport courts, and pools (some with slides). Many locals pack in during weekends and holidays. 

For a spa or hot spring resort feel, there is Hacienda Orosi. This upscale property just outside town has seven elegant hot spring pools, along with a restaurant and spa. There is also a farm with barns filled with friendly animals. This makes it a good attraction for families. Coffee fields also have been planted for future activities.

For more information, read our post, Hacienda Orosi Hot Springs and Farm.

Nicely landscaped thermal hot springs at Hacienda OrosiTapanti National Park 

For those looking to explore pristine rainforest without the crowds, Tapanti National Park is a great choice. This park has a wet environment that makes it very lush and wild. Over 20 feet (6.1 meters) of rain falls annually. This feeds the park’s many rivers, streams, and waterfalls. 

The park has three hiking trails plus a lookout where you can see a distant waterfall. Two trails lead through the rainforest to the banks of the Rio Grande de Orosi. One is easy and has covered picnic tables along the river to relax the day away. Conditions can sometimes be wet and muddy but enjoyable if you are prepared. 

Read our post, Tapanti National Park: Wild Rivers and Wet Forest, for more information. 

Rushing rivers and lush greenery in Tapanti National ParkIrazu Volcano

Also reachable from Orosi is Costa Rica’s tallest volcano. Irazu Volcano is about an hour’s drive through scenic farm country. Once you arrive at the top of the volcano, there is flat path from the parking area that leads to the edge of Irazu’s main crater.  

Conditions at the top can be cold and windy so be sure to dress in layers. Tour vans and buses from San Jose begin arriving late morning, so head there early to beat the crowds. 

Read our post, Irazu Volcano: Easy Access, Crater Views, and Extreme Climate, for more information on visiting. 

 Restaurants

Orosi may be small but it has plenty of local eats. On weekends, when many locals arrive from San Jose, vendors set up along the road into town selling homemade tortillas, baked goods, grilled corn on the cob, and other traditional favorites. 

In and around town are several small sodas (typical Costa Rican-food restaurants), cafes, and some more upscale dining options as well. Here are a few spots we have enjoyed. 

Pizzeria a la Lena Il Giardino 

The Italian cuisine at Pizzeria a la Lena Il Giardino is authentic and delicious. We’ve tried the focaccia prosciutto and pizza margarita, which were both very good. Our kids devoured the spaghetti carbonara as well, which was big enough for a family on its own. 

The atmosphere is cozy and warm feeling with a wood-fired pizza oven in the background. They have a wine list and nice craft beer selection. Located one block north of the Orosi Lodge in downtown. 

Ambiance at Pizzeria a la Lena Il Giardino in downtown OrosiRestaurante Tradiciones Don Jose

For a more upscale meal, there’s Restaurante Tradiciones Don Jose (also called Orosi al Natural Restaurante). This is a refined traditional food restaurant on the eastern side of the Orosi Grande River. From the spacious outdoor dining area, you can take in the view, while enjoying some grilled delicacies. They specialize in steak prepared on the parrilla (grill), but also have chicken and fish dishes.

Just below the seating area is a small playground and sandbox for the kids. During our visit, they were also finishing construction of a patio bar in the garden, where they will offer more casual food.

The filet mignon at Restaurante Tradiciones Don JoseThe Garage 

On the southern end of town, tucked next to the main road, is the Garage. This hip bakery and coffee shop, about the size of a one-car garage, is the perfect place to get an afternoon pick-me-up. We enjoyed several of the small baked goods, but they also have ice cream and coffee.

Inside the trendy Garage cafeMonster’s Shake

For a treat, head to Monster’s Shake. On a side street, a short walk from the soccer field and church, this heladeria (ice-cream shop) has fun flavors, crazy combinations, and succulent desserts. The walls are wildly painted to add to its charm.

Hotels and Accommodations

Orosi has a handful of traditional hotels in and around the downtown. Vacation rental homes in the surrounding hills are also available. 

Orosi Lodge

The Orosi Lodge is a favorite among travelers. This colonial-style lodge is located right in the downtown but at the end of a quieter street. It has simple, comfortable rooms and also a few larger houses with more amenities. Some have balconies overlooking town and volcanoes in the distance. Around $58-99/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

The Orosi Lodge on the outskirts of the downtownVillas Orosi Valley

A popular spot for locals visiting the area is Villas Orosi Valley. They have simple townhouse-style units right in the center of Orosi. They’re only a block from the church so you’re close to everything. $40-70/night. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Chalet Orosi

Another great option for those seeking more seclusion is Chalet Orosi. This small bed and breakfast has only three cabins. The bungalows are very homey feeling and set in lush gardens. Each has its own wooden terrace with an outdoor hot tub for relaxing. $88-135. Check Rates and Availability Here.

Outdoor terrace with hot tub at Chalet OrosiConclusion

For those wanting to step off the tourist trail, Orosi and the surrounding Orosi Valley makes the perfect stop. The locals have that warmness and welcoming manner that we fell in love with when first visiting Costa Rica. The climate is near perfect, with cool evenings and warm days. History, culture, and nature check all the boxes. And a dip in some hot springs doesn’t hurt either.   

Have a question about visiting the Orosi Valley? Ask us below.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you book a hotel using one of the links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our Privacy Policy for more information.

Looking for more information to plan your trip to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

Miravalles Volcano: Hot Springs, Nature, and Zero Crowds – Another lesser-known destination in Costa Rica is Miravalles Volcano in Guanacaste. This area also has nice thermal pools and a peaceful, country setting.

San Isidro de El General: A wonderful locals’ town is San Isidro de El General in the mountains of the Southern Zone. Read our guide for what to expect when visiting.

Packing for Costa Rica: The Essentials – Orosi has a fresh climate where you’ll need both light clothes and some warmer things for layering too. Get tips on what to pack with this post.

Rental Car Discount: Since Orosi is more spread out, it’s best visited with a rental car. Check out our discount to save 10% through a reputable local company and get free extras like a second driver and car seats for kids.

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Irazu Volcano: Easy Access, Crater Views, and Extreme Climate

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Costa Rica is known for its many volcanoes, which come in all shapes and sizes. Some, like the famed Arenal Volcano, are cone-shaped and best explored by hiking around the base. Others, like Irazu Volcano near San Jose, are vast craters that you view from above. In this post, we’ll let you know what it’s like to visit Irazu Volcano. We will cover access, getting tickets to the national park, and some tips on when to go and what to bring.

Location

Irazu Volcano is located just east of the capital of San Jose. The nearest city is Cartago.

Though it doesn’t look far on a map, Irazu Volcano is still about a 1.5 hour drive from San Jose with traffic. Irazu is closer to the Orosi Valley, at about one hour.

After going through the bustling city of Cartago, you’ll wind up a curvy mountain road to get to the volcano. This passes through some gorgeous countryside, with lots of farmland. The nicely paved road leads up the steep mountain, bringing you to a very high altitude.

Along the way, you’re likely to encounter some fog and light rain as you reach cloud level. Depending on the day, you might even drive above cloud level.  

See the section below for driving directions.

Views along the drive to Irazu VolcanoBackground

The volcano and much of the surrounding land is protected as Irazu Volcano National Park. This park was created back in 1955. Later, Costa Rica expanded the park to its current size of 2,000 hectares (4,942 acres).

Irazu is an active volcano, meaning it still has seismic activity. Its first eruptions were reported in 1723. It then had major eruptions or significant activity from 1917 to 1994. This included large explosions of ash or steam, mud/debris flows, and rumbling.

One particularly interesting eruption was in 1963. United States President John F. Kennedy was making an important visit to Costa Rica. Irazu greeted him with a huge plume of ash that covered most of the San Jose area.

Since 1994, Irazu has had some minor fumarolic activity, meaning it just produces gases or ash. Scientists in Costa Rica currently give it a level 1 out of 5 for activity. This means it is safe to visit.

Accessing Irazu Volcano

Irazu Volcano is Costa Rica’s tallest volcano at 3,432 meters (11,260 feet). Luckily, you don’t have to hike to access it. You can drive to the top and enter through the national park and visitor’s center.

After presenting your tickets (see below) and passing through the gate, you’ll drive a few minutes more to get to the main parking area. This is for the main trail at the Crater Sector of the national park.

Note: There is another sector of Irazu Volcano National Park called Prusia. This has rustic trails through the forest and some viewpoints. This sector is completely separate from the Crater Sector. It has a different entrance, and you need to purchase separate tickets to visit. In this post, we’re only talking about the Crater Sector where you can see the volcanic craters.

From the parking lot, the walk to the main crater is just a quick three or so minutes along a nicely paved path.

The paved path to the crater viewing area

The path is short, but well vegetated. You’ll get to see some interesting plants and shrubs that only grow at this extreme altitude. If you’re interested in birding, you could spend a little extra time along this part of the trail. We were able to see a Volcano Junco, Sooty Robin, and Rufous-collared Sparrow on our short visit.

A Volcano Junco blending into the thick foliageIrazu’s Volcanic Craters

Once you reach the end of the paved walkway, you’ll be at the most impressive site of Irazu, its main crater. This sprawling crater is an astounding 1,050 meters (3,444 feet) in diameter and 300 meters (984 feet) deep.

From the viewing area, you can really get a sense of its grandeur. Looking down into the wide, gray cavity, you can’t even take in the full scope of the crater in one moment. Take a look at our video below to see what we mean.

The inside of the crater has varying shades of gray, black, and white from old lava flows and volcanic activity.

Looking into the main crater

During certain times of year when it is rainy, there is a beautiful blue-green lake at the bottom.

To the right of the main crater is a smaller inactive crater called Crater Diego de la Haya. You can easily see it from the paved path.

Crater Diego de la Haya – an inactive crater viewable from the paved trail

From the main viewing area, you can walk left along the fence to see the main crater from different angles. This takes about 15 or so minutes and is worth doing because you can get some nice views.

Just behind the crater and fence is a huge flat area of land called Playa Hermosa (Beautiful Beach). This is the remains of an old calderic rim. It’s basically gray ash with some volcanic rocks sprinkled in. It feels a bit like walking on the moon, since nothing grows on that volcanic soil, and it’s so windy and foggy.

Playa Hermosa – the flat, ash-laden area behind the crater

There is no information about the craters along the trail. So it’s nice to have some background before going. For more information about Irazu’s volcanic activity, here is a helpful link. It’s in Spanish but can be translated (we recommend Google Translate).

 Buying Tickets for Irazu Volcano National Park

Currently, you need to purchase tickets online in advance to enter the park.

To get your tickets to Irazu Volcano National Park, you must first create an account on the SINAC government website.

Once you are logged in, click “Buy” and select “Online Reservation.”

Next choose the wildlife area, “Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu – Sector Crater.”

Choose your date. For the time, you have to select a specific timeslot. They are on the hour from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 150 people are allowed per hour. See the Tips section, below, for the best time to visit.

Select the number of adults/children.

Click “Continue.” You will be taken to a payment screen to enter your credit card details (you have 10 minutes to complete the transaction).

Once you complete the transaction, a confirmation will be emailed to you. Keep this to show the park ranger when entering. They will need the verification number from the reservation to look you up in the system.

Park Hours

Irazu Volcano National Park is open every day (including holidays) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The last entrance is at 2:00 p.m.

Cost

Foreigners: $15 per person adults. $5 children ages 2-12. Free for children 2 and under.

Citizens and Residents: 1,000 colones adults. 500 colones children ages 2-12. Free for children 2 and under. Valid identification required when checking into the park.

Parking: You will also have to pay a parking fee of 1,100 colones (about $2). You’ll receive a small slip of paper at the vehicle entrance to the park. Before leaving, you must pay at the gift shop and get it validated.

Accessibility

The parking area and trail to the main crater is fully paved. It is handicap accessible.

The paved portion ends once you reach the main crater. If you want to explore the area to the left, the terrain is sandy, but hard-packed, flat, and uniform. It would be possible to do in a wheelchair.

Driving Directions

From San Jose, head east to Cartago. In Cartago, go north out of the city and connect to Route 219. This paved road leads all the way to the national park. There are many signs along the way for the park.

From the Orosi Valley, the drive to Irazu is about one hour. Head to Cartago and then follow the same directions above.

Tips for Visiting Irazu Volcano National ParkWhen to Go

The crater can be fogged over at any time, but you have a better chance of seeing it if you get there early in the morning.

We visited at 9:00 a.m. and were very worried because we drove through a lot of clouds and rain on the way there. However, when we got to the trail, we were able to see the entire crater for several minutes. Clouds and fog rolled in periodically after that, but it comes and goes so be patient.

Here is a link to a government website with some basic information on current conditions at Irazu.

Getting there early also will help you avoid the crowds. Irazu Volcano is a popular attraction in Costa Rica. Tour buses full of both tourists and locals started pulling in around 10:00 a.m. on our visit.

What to Bring

Since Irazu Volcano is at a high altitude, it’s quite cool compared to the rest of Costa Rica. Temperatures are around 5°C/41°F to 9°C/48.2°F. Be sure to wear pants, layered long-sleeve shirts or a sweatshirt, a raincoat or windbreaker with a hood, and closed shoes. It’s extremely windy near the craters, which makes it feel even cooler. We live at the beach and were all freezing, even with multiple layers!

Our very cold family

If you wear glasses, opt for contacts that day so that you can see. Jenn’s glasses were covered in tiny water droplets most of the time.

Taking Pictures

There is a fence along the edge of the crater to keep you from getting too close and falling in. You can still get some nice pictures, though. If you follow the fence out to the left, you can get a better view down inside the crater.

Facilities

At the parking area, there is a small bathroom and also a little shop that sells souvenirs, drinks, and snacks.

Outside the shop, you’ll find five or so picnic tables to take a break or have some food.

The small gift shop and picnic area Conclusion

Irazu Volcano is definitely an impressive sight. Although we enjoyed our visit, it is one of those places that you probably only need to see once. We do recommend it if you’re visiting the Orosi Valley or looking to see a volcano from San Jose. Not only do you get to be standing on top of an active volcano, but the surrounding countryside is gorgeous and tranquil.

Have a question about visiting Irazu Volcano? Ask us below.Looking for more information to plan your visit to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

How to Spend One or Two Days in San Jose: Downtown San Jose is Costa Rica’s cultural center. Read our guide about options for museums, theaters, and local markets.

Guayabo National Monument: An interesting historical sight not too far from Irazu is Guayabo National Monument. You can walk these ancient ruins for clues on how Costa Rica’s pre-Columbian people lived.

Orosi Valley Coffee Tour: Café Artesanal Los Sauces – Another great activity in this area is a coffee tour. Check out our visit to this authentic coffee cooperative in the town of Orosi.

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Orosi Valley Coffee Tour: Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

If you are visiting the Orosi Valley, southeast of San Jose, a coffee tour is a must-do activity. Costa Rica has many different regions that grow coffee, and each one produces different flavors. In this post, we will tell you about visiting Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces. This coffee farm and micro-cooperative in the hills above Orosi produces some of the tastiest coffee we have tried.

Coffee: A Traditional Crop

Coffee has been grown in Costa Rica since the late 1700s when it was introduced. With cooler temperatures at high altitudes and fertile soil from volcanoes, the crop quicky thrived and became one of the country’s biggest exports.

While today coffee is just one of many different crops grown in Costa Rica, the tradition has not been lost. Small growers on hillsides across the country and even some bigger commercial operations (like Cafe Britt and Starbucks) produce some world-renowned flavors.

Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces

When visiting the town of Orosi, we were happy to find several small, locally owned coffee farms nearby. We chose to visit Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces. This family-owned business is also a micro-cooperative.

This means that they not only grow and process their own coffee but also process and roast coffee grown by some of their neighbors. Everything is done in small batches, with high attention to detail.

In our many years in Costa Rica, we have done several coffee tours. The interesting thing about Los Sauces’ coffee tour was that we got to see the complete process, from bean to bag. Usually, some of the production details are left out or only for demonstration purposes, but here we saw it all.

The Coffee Tour

When we arrived at Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces, we knew we were in for an authentic experience. A warm welcome from the owners and their small dogs made us feel right at home.

The traditional, wood-framed house with beautiful gardens was charming, set on the mountainside. Indeed, it was a very steep drive up the road to get there, but once we arrived, we were rewarded with some lovely views of the green valley.

The cute “headquarters” for this authentic coffee tour

After a snack of fresh fruits, Mario, the owner, led us to a trail. In minutes, we had climbed part of the hillside and were in the heart of their coffee fields.

Along the way, Mario pointed out different plants, fruit trees, and flowers that grew alongside the coffee. These plants, he explained, help increase biodiversity in the field, which keeps the coffee crop healthy.

Walking to the coffee fields

One tree he pointed out was especially important. The local name was el sauce. We know it as the willow tree. The presence of these trees on the property gave the farm its name, Los Sauces (the Willows). These trees, Mario explained, have strong roots that help stabilize the soil, especially on a steep slope like we were on.

In Costa Rica, a property with los sauces growing on it is a good one, especially in an area like Orosi, which gets a lot of rain.

Picking Coffee

Soon it was time to pick some coffee. Most of the coffee plants we had seen on the trail had pretty white flowers. These would eventually develop into new coffee beans that would be harvested later in the year.

Though it wasn’t true picking season when we visited in March, Mario had purposely not picked some sections of the field. This left plenty of coffee beans on the plants for visitors like us.  

He cinched large baskets around our waists (even the kids) and showed us which beans to pick. A red color meant they were ready. The kids loved this part. Even our two-year old was happy picking beans and tossing them into the woven basket. The adults admittedly had lots of fun too.

Picking the red coffee cherriesCoffee Processing

After getting our hands dirty in the field, it was time to see the next step in the coffee-making process.

We meandered down the trails, back to the farmhouse. Mario explained that we first needed to remove the outer coating from the coffee beans.

Soon he was dumping the contents of our baskets into an old-fashioned grinder. Our son, Sam, was happy to turn the crank as beans spit out the bottom. On one side was the husk, and on the other, the naked bean.

Using an old-fashioned grinder to remove the outer shell from the coffee cherry

With the outer shells of the beans removed, Mario led us into the drying greenhouse. Inside were flat racks filled with coffee beans. We learned that depending on the weather, the beans have to sit here and dry for at least a couple of weeks. They stir them occasionally with long rakes.

Huge drying racks to spread out the beans and dry them

In doing so, much of the bean’s moisture is evaporated. What is left is a dry bean with a papery coating on the outside. Before roasting, we needed to remove that next layer. Mario, of course, showed us how.

The next machine was similar to the grinder but was electric and whizzed the beans through quickly. Almost all the papery coating was removed and blown out the back into their garden. This residue, they used as an organic mulch. The coffee beans ended up in a basket below the machine, ready to be roasted. 

Coffee Roasting

Being careful that the kids kept their distance, Mario fired up the stainless steel coffee roaster. This was part of the coffee process that we had never seen before. Inside the machine, small blue flames quickly heated up the roasting chamber.

The spiffy coffee roaster

While we waited for it to come to temperature, we got to explore the gardens and property. Just below was a giant willow tree with a duck pond underneath for the kids to visit. We also took in the nice view of downtown Orosi, far below in the valley.

Mario soon called us back. It was time for the beans to go in. We watched as he poured them into the shoot above and released a lever. The beans entered the roasting chamber as it spun, sort of like a clothes dryer. Mario told us that once the beans started to make noise, the roasting process was almost complete.

Sort of like popcorn popping, he was right; the beans eventually began to make a hissing noise inside the chamber.

Mario checked the color of the beans with a tester few times. He had a chart that told him the perfect color to look for.

As the temperature gauge beeped in the background, Mario checked the color one last time and then quickly pulled another lever. Beautifully roasted beans, the perfect brownish-black hue, spilled into a metal tray. The powerful smell of coffee filled the crisp air as the beans let out some steam.

 Grinding and Bagging

Next, Mario’s wife showed us how the coffee grinder worked. She removed some cooled beans from a vacuum-tight container and led them through the grinder. We were hit with another wave of intense coffee smell!

After the grinding process, coffee bags were carefully filled by hand. Each was weighed and sealed with a special machine. Mario explained that they are moving towards ecofriendly paper bags soon, which are more sustainable.

A Taste of Costa Rican Coffee!

Finally, the moment we were waiting for—the tasting. Being avid coffee drinkers and needing an afternoon pick-me-up, we were especially excited for this part.

Mario’s wife led us to a table that was already set. She then went back into the kitchen and brought out a metal carafe full of coffee, watermelon juice for the boys, and some warm tortillas de queso for a snack.

These authentic Costa Rican tortillas are made with local Turrialba cheese, giving them a rich flavor. They went perfectly with the freshly brewed coffee and made for a memorable end to a great tour.

Homemade tortillas made with local cheese. Yum!Planning Your Visit

Coffee tours at Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces are available by appointment.

You can contact them through their website, Facebook page, or through WhatsApp (506-8954-7144).

Tours are in Spanish, but English is available with prior notice.

The tour length is about 2.5 to 3 hours (including some downtime during roasting).

Tour Cost

Adults: 10,000 colones (about $16).

Children ages 5-12: 3,000 colones (about $5).

A traditional lunch is available for an additional 7,000 colones (about $11.50).

Tours with transportation included are 15,000 colones (about $25).

Getting There

Café Artesanal Los Sauces is located off Route 224 in the town of Orosi. The farm is up a steep mountain, and although the road is concrete, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. It can be slippery, narrow, and is not in the best condition. Here is the location on Google Maps.

What to Wear/Bring

Temperatures are cooler at the farm and it is often rainy. Much of the tour is under the cover of a roof, but the coffee fields are open.

We recommend that you dress in layers and bring a light jacket and umbrella.

Sturdy footwear is best for the trails.

Be sure to bring extra cash to purchase coffee as a souvenir. After drinking it at home, we wished we had bought more!

Conclusion

It was fun to see the entire coffee process and taste the delicious java grown among los sauces (the willows) for ourselves. If you are visiting the Orosi Valley or looking for an authentic cultural tour as a day trip from San Jose, we highly recommend Cafe Artesanal Los Sauces.

Have you done a coffee tour in Costa Rica? What was your favorite part? Leave a comment below. Looking for more articles to help you plan a trip to the Orosi Valley? Check out these posts:

Tapanti National Park: Wild Rivers and Wet Forest – This national park is not often on the tourist map and the jungle is pristine and beautiful. See our post for details on how to visit. 

Hacienda Orosi Hot Springs and Farm – A soak in these hot springs will soothe your muscles and mind. The onsite farm is also a great feature, especially for kids.

Rental Car Discount – If you are visiting this region, a rental car is recommended since things are spread out. Check out this page to get a discount with one of the most reputable companies and free extras.

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Hacienda Orosi Hot Springs and Farm

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Lush mountains surround you, while you sit immersed in soothing hot water. A light mist falls and creates a cloud effect in the sky. The cool air contrasts against the warmth of your skin. This is the experience you can get at Hacienda Orosi’s hot springs.

This lesser-known hot springs resort in the Orosi Valley near San Jose has a handful of gorgeous thermal pools. It also has a small farm where you can see animals. In this post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about visiting Hacienda Orosi.   

Location

Hacienda Orosi is a large property in the town of Orosi. It is just southeast of the city of Cartago and capital of San Jose. Set off on its own, on the fringes of Tapanti National Park, it has sweeping valley views in almost every direction.`

The Hacienda Orosi property is still being developed, but for now, it does not have a hotel. The main draws are the hot spring pools and farm with many different animals.

If you’re visiting Orosi, Cachi, or Paraiso, we highly recommend spending a day at Hacienda Orosi. Because Orosi is only about a 1.25 hour drive from San Jose, Hacienda Orosi also makes a fun day trip for those looking to escape the city.

 Hot Spring Pools

When you enter the Hacienda Orosi property, you will come to an elegant reception area. This has a comfortable seating area with loungers and small tables. An open-air restaurant is just beyond the reception.

The reception area with the restaurant and hot spring pools just beyond

Directly in front of the casual restaurant are the hot spring pools. There are seven pools in total. While this isn’t as many as in some other hot spring resorts in Costa Rica, Hacienda Orosi is much less busy so doesn’t get as crowded.

The pools are fed by thermal mineral water, not volcanic thermal water like at many other resorts. The thermal mineral water originates from fractures in underground tectonic plates. This is very unique and makes the water rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, aluminum, sulfate, and zinc.

Water temperatures in the pools range from a comfortable 36°C (96.8°F) to a steamy 39°C (102.2°F). We recommend starting in the cooler pools first and working your way up to the hot pools. You can really feel your muscles relax in the hottest ones!

The pools are fairly large, making it easy to spread out if there is already another group there. They have sloping ramps or steps to help you get in safely. In different areas of each pool, there is also a sitting area built along the edge. This is nice for relaxing and also a good place for little kids to hang out.

Some of the pools have an infinity edge. This was an amazing spot to take in the views.

View from the infinity edge hot spring pool

The pools themselves are made of concrete but fit nicely into the natural environment. As you can see from the pictures, the property is well manicured, with tropical plants and flowers all around.

The Farm at Hacienda Orosi

From the reception area, it is just a short walk to the farm. Most people check out the farm before doing the hot springs.

In addition to the big red barn where the horses were, there were four barns housing many different farm animals.

One barn had turkeys, peacocks, guinea hens, and pheasants. Another had cows, ponies, and donkeys. This one also had a huge, stunning black horse that we had never seen before called a Percheron. We learned from the sign on the stable that Percherons originated from Normandy, France and were widely regarded for their strength and integrity during the Crusades.

A grand Percheron horse

Each stable had a sign like this in both Spanish and English. They gave information about each animal, including taxonomy, diet, lifespan, size, weight, and some other fun facts. 

We also saw bunnies and several different varieties of pig.

For the bird lovers, there were colorful exotic species. A Golden Pheasant wowed us with its striking red, orange, and yellow feathers, and long tail.

A beautiful Golden Pheasant

A third barn had some cows and charismatic sheep and goats. These guys were actually running around in the field outside their stable.

This is what was great about Hacienda Orosi’s farm. The animals not only had large, clean spaces indoors, but they also had ample space outside to move around. The larger animals like cows and sheep also had designated time in the pasture. The animals were kept in wonderful conditions and all seemed happy and healthy.

Orchid Display

Those interested in orchids will enjoy the small garden structure right next to the reception area. This has several species of orchid, including many we had never seen before.

Planning Your Visit to Hacienda OrosiGeneral

We recommend spending at least half a day at Hacienda Orosi. This way, you can enjoy the pools for a couple of hours and also check out to the farm.

Keep in mind that it’s usually busier on weekends and holidays, with locals visiting from San Jose.

Restaurant

Most people eat at the resort restaurant since it would be a drive to go anywhere else. We had lunch and the food was excellent. It’s upscale and pricey for the area, but we found it to be worth it. You order at a window and then servers will bring it to your table when it’s ready.

The menu is big. If you just want snacks, they have a variety of traditional Costa Rican foods like empanadas, patacones (fried plantains), fried yucca, and chifrijo (a bowl of rice, beans, fried pork, pico de gallo, and tortilla chips). For entrees, you’ll find things like hamburgers, sandwiches, fajitas, traditional rice dishes, and many options for steak and seafood. There was also a kids’ menu with four options.

Here is a link to the full menu.

For drinks, they have a full bar and also local craft beer on tap.

Our lunch – grilled octopus with mashed potatoes

Since the restaurant is right next to the pools, many people left their belongings/towels at their table. Bags and things are not allowed in the pool area.

Lockers

Next to the reception is a good-sized locker room and bathroom; one side for men and the other for women. These had nice showers to rinse off after, with complimentary shampoo and body soap.

With admission, they give you a locker key and towel.

Locker roomDay Passes: Cost and Information

Day passes are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cost: $45 adults, $22.50 children ages 6-11, free for children 5 and under.

Night passes are from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cost: $45 adults, $22.50 children ages 6-11, free for children 5 and under.

Both passes include use of the entire facility (hot springs, farm, and trails). *Note: There is currently one trail that leads to the source for the hot springs. We’ve heard you can get some nice views from here. They are supposed to be working on expanding the trails.

We did see some people doing a mud bath with mineral-rich volcanic mud in the lower level where there was a waterfall from the hot springs. This can be fun to do if you have never experienced it. 

Tickets can be purchased online through Hacienda Orosi’s website or upon arrival. During Covid, we recommend buying your tickets in advance due to occupancy limits.

Rain

The Orosi Valley receives some of the most rain in Costa Rica. And during our recent visit, we definitely experienced this, with on-and-off showers most days. But this doesn’t take away from the experience at the hot springs. It actually can be really refreshing to do hot springs when temperatures are cooler and there’s a light mist.

Just be sure to wear a rain jacket or have an umbrella for the farm tour.

Customer Service

Customer service was excellent on our visit. Each employee we interacted with was friendly and helpful. Since Hacienda Orosi is more of a locals’ spot, Spanish is predominately spoken, though some of the staff did speak English.

Conclusion

We were really surprised by our visit to Hacienda Orosi. We weren’t picturing such a classy hot springs resort in the modest Orosi Valley. If you’re looking to experience some thermal hot springs on your visit to Costa Rica, we highly recommend them.

Have a question about visiting Hacienda Orosi? Ask us in the comments below.Looking for more information to plan your trip to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:

Tapanti National Park: Wet Rivers and Wild Forest – If you’re visiting the Orosi Valley, Tapanti offers a nice hike through dense rainforest and to rivers.

La Fortuna: What to Expect from Costa Rica’s Most Popular Destination – La Fortuna/Arenal Volcano has the most popular hot springs in the country. Learn about this area with this post.

9 Off-the-Beaten Path Destinations in Costa Rica: If you prefer to avoid the crowds, check out this post for more low-key towns in Costa Rica.

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Tapanti National Park: Wild Rivers and Wet Forest

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Each of Costa Rica’s national parks has something different to offer. And while some feature wildlife up close or show you the power of a volcano, others are more about enjoying the raw nature around you. Tapanti National Park is one of those places. This lesser visited park gives you a feeling of exploration as you walk its trails. In this post, we will share some facts about the park, explain the hiking trails, and tell you everything else you need to know for a visit. 

About Tapanti National Park

Tapanti Macizo de la Muerte National Park, or Tapanti National Park for short, is an extremely important conservation area in Costa Rica. The park is giant, protecting 144,544 acres (58,495 hectares) of land. It also abuts other conservation areas like Los Quetzales National Park and undeveloped terrain along the Talamanca mountain range. This makes it part of an important wildlife corridor.

Location

Though vast, visitors to Tapanti National Park can enter through only one main ranger station. This entrance, near the small town of Orosi, is located southeast of Costa Rica’s capital city, San Jose. Cartago is the closest large city.

The drive from San Jose to the park entrance is about 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic. For those staying near downtown Orosi, the park is about 30 minutes away.  

 A Wet Environment

One thing that makes Tapanti National Park special is how wet it is. The park is situated on the eastern side of the Continental Divide. Its steep mountains catch moisture from Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.

Each year, the area within Tapanti National Park gets anywhere from 21 to 26 feet of rain (6.4 to 7.9 meters). Yes, you read that right. Up to 26 feet of rain. Wow!

All that water makes its way down the rough terrain through 150 different rivers and streams.

When visiting the park, you’ll be able to see one spectacular river, the Rio Grande de Orosi. This swift river flows between giant boulders and over smooth stones right past two of the park’s main trails (see Hiking Trails section, below).

Eventually some of the water from Tapanti is collected in reservoirs to supply Costa Rica’s Greater Metropolitan Area with drinking water. Five different dams within the watershed, though controversial, also help produce valuable electricity for Costa Rica. 

The Rio Grande de Orosi, which flows through Tapanti National ParkWildlife

Tapanti National Park has an abundance of wildlife, though it is typically not easy to see.

When hiking in the park, you’ll likely see birds, butterflies and other insects, and maybe some frogs or a snake. But more lurks within the thick forest.

The park has around 45 mammal species, including some rare or endangered ones like the Baird’s Tapir. This is Costa Rica’s largest land mammal. It looks sort of like a small hippo. They are typically very shy but have been spotted near the river, so keep a lookout. There are also deer, rabbit, otter, and big cats like pumas, jaguars, and ocelots.

If you’re into bugs, you’ll be happy to know that 2,895 insect species have been identified by scientists who study the area.  

Many animals live in Tapanti’s thick rainforestPlants

While wildlife may be harder to spot in Tapanti National Park, plants are more easily observed. A survey by Costa Rica’s National Institute of Biodiversity (INBio) identified 1,229 species of plants and 199 species of mushrooms and lichen.

On Tapanti’s trails, you’ll enjoy lush rainforest conditions with towering trees and broad-leafed plants. With all the moisture, we noticed mosses, lichens, orchids, and bromeliads growing on just about everything.

A spiky orange flower giving a burst of color in the green landscape

Other areas of the park (not close to the ranger station) have completely different life zones. They include cloud forest, high-elevation montane forest (shrubby areas without trees), grasslands, swamps, and peat bogs.

Hiking Trails at Tapanti National Park

The entrance to Tapanti National Park is a little different than other parks. After passing the gate where the ranger station is located, you have two choices. You can park there and walk the main dirt road (camino principal) to the different trailheads. Or you can keep driving and park in front of each trail. Most have a parking area. It is sort of a long drive to reach the three main trails and lookout, so we would recommend parking right at each trailhead.  

Here is a picture of the trail map to give you an idea.

Trail map. “Administracion” (Administration) is the ranger station where you enter.Oropendola Trail (Sendero Oropendola)

This is the easiest trail because it is the flattest, though it does slowly descend to the river with a few steeper parts. It is also the most popular because there are about a dozen covered picnic areas spread out along the river’s edge. This makes it a popular spot to picnic, especially among locals.

The Oropendola Trail is approximately 1.2 km (0.75 miles). From the parking area, it meanders down through the thick forest. In a few spots there are some simple steps to traverse. Otherwise, the trail is natural dirt and somewhat muddy in parts (depending on rainfall). 

Conditions on the Oropendola Trail down to the river

The covered “ranchitos” with picnic tables are spaced out along the last part of the trail, where it loops around in a circle. Each picnic spot has a small path leading to the river. Some have a river view, while others are set back a bit in the trees. There are freshwater faucets at each picnic area and a restroom nearby.

One of the rustic picnic areas near the riverWaterfall Trail and Kettle Trail (Sendero La Catarata y Sendero La Pava)

This was the first trail we did, and though it says it is only 1.5 km (0.93 miles), it seemed longer, at least when doing the Waterfall Trail section. Compared to the length of the Oropendola Trail, this one seemed about twice as long and was more difficult (easy to moderate).

At the trailhead, there is a parking area with bathrooms. From there, the trail goes down somewhat steeply until it splits. To the left is the Waterfall Trail (Sendero La Catarata) and to the right is the Kettle Trail (Sendero La Pava).

The Waterfall Trail continues to go down through some wetter, swampy parts until it reaches the riverbank. Here, you can climb out near the river’s edge along the many rocks.

On the other side of the river, up on the mountainside, you will see a giant waterfall in the distance. You can continue up the river’s edge to get a better view of it (depending on river conditions), but be careful as the rocks can be slippery. We saw one family slip, and their young son hit his head on a rock. He was okay but it was scary.

Distant view of the waterfall across the river

The Kettle Trail is the short path to the right where the main trail splits. It zigzags down one steep section of uneven steps and then leads to the river’s edge. When we were there, we had to cross a large puddle of water at the bottom by jumping from stone to stone. Conditions likely change throughout the year.

This part of the riverbank was a bit more sandy and easier to explore. Our young kids had fun running around and checking the puddles for frog eggs.

Base of the Kettle Trail. The river is just beyond this point.Fallen Trees Trail (Sendero Arboles Caidos)

The Fallen Trees Trail is the hardest of the three trails. It is around 3 km (1.86 miles). From the main road, it climbs a steep hill before looping back down to the road, exiting in a different spot.

We did not attempt this trail with our little kids (5 & 2 at the time) because the ranger told us it was difficult and very muddy. If you try it, we’d love to hear your report in the comments below.

The Fallen Trees Trail doesn’t have its own parking area but starts near the Oropendola Trail, so you can park there.

Waterfall Lookout (Mirador de la Cascada)

Lastly, there is the Lookout at the end of the park’s main road. This is definitely worth a stop and doesn’t take much time. From here you have a better, though still distant, view of the same waterfall that you could see at the bottom of the Waterfall Trail. You also can appreciate the grandeur of the park with its undeveloped green mountains as a backdrop.

At the parking area for the lookout, there are four covered picnic tables and a restroom. From there, a set of steps climbs up to the lookout platform (also covered in case of rain). The steps/trail is only about 100 meters (330 feet), but it is steep and can be slippery.  

The view of the waterfall from the MiradorBuying Tickets for Tapanti National Park

Currently, you must purchase tickets online in advance to enter the park. Keep in mind that there is no cell phone service at the park so you will need to purchase them online in advance.

To get your tickets to Tapanti National Park, you must first create an account on the SINAC government website.

Once you are logged in, click “Buy” and select “Online Reservation.”

Next choose the wildlife area,“Parque Nacional Tapanti Macizo de la Muerte.”

Choose the date you plan to visit, and select the number of adults/children.

Click “Continue.” You will be taken to a payment screen to enter your credit card details (you have 10 minutes to complete the transaction).

Once you complete the transaction, a confirmation will be emailed to you. Keep this to show the park ranger when entering the park. They will need the verification number off the reservation to look you up in the system. Again, there is no cell phone service near the park so be sure to load your email with the tickets before arriving.

Park Hours

Tapanti National Park is open every day (including holidays) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The last entrance is at 3:00 p.m.

Cost

Foreigners: $10 per person adults. $5 children ages 2-12. Free for children 2 and under.

Citizens and Residents: 800 colones adults. 500 colones children ages 2-12. Free for children 2 and under. Valid identification required when checking into the park.

Accessibility

The park’s trails and lookout are not handicap accessible. The main road through the park, however, is flat and can be used for nature exploration. It is forested on both sides. The picnic tables near the Lookout are accessible without going up any steps, but the bathroom is up a steep incline. A bathroom at ground level is available a short distance away at the start of the Waterfall and Kettle Trail.

Tips for Visiting Tapanti National ParkWhat to Bring

Be sure to bring a raincoat and/or umbrella since it can rain on and off at any time. A rain cover for your day pack and dry bag for your electronics is also helpful in case of a downpour.  

Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is recommended since the trails can be wet and muddy.

Temperatures are cooler so lightweight hiking pants and a raincoat or long sleeve shirt are nice to have.

For more information on what to bring, read our post, 10 Day Pack Essentials for Costa Rica.

Other Tips

Swimming is not allowed in the river.

There is no cell phone service so turn on airplane mode to save your battery.

There are no trash cans at the picnic areas. Be sure to hike out with any trash you have.

Conclusion

We really enjoyed our visit to Tapanti National Park. From the plants growing on top of plants to the swift river and giant boulders, it gave us a true feeling of being surrounded by pure nature. We hope this post helps you experience it for yourself. 

Have a question about visiting Tapanti National Park or have you been yourself? Let us know in the comments below.

Some of the links in this post are connected to affiliate programs we have joined. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Looking for more less-visited parks? Check out these posts:

Los Quetzales National Park: Costa Rica’s Other Cloud Forest – This park borders Tapanti but is at a higher elevation in the cloud forest.

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve: Rugged Hiking on the Nicoya Peninsula – On the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Cabo Blanco was one of Costa Rica’s first parks. It has a challenging hike to a remote beach.

Lomas Barbudal Biological Reserve: An Oasis of Green in Guanacaste – If you are looking for a park without many visitors in Guanacaste, this is your spot.

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Vacation Rentals in Costa Rica: Safety and What to Look for

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Vacation rentals like Airbnbs can be a great option in Costa Rica. They fit big groups, give you more space, and let you cook in if you want. Since many are hosted by Costa Ricans, they also can help you travel like a local. But there are some important things to know when deciding to stay in a vacation rental instead of a hotel. In this post, we’ll give you some tips on choosing vacation rentals in Costa Rica. We’ll also cover important safety tips.

What to Look for in a Vacation RentalLocation

While it is easy to get distracted by pretty pictures of palm trees or sparkling pools, one of the most important parts of an Airbnb or Vrbo listing is its location. A gorgeous house with an ocean view 30 minutes outside town with nothing around is probably less desirable than a similarly nice house right near attractions.

Airbnb and Vrbo/HomeAway have maps in their listings to help with this. These give a general idea of where a property is located. But the problem with these maps is that they rely on the property owner/manager putting the map point in the right location. We have found from helping clients with their vacations, that often, the map points are very off.

Sometimes the listing description will give a sense of the location. Just keep in mind that these are sales listings, for sales purposes, so the write up usually makes the property (and its location) a bit sunnier than reality. That has been our experience after renting Airbnbs many times in Costa Rica.

Often, reviews are the most reliable source of information. Previous guests will often give good clues about location (walking distance to the beach, near restaurants, need to drive to get places, etc.). Reviews are always essential to read.

If you still can’t figure out the location, message the host and ask for more specifics.

Included Amenities

Airbnb and other vacation rental websites usually have a place that lists a property’s amenities. While many people focus on things like a pool or outdoor terrace, there are other important basics to look for when booking a vacation rental in Costa Rica. Some key amenities that we cover below are hot water, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.

High-end vacation rentals usually come with these things. However, it can vary with mid-range and budget options.

An Airbnb we stayed at in Guanacaste with an awesome pool slideHot Water

Hot water for showering can be provided directly through the pipes like in North America and elsewhere. In budget accommodations in Costa Rica, though, a so-called “suicide shower” is often used instead.

These are small electric hot water heaters. They are installed as part of the showerhead and heat the water on demand. They vary from very simple plastic devices with wires sticking out, to more elaborate heating systems with temperature gauges. In our experience, they work fine but don’t expect to have the best shower. Usually, you have to keep the water pressure low in order for the water to stay hot.

In some beach areas, vacation rentals may not have hot water at all. So be sure to double check the listing.

Air Conditioning

In Costa Rica, air conditioning is most common in beach destinations. Mid-range vacation rentals and all high-end rentals usually have air conditioning, though there are exceptions. Most often, individual A/C units are in each room. More rarely, in high-end homes, you will find central air.

Since many people enjoy indoor-outdoor living, some vacation rentals do not have air conditioning at all. They rely on air flow and natural breezes to keep it cool. These types of houses tend to be more open, often with large doors that swing out to the rainforest.

This works for many people, as the jungle does cool down a lot at night. However, if you are prone to the heat or humidity, you may want A/C, at least for sleeping. Having a home that closes also helps keep out any biting insects and other creepy crawlies.   

In some areas where it is cooler, don’t be surprised if a property doesn’t have air conditioning. In higher altitude places like San Jose and its surrounds, Atenas, Grecia, Monteverde, and San Gerardo de Dota, you don’t need it. In some of these areas, heaters are provided instead.

A vacation rental in Atenas, where no A/C is needed

One thing to note about A/C. Since electricity is expensive in Costa Rica, sometimes there will be a daily surcharge to use it. This is usually for budget vacation rentals. Typical surcharges are between $10-20/day.

Wi-Fi

Although Wi-Fi in Costa Rica has improved dramatically in recent years, there are still many areas without a reliable Internet connection.

Airbnb and Vrbo listings do require the host to say whether the vacation rental has Wi-Fi. However, it doesn’t make them say how fast it is or if it goes down frequently.

If you need a reliable connection for work, see if the listing mentions the connection type. If it is cable or fiber optic, chances are, it is fairly fast and reliable. If it is a 4G wireless connection, it may be slow and stop working when a lot of people are using it, or it could be alright. It’s always good to check the reviews to see what other guests have said. You could also message the host directly.

Supplies

While some Airbnbs in North America and elsewhere have hotel-like amenities, usually this is not the case in Costa Rica. The basics like dish soap, trash bags, coffee filters, and things like that will be provided. But usually, toiletries aren’t unless it’s a very nice rental.

For cooking, we have found that it really varies. Some rentals have cooking oil, a few spices, and other basics on hand, while others have nothing or just what’s been left over from previous guests. Cookware is similar. Sometimes, you’ll find nice pots and pans and all the kitchen utensils you could need, while other times, it will be more sparce. Reviews are the best way to figure out how equipped a rental is.

Some houses were built to be vacation rentals so may be somewhat basic. It is common to find simple cooktops without an oven, no dishwasher, and no microwave. This may be fine for a short visit, but if you’re coming for a long-term stay, some of these things could be essential depending on your lifestyle.

This Airbnb had a dining room table and fully equipped kitchen for cooking in.Reviews

As we’ve mentioned a few times above, reviews are key to finding a good vacation rental. We always recommend picking a rental that has at least five reviews, all favorable. Obviously, the best is when you can find a rental that has tons of positive reviews, but that isn’t always possible.

Read at least a couple of pages of reviews to get a sense of what people liked and disliked. We have found that sometimes people will give five stars, but if you go and read their actual review, they had some gripes. We like to call this the “pura vida lenses.” A lot of times people fall in love with Costa Rica on their visit and have the ability to overlook the small things. That is a good thing, unless you want to know the truth about a rental house you’re considering!

One big thing to look out for in vacation rentals is noise problems. Motorcycle noise, dogs barking, and roosters calling in the early morning are common grievances. If houses are close together, you also can have problems with parties and loud music.

An Airbnb we stayed at in the Orosi ValleySafety Overview

This is definitely the most important consideration when staying in a vacation rental in Costa Rica. Unfortunately, we have heard many sad stories of travelers getting robbed during their trip. Obviously, this really ruins the experience so you should do everything possible to avoid it.

The problem with vacation rentals is that they are generally less secure than hotels because they don’t have much of a presence. Hotels have employees, other guests coming and going, and sometimes even guards. These all help to discourage thieves from coming around. Vacation rentals, on the other hand, are usually standalone homes with little to no human deterrents.

Don’t get us wrong, Costa Rica is fairly safe and break-ins are not the norm. Personally, we have not had any problems with break-ins during our almost eight years of living in and traveling the country.

But we are careful. Most common crimes in Costa Rica involve theft so it is important to be aware.

A common time when break-ins occur is when people are out and about, at a tour or at dinner, for example. But we also have heard of people getting robbed while they were sleeping or when leaving the car open when unloading. The crimes are almost always non-violent and not confrontational. They just want your valuables so that they can sell them.

By following some key precautions and carefully choosing a vacation rental with security in mind, you can avoid most problems.

Safety Measures to Look for in a Vacation Rental

One big factor with security is how well the house closes up. Sure, open air living can be nice in the tropics, but it’s important that all doors and windows close well when you need them to. We make sure to close and lock everything when we leave and go to bed.

Figure out the location of the vacation rental. Is it off on its own, or are their other houses around? Is it part of a gated community? This can provide another level of protection.

Aside from how the house is set up, find out what security measures are in place. They may have a security system, deadbolt, fence, or gated entry. Another simple security measure often used in Costa Rica is placing wooden sticks in windows that open horizontally. These prevent people from being able to pry open the window, even if they get them unlocked. Simple, but effective.

This Airbnb in Santa Ana had a fence around the whole property plus a secure gate to enter.Precautions to Take

Here are some precautions you can take yourself to keep your belongings safe.

Keep valuables away from open windows. A common crime is to cut a screen and grab what’s within arm’s reach.

When unloading your car, keep someone nearby to watch. This will make sure no one runs off with one of your suitcases!

Don’t bring all your most valuable possessions on your trip. If you can avoid bringing your best electronics and jewelry, do it. Nowadays, most people travel with a laptop and camera, but try not to bring your very best equipment.

If the house has a safe or secure closet (bodega), lock up your electronics and valuables when you leave. If it doesn’t, just keep things out of sight as much as possible. That way if someone peeks in a window, they won’t see anything.

Use all security measures that are available. If the house has a security system, don’t forget to arm it before leaving. Close the windows and use the security sticks if they have them. This is simple stuff, but often times, people get in vacation mode and forget.

Conclusion

We hope this post gives you some insight into staying in a vacation rental in Costa Rica. Although there some important things to keep in mind to ensure you have a safe and fun holiday, most people who stay in vacation rentals have a great experience without any problems.

Have a question about staying in a vacation rental in Costa Rica? Ask us below.Looking for more information to plan your trip? Check out these posts:

Safety Tips for Your Next Trip to Costa Rica: Learn more about safety in Costa Rica. Includes tips for renting a car, taking the bus, and other common things to watch out for.

Family Itinerary for Costa Rica: Rainforest, Beach, and Volcano – If you’re coming with the kids, this sample itinerary will get you started.

Rental Car Discount: If you’re staying in a vacation rental outside town, you’ll probably want a car to get around. Check out our discount to save 10-20% and get free extras like a second driver, car seats, cooler, and surf rack.

The post Vacation Rentals in Costa Rica: Safety and What to Look for appeared first on Two Weeks in Costa Rica.

Bugs, Spiders, and Snakes in Costa Rica: What to Expect

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

Traveling to Costa Rica and exploring its many ecosystems can be an amazing experience. But we get a lot of questions from people who are uneasy about something pattering across the floor or slithering into their suitcase. In this post, we’ll let you know what to expect when it comes to bugs, spiders, and snakes in Costa Rica.    

Close EncountersOverview

The big question for many is how close you might get to these creepy crawlies. After all, seeing them in the wild is one thing, but having a meet and greet in your hotel room or next to the pool is another.

From our experience living in Costa Rica for almost eight years, we can tell you that it really varies. The average traveler who is staying in an air-conditioned hotel may not see much in their room. Those shacking up in ecolodges or open-air accommodations could see a lot more.

A giant grasshopper saying hello!Common Things to See

In our travels around Costa Rica, we commonly see two things in hotel rooms and vacation rentals: ants and geckos. There is also the occasional cockroach here and there. These critters are mostly harmless and nothing to lose sleep about.

The ants come through to eat any food that is left around or sometimes they nest inside the structure of a building. Costa Rica has almost 1,000 different ant species, so chances are you will meet a few varieties.

An interesting ant that you probably wouldn’t see on vacation but could run into after staying a few months is the army ant. These invade homes by the hundreds in long, organized lines, hence the name. They come in to clean up any bugs that may be hiding in your house. Once they’re done their job, they will happily leave. Most people just let them do their thing and they are gone in a couple of hours.

Geckos (little lizards with suction-cup feet) are very common. They creep around the walls at night but are skittish around people. They like to eat bugs like mosquitoes that may have gotten into the room. Consider them another part of the cleaning staff, working a 24-hour shift.

Other Critters You May See

Now that we have talked about the most common critters, we’ll cover some that you could see, more rarely. This is especially true if you spend more time in Costa Rica or stay in accommodations that are open air and near the jungle.

This is the part of the post where those who are really scared of bugs, spiders, and snakes can go back to our home page and find a different article to read. Also find an air-conditioned hotel room to stay in!

Insects

Some scientists estimate that there could be up to 300,000 different insect species in Costa Rica. So far, only around 35,000 have been recorded. With that many bugs, you are bound to cross paths with several dozen species on a given day. Many of these are quite amazing, with flashy colors and intricate body structures. Most are also harmless to humans.  

Red-bordered Stink Bugs

Of course, with any population, there are some more dangerous ones as well. Here are some to watch out for.

Biting Ants and Bullet Ants

Biting ants, known as picas in Costa Rica, are common and can take you completely by surprise. Just one wrong step onto their underground nest or food source, and you will suddenly be dancing up and down.

These ants are normally small and black but can be red too. They swarm to defend themselves and give a stinging bite that often itches afterward. The pain usually goes away within a few minutes and water helps soothe it.

Bullet ants are much larger and have an elongated body. These ants have a sting that gives you shooting pain, like getting shot by a bullet. It can last hours or even a full day but is not harmful. Though we have seen bullet ants, no one in our family has ever been stung by one.   

A bullet ant on the trail in Puerto Viejo de SarapiquiMosquitoes

Everyone knows that mosquitoes leave itchy bites and can spread disease. In Costa Rica, the most common disease from mosquitoes is called dengue. It is most common in the rainier months (May-November) when there are more mosquitoes around.

Other less common mosquito-related diseases in Costa Rica include zika, chikungunya, and very rarely, malaria.

In Costa Rica, mosquito-borne illnesses are most common in agricultural workers or in congested neighborhoods with standing water. Most visitors coming for a short amount of time are not affected. Using insect repellent, window screens, and proper clothing can go a long way in preventing bites.

For tips on preventing mosquito bites, read our post, Costa Rica and Mosquitoes: Tips to Prevent Zika, Dengue, and More.

Sandflies

Sandflies are a different type of biting insect that can be dangerous in some areas. These are smaller than mosquitoes and live within forested areas. They are not to be confused with sandfleas, which are found at the beach.

The danger of a sandfly bite is when the fly rarely contains a tiny parasite and transmits it to you when biting. This parasite can cause a sort of flesh-eating wound known as leishmaniasis. Locally it is called papalomoyo.

Although very uncommon for normal travelers, Matt actually came down with this during our time living in the Dominical area. He had to have daily injections (45 in total) of a powerful medicine to fight it off. He now has a large scar the size of a silver dollar on his leg. Leishmaniasis is said to be most common in the southern forested parts of Costa Rica (both Pacific and Caribbean slopes).

Bees and Wasps

Bees and wasps are important pollinators for Costa Rica’s intricate forests and crops, but many of them sting too. For most travelers, it’s very easy to avoid contact with bees and wasps since they are only aggressive when threatened.

For those allergic to bees and other biting insects, be sure to bring your EpiPen. Also inform your naturalist guides that you have an allergy, just in case.

Keep in mind that Costa Rica has several varieties of stingless bee too. These are black or brown, smaller, and will sometimes hover near your food or drinks at a restaurant. They are harmless and actually produce a delicious honey. 

Stinging Caterpillars

Caterpillars are often looked at fondly since they turn into beautiful butterflies and moths. However, think twice before touching one. Many caterpillars in Costa Rica have fuzzy hairs along their bodies that contain powerful toxins. These protect the caterpillar from predators but can also leave a nasty (non-lethal) sting on your skin.

Our family has been stung by caterpillars a few times. Often, they crawl onto something like an outdoor chair or item of clothing and then we brush up against them. The skin irritation can last for days or even weeks, depending on the species.

One of Costa Rica’s crazy catepillarsKissing Bugs

This beetle (a type of triatomine insect) is known as the kissing bug, or locally, chinche. It can cause chagas disease when it bites you, and you itch the area.

When this happens, a tiny parasite from the bug’s feces enters the bite and your body. Chagas disease affects the heart and can be fatal if untreated. These bugs are pretty rare and mostly found in poorer communities that have homes without screens. They can occur in other locations throughout Costa Rica, though, and mostly emerge in the home at night. Learn more about these bugs and chagas disease on the CDC’s website.   

Spiders & Other Arachnids Spiders

We’re not going to lie, there are lots of hairy, scary looking spiders in Costa Rica. For the most part, they keep to themselves and we keep to ourselves. Occasionally, though, one might enter your house or hotel room. These spiders aren’t going to attack you if you leave them alone, but you really don’t want them around.

Spiders like tarantulas and most web-making species don’t bite people. They can actually be quite impressive, and since they catch bugs, beneficial in the garden.

An arrow-shaped micrathena spider – very flashy but basically harmless to humans

There are some other large spiders, though, that are dangerous. The most infamous is the Brazilian wandering spider. Its bite can be deadly to smaller mammals. Medical attention is usually needed for humans. We have never seen one.

We have, however, seen several different types of wolf spiders. These can give a nasty poisonous bite. In our house, since we have young kids, they have always met the bottom of a flip-flop before causing any trouble. Wolf spider bites are uncomfortable and can cause pain and inflammation but don’t usually require medical attention, unless you have a severe reaction.

We think this is a type of wolf spiderScorpions

Scorpions are very common in Costa Rica. Although they can give a painful sting, they are not lethal. A University of Costa Rica article explains that it is actually sort of a mystery, since the two types found here are closely related to lethal varieties in other countries. Maybe they are just too happy and pura vida to make stronger poison? We’re not sure.  

Scorpions often enter homes or sometimes hotel rooms to find cool, dry shelter. Occasionally, they crawl between stacked clothing or into shoes.

In our experience, they are more active when the seasons change. For example, when it transitions from rainy season to dry season, we often find a few in the house. We usually see them under the stove or refrigerator, or in the closet. We have yet to be stung.  

Many hotels spray pesticides for scorpions so there is a good chance you won’t see one during a short visit. 

Bark ScorpionTicks

Ticks do live in Costa Rica, but with all the hiking we have done, we’ve only had them on us a few times. They are a bigger problem for dogs and cats, especially since they can cause a disease known as ehrlichiosis. If left untreated, this can kill the animals.

Lyme disease, which is more common in other countries, has not seemed to spread to Costa Rica so far.

Snakes

The thought of a slithery snake often makes people cringe. But snakes are an important part of Costa Rica’s ecosystem. They can be quite fascinating too. And what most people don’t realize is that most species are not venomous.

According to the University of Costa Rica, of the 140 species of snake found in Costa Rica, only 23 are venomous. The chances of running into one of these 23 types on a normal vacation is very slim. If you do see one, it will probably be on a tour where the guide has pointed it out to you. Usually, snakes won’t be directly on the main trail where people frequently walk either.

Of course, snake encounters do happen. During our roughly 10 years of hiking in Costa Rica, we have seen a snake cross the trail in front of us only twice. At home, we have seen maybe a dozen snakes pass through our yard, one coil up on our patio, and a very small one enter the house (under the door sweep). All have been non-venomous, usually a vine snake or something like that.

A Green Parrot Snake in our yard

One family who we helped with trip planning did report a surprise to us. A six-foot-long boa constrictor had coiled up in the shower of their hotel room! It was the presidential suite at a fancy establishment, but all the doors had been opened up during the day and the jungle was just a few feet away.

As far as venomous snakes go, the most feared in Costa Rica is the fer-de-lance (Bothrops asper). It is known locally as the terciopelo. This snake is responsible for over 50% of snake bites in Costa Rica.

On average, around 500-600 snake bites are recorded in Costa Rica annually. Luckily, the country has one of the most well-respected antivenom laboratories in the world, and deaths from snake bites are very low.

Costa Rica’s Instituto Clodomiro Picado has developed highly effective medicines to combat the human body’s reaction to a poisonous snake bite. This technology saves all but one or two snake-bite victims per year, mostly because they had to travel too far to get the treatment.

A venomous Eyelash Pitviper (green variety) in Corcovado National Park

Hospitals in Costa Rica have antivenom on hand in the unlikely event you do get a snake bite. In very rural areas, we have heard of veterinarians providing the antivenom as well. For information on what to do if you get bite by a snake, here is a useful article.

Conclusion

If you are letting some of Costa Rica’s less-desirable creatures prevent you from coming, don’t. Your chances of having a big hairy spider on your pillow or a snake coiled up in your shower are extremely low. If you keep to the main trails and attractions, close up your accommodations, and use insect repellent, you should be able to put all your fears behind you and enjoy everything that this beautiful country has to offer.

Have a question about bugs, spiders, or snakes in Costa Rica? Or maybe a story to tell? Leave a comment below. Looking for more information to help you plan? Check out these posts:

Planning a Family Trip to Costa Rica: Essential Tips and Info – Traveling with kids can be amazing and challenging at the same time. Check out this post for some Costa Rica-specific tips.

Driving in Costa Rica: What to Know Before you Go – Wondering if driving is right for you? Check out this post for what to expect on Costa Rica’s roads.

Safety Tips for Your Next Trip to Costa Rica – Crimes can happen on vacation but most can be prevented with some simple measures.    

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2 Costa Rica Itineraries That Limit Driving

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

While many destinations in Costa Rica are far off, a little careful planning can let you experience some of the country’s best attractions without spending too much time in the car. Below, we’ll give two itinerary options that limit drive time. These are seven-day itineraries but also would work for shorter trips. There is one for flying into San Jose Airport and another for those arriving at Liberia Airport.

Itinerary Option 1 – San Jose AirportSummary

This itinerary has you flying in and out of San Jose Airport (SJO). SJO is located in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, near the country’s geographic center.

From the airport, you will first drive to the cloud forest of Monteverde (2.5 hours). After enjoying this unique ecosystem in the mountains, you will head to the central Pacific coast for some beach time (2.5 hours). At the end of your beach stay, it’s only a short 1.5-hour drive back to the airport.

 Days 1-4: Arrive in San Jose. Drive to Monteverde to See the Cloud Forest.Getting to Monteverde

After arriving at the busy Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), you will spend your first three nights in the tranquil cloud forests of Monteverde. Monteverde is only about a 2.5-hour drive from San Jose. Much of this is along major highways.

As long as your flight arrives by early afternoon, you will be able to pick up a rental car and make the drive the same day.

Check out our Rental Car Discount to save 10% through one of the most reputable rental agencies. Our readers get extras like a free second driver, free car seats for kids, a free cooler, and a free surf rack.

Tip: Be sure to avoid driving to Monteverde after dark (around 6:00 p.m. in Costa Rica). Although the roads getting to this remote destination have improved dramatically in recent years, the last stretch is best during daytime hours. This road is not well lit, narrow in parts, and has steep, mountainous terrain. For more information, read our post, Driving to Monteverde.

Route 606 to Monteverde – now paved but still narrow and mountainous

If you would prefer to stay overnight near the airport, you can get recommendations with our post, Best Hotels Near SJO Airport.

Monteverde: What to Expect

Monteverde is located at a high elevation along the Continental Divide, the point where the Atlantic and Pacific slopes converge. This gives it a uniquely cool climate compared to the rest of the country. Temperatures are still pleasant, though, in the 70s or 80s°F (21-26°C) during the day. Nights are slightly cooler, in the 60s°F (16-18°C).

While town may be sunny and warm, just a few minutes away, the thick forest may be enshrouded in a light mist. This can make for some beautiful scenery that you won’t find anywhere else.

The misty cloud forests of Monteverde

Monteverde is well developed for tourism and has accommodations for every budget. Some hotels are set right in the forest, taking advantage of the views. For recommendations, check out our post, Monteverde Hotel Guide.

Monteverde: Things to Do

Monteverde is a well-known ecotourism destination. In addition to hiking the cloud forest, you can visit wildlife exhibits to see butterflies, bats, and hummingbirds.

Zip-line facilities here are some of the most elaborate in the entire country. From high up on a zip-line cable, you can get amazing views of the vast forest and green valleys below. Hanging bridges are another way to take in the gorgeous scenery.

Coffee tours are a popular activity in Monteverde. These will give you a glimpse into Costa Rica’s rich farming culture.

Learning about the roasting process on a coffee tour

For more information on visiting Monteverde, read our full destination guide, Monteverde: A Forest in the Clouds.

Days 4-7: Head to the Beaches of the Central Pacific Coast.Getting to Jaco

The closest beach destination to Monteverde on the central Pacific coast is Jaco. Jaco is about 2.5 hours from Monteverde. Then it’s only a 1.5 hour drive to SJO Airport after your stay.

Jaco: What to Expect & Things to Do

Jaco is one of Costa Rica’s largest beach towns. Restaurants, shops, tour operators, and surf shops line the busy main strip along the sand. Jaco has a fun, relaxed vibe that many people enjoy.

Hanging out on Jaco Beach

Although the main area of town is built up, there is plenty of nearby jungle to explore. ATV tours can take you into the peaceful countryside to hidden waterfalls. Adventure parks offer packages with zip lining, tram rides, waterfall rappelling, and horseback riding. There is also hiking in Carara National Park, a catamaran cruise to Tortuga Island, crocodile river tours, and of course, surfing.  

View of Jaco Beach from the hills just outside town

The main beach in Jaco isn’t the most scenic but is still nice. Plus, you don’t have to stray far from town to discover some of the area’s other beautiful beaches.  

For more information on Jaco, read our destination guide, Jaco: Costa Rica’s Booming Beach Town.

Tip: If you’d prefer a quieter stay, there are several options for smaller beach communities to the south. Playa Hermosa, Esterillos, and Playa Bejuco are just a short drive away.

Itinerary Option 2 – Liberia Airport Summary

This itinerary has you flying in and out of Liberia Airport (LIR). LIR is located in northwestern Costa Rica, in an area known as Guanacaste.

From the airport, you will drive inland to the wildlife-rich town of Bijagua (1 hour). After spotting animals like monkeys and sloths, and visiting an incredible waterfall, you’ll then head to the coast (1.5-2.5 hours). Guanacaste has some amazing beaches that we’ll highlight below. After the beach, it is just a short drive back to the airport (30 minutes to 1.5 hours).

Days 1-4: Arrive in Liberia. Drive to Bijagua to Experience Lush Rainforest and Waterfalls.Getting to Bijagua

From Liberia Airport, you will drive about one hour inland to Bijagua. The drive is along a major highway at first, then a smooth paved road.

Bijagua: What to Expect & Things to Do

Bijagua is a small town that is best known for the nearby Rio Celeste Waterfall. This is a gorgeous bright-blue waterfall that gets its color from volcanic minerals in the soil. Travelers visiting other parts of Costa Rica often plan a quick stop here to see the Rio Celeste. However, we think there is plenty to do in Bijagua to fill at least a few nights.

The impressive Rio Celeste Waterfall

Aside from the waterfall, the area has lush rainforest that is filled with wildlife. A few different nature reserves have hiking where you can see animals like monkeys and sloths as well as many types of tropical birds.

Mom and baby sloth in Bijagua

Other activities are river tubing, horseback riding, frog night tours, and farm tours.

You could also easily take a day trip to see Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna/Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations. It’s about a one-hour drive from Bijagua.

Even though it’s a very small town, Bijagua still has several accommodations to choose from. Quaint B&Bs, ecolodges, vacation rentals, and even high-end hotels are all options.

For more information about visiting Bijagua, read our destination guide, Bijagua: A Gateway to the Rio Celeste.

Days 4-7: Head to the beaches of Guanacaste.Getting to Guanacaste

After exploring the rainforest, you will get to enjoy some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful (and swimmable) beaches.

The serene Playa Dantita in Guanacaste

The beaches of Guanacaste Province are located between 1.5-2.5 hours from Bijagua, depending on which town you stay in. Tamarindo, which we recommend below, is about 2.5 hours from Bijagua.

For your return to Liberia Airport at the end of the trip, you’ll be about one-hour away. This will allow you to make the drive the same day as your flight without needing an overnight near the airport.

Tamarindo: What to Expect & Things to Do

Tamarindo is Guanacaste’s biggest beach town. It has a laid-back surfer vibe and a very hip feel. In and around the center of town near the beach, you’ll find upscale cafes and restaurants, trendy boutiques, and many options for accommodations.

Beachside dining in Tamarindo

Some hotels are located right off the sand, while others are a short stroll or drive away. A community to the south called Playa Langosta offers even more options for accommodations in a quieter setting.

Most people visiting Tamarindo spend their time surfing or exploring the area’s many gorgeous beaches. But there are other things to do. Activities include catamaran tours, diving, snorkeling, horseback riding, ATV tours, and zip lining.

For more information on activities and accommodations, check out our destination guide, Tamarindo: Where Paradise Meets Convenience.

Other Beach Towns in Guanacaste

For those looking for a smaller beach destination, you have several options. Below we link to our full posts with additional detail.

Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste): A quieter beach town in Northern Guanacaste with many condo rentals. The main beach has calmer water for swimming.

Playa Potrero: One of the more affordable beach towns in Guanacaste. It has great access to several different beaches.

Playa Flamingo: An upscale destination with a gorgeous white-sand beach.

Playa Conchal: Not a town per se, but Conchal Beach has several high-end resorts that have been built up along its beautiful turquoise water.

Playa Avellanas: An off-the-beaten-path beach town with surfing and a super laid-back vibe.

Playa Negra, a surfing beach just south of Playa AvellanasConclusion

If you’re looking to avoid long drives on your visit to Costa Rica, these itineraries should give you some ideas for how to structure your trip. We’ve tried to limit drive time as much as possible, all while ensuring you can still see everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

Have a question about planning a trip to Costa Rica that limits driving? Ask us below.Looking for more information to plan your visit? Check out these posts:

Family Travel: If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out our Family Travel articles for more tips on making an itinerary, packing, what to do, and more.

Renting a Car in Costa Rica: Clearing Up the Confusion – Learn about Costa Rica’s required insurance and pitfalls to avoid when renting a car.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: Is it worth visiting during rainy season? Provides practical information about Costa Rica’s seasons and when is a good time to come.

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Playa Bejuco (Puntarenas): A Destination Between Destinations

Two Weeks in Costa Rica |

A drive along Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast will bring you to some of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. And while the bigger towns get much of the hype, there is a lot to see in between them. The hour-long stretch of road between Jaco and Manuel Antonio passes amazing surf spots, rolling farm fields, and quiet beachside communities.

One destination that is often overlooked along this route is Playa Bejuco. This small beachside town has its own amenities and a beautiful palm-tree-lined beach. In this post, we’ll share all the information you need to plan a visit to Playa Bejuco. 

A Central Location Background

Playa Bejuco (Puntarenas) has a desirable location for visitors who want to see main attractions but also stay somewhere less busy, and perhaps, less expensive. It’s about 30 minutes south of Jaco and 45 minutes north of Manuel Antonio.

Playa Bejuco is right off the coastal highway, Route 34. The main area consists of just one short road that runs from the highway directly to the beach. Along that strip are a couple of residential developments and small hotels. There is also a mini-super (convenience store).

The main road ends at the beach. Here, you’ll find a narrow sandy road that runs both to the left and right. 

The beach roadProximity to Jaco and Manuel Antonio

Both Jaco and Manuel Antonio are easy day trips from Playa Bejuco.

Jaco is the largest tourist town on the central Pacific coast. It has a main strip with loads of great restaurants, shops, and tour operators if you are looking for adventure. The beach in Jaco isn’t the most pristine, but it always has a lot going on, which makes it fun.  

In the other direction is Manuel Antonio, which is famous for its abundant wildlife. A tour of Manuel Antonio National Park is a must when visiting the area. The jungle-backed town is full of excellent restaurants and has many tours available as well.

Proximity to the Airport

From Costa Rica’s largest airport near San Jose (SJO), the drive to Playa Bejuco is about 2 hours along paved highways. This adds to the town’s appeal since you can usually eliminate airport hotel stays, depending on your flights.  

Note: There are two beaches in Costa Rica that go by the name of Playa Bejuco. One is south of Samara on the Nicoya Peninsula. The one we are talking about here is on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast in the province of Puntarenas.

 Playa Bejuco – About the Beach  

While day trips to the major tourist spots are fun, Playa Bejuco is an attraction in and of itself.

Shady palm trees are spaced out along the beach road, allowing you to pull your car right up to the sand’s edge in many spots.   

Parking under the palm trees

Playa Bejuco is a long expanse of gray sand. It stretches for miles in each direction. To the north, you can see one point, which is the surfing town of Esterillos Oeste. Far to the south, you can faintly see another point with a large hill. This is Quepos and Manuel Antonio. 

While strong waves and sometimes rip currents make Playa Bejuco hard to swim at, the water is nice for wading and splashing around. Kids often boogie board. and some people surf when conditions are right.

Recently a lifeguard station has been added where the main road meets the beach. It is mostly funded by the area’s residents and businesses. This shows the kind of tight-knit community that Playa Bejuco has.

Between taking dips in the warm Pacific, most people enjoy their time under the palm trees or out on the sand.

While not really on the tourist map, many locals from San Jose and other parts of Costa Rica come to Playa Bejuco on weekends and holidays. This can make for a fun cultural experience. There’s lots of relaxing in hammocks, barbequing, friendly soccer matches, and spending time with family and friends.

Accommodations in Playa Bejuco

While Playa Bejuco doesn’t have big hotels or resorts, there are a few good accommodation options for visitors.

Vacation Rentals

The most common accommodations are vacation rentals. Several gated communities in and around Playa Bejuco offer large home rentals with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, nice gardens, and often a private pool. Some are within a short walk to the beach, while others are located a few minutes away by car.

Along the beach road, you’ll also find some stand-alone rental units. These are right across the street from the beach and have an amazing view.

Houses for rent along the beachHotels

Along with vacation homes, a couple of smaller hotels and cabins are also dotted into the community.

A simple, but popular choice, is Hotel Playa Bejuco. This is on the main road, just a one-minute walk to the water. It is run by friendly locals and has a pool and restaurant onsite.

Pool area at Hotel Playa Bejuco

Another option is EcoVida Properties. EcoVida has basic, but well equipped, cabins nestled in the rainforest. They also have a larger apartment made from a shipping container. The owners of EcoVida are passionate about the surrounding environment and sustainable farming.

Camping

Finally, there is camping available at Playa Bejuco. Several campgrounds are located along the beach road. For a small daily fee, you can set up a tent and get access to bathrooms and showers. 

Bejuco’s Restaurants & Other Local Eats

Although the town of Playa Bejuco is very small, it has several good choices for dining in or taking out.

Esterillos Town Center

Across the highway from the beach, you will find Esterillos Town Center. This is a large plaza with some shopping as well as several dining options. It also has a grocery store, bakery, and a weekly farmers market (Saturday evenings during high season).

We have enjoyed several meals at La Rioja Restaurant. They have a big tapas menu if you just need a small bite to eat. They also have wood-fired pizza and a variety of entrees, including fried snapper, grilled seafood, steaks, and burgers. On Fridays, check out their 2×1 cocktails and live music.

El Chiringuito is a more upscale option with Mediterranean cuisine like fresh ravioli, risotto, seafood, and grilled meats. They also have a combo menu with casual dishes that is great for a picnic at the beach. El Chiringuito is a good place to go for cocktails. Check their Facebook page for info on live music and events.

Outdoor dining at El Chiringuito

For nicely done food in a casual atmosphere, there is Jardines Café Emma. They serve traditional Costa Rican or American-style breakfast, along with burgers and quality steak and seafood plates. They also sell all-natural homemade breads and bagels.

Sunsets Restaurant

On the beach side of town is Sunsets Restaurant in Hotel Playa Bejuco. They serve mostly typical Costa Rican fare like arroz con pollo (rice with chicken) and casados (plates with rice, beans, salad, and a protein like fish or meat), but they have some more elaborate entrees as well like chicken cordon blue. The dining area is located next to the hotel’s pool.

Beach Vendors

Along with the restaurants above, you can usually find some beach vendors offering local foods, especially on weekends. Several walk around selling fresh ceviche or cold coconuts.

There is also usually a person selling ice cream or a local treat called a granizado. These are a snow-cone-type dessert made with shaved ice, sweet fruit syrups, powdered milk, and condensed sweet milk. They are sure to give you a sugar high! The vendor walks around with a cart and makes it right there for you.

Granizado vendor along the beachConclusion

Playa Bejuco is a tranquil beach town that is the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast. From day trips to popular tourist towns like Manuel Antonio and Jaco to lazy beach days, you’re sure to have a pleasant stay.

Have you been to Playa Bejuco (Puntarenas) or have a question about the area? Leave us a comment below. Looking for more information to help you plan? Check out these posts:

Esterillos Oeste: Surfing, Serenity, and La Sirena – Just north of Playa Bejuco, you’ll find the beach town of Esterillos Oeste. This is a popular surfing beach, which has a small-town feel.

Rental Car Discount – If you plan to stay in Playa Bejuco, you’ll definitely want a car to explore the coast. Check out our discount for 10% off and free extras like a beach cooler and surf racks.

Catarata El Salto de Gamalotillo: A Relaxing Waterfall Near Parrita – This little-known waterfall is only about 30 minutes from Playa Bejuco. It’s located in the beautiful countryside and makes a great day trip.

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