There are of course many different routes and ways to see Costa Rica, no one if denying that. But when you start planning your trip there you can feel slightly overwhelmed beacuse it feels like every city has so much to do.
I’m here to help, below are the top 3 cities you shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Costa Rica.
If you enjoy being close to beaches, waterfalls, jungles and tons of wildlife definitely spend a good amount of time in the Costa Ballena area. While you can stay anywhere in the three towns that make up the Costa Ballena I preferred Uvita above Dominical and Ojochal. Uvita is kind of like the 3 little bears story, Dominical was too touristy for me, Ojochal was a little too small for my taste, while Uvita was just right, the perfect mix between the two.
Top Things to do in Uvita:
- Marino Ballena National Marine Park
- Hike and wildlife watch at Tesoro Escondido Eco-Reserve and Hacienda Baru or stay on a property like La Cusinga Eco Lodge that has hiking and wildlife watching on the property
- Visit Nauyaca Waterfall on foot or by horseback tour
- Book a Whale Watching tour
- Visit an animal sanctuary like Alturas
- Learn to surf (best in Dominical)
Don't Miss: Whales Tail at Marino Ballena National Park - full directions and tips here.
Suggested Hotels in Uvita: If you like a more rustic stay (think cabins with no air conditioning) with built in hiking trails and a private beach I suggest La Cusinga Eco Lodge. For a personalized luxury experience stay at the gorgeous boutique hotel El Castillo. If you are planning a couples trip book early at the uber romantic Oxygen Jungle Villas.
Monteverde is one of the top destinations in Costa Rica and even though I spent a brief 24 hours here it was one of my favorites. It is high up in the mountains so driving here requires a great deal of attention and care down a long, windy, dirt road. Monteverde is a great family destination with tons of activities for adventure lovers and little ones.
Things to do in Monteverde:
- Zip lining and other adventure tours
- Hanging Bridges
- Climb an old Ficus Tree
- Night wildlife walks
- Coffee Tours
Don't Miss: The adventure parks. There are two in Monteverde; Selvatura and Sky Adventures. They are very similar to each other but one is way cheaper than the other. You can see a full comparison of the two parks here.
Suggested Hotels in Monteverde: For a budget option I suggest Miramontes Hotel. If you want luxury book early at Monteverde Lodge & Gardens.
The most popular destination in Costa Rica is hands down La Fortuna. To start off it has an impressive waterfall and an active volcano you can hike around. Then add in hot springs, a range of hotels from backpacker to luxury and you’ve got a great destination. This was one of my favorite destinations in Costa Rica for solo travelers. Keep in mind that you don’t have to stay in La Fortuna to visit all the attractions that it has to offer. There are many hotels around Lake Arenal to choose from as long as you rent a car.
Things to do in La Fortuna:
- Hike around the Arenal Volcano
- Hot Springs
- Zip lining and other adventure tours
- Waterfalls
- Hanging Bridges
- Whitewater Rafting
Don’t Miss: The 1968 Lava Trail and then immediately taking a dip in the natural hot springs that surround the area.
Suggested Hotels in La Fortuna: If you want to stay in the exact town of La Fortuna I suggest Nayara Springs or Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa. But if you rent a car definitely look into Hotel Mystica, a unique yoga/wellness hotel that is on the far side of the lake.
If you need more planning help I have tons of information on my website or don’t be afraid to email me! Tessajuliette@gmail.com