Don’t Make THESE Mistakes in Costa Rica (2026 Travel Guide) 🌴✈️

Summary

In this video, Emma shares 14 common mistakes travelers make when visiting Costa Rica, offering tips to avoid them for a smooth trip. From overpacking your itinerary to not respecting local wildlife, Emma draws on her extensive travel experience to help viewers plan a more fulfilling vacation. She covers practical advice like renting a car, booking activities in advance, and understanding the weather. Emma emphasizes embracing the 'Pura Vida' lifestyle, trying local food, and respecting Costa Rica’s natural beauty, ensuring an authentic and memorable experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Don't limit yourself to just one destination in Costa Rica. The country offers diverse landscapes and experiences, so explore multiple locations during your trip.
• 😀 Avoid cramming too many activities into a short trip. Focus on one or two key spots to ensure a relaxing and fulfilling experience.
• 😀 Renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you have a packed itinerary. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
• 😀 Always purchase car insurance when renting a vehicle in Costa Rica. It's not just a recommendation—it's a legal requirement in the country.
• 😀 Get an eSIM for your phone before you travel to Costa Rica. It’s an affordable and convenient way to stay connected without the hassle of swapping SIM cards.
• 😀 Don't skip La Fortuna (Arenal). Despite being touristy, it offers a perfect mix of adventure, hot springs, hiking, and wildlife, making it a must-visit location.
• 😀 Book activities and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. Last-minute bookings can result in limited options and missed opportunities.
• 😀 Be prepared for varying weather conditions. Costa Rica’s northern region is dry and sunny, while the southern region tends to be more lush with frequent rainfall.
• 😀 Respect the wildlife. Avoid feeding or touching animals, as it encourages unsafe behavior for both tourists and animals.
• 😀 Always carry cash, especially for smaller local restaurants (sodas) and tolls. While USD is accepted, you may get better prices using Costa Rica's local currency, the colón.

Q & A

Why is it a mistake to only visit one place in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica offers a diverse range of landscapes, from cloud forests to Pacific Coast beaches. Limiting yourself to just one spot means missing out on the variety and uniqueness of the country. It's recommended to explore at least one or two spots to experience Costa Rica's full beauty.

What’s the danger of trying to visit too many places in one trip to Costa Rica?

Trying to see too many places in a short time can be exhausting and stressful. You’ll end up spending most of your time in transit, making it hard to fully enjoy your experiences. It’s better to focus on a few top destinations and immerse yourself in them rather than rushing through multiple locations.

What are the benefits of renting a car in Costa Rica?

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can visit off-the-beaten-path locations, make spontaneous stops at waterfalls, and explore small surf towns. While taxis and shuttles are options, having your own vehicle offers more flexibility and a more authentic experience.

Why is car insurance important when renting a vehicle in Costa Rica?

Car insurance is mandatory in Costa Rica, and not having it can lead to serious complications. Even if your credit card covers rental insurance, rental companies will still charge for insurance. It's essential to budget for this cost to ensure your protection and avoid surprises.

What is an eSIM, and why should travelers get one for Costa Rica?

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to access local networks without changing your physical SIM card. Using an eSIM like Aerolo offers affordable and flexible data packages, ensuring you stay connected without incurring expensive roaming charges.

What makes La Fortuna a must-visit town in Costa Rica?

La Fortuna is a popular tourist destination because it offers a wide range of activities such as hiking, waterfall exploration, ziplining, wildlife viewing, and visits to coffee and cacao plantations. Additionally, it’s home to the Arenal Volcano and incredible hot springs, making it a unique and well-rounded location for travelers.

Why is it a mistake to book activities last minute in Costa Rica?

During high season, activities and accommodations can fill up quickly. Waiting until the last minute to book can result in limited options or missed opportunities. It’s best to book popular activities and hotels in advance to secure your desired experiences and avoid disappointment.

What should travelers pack for the weather in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica’s weather varies by region. The northern part tends to be dry and hot, while the southern and inland areas can be more humid with higher chances of rain. It's important to pack light, breathable clothing for the dry season, but also bring rain gear (like a jacket and boots) if you're heading inland or to mountainous regions.

What is the main mistake travelers make when interacting with wildlife in Costa Rica?

The main mistake is touching or feeding wildlife. While it might seem fun to feed a monkey or take selfies with animals, this behavior is harmful to both the animals and the visitors. It encourages dangerous interactions and disrupts the natural behavior of wildlife, so it’s crucial to respect their space.

What types of local currency should travelers carry in Costa Rica?

While US dollars are widely accepted in Costa Rica, it’s recommended to carry some local currency (Costa Rican colón) for smaller purchases, like at local sodas (restaurants) or tolls. Using colón can also get you better prices compared to paying in USD.