Where to Go in Costa Rica in 2025: Top Destinations & Ideal Itineraries

Costa Rica continues to captivate travelers in 2025 with its incredible biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and world-leading sustainable tourism practices. From cloud forests and volcanoes to tropical beaches and vibrant coastal towns, this Central American gem has something for every kind of traveler.
Here are the top places to visit in Costa Rica in 2025—plus recommendations for how long to stay in each for the best experience.

1. Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna
Recommended stay: 2–3 days
Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations. Adventure-seekers can hike the trails around the volcano, zip-line through the forest canopy, or soak in the region’s many hot springs. Don't miss the La Fortuna Waterfall, a spectacular spot for a swim. The nearby town of La Fortuna is also a great base with charming cafes and local flavor.

2. Monteverde Cloud Forest
Recommended stay: 1–2 days
Monteverde offers a misty, magical rainforest experience perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Walk the hanging bridges, take a night wildlife tour, and visit the cloud forest reserves to spot the elusive quetzal bird. Eco-lodges here emphasize sustainability without sacrificing comfort.

3. Manuel Antonio National Park
Recommended stay: 2–3 days
One of Costa Rica’s most visited parks, Manuel Antonio offers the best of both worlds: lush jungle and white-sand beaches. Hike through the park’s wildlife-filled trails in the morning, then swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters in the afternoon. Sloths, monkeys, and iguanas are common sightings.

4. Tortuguero National Park
Recommended stay: 2 days
Often called the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” Tortuguero is a remote area accessible only by boat or small plane. It’s famous for its sea turtle nesting season (July–October), as well as guided canal tours through wildlife-rich wetlands. A must for eco-travelers.

5. Osa Peninsula & Corcovado National Park
Recommended stay: 3–4 days
This is Costa Rica at its wildest. The Osa Peninsula is home to Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically intense places on Earth. With rugged trails, deserted beaches, and rare species like tapirs and jaguars, it’s ideal for serious nature lovers and adventurers.

​6. Guanacaste & Papagayo Peninsula
Recommended stay: 3–4 days
Known for its sun-kissed beaches and upscale resorts, Guanacaste is great for relaxation. The Papagayo Peninsula offers luxury resorts, world-class snorkeling, and incredible sunsets. It’s a great stop for couples or anyone needing some beach therapy.

7. Nicoya Peninsula (Nosara & Santa Teresa)
Recommended stay: 3–5 days
A laid-back region perfect for surfers, yogis, and digital nomads, Nicoya is a “Blue Zone” known for long life and stress-free living. Visit Nosara for yoga retreats or Santa Teresa for world-class surf and trendy beach vibes.

8. Pacuare River
Recommended stay: 2–3 days (overnight rafting trip)
The Pacuare River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in Latin America. Multi-day rafting trips take you deep into the rainforest, where you’ll camp in eco-lodges and wake up to the sound of howler monkeys and tropical birds.

9. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca (Caribbean Coast)
Recommended stay: 2–4 days
Located on the Caribbean side, Puerto Viejo is a cultural melting pot with Afro-Caribbean roots, vibrant nightlife, and gorgeous beaches. It’s ideal for a laid-back vibe with great food, music, and access to Cahuita and Gandoca-Manzanillo national parks.

10. Poás Volcano & Coffee Country
Recommended stay: 1 day
Just a short drive from San José, Poás Volcano features an impressive active crater and scenic hiking trails. Combine it with a visit to a coffee plantation like Hacienda Doka to learn about Costa Rica’s rich coffee heritage.

Suggested Itinerary Lengths
7 Days (1 Week): Arenal + Monteverde + Manuel Antonio
10–12 Days: Arenal + Monteverde + Manuel Antonio + Nicoya or Guanacaste
2 Weeks+: Add Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, or Osa Peninsula for a more immersive experience

Pura Vida awaits in Costa Rica! Whether you're chasing waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, or surfing at sunset, 2025 is the perfect year to explore this eco-paradise.

Nereyda Portillo
​Costa Rica Travel Expert