Costa Rica safari regions
Caribbean Coast & Tortuguero Canals
Explore the wild, untamed beauty of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, from the famous turtle nesting beaches of Tortuguero to the vibrant coral reefs of Cahuita.
Central Highlands & Talamanca Mountains
Ascend into the cool cloud forests, majestic volcanoes, and high-altitude peaks of Costa Rica's central spine, home to unique montane ecosystems.
Central Pacific & Nicoya Gulf
Experience the vibrant biodiversity of the Central Pacific coast, from stunning beaches and marine parks to the unique ecosystems of the Nicoya Gulf islands.
Guanacaste & North Pacific Coast
Explore the sun-drenched dry forests, pristine beaches, and volcanic landscapes of Costa Rica's northwestern region, perfect for wildlife and relaxation.
Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano
Discover the iconic Arenal Volcano, lush rainforests, and rich wetlands of the northern lowlands, offering thrilling adventures and diverse wildlife.
Osa Peninsula & South Pacific
Immerse yourself in the unparalleled wilderness of the Osa Peninsula, a global biodiversity hotspot with pristine rainforests and abundant marine life.
Best time to visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers incredible wildlife viewing year-round, but we find the dry season from December to April to be ideal for predictable weather and easier trail access. For those who don't mind...
Top safari lodges in Costa Rica
Drake Bay Wilderness Resort
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Punta Río Claro
Pachamama Jungle Lodge
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval
Rio Lindo
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Finca Baru del Pacifico
Punta Mona
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval
Ave Del Paraiso
Reserva Biológica Leonel Oviedo
Encanta De Vida Lodge
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Osa
Wildlife in Costa Rica
170 species recorded in Costa Rica9 threatened
Book Safari Experiences in Costa Rica
Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Costa Rica
Visa, health & safety in Costa Rica
Visa Requirements for Costa Rica
Check if you need a visa to visit Costa Rica
Health & Vaccinations for Costa Rica
Loading health information for Costa Rica...
Costa Rica offers an unparalleled ecotourism experience, and with a few sensible precautions, it's an incredibly safe and rewarding destination. We encourage you to embrace the 'Pura Vida' lifestyle while remaining vigilant about your personal belongings and health. Trust your instincts, prepare well, and you'll have an unforgettable adventure amidst its stunning natural beauty.
Vaccinations
Visa Requirements
For most of our readers, a visa isn't necessary for short tourist stays in Costa Rica. Typically, you'll get a 90-day stamp on arrival, provided your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date and you have a return or onward ticket. Always double-check with your specific embassy or consulate before you travel, as rules can change.
Malaria
Malaria risk in Costa Rica is generally very low, and for most of the popular tourist routes, including the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, cloud forests, and central valley, prophylaxis isn't typically recommended. However, there are isolated, very low-risk areas, primarily in the northern lowlands near the Nicaraguan border and some parts of Limon province. We always advise consulting a travel doctor who can assess your specific itinerary and health profile. Regardless, rigorous mosquito bite prevention-using repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus; wearing long sleeves and trousers at dawn and dusk; and sleeping under mosquito nets if available-is crucial for preventing not just malaria, but also dengue and Zika, which are more prevalent.
Travel Insurance
We cannot stress enough the importance of comprehensive travel insurance. While Costa Rica has a decent public healthcare system (CCSS), private clinics and hospitals are excellent but expensive. We always ensure our policy covers medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation to a major medical facility, which can be critical if you're in a remote area. Look for policies that cover trip cancellation, lost luggage, and personal liability too. Don't skimp on this-it's peace of mind that's truly invaluable when you're far from home.
Emergency Numbers
Travel Advisory
Costa Rica is generally a very safe country for tourists, and we've always felt secure during our visits. The 'Pura Vida' spirit is real, and Ticos are incredibly welcoming. However, like anywhere, petty crime, particularly theft, is a concern. We've seen instances of bags snatched from restaurant tables or items taken from unlocked cars. Never leave valuables unattended on beaches or visible in your vehicle. We recommend using hotel safes, carrying only what you need for the day, and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like San Jose or Jaco. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. We've found that exercising common sense and not flashing expensive items goes a long way here.
Costa Rica safari FAQs
Planning tools for Costa Rica
Best time to visit Costa Rica
Month-by-month conditions
Costa Rica safari cost
Lodge prices & budget guide
Luxury safari lodges in Costa Rica
Top-rated camps & lodges
Malaria-free parks in Costa Rica
Low-risk destinations
Family safari parks in Costa Rica
Child-friendly parks & lodges
Quiet parks in Costa Rica
Off-the-beaten-track safari

