How to Experience Costa Rica on a Budget

Travelers often face 'sticker shock' when booking eco-lodges, renting cars, or signing up for tours in Costa Rica. As the priciest destination in Central America, this is due to a thriving economy and a well-established tourism industry.

However, budget-minded explorers can find numerous ways to save colones, particularly if they're willing to sacrifice some comfort. Generally, following the Ticos' lead by opting for local eateries, lodgings, and attractions is a smart move.

Here are 10 essential tips for budget travel in Costa Rica.

Daily expenses

• Hostel accommodation: US$25-45

• Standard double room: US$80-150

• Eco-lodge per night: US$150-350

• Local intercity bus fare: US$2-20

• Tourist shuttle bus fare: US$65-85

• Casado (set meal): US$8-12

• Batido (fresh fruit smoothie): US$3-5

• Craft beer: US$6

• Entry to national park or nature reserve: US$12-17

• Canopy tour: US$50-80

• Average daily expenditure: US$75-150

Embrace the green (wet) season

The peak travel season in Costa Rica is from December to April. You'll find lower prices for flights and accommodation outside this window. For maximum savings, plan your trips between August and November, when rates are frequently slashed by half. Don't forget to bring your rain gear.

Select the appropriate airport for your destination

Or rather, choose the best destination based on your airport. Costa Rica has two international airports: the larger one in San José (SJO) and a smaller, more convenient one in Liberia (LIR). It's advisable to compare both, as pricing can differ significantly. However, if you’re not traversing the entire country, the most suitable airport is typically the one closest to your destination.

Navigating Costa Rica can be tricky, so to save time, money, and reduce stress, it's wise to limit your domestic travel.

Opt for cash or incur a fee

Many hotels and tour operators impose an additional charge for credit card payments, while some offer a discount for cash payments. Either way, paying with cash in Costa Rica proves to be more economical. The official currency is the Costa Rican colón, but it’s advisable to carry some US dollars (or withdraw local colones from an ATM) to pay in cash where it counts and sidestep unnecessary costs.

Hop on the bus, Gustavo

Renting a car in Costa Rica can be pricier than anticipated due to mandatory liability insurance, which can sometimes double the base rate. Opting for bus travel not only saves you money but is also more eco-friendly.

Public bus fares vary from US$2 to US$20 based on distance. Note that different companies operate various routes (often from separate stations), which can be a bit confusing. Helpful resources for scheduling include Visit Costa Rica, the Bus Schedule, and Yo Viajo.

For a more comfortable option than public buses, several companies provide tourist shuttles between popular spots. While these are pricier than public buses, they are generally cheaper and more convenient than renting a car.

Companies like EasyRide, Tropical Tours, Interbus, and Monkey Ride offer these shuttles, which run on a fixed schedule and can be booked online, with fares starting around $65.

Stay in hostels or cabinas

Budget accommodation in Costa Rica often takes the form of cabinas, which are typically rustic one-room cabins with minimal amenities. The comfort and price of cabinas can vary widely, but they generally offer affordable options, often catering to local families.

In addition to cabinas, popular tourist areas also feature a variety of hostels, ranging from very basic to quite luxurious.

A new type of hostel, referred to as a “hostel resort,” offers guests a range of amenities like swimming pools, entertainment centers, and fitness facilities. They typically provide a mix of traditional dormitory beds and private rooms at various price levels.

Dine where the locals go

Even the tiniest towns have at least one soda, a local eatery serving authentic Tico dishes. While it’s not gourmet, the food is flavorful, hearty, and budget-friendly. The best deal on the menu is often a casado, a combination plate featuring rice, vegetables, and a protein.

Shop at local markets and food stalls

Another budget-friendly option is to explore local markets. Nourish yourself with fresh tropical fruits and vegetables. You can also try street food, featuring beloved Costa Rican favorites like empanadas and tacos Ticos.

Feel free to drink the tap water

Tap water is generally safe to drink across Costa Rica, except in some very remote areas. There’s no need to spend on bottled water and contribute to plastic waste.

In fact, national parks prohibit single-use plastics in their protected areas. If you're hesitant about tap water, consider getting a water filter; it's a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice in the long run.

Opt for activities you can do on your own

While some adventures, like ziplining or waterfall rappelling, require a guide, many activities do not. Tours can be pricey, so focus on options that allow for independent exploration. Most national parks and nature reserves feature well-marked trails perfect for solo adventurers. You can snorkel directly off the Caribbean or Pacific beaches with just the necessary gear, and kayaks are available for rent along the coast without the need for a guide.

Explore the local free attractions

In Costa Rica, all beaches are public, meaning they are accessible and free for everyone. Many other local swimming spots may not be widely known to tourists but are cherished by residents. With a bit of local insight, you can discover swimming holes, waterfalls, hiking paths, and hot springs typically frequented by locals. Sometimes, a small donation to property owners is suggested or required—often just a few dollars—for a genuinely local experience.

Some of my favorite hidden gems include: La Choyin, a free hot spring located in La Fortuna; Cerro del Amigo, the no-cost hiking trail in Monteverde; and El Miro, a stunning free viewpoint in Jacó.