Backpacking in Costa Rica Guide: Key Tips to know! [2024]

For thrill-seeking backpackers, Costa Rica is the perfect playground. You can explore lush rainforests, soak up the sun on stunning beaches, and immerse yourself in a vibrant culture. 

Adventurous travelers will appreciate the untamed beauty and become engrossed in the history and culture of this Central American nation. And if you’re new to this type of travel, Costa Rica is a great place to start dipping your toes in the waters of backpacking.

If you’re trying to decide whether Costa Rica would be a good destination for your next backpacking trip, I’ve prepared this extensive guide to help you out.

Learn more from the rest of our Costa Rica series…

• Navigate Costa Rican airports like a local
• Find the best areas to stay
• Stay at a Costa Rica hostels that won’t disappoint
• Don’t miss out on these local spots—the best places to go in Costa Rica
• Add these exciting things to do to your trip plan
• Make time for a few guided tours during your adventure
• Spend the night out enjoying Costa Rica’s nightlife
• Want to simplify your planning? Follow this 5-day itinerary or 7-day trip plan
• Get our tips on budget travel in Costa Rica
• Find more helpful information if you’re a solo traveler
• Remember, camping in Costa Rica is also a great option!
• Dive into our snorkeling guide—essential tips and advice before you go

Why Choose Costa Rica?

Located in Central America, Costa Rica is known for its vivid natural beauty.

The focus of backpacking is to immerse yourself in local cultures, meet new people, and experience new things. And Costa Rica offers every little aspect of the ultimate backpacking adventure. The nature, the beauty, the Pura Vida culture! Oh my!

Plus, the people are friendly, and the costs are low.

By making friends with locals, you’ll be able to discover the hidden wonders your regular travel magazine doesn’t tell you about. After all, a country’s best-kept secrets are sealed on the lips of its people.

Preparing for Your Costa Rica Adventure

I’d love to be the type of person who can just toss some clothes in a bag and head out without any real idea of what I’m doing. But unfortunately, that’s not in my nature, and I always like to be prepared.

And when it comes to long journeys through foreign countries, I like to have some control over the things around me.

Of course, every person is different, so there’s no right or wrong way to prepare for a backpacking trip. But here are some points to remember that might help you create a plan.

Budget

Remember that backpacking is all about keeping your costs low. 

There are many different ways to budget for your trip. Researching accommodation, flights, activities, and food costs ahead of time is a good idea so you can set aside money accordingly. And think about having an emergency fund if things don’t go well. 

Travel Route

Planning a route ensures you hit all the best places while backpacking in Costa Rica. You’ll also get an idea about where you might be staying, the kinds of people you’ll meet, and the activities you can enjoy.

Timing

Planning the best time to go backpacking in Costa Rica could make or break your trip. Knowing the best time to visit Costa Rica in terms of seasons, weather, peak tourism months, and significant cultural events can help you get the most out of your trip.

You might not be able to predict the weather, but you can certainly try your best to avoid the worst of it! 

Must-Have Packing Essentials

You may wonder what to pack for a backpacking trip to Costa Rica. Costa Rica’s environment is very different from what you might be used to, and there are a few essentials you should keep on you at all times:

• Insect repellant
• Sun protection
• First Aid Kit
• Rain gear
• Comfortable shoes

What to Do in Costa Rica

Explore the Wilderness

Costa Rica is an area of intense natural beauty and diversity. The country has incredible flora and fauna, including sloths, toucans, and red-eyed tree frogs!

It’s a paradise for nature lovers who can enjoy endless hiking opportunities, national parks, and adventure opportunities in unique terrain.

Not to mention the countless thrill-seeking opportunities such as canopy walks, ziplining, rock climbing, and more!

Dive into Local Cuisine

The food in Costa Rica is a real treat. The country is known for rich, flavorful cuisines that will get you hooked! The street food in Costa Rica is in a class of its own and something every visitor to the country must try at least once. 

If you’re longing for a taste of home, there are well-known outlets to be found too.

Immerse Yourself in the Culture

Costa Rica is rich in natural wonders and is culturally rich too! You can enjoy learning about the history and traditions of the region by:

• Attending local festivals
• Visiting indigenous communities
• Taking dance classes
• Enjoying coffee tours
• Visiting museums
• Wandering around!

The best way to immerse yourself in the culture is to avoid the regular tourist traps and try to dig out the hidden gems. Talk to the locals, wander the streets, and don’t be afraid to investigate if you see something interesting.

Try Volunteering

The country is packed with opportunities if you fancy doing some good while backpacking in Costa Rica.

By browsing through Volunteer World, you can find a way to spend more time in Costa Rica exploring and diving into the incredible culture.

Remember, it’s volunteering, so you won’t be paid. Depending on the organization you volunteer with, costs like accommodation and food might be covered. The experience probably won’t be luxurious, but it will be unlike anything you’ve ever dreamed of!

The Best Towns in Costa Rica for Backpackers

San Jose

San Jose is Costa Rica’s capital and the ideal base for backpackers to branch out to other regions. It’s budget-friendly, vibrant, and full of opportunities to explore. 

Santa Elena

Located close to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Santa Elena offers opportunities for adventure backpackers looking to explore the local wilderness and embrace Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

The Osa Peninsula

Known for its natural diversity and gorgeous beaches, the Orsa Peninsula is a must-see destination for backpackers on a budget.

Transport in Costa Rica

Unless you’re traveling to Costa Rica on foot, you’ll need a good idea of the types of transport on offer. Let’s look at a few of the options.

Public Buses

Buses are the most common form of transport in Costa Rica. They are easily accessible in most major towns and cities, and they’re cheap and will get you to many fabulous places.

The only downside is that they have set routes, so going off the beaten path isn’t easy. But, of course, you could always combine buses with other types of transport!

Rental Cars

With a rental, you can stop and sniff the flowers on the side of the road. In contrast, you can’t necessarily do that on a public bus or even using a private service. I love the freedom of movement this option offers! 

Renting a car might not be the best choice for you, though. There are concerns about road conditions, traffic regulations, and the hidden costs that come with driving.

These are all things to factor in and consider before choosing to use a rental for your backpacking trip through Costa Rica.

Private Services

If you have more budget to splurge, you can go the private transportation route. This can include:

• Taxis
• Uber
• Didi

While these services don’t offer the freedom of a rental car, they allow ease of movement with a bit of privacy.

Time to Get Backpacking!

Costa Rica is a backpacker’s paradise. It’s the perfect destination to kick off a lifetime journey of budget travel! All you need to do now is start planning your perfect trip.

Why not let Pilot help with that?