The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to April. This period offers sunny weather ideal for beach days, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities. The rainy season or “green season” (May to November) has lower prices and fewer crowds. There are weather exceptions though, when the Pacific coast is at its wettest in Sep/Oct, The Caribbean side is very dry. There will also be exceptions as you travel into the mountains.

There are no direct flights from Ireland to Costa Rica, so travelers usually fly via major U.S. airports like Miami or New York. Flights typically land at San José's Juan Santamaría International Airport. Flight time depending on stopover duration can be from 15 -18 hours.

Irish citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism. You’ll need a passport valid for at least six months from your entry date, along with a return or onward ticket. Costa Rican immigration might also ask for proof of sufficient funds to support your stay.

Costa Rica’s currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Euro are not commonly accepted, so it's best to bring U.S. dollars or withdraw colones from ATMs. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash for smaller establishments or rural areas. (€1.00 = 550.00CRC)

Costa Rica offers incredible bio-diversity with 30 national parks with tropical rain & cloud forest, over 60 volcanoes and 800 In fact the country supports an incredible 5% of the world’s biodiversity.

Arenal Volcano: One of the country’s most iconic sights, with hot springs, hiking, and waterfalls.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: A stunning cloud forest with hiking trails, suspension bridges, and rare wildlife.

Manuel Antonio National Park: Beautiful beaches, lush forests, and easy access to wildlife like sloths and monkeys.

Tortuguero National Park: Known for its canal system and as a nesting site for sea turtles.

Corcovado National Park: A remote and biodiverse rainforest, perfect for serious nature lovers.

Costa Rica hosts several lively cultural events throughout the year including;

Fiestas de Palmares (January): A two-week event featuring concerts, bullfights, and dancing.

Envision Festival (February): An eco-friendly music and arts festival on the Pacific coast.

Día de los Boyeros (March): Celebrates the traditional ox-cart drivers in San Antonio de Escazú.

Independence Day (September 15): Marked with parades, traditional music, and dancing across the country.

Festival de la Luz (December): A Christmas light parade in San José, perfect for holiday spirit.

Costa Rica is one of the few countries in the world without a standing army and yet is one of the safest countries in Central America. While generally considered safe for tourists. Standard precautions are recommended, such as avoiding isolated areas at night, not displaying valuables, and using reputable transportation. The country has a strong focus on tourism and a visible police presence in popular areas.

No specific vaccinations are required for Irish travelers, but it’s recommended to have standard vaccinations, like hepatitis A and B and typhoid, especially if traveling to rural areas. Costa Rica has good healthcare facilities, particularly in urban areas, but travel insurance covering medical expenses is advisable.

DescrIn popular tourist and business areas many main stream brands are well represented. Costa Rican cuisine itself is simple, fresh, and flavourful. Staples include gallo pinto (rice and beans, often served with breakfast), casado (a typical lunch with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein), and fresh seafood on the coast. Vegetarian options are widely available, with dishes like rice, beans, salads, fresh fruits, and plantains commonly served. Most tourist areas offer vegan and vegetarian-friendly options as well.iption goes here