Lonely Planet Costa Rica

Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime in this latest edition of our guide to Costa Rica.

Discover Costa Rica's most popular experiences and best kept secrets from catching a glimpse of shy sloths and white-faced monkeys in Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio; to marvelling at the five scenic cascades in the Central Valley's La Paz Waterfall Gardens; and taking an educational bean-to-bar cacao tour at an organic farm in Río Celeste.

This classic guidebook format contains the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips, with an all-new structure and design that's easy to use so you can navigate Costa Rica effortlessly. Exciting itineraries help you create your perfect adventure with suggestions for extended journeys, day trips, walking tours and activity-led excursions. Expert local recommendations cover eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, festivals, when to go and more, while vibrant photography and maps bring the country to life. Get fresh takes on must-visit sights from the Britt Coffee Tours to Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas and Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary.

An essential information toolkit contains tips on arriving, transport, local etiquette, using money, LGBTIQ+ travel advice, useful words and phrases, accessibility and responsible travel. Connect with Costa Rican culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history and traditions. Coverage includes San José, Central Valley & the Highlands, Caribbean Coast, Northwestern Costa Rica, Arenal & the Northern Lowlands, Península de Nicoya, Central Pacific Coast, Southern Costa Rica and Península de Osa.