Practical, no-nonsense advice on airport transfers and getting around Costa Rica — so you spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Why the road to Monteverde has a reputation for being tricky, and every real option to get there — shuttle, rental car or bus.
Fly, drive or bus? Real options to reach Puerto Jiménez and Corcovado National Park, with times and costs.
Can you bring a board on an airport shuttle? What shared shuttles allow, and what to expect from private transport.
Is it safe? Can you drink the water? Do you need cash, Spanish, a visa? The questions every first-timer asks — answered honestly.
Immigration, customs, SIM cards, money and transport — step by step from the plane to your hotel, and how to avoid the arrival-hall hustle.
Real 2026 prices per vehicle for the top routes, how shared shuttles compare, and the hidden fees to watch for.
The classic week — hotels for every budget, the best tours, where to eat, and your private transport planned out with prices.
Volcano + beach via Liberia (LIR) — Arenal and the Tamarindo/Guanacaste coast, with hotels, tours, restaurants and transport.
Arenal + Manuel Antonio for couples — five-star stays, romantic tours, where to eat, and private VIP transport.
Where to eat in La Fortuna, San José, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio — from budget sodas to fine dining.
Dry vs green season by region — a month-by-month guide to weather, crowds, prices and planning.
The reliable spots by region, why most people miss them, and how to see sloths without adding a day to your trip.
Costa Rica isn't one climate. What's right for Arenal is wrong for Guanacaste, and Monteverde catches everyone out.
An honest answer from Costa Rican drivers: where English works, where it thins out, and the words that matter.
Rental car, shuttle or private driver? The transport decision seen from a birder's point of view — dawn starts, gear and remote lodges.
Soda Cinchona, Bogarín Trail and Café Colibrí — where they are, when to go, and how they fit a travel day.
An honest comparison of renting a car vs private shuttles — cost, roads, insurance and hassle.
How long to stay at the Arenal Volcano — a realistic day-by-day plan and how to get there.
Family-friendly destinations and stress-free ways to get around with children — car seats & easy stops.
Private shuttle, shared shuttle, rental car or bus — times, costs and the easiest way to reach La Fortuna.
The fastest, most comfortable ways to reach Tamarindo and the Guanacaste beaches from Liberia Airport.
Compare Costa Rica's two airports by destination and drive time to pick the right one for your trip.
Private shuttle vs rental car vs shared shuttle vs bus — an honest comparison to help you choose.
Compare 600+ routes and instant prices across Costa Rica.
