Costa Rica Cheap

Make Your Costa Rica Budget Go Further

Compare the full cost — transport, admission and inclusions — and know when a self-guided visit beats a paid tour.

Beach chairs and umbrellas on a sandy beach · Photo: Original image

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Palm-shaded beach with rocky headland · Photo: Original image

Where

Budget Destinations

Bases where you can walk or bus to things.

Sailboats at anchor in a calm bay at dusk · Photo: Original image

Tours

Affordable Tours

Paid tour vs do-it-yourself, compared.

Pacific surf and a long sandy beach backed by forest · Photo: Original image

Sleep

Cheap Stays

Budget rooms and where to look.

Red-roofed houses on a hillside with mountains behind · Photo: Original image

Move

Transportation

Bus, shuttle or car.

Palm trees and calm sea at blue hour · Photo: Original image

Free

Free Things to Do

Beaches, towns and viewpoints.

Sunset over forested hills and a volcano · Photo: Original image

Plans

Budget Itineraries

Routes that limit backtracking.

Budget guides

Budget Guides

How to Compare the Total Cost of a Day Trip

The headline price is only the start.

Budget Guides

Planning a Costa Rica Vacation on a Budget

Choose fewer bases and the right season.