Planning your Costa Rica adventure but worried about the budget? I’ve been there. After helping hundreds of travelers plan their perfect Costa Rican getaway, I know exactly what you’ll spend for an unforgettable two-week journey in 2025.
The short answer: expect to spend between $1,800 and $4,200 per person for two weeks, depending on your travel style. But there’s so much more to consider, and I’ll break down every detail to help you plan the perfect trip within your budget.
Understanding Costa Rica’s Travel Costs in 2025
Costa Rica isn’t the cheapest Central American destination, but it delivers incredible value. The country’s focus on ecotourism and sustainable travel means you’re paying for well-maintained infrastructure, safety, and world-class natural experiences.
Your biggest expenses will be accommodation, transportation, and activities. Food costs vary dramatically based on where and how you eat. The good news? Costa Rica offers options for every budget level.
Budget Breakdown by Travel Style
Backpacker Budget: $1,800-$2,400 per person
This budget gets you hostels, public transportation, and local food experiences. You’ll stay in dorm rooms, take chicken buses between destinations, and eat at sodas (local restaurants). Perfect for adventurous travelers who prioritize experiences over luxury.
Daily breakdown:
- Accommodation: $15-25 per night (hostel dorms)
- Food: $15-20 per day (local sodas and markets)
- Transportation: $5-10 per day (public buses)
- Activities: $10-15 per day (free hikes, beaches, some paid tours)
Mid-Range Comfort: $2,800-$3,500 per person
This sweet spot offers private rooms, reliable transportation, and a mix of local and tourist-oriented dining. You’ll have comfort without breaking the bank. Most travelers find this range perfect for experiencing Costa Rica’s highlights.
Daily breakdown:
- Accommodation: $40-70 per night (boutique hotels, B&Bs)
- Food: $25-35 per day (mix of local and tourist restaurants)
- Transportation: $15-25 per day (shuttles, some domestic flights)
- Activities: $25-40 per day (zip-lining, wildlife tours, national park fees)
Luxury Experience: $3,800-$4,200+ per person
High-end lodges, private transportation, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences. You’ll stay at eco-lodges with stunning views and enjoy guided tours with expert naturalists. This budget unlocks Costa Rica’s most exclusive experiences.
Daily breakdown:
- Accommodation: $120-200+ per night (luxury eco-lodges, resorts)
- Food: $50-80 per day (fine dining, resort meals)
- Transportation: $40-60 per day (private transfers, domestic flights)
- Activities: $50-100+ per day (private guides, premium tours, spa treatments)
Transportation Costs You Need to Know
Getting around Costa Rica requires planning. The country’s mountainous terrain means longer travel times than you might expect.
Domestic flights cost $80-150 per flight and save significant time. Popular routes like San José to Manuel Antonio or Liberia to Drake Bay are worth the investment if your time is limited.
Shuttle services run $25-50 per person between major destinations. They’re comfortable, reliable, and include hotel pickup. Companies like Interbus and GrayLine Costa Rica offer comprehensive networks.
Rental cars cost $35-80 per day plus insurance (mandatory and expensive at $15-25 daily). Factor in gas at $5+ per gallon. Only rent if you’re comfortable with mountain driving and want maximum flexibility.
Public buses are incredibly cheap at $2-8 for long distances but require patience and Spanish skills. They’re an authentic experience but not practical if you’re short on time.
Accommodation Strategy That Saves Money
Location dramatically impacts costs. Beach towns and popular tourist areas cost 40-60% more than inland destinations. Consider these strategies:
Mix locations: Spend half your time in expensive beach areas and half exploring cheaper inland destinations like Monteverde or San Gerardo de Dota.
Book shoulder season: May through mid-July and September through mid-November offer 20-30% savings on accommodations while still providing excellent weather.
Consider alternative areas: Instead of expensive Manuel Antonio, try Dominical. Skip pricey Puerto Viejo for more affordable Cahuita. You’ll get similar experiences at a fraction of the cost.
Many travelers find success booking their first few nights in advance, then booking as they go for flexibility and better local rates.
Food Costs and Where to Eat
Costa Rican food doesn’t have to break your budget. The key is knowing where locals eat versus tourist traps.
Sodas serve traditional casados (rice, beans, meat, and plantains) for $4-7. These family-run restaurants offer authentic flavors and generous portions.
Tourist restaurants charge $12-25 for similar meals but often with less authentic preparation. Stick to places with handwritten Spanish menus for the best value.
Grocery shopping saves significant money. Markets sell fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, and staples. A week’s groceries for two people will cost between $30-50 if you’re staying somewhere with kitchen access.
Happy hours and lunch specials at nicer restaurants offer upscale dining at reasonable prices. Many beachfront restaurants offer 2-for-1 drinks from 4-6 PM.
Activity Costs Worth Every Penny
Costa Rica’s activities range from free to expensive, but most deliver exceptional value for wildlife viewing and adventure.
National park entrance fees cost $10-15 per person and provide access to world-class hiking and wildlife viewing. Manuel Antonio, Corcovado, and Monteverde Cloud Forest are must-visits.
Zip-lining runs $45-80 per person. Monteverde offers the most famous canopy tours, but you’ll find options throughout the country.
Wildlife tours cost $35-65 per person for group tours and $100-150 for private guides. Tortuguero for sea turtles, Corcovado for jaguars, and Monteverde for quetzals offer unforgettable experiences.
White-water rafting ranges from $65-95 per person depending on river difficulty and duration. The Pacuare River provides world-class rapids with stunning scenery.
Free activities include hiking most trails, visiting beaches, bird watching, and exploring small towns. Costa Rica’s natural beauty doesn’t require expensive tours to appreciate.
Plans for All of Your Costa Rican Adventures in 2025—Book Now, Pay Later!
Sample 14-Day Itinerary with Real Costs
This mid-range itinerary covers Costa Rica’s highlights while managing costs effectively:
Days 1-3: San José and Surroundings
- Accommodation: $50/night at Hotel Presidente downtown
- Activities: Day trip to Poás Volcano ($40) and coffee tour ($35)
- Food: Mix of sodas ($6-8/meal) and nicer restaurants ($15-20/meal)
Days 4-6: Manuel Antonio
- Accommodation: $75/night at boutique hotel
- Activities: National park entry ($15), zip-lining ($65), beach time (free)
- Transportation: Shuttle from San José ($45)
Days 7-9: Monteverde
- Accommodation: $60/night at eco-lodge
- Activities: Cloud forest tour ($45), night walk ($25), coffee plantation ($30)
- Transportation: Shuttle from Manuel Antonio ($35)
Days 10-12: Arenal
- Accommodation: $80/night with volcano views
- Activities: Hot springs ($25), hanging bridges ($35), volcano hiking (free)
- Transportation: Shuttle from Monteverde ($25)
Days 13-14: Return to San José
- Accommodation: $45/night near airport
- Activities: Souvenir shopping, departure
- Transportation: Shuttle from Arenal ($40)
Total estimated cost: $3,100 per person, including flights, accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.
Plans for All of Your Costa Rican Adventures in 2025—Book Now, Pay Later!
Money-Saving Tips That Actually Work
Travel during shoulder season for 30% savings on accommodations and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
Stay longer in fewer places to reduce transportation expenses and get better weekly rates on accommodations.
Eat breakfast at your hotel when included, pack lunches for day trips, and enjoy dinner at local sodas.
Book tours directly with operators rather than through hotels to avoid commission markups.
Use colones instead of dollars for better exchange rates at local businesses.
Download offline maps to avoid international roaming charges while navigating.
When planning your adventure, consider using a comprehensive booking platform that compares prices across multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best deals on accommodations and activities throughout your journey.
After the summer, September is a fantastic month to travel cheaply. Despite the departure of August tourists and lower hotel charges, the weather remains pleasant enough to enjoy. Continue reading…
Final Thoughts on Costa Rica Costs
Costa Rica offers incredible value for travelers seeking natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Yes, it costs more than neighboring countries, but the infrastructure, safety, and environmental protection justify the expense.
Your two-week Costa Rican adventure will likely become one of your most memorable travel experiences. The country’s commitment to conservation means you’re supporting sustainable tourism while creating unforgettable memories.
Budget around $2,500-3,200 per person for a comfortable mid-range experience, and you’ll have plenty of flexibility to splurge on special experiences while maintaining reasonable daily costs. Costa Rica rewards travelers who plan ahead while remaining open to spontaneous adventures along the way.
Plans for All of Your Costa Rican Adventures in 2025—Book Now, Pay Later!
