HOW TO TRAVEL COSTA RICA ON A BUDGET (SAVE & EXPLORE MORE!)

Costa Rica is one of the most expensive countries in Central America, but with all it has to offer it is worth every colón. We really enjoyed it because of its nature, with rainforests, volcanoes, beaches and some of the best surf, it’s a complete paradise. And the good thing is, you don’t need a luxury budget to enjoy this beautiful country. In this guide, we’ll break how to travel Costa Rica on a budget and still catch all the magic that makes Costa Rica special. For inspiration on where to go, check out our guide to the top places to visit in Costa Rica.

Just so you know: This post may contain affiliate links. That means we might earn a small commission if you book or buy something through the links – at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep sharing travel tips for budget adventures!

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica on a Budget

If you want to travel to Costa Rica on a budget and in the most affordable way possible, timing and planning your trip is key. The cheapest time to visit the country is during the rainy season, which runs from May to mid-November. During this time, hotels, flights, and tours drop significantly in price due to less tourists.

Despite the occasional rain, the experience feels more authentic as the attractions are less crowded, and the landscapes come more alive, with fuller waterfalls and more active wildlife.

For a balance between budget and good weather, consider visiting during the shoulder season, which is late April to early May (end of the dry season, before prices rise) or November to early December (start of the dry season, before tourism peaks).

Budget Tip: Book flights 2-3 months in advance and use flight comparison sites like Kiwi and Skyscanner to find the best deals. 

Best Months for Budget Travel

• May & June: Normally rainy but still warm. Tourism is lower than in the peak dry season (Dec–Apr), so accommodation and tours tend to be cheaper. Mornings are often sunny and waterfalls and rivers are fuller, making hikes and nature even more spectacular.
• September & October: Least expensive, especially on the Caribbean side (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita), where there is also less rain. These months are perfect if you prefer a quieter experience without visitors.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation

The most affordable stays from a budget perspective are hostels, guesthouses, and eco-lodges, especially if you are looking to stay in touristy areas. Depending on whether you are traveling alone or as a group, renting houses can also be a good option to consider.

• Hostels & Guesthouses: Shared dorms is a great options for budget travelers. Many hostels offer free breakfast and social events, making them a great place to meet other travelers. Our favorite place for booking hostels is Hostelworld.
• Camping & Eco-Lodges: If you want to stay close to Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes, campsites and eco-lodges are both affordable and sustainable options.
• Budget Hotels & Family-Run Stays: Locally owned hotels or guesthouses often provide lower prices and a more authentic experience.

Tip: Booking in advance during high season (December–April) can help you get better deals, while traveling in the off-season often means discounts on stays. Check out our guide on how to find affordable accommodations for more tips and tricks.

Affordable Transportation in Costa Rica

The most economical way to get around Costa Rica is by using public transportation. While it may be the slowest option due to frequent stops and limited schedules in rural areas, it also provides a more authentic and budget-friendly travel experience.

Best Budget Transport Options

• Public Buses: The cheapest way to travel ($1–$15 per ride, depending on distance).
• Shared Shuttles: More comfortable than buses but pricier ($10–$50 per trip, depending on the route).
• Rental Cars: Best for groups, but costs add up with insurance, gas, and deposits ($30+/day).
• Taxis & Rideshares: Use Uber in San José for cheaper fares, outside the capital, taxis can be expensive (always negotiate or check rates first).

Cheap & Delicious Food Options

Eating out in Costa Rica can be expensive, especially in touristy areas. However, there are plenty of ways to eat well on a budget. Here are some tips:

Best Budget Food Tips

• Eat at “Sodas”: Small local restaurants offering hearty meals for $4–$8.
• Street Food & Markets: Fresh fruits, empanadas, and tamales for $1–$3.
• Buy Groceries: Shop at budget-friendly supermarkets like Pali, Maxi Pali, and Mega Super.
• Stay at Hostels with Kitchens: Cooking your own meals can save a lot, especially in pricier areas.

Free & Low-Cost Activities

There is a lot of free and budget-friendly activities and adventures in Costa Rica. Heres a list of some activities depending on what you like:

Free & Cheap Things to Do

• Beaches: Visit Playa Conchal, Playa Hermosa, and Tamarindo, among other beautiful beaches for free.
• Surfing: Rent a board for $5–$10 instead of taking lessons. Great beginner-friendly surf spots include Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, and Nosara.
• National Parks: Explore Manuel Antonio ($16), Monteverde Cloud Forest ($25), and Cahuita National Park (donation-based entry).
• Hiking & Waterfalls: Many waterfalls and trails have free or low-cost entry ($5–$10), offering great opportunities for adventure on a budget.

Hidden Budget-Friendly Destinations

Beyond the well-known tourist spots, these destinations offer incredible experiences at lower costs:

• Samara Beach: Less crowded and affordable accommodations.
• Uvita: Hidden waterfalls and Marino Ballena National Park.
• Cahuita: Caribbean vibe with free national parks.
• Orosi Valley: Great for hiking and hot springs on a budget.
• Turrialba: Adventure hub with budget-friendly rafting.

Final Thoughts & Budget-Saving Tips for costa rica

• Travel in the low season to save on flights & hostels.
• Use public transport instead of private shuttles.
• Cook your own food, eat local food and avoid touristy restaurants.

Even though Costa Rica is the most expensive country in Central America, it’s absolutely possible to do it on a budget. We really enjoyed our stay in Costa Rica, even though we did it on a budget and avoided spending on the more ‘luxury’ things. The adventure can feel more authentic when traveling on a budget, taking public buses or eating at local food stalls lets you discover places in a more genuine way. This guide shows exactly how to travel Costa Rica on a budget without missing out on the best experiences. Have you traveled to Costa Rica on a budget? Share your best money-saving tips in the comments below!