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Discover the vibrant city of Alajuela, the adventure hub of La Fortuna, and the breathtaking beaches of Manuel Antonio, each offering unique experiences in Costa Rica's natural paradise.

Suggested Locations
1.Alajuela
Hub of Costa Rica's Agriculture
2.La Fortuna
Doorway to Arenal Volcano
3.Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica's Most Cherished Jewel
Dublin
Alajuela
1,553 mi
Plane
3h 27m
Alajuela
- Trip Weather 24 °C - Trip Weather 23 °C - Trip Weather 23 °C
Discover Alajuela
Hub of Costa Rica's Agriculture
Alajuela is the second-largest city in Costa Rica, located in the Alajuela Province. Known for its rich history, beautiful parks and striking architecture, this lively city is ideal to feel the true spirit of the Costa Rican culture. It's the birthplace of the country's national hero, Juan Santamaria and houses his dedicated museum. The local Central Market is an excellent spot for traditional food and crafts.
Alajuela
La Fortuna
101 mi
Plane
3h 56m
La Fortuna
- Trip Weather 27 °C - Trip Weather 25 °C
Discover La Fortuna
Doorway to Arenal Volcano
La Fortuna is a small town in Costa Rica, known for the iconic, active Arenal Volcano. This charming town is a gateway to explore a varied range of natural attractions like hot springs, waterfalls and caves. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to find diverse bird species. It offers various adventure activities like hiking, rafting and exploring the dense rainforests.
La Fortuna
Manuel Antonio
134 mi
Plane
5h 54m
Manuel Antonio
- Trip Weather 27 °C - Trip Weather 27 °C
Discover Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica's Most Cherished Jewel
Located on Costa Rica's central Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is a stunning blend of beautiful beaches and lush tropical rainforest. Known for the Manuel Antonio National Park, this city offers a wide array of outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, surfing and wildlife viewing. It's home to abundant biodiversity including monkeys, iguanas, and rare bird species.
Manuel Antonio
Dublin
1,594 mi
Plane
4h 32m
Videos Costa Rica
TripPilot

Travel Tips

Currency: CRC Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC -6) Language: Spanish

Hello there! It sounds like you have an exciting trip planned to Costa Rica. Here are some travel tips for your journey.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit the Costa Rican cities of Alajuela, La Fortuna, and Manuel Antonio is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During this period, you'll experience less rainfall and enjoy more sunny days. However, keep in mind that this is also the high tourist season, so it may be a little crowded.

Route and Accessibility:
International visitors usually arrive at San Jose's international airport (Juan Santamaría International Airport), which is very close to Alajuela. From Alajuela, you can take a direct bus or hire a taxi or private transfer to reach La Fortuna. For reaching Manuel Antonio, it’s best to go by road, either by bus or car, from either Alajuela or La Fortuna.

Accommodation and Booking:
There's a range of accommodation options in these cities from budget hostels to luxurious resorts. It's advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially during the high season. Websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and local tourist agency sites can offer good options.

Clothing and Essentials:
Pack light, breathable clothes as the climate is generally hot and humid. Bring a good pair of walking shoes and don't forget your swimwear. Sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a reusable water bottle will be essential. An umbrella or rain jacket can come in handy if you are visiting in the rainy season.

Health and Safety:
Remember to stay hydrated and use sun protection to prevent sunburn. Depending on your activities, consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Always follow instructions and signages in national parks and beaches for your safety. Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation is advisable.

Local Etiquette and Respect:
Costa Ricans, known as Ticos, are generally friendly and polite. The common greeting is a firm handshake. Casual attire is acceptable in most places. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services. Environmental conservation is a big part of Costa Rican culture, so respecting nature and wildlife is very important.