Are you planning a trip to Costa Rica in November? This is the perfect time to explore the country’s natural beauty, rich culture and delicious cuisine. November is considered the start of dry season in Costa Rica and the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting.

Activities

In terms of activities, Costa Rica has no shortage of options. Nature lovers will enjoy hiking through the rainforest, spotting colorful tropical birds, and visiting national parks. Adventure seekers can go white water rafting, zip lining, or bungee jumping. And of course, no trip to Costa Rica is complete without spending some time lounging on its beautiful beaches.

One of the highlights of any trip to Costa Rica is visiting one of its many national parks. Manuel Antonio National Park is particularly noteworthy, as it boasts miles of pristine beaches and a wide variety of tropical animals, including monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws. The park is also home to several hiking trails that provide visitors with stunning views of the ocean and lush rainforest.

Another popular destination in Costa Rica is the Arenal Volcano, which is located in the north of the country. The volcano is one of the most active in the world, and visitors can take a guided tour to hike to the summit for breathtaking views. The Arenal area also offers many hot springs around the volcano and activities like white water rafting and ziplining.

For those looking to experience Costa Rica’s rich culture, a visit to the capital city of San José is a must. San José is home to several museums and cultural centers, including the Museum of Costa Rican Art and the National Theater, which is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture.

Keep an eye out for posts on specific activities we did on this trip. Stay tuned for more updates!

Accommodation

One of the best things about Costa Rica is its commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism. You can find a wide range of eco-friendly accommodations, from rustic treehouses to luxurious eco-lodges. Whether you’re looking to rough it or indulge in a little luxury, there is something for everyone.

On our last night, we stayed in a hotel as our Airbnb in La Fortuna only allowed us to book for a certain amount of time that didn’t cover our entire trip. The hotel was a perfect way to end our journey. It was located in a gated area of La Fortuna and the rooms were like a villa style, very comfortable and surrounded by gardens. Plus, the hotel had a kitchen area where they provided free eggs every day and all the utensils we needed to cook were available. To top it off, there was also a mini farm on the property where we could see different animals roaming free throughout the day, from ducks to iguanas, these animals were the cutest.

Overall, our experience with Airbnb in Costa Rica was unforgettable. From San Jose to La Fortuna, we found the perfect places to stay, with comfortable amenities, and in great locations, which allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the local culture and discover hidden gems of Costa Rica.

Food

When it comes to food, Costa Rica offers a delicious and diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Costa Rican dishes such as the famous Gallo Pinto or the Casado, as well as international options. November is an excellent time to enjoy local seafood and fruits, as they are in season. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the wide range of delicious Costa Rican cuisine they offer. From fresh seafood to tropical fruit, there is something for everyone. And don’t forget to try a cup of Costa Rica’s famous coffee – it’s some of the best in the world.

When visiting Costa Rica, you’ll definitely want to try the local cuisine. One of the best places to do that is at sodas, small, locally-owned restaurants that serve traditional Costa Rican dishes. A must-try dish is the Gallo Pinto, a staple of Costa Rican cuisine made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, cheese, beef in sauce, or chicken. Prices at sodas usually range between 1,600-2,700 colones ($3-$5 USD), making it an affordable and delicious option for travelers.

Sodas are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine. They are usually family-owned and operated, providing a friendly and cozy atmosphere, and a chance to interact with locals.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth guide to Costa Rican food, we recommend trying out different sodas, and experimenting with different options on the menu. However, if you’re looking for specific recommendations on where to eat in Costa Rica, we can create a separate post with our top picks on the best sodas and local restaurants that serve authentic Costa Rican food.

Don’t leave Costa Rica without trying the local food, specially the traditional Gallo Pinto and soda’s is the place to do it. They are a great option for budget-friendly, authentic and delicious meals.

Rental Cars & Driving

To truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty and adventure that Costa Rica has to offer, renting a car is a must. We highly recommend using a company like Sunny Cars, as they made the process seamless and stress-free for us. They handled all the communication and negotiation with the car rental company in Costa Rica, so all we had to do was show up and pick up the keys. And as an added bonus, we were even upgraded to a spacious and capable 4×4 vehicle, which enhanced our ability to explore the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations throughout the country.

The road conditions in Costa Rica are, for the most part, good, with the exception of constructions happening towards the south of the country, such as when heading to Manuel Antonio Park, a few pot holes, and lots of toll roads (credit cards are accepted). However, heading up north was a fairly easy drive. What you will need to watch out for are the one-way roads, other drivers passing each other, and animals randomly crossing the road at the last minute.

Driving in Costa Rica can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you’re able to explore places that would otherwise be difficult to access by public transportation. With a rental car, you’ll have the freedom and flexibility to create your own itinerary and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. With a car rental, you’re in control of your adventure, and that’s what makes Costa Rica such a unique and exciting place to visit. So, make the most out of your trip by renting a car, you won’t regret it.

Currency

The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colon (CRC). It is important to note that U.S. dollars are widely accepted in major tourist areas such as hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, but it is best to carry the local currency as it will be helpful in small shops, local markets, and for transportation such as buses and local taxis. The exchange rate is fluctuating, and it is advisable to check the current rate before planning your trip and/or exchange your currency. It’s always good to have some small bills when possible, as many vendors don’t have change for larger bills. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in most tourist areas, and many ATMs can be found in bigger cities and tourist areas, but they usually come with a higher fee. With this in mind, it’s good to plan ahead, and bring some cash or the local currency, and at least one credit card.

Overall, a trip to Costa Rica in November is the perfect way to experience the country’s natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. With its stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and warm weather, it’s no wonder Costa Rica is known as a nature lover’s paradise.

What to pack

When planning for your trip to Costa Rica, it’s important to keep in mind the humid, tropical climate and pack accordingly. Lightweight, breathable shirts and linens will keep you cool and comfortable, while a wide brimmed hat and bug spray will protect you from the sun and pesky insects. Pack items that can withstand the humidity like water resistant shoes or hiking boots, a trusty sunscreen and a backpack to keep your essentials close by. These items will make your adventure more enjoyable, you’ll be ready for whatever the day brings.

Overall, it is important to keep in mind that November is considered the end of the rainy season but you can still encounter some rain, it’s always a good idea to check weather reports and pack accordingly. If you are planning on doing any activities or tours, it’s also a good idea to make reservations in advance, as this is a popular time of year for tourism in Costa Rica.