Costa Rica is accessible for backpackers if you know where to find the best deals.
While Costa Rica isn't the cheapest destination, backpackers can enjoy it with planning.
Itinerary
1
Budget San Jose
- Central Market (cheap lunch)
- La Sabana Metropolitan Park
- National Museum (free Sundays)
- Hostel in Barrio Amon
2
Volcano and free nature
- Public bus to Barva Volcano
- Free hiking
- Town of Heredia
- Local food at soda
3
Manuel Antonio by bus
- Bus to Manuel Antonio (4h)
- Free public beach
- Sunset with monkeys
- Beach hostel
4
Park and return
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Beach snorkeling
- Return bus to San Jose
- Farewell dinner at soda
Practical Tips
Sodas
Local eateries called 'sodas' offer casados for $4-6. Best budget food.
Buses
Public buses cover the whole country. Cheap but slow.
Hostels
Dorms from $10-15/night. Many include kitchen.
Approximate Budget
Flights€400-700
Hostels (3 nights)€30-50
Soda meals€40-60
Buses€15-25
Park entry€16
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Costa Rica expensive for backpackers?
More than other Central American countries, but manageable with sodas, public buses and hostels.
Is hitchhiking safe?
Not common or recommended. Buses are very cheap.
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