If you are dreaming of a holiday to Costa Rica, you are probably picturing lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and endless beaches. You would be right. The real magic is how easily you can combine adventure and relaxation in one trip. The key is planning it so everything flows, and that is where I come in.
In This Guide
I help busy professionals, couples, and families design Costa Rica holidays that match their travel style, whether that is a small ship cruise, a tailor-made route, or joining a group tour. You will see the best of the country, avoid the overwhelm of planning it yourself, and enjoy insider touches you simply will not find on a booking site.
Why choose Costa Rica for your holiday
Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to over 500,000 species. You can hike a volcano in the morning, soak in a hot spring in the afternoon, and spot sloths before dinner.
It is ideal if you have been asking yourself:
How can we combine adventure and relaxation in one holiday?
Where can we go that feels safe, exciting, and different?
Is it possible to see amazing wildlife without roughing it?
The answer to all of those is yes. I can design your holiday so every part feels effortless, with the right balance for you.
Types of Costa Rica holidays I can plan for you
One of Costa Rica’s greatest strengths is its variety. Here are some of the styles I regularly arrange.
Wildlife-rich escapes
From the cloud forests of Monteverde to the turtle nesting beaches of Tortuguero, Costa Rica is a wildlife-lover’s dream. I work with in-destination experts who track migration and breeding patterns so you can be in the right place at the right time. For example, humpback whales on the Pacific coast from July to October and again in January to March.
Adventure and adrenaline
Zip-lining through rainforest, white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, and hiking Arenal Volcano. I arrange your activities so you spend more time experiencing and less time in transit.
Family adventures
Costa Rica works brilliantly for children of all ages. Some small ship cruise lines here, like Lindblad Expeditions and UnCruise Adventures, even welcome kids. This is ideal if you want wildlife and comfort in one go. If you are thinking about this option, read my Costa Rica Family Holidays blog.
Cruise holidays
Explore the coast on a small expedition ship, calling at bays and national parks you cannot reach by road. My Costa Rica cruise and Costa Rica cruises blogs explain which lines I recommend and why.
Two-Part Escapes
One of my favourite ways to explore Costa Rica is to split the holiday into two halves. The first is all about discovery, volcano hikes, wildlife tours, coffee farm visits. The second is for slowing down on the beach or in a spa hotel. I make sure the order works best for the weather, wildlife, and your comfort.
When to visit Costa Rica
December to April is the dry season, perfect for beaches and outdoor adventures. May to November is the green season, when everything is lush, prices can be lower, and there are fewer visitors.
Your ideal timing will depend on what you want to see. Turtle nesting varies by coast, birdwatching is excellent year-round, and whale sightings are seasonal. Tell me your dates and I will match them with the best regions and experiences, using local knowledge to get the timing right.
Insider tip from my local network
The most popular national parks, like Manuel Antonio, have limited daily visitor numbers. If you want to experience them without missing out, I make sure your permits are secured well in advance. This is something that can catch independent travellers off guard. With my planning, it is all handled for you.
The Matchmaker: What’s Your Costa Rica
The magic happens when your trip reflects you, not a generic route. Here is how I help make that happen.
For Wildlife Lovers. Early morning boat safaris, expert-led night walks, and lesser-known reserves.
For Thrill-Seekers. Zip-lining, rafting, and volcano hikes in the best spots for safety and scenery.
For Chill-Seekers. Eco-lodges with hammocks, spa days, and gentle wildlife spotting.
For Cruise Fans. Itineraries that combine marine life, shore excursions, and comfort.
For Families. Activities paced for little legs or teenagers who want more adventure.
For Couples. Romantic boutique hotels, private guides, and hidden beaches.
I work closely with trusted Costa Rica-based guides and operators, meaning you will see both the famous highlights and the quiet, less-discovered spots most tourists never find.
FAQs About Holidays to Costa Rica
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has two main seasons. The dry season (December to April) is ideal for beaches and outdoor activities, while the green (rainy) season (May to November) offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great value.
How many days should we plan for in Costa Rica?
It depends on your pace, but a 10 - 14 day trip allows a mix of wildlife, adventure, and relaxation - enough to visit key regions without feeling rushed.
Is Costa Rica safe for families and solo travellers?
Yes. It’s considered one of the safest destinations in Central America. Standard travel common sense applies, especially in cities and at night.
Do we need a visa to visit Costa Rica?
Citizens of the UK, North America, and most of Europe can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. A passport valid for your stay (six months preferred) is required.
What are the must-see attractions for first-time visitors?
Highlights often include Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Corcovado National Park, Manuel Antonio, and Tortuguero for turtles and wildlife.
Why Book Your Costa Rica Holiday With Me
I am part of The JLT Group, which means you get the personal touch of an independent travel advisor, with the security of an award-winning company behind me.
Every Costa Rica holiday I book is fully protected, and I will be here for you before, during, and after your trip. Whether it is a quick question, a change of plans, or an unexpected hiccup along the way, you can count on my support.
I save you hours of searching by comparing hundreds of trusted suppliers and using my insider contacts to find holidays you might not come across yourself. Because I am completely independent, my only focus is finding the trip that is right for you. That could be a handpicked option from a trusted supplier or my full tailor-made service, designed entirely around you.
Most of all, I truly value every booking and every client. I will always go the extra mile to make your Costa Rica holiday special.
Get in touch and let me create your tailor-made Costa Rica adventure.
Fill in my short enquiry form below or email at
rachael@blueturtleescapes.co.uk or call me on 01822 742105
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Hi, I’m Rachael, your holiday matchmaker and travel designer, based in Tavistock, Devon. I help families, couples, and solo travellers find or create the perfect trip - from wildlife adventures and expedition cruises to relaxing stays at beautiful resorts and fully tailor-made escapes. I’m proud to be part of The JLT Group, which means every holiday I book is fully financially protected and backed by an award-winning travel company. I take care of every detail so you can focus on making memories.
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