No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeNewsCosta RicaCosta Rica Travel on a budget: 3 cheap Costa Rica Vacation Destinations

Costa Rica Travel on a budget: 3 cheap Costa Rica Vacation Destinations

Want to vacation in Costa Rica without breaking the bank? The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) has released a short list of options for exploring on a budget.

1. Orosí Lookout

If you’re seeking a moderate climate near San José, ICT recommends Mirador Orosí (The Orosí Viewpoint) in Cartago province.

The viewpoint has a “jaw-dropping scenic overlook,” according to Lonely Planet, and visitors can freely use the grills, greens and bathrooms.

Admission is free. The viewpoint is open Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Call 2299-5800 for more information. Google Maps link.

2. Valleys of Orosí and Ujarrás

Other options in Cartago include the Valleys of Orosí and Ujarrás, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views with family or friends.

Among the attractions are the Ruins of Ujarrás (Google Maps link), a colonial church constructed in the 17th century. Costa Rica’s oldest colonial ruins house the statue of the Virgin of the Holy Conception of Ujurrás, which (allegedly) protected the area from hostile attacks.

3. Beach of Doña Ana

If you want to take a trip to the beach, ICT recommends Playa de Doña Ana, located near the Port of Caldera and 10 km from Puntarenas (Google Maps link).

The picturesque beach boasts Costa Rica’s blue-flag designation and reliable swells for surfing. It’s also quieter than the more popular Puntarenas and Caldera beaches.

The beach is open daily, has an entry fee of 1,500 colones (about $2.60) and charges 1,000 colones (about $1.70) for parking.

ICT’s “Vamos a Turistear” campaign offers advice, recommendations and travel deals for Ticos and foreigners alike. Click here for more information. 

Trending Now

Costa Rican Hotels Warn of Job Risks Amid Drop in Tourists

Hotels across Costa Rica face mounting pressures as tourist numbers dip and a sluggish dollar exchange rate eats into their earnings. From January to...

Costa Rica Faces a Must-Win for a Place in 2026 World Cup

Costa Rica's national soccer team faces a defining stretch in their bid to reach the 2026 World Cup. With just two points from their...

Costa Rica’s FIFCO Sells Operations to Heineken After Vote

Shareholders of Costa Rica's Florida Ice and Farm Company, known as FIFCO, gave the green light on to sell most of their food, beverage,...

Costa Rica Ranger Trapped After Falling off Cliff on Cocos Island

Rescue teams in Costa Rica continue their efforts to save a park ranger who fell down a 40-meter cliff on Isla del Coco. The...

Family Beach Day in Costa Rica Exploring Tidepools and Wildlife

My two sons couldn’t be more different. They look completely different. They act completely differently. They eat different foods. They have different interests. This...

Costa Rica Faces Nicaragua in Key World Cup Qualifier Match

Costa Rica takes on Nicaragua this Tuesday at the Estadio Nacional in a match that could shape their path in the 2026 World Cup...
spot_img
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica