DK Costa Rica

Looking for a slice of paradise? Welcome to Costa Rica.

Whether you want to spy elusive jaguars in the wild, savour a world-class cup of coffee, or walk through cloud-drenched tree canopies, your DK Costa Rica travel guide ensures you experience all that Costa Rica has to offer.

An ecotourism haven, Costa Rica is unmatched in biodiversity — here you can help sea turtle hatchlings make it to the sea or wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys. But this Central American country doesn't just offer wildlife in abundance. In the capital of San Jose, characterful food joints serve up tasty local cuisine, while on the laid-back coasts, surfers and yogis unwind beside the beaches.

Our updated guide brings Costa Rica to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights, trusted travel advice, detailed breakdowns of all the must-see sights, photographs on practically every page, and our hand-drawn illustrations which place you inside the country's iconic buildings and neighbourhoods. We've also worked hard to ensure our information is as up-to-date as possible following the COVID-19 outbreak.

You'll discover:

• Our pick of Costa Rica's must-sees, top experiences and hidden gems
• A detailed field guide with information on animals, terrain, flora and conservation
• The best spots to eat, drink, shop and stay
• Detailed maps and walks which make navigating the country easy
• Easy-to-follow itineraries
• Expert advice—get ready, get around and stay safe
• Colour-coded chapters to every part of Costa Rica, from Guanacaste to Northern Nicoya, the Caribbean to San Jose
• A lightweight format, so you can take it with you wherever you go

Travelling around Central America? Try our DK Eyewitness guides to Mexico, Cuba or the Caribbean.