Research airfare options. Book airfare at least six months in advance to get a good rate and ensure your spot on a commercial flight. U.S. air carriers with direct flights to Costa Rica include American Airlines, Continental, Delta, Spirit Air and US Airways.
Determine your reason for travel. If you are looking for relaxing beach time, traveling during the high season is best because it is warm and dry. However, because of Costa Rica's tropical climate, the dry season can also be uncomfortably hot, so keep this in mind when you plan your trip.
Consider the crowds during the high season. This is the peak tourist period, which translates to bigger crowds and higher prices. If peace and quiet are priorities, the high season might not be for you. If this is not a consideration, plan six months out as air, hotel and tour excursions book quickly during this time.
Plan your outdoor adventures, such as rain forest tours, ziplining, scuba diving, dolphin encounters and Arenal Volcano tours. Choose between self-guided tours, which might include hiking or snorkeling, or guided encounters, such as bungee jumping or a canopy tour of the rain forest.
