If you've got a thing for birds, nature, and breathtaking landscapes, Costa Rica should be on your travel radar. Nestled strategically in Central America, this little paradise is a haven for bird migration, making it an absolute dream for birdwatching enthusiasts like us. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you won't regret it.Let's explore Costa Rica's birdwatching lodges, categorized by location and tailored to suit various budgets and styles. Whether you prefer a cozy retreat or a more luxurious escape, these lodges offer the ideal accommodation for your birdwatching journey.Birdwatching in the Middle-elevation Forests and Highland Ecosystems of the Central Valley   At Bougainvillea Hotel in Heredia, conveniently close to Juan Santamaría Airport, birdwatchers are in for a treat. Their lush gardens, abundant with trees, flowers, and shrubs, attract various bird species, including hummingbirds, tanagers, and the iconic national "yigüirro". Look out for the striking "Bobo" bird with its bluish-green body and long tail, as well as the Tropical Tyrant with its gray head and bright yellow chest. The garden by the tennis courts offers a perfect vantage point for observing these fascinating species.Nestled in a lush valley, El Silencio Lodge & Spa is a retreat for nature lovers with its own 500-acre private cloud forest reserve in Bajos del Toro. If you're into cloud forests, El Silencio Lodge & Spa is a great choice. It's a luxury lodge, only a hour drive from SJO International Airport. Walk their trails with expert guides and hear birds singing. Get your camera ready for awesome photos!Savegre Mountain Lodge is a top pick! This cozy three-star lodge is perfect for birdwatching. Nestled in San Gerardo de Dota valley, it's a charming retreat. The Chacon family, the owners, will guide you to the best spots for birds like the resplendent quetzal! Enjoy the clear waters of the Savegre River too.Set in the verdant Caribbean rainforest of Costa Rica and located in Turrialba in the Province of Cartago, Rancho Naturalista stands as a prominent birding lodge. Situated around two and a half hours from the capital city of San Jose, its surrounding forest is a hub of bird diversity, home to tanagers, toucans, manakins, antbirds, and woodcreepers.The lodge's garden hosts fruit feeders that attract Lesson’s Motmots, Montezuma, Chestnut-headed Oropendolas, Grey-headed Chachalacas, and Baltimore Orioles, providing excellent opportunities for pictures. Their balcony features renowned hummingbird feeders that entice species such as Violet-crowned Woodnymph, White-necked Jacobin, Green Hermit, Green Thorntail, Violet Sabrewing, Bronze-tailed Plumeleteer, and Green-crowned Brilliant. Rancho Naturalista's unique hummingbird pools are frequented by Snowcap, Purple-crowned Fairy, and other birds like Tawny-throated Leaftosser, Dull-mantled Antbird, and Great Tinamou. Plenty to see!Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna  The Arenal Volcano National Park, in La Fortuna, features diverse habitats like mountains, forests, and dense thickets. It includes various life zones with rich plant and animal species. This park's unique corridor supports endangered species, making it a vital and remarkable natural sanctuary.Nestled near the Arenal Volcano, Cerro Chato, and Arenal Lake, lies the secluded Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails. Situated within the heart of the national park, it serves as a premier gateway to Costa Rica's birdlife. Arenal is home to over 500 species, including the charming Cute Cotinga, Black-Crested Flirt, and Yellow-Eared Toucanet; the lodge stands as a coveted birding hotspot. With rainforests, waterfalls, streams, and 7 miles of trails, you can easily explore its grounds for a fun outdoor adventure.Lowland Rainforests of Sarapiqui: Birth Home of the Tropical Ecosystem Studies in Costa RicaEstablished in 1954 for scientific exploration, La Selva Biological Station, overseen by The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), stands as a beacon of education, conservation, and research. Nestled in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, Heredia province, it's a vital center for tropical ecosystem study. Hosting 450+ bird species and 70 bat species within its 1600-acre tropical forest expanse, it's a biodiversity hotspot. Accommodations provide an immersive experience, making it an ideal hub for those passionate about wildlife and birdwatching.Also set in Costa Rica's Sarapiquí region, Tirimbina – Biological Reserve & Rainforest Lodge is an eco-lodge and research station nestled within lush rainforest by the Tirimbina River. With 407 species exclusively found within the Reserve, it's a haven for birders. You may spot emblematic species like the Snowy Cotinga, Sunbittern, White Fronted Nunbird, and Black-Crested Coquette. Offering untouched areas and 9 km of trails, visitors can closely experience forest life while supporting conservation efforts.Tortuguero National Park: A Bird Enthusiast's Dream with Intertwining Habitats of Mangroves, Coastal Areas & Other Wetlands  Tortuguero National Park is a sanctuary for bird fanatics, home to over 300 bird species year-round. As you explore, you might spot colorful toucans, trogons, and oropendolas. Along the canals, herons, egrets, and kingfishers are common sightings. With its diverse avian population, every moment in Tortuguero is a thrilling opportunity to observe and enjoy the rich birdlife in their natural habitat. Plus, all of these lodges are just a quick boat ride from the national park's entrance. Most of them offer tours with expert guides, onsite trails and other fun activities to enjoy.Want to immerse yourself in nature? Aninga Lodge is a great option, offering comfortable yet basic rooms for those who prefer a closer connection to the wild over luxury. Aninga Lodge is strategically located only 5 minutes away from the Tortuguero National Park and right across the main canal, facing the town of Tortuguero.Looking for a touch of indulgence? Manatus Hotel offers rooms with air conditioning, because who said birdwatching couldn't be done in style? Their spacious bungalows offer a peaceful and comfortable retreat, combining style with luxury. It’s the perfect place for a good dose of nature and adventure!Oh, and my personal favorite, the revamped Tortuga Lodge & Gardens – it's a slice of heaven with AC-equipped rooms and jaw-dropping grounds. There are four short trails behind the lodge that offer the opportunity to view nature and tropical wildlife.Diversity of Guanacaste’s Bird Habitats: Dry Forests, Premontane Rainforests, and Wetlands  Guanacaste boasts a distinctive delicate ecosystem known as the tropical dry forest, characterized by extended rainless periods. Despite this, it offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. Borinquen Thermal Resort, located at the foothills of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, is your ticket to exploring bird species that love a little arid action. It's a small slice of paradise with snug accommodations and a spa for those well-deserved post-hike rest sessions. The hot pools, volcanic mud, and natural steam-room create a soothing atmosphere.Located within a 1069-hectare private reserve in Guanacaste, Rancho Humo Estancia offers a prime spot for wetland birding opportunites. It spans various ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and tropical dry forest. Positioned on the Nicoya Peninsula, a renowned Blue Zone, it teems with wildlife, from Jaguarundis to exotic aquatic birds like the Jabirú.Unique Birdwatching Opportunities of the Transitional Forest on the Central Pacific  If you're eager to catch a glimpse of the vibrant scarlet macaws, then Carara National Park is an absolute must-visit destination. It blends two habitats: the northwest zone is a tropical dry forest with warmer temperatures and less rainfall, while the southern zone boasts dense primary forests with ancient trees and increased rainfall. Covering 4700 hectares, it features diverse forests and elevations ranging from 328 to 1640 feet.Only an hour from San Jose, Villa Lapas is like stepping into the jungle. Right next to Carara National Park, it's a hub of life, from scarlet macaws, toucans, parrots, aracaris, kingfishers, and herons in the skies to playful white-faced capuchin monkeys and curious peccaries on the ground. There are even anteaters and poison-arrow frogs adding to the incredible biodiversity. With its colonial-style design and surrounded by 500 acres of private rainforest, it's perfect for nature lovers, families, and couples seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience.Just nearby, you'll also find Villa Caletas – a luxury boutique hotel on a mountain hill, offering incredible ocean views 1150 feet above the Central Pacific coast and the rainforest. The hotel is prized not only for its location in the lush tropical jungle but also for its design, décor, restaurant, and private beach. You can explore the hotel's lush grounds or head to the Tarcoles River for more birdwatching and a chance to see mighty crocodiles.Another option for birders and photographers near Carara is Cerro Lodge. Nestled in picturesque landscapes with views of the sea and mountains, it's ideally situated just minutes from Carara National Park and Calle La Barca. This makes it a great spot for bird, butterfly, and animal watching. Plus, the site boasts frequent visits from colorful scarlet macaws!Premontane Rainforests of the South Pacific SlopesLocated far to the south, a 5-hour drive from San Jose in Costa Rica's South Pacific zone near the Panama border, the Las Cruces Biological Station, managed by the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), offers a unique and enriching experience. The station preserves one of the last significant patches of tropical wet premontane forest. It serves as a cultural nexus, drawing scientists, artists, and nature enthusiasts from around the world. At its heart lies the Wilson Botanical Garden, housing one of Central America's most vital plant collections. This garden showcases a diverse array of species, from rare palms to endangered plants, fostering not only exploration but also international collaboration and education. The rugged terrain supports diverse flora and fauna. Within seven miles, find 2,000 plant species (20 endemic), 113 mammals (60 bats), 400+ birds, 70 reptiles, and 1,000+ insects (800 butterflies).Osa Peninsula: Biodiversity at its Best  Are you ready for some serious birdwatching action? The Osa Peninsula is a small land bridge, but its lushness hosts countless bird species. National Geographic hailed it as "the most biologically intense place on earth." Despite its tiny size, it holds 3% of the world's biodiversity. For birders and photographers, this means unparalleled opportunities to spot birds in their natural habitat. The region houses more than 460 bird species, showcasing remarkable wildlife diversity in a compact space. With stunning Red-capped Manakins, Yellow-billed and Turquoise Cotingas, and the robust population of Scarlet Macaws, Central America's healthiest, the Osa Peninsula won’t disappoint!Surrounded by protected rainforest, Playa Cativo Lodge graces the shores of Golfo Dulce, accessible only by boat. Its 12 rooms, nestled within Piedras Blancas National Park, create an intimate escape. You’ll be able to discover 350+ bird species, including the magnificent Great Curassow and Golden-hooded Tanager, along with more than 200 species in their gardens and trails within Cativo Nature Reserve.Aguila de Osa Inn, strategically positioned in Playa Agujas, is your gateway to the famous Corcovado National Park. Surrounded by jungle, the hotel provides guests with peaceful luxury and a lot of adventure. Expert guides will assist you in finding rare and local species.For a twist, give Lapa Rios a shot. With National Geographic's stamp of approval, you know you're in for something special. Lapa Rios Lodge safeguards 1,000 acres of Central America's tropical lowland rainforest. The true luxury lies in experiencing the jungle's essence. Explore every corner, spot colorful frogs, macaws, monkeys, and 300+ bird species. It's an unspoiled world ruled by nature, with incredible views and fun hikes.Got the birdwatching bug now? We are here to make your Costa Rican birdwatching dreams take flight! Contact us today.  About the AuthorMarco MadrigalTravel Consultant at Costa Rican VacationsWith three decades of experience, Marco ensures your birdwatching journey in Costa Rica is nothing short of spectacular.

 Why Say 'I Do' in Costa Rica? Costa Rica Is a Top Wedding DestinationCosta Rica, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offers more than just stunning beaches. It's also a versatile wedding destination with a variety of locales to suit any couple's style: lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and iconic volcanoes provide the perfect backdrop for any couple's nuptials. And it doesn’t stop there. For those dreaming of a luxurious wedding, the Papagayo Peninsula provides exclusive resorts and panoramic views of the Gulf of Papagayo. The cloud forests of Monteverde offer a mystical setting for those seeking an intimate exchange of vows.Whether large or boutique, adventurous or romantic, Costa Rica can give you the wedding you both always wanted. Get ready to start your journey as a couple in the best locations the country has to offer!Tying the Knot in the Tropics: Travel Trends for 2024  Green Destination Wedding: Eco-Friendly ResortsSustainability has been a growing concern in recent years, and more couples are choosing to minimize the environmental impact of their weddings. This includes selecting venues that have good sustainability practices, using local and organic food for catering, and opting for decorations that can be reused or are biodegradable.Wellness WeddingsHealth and wellness are becoming part of wedding itineraries, especially in tropical destinations known for their vacation retreats, like Costa Rica. Activities such as group yoga sessions, spa days, and wellness workshops are being integrated into the wedding schedule so your guests can have a great party and feel relaxed and rejuvenated afterwards.Adventure-Based WeddingsCouples are increasingly incorporating adventure into their weddings, such as underwater ceremonies for diving enthusiasts, mountaintop weddings for hikers, or jungle safaris. Queue in Costa Rica's adventure capital—La Fortuna! These activities not only make the event memorable but also reflect the couple's shared interests and passions.A Local TouchIncorporating the local culture is a significant trend. Couples are looking to reflect the traditions of the destination in their ceremony and reception, including local cuisine, music, and customs. This not only improves the experience but also pays respect to the surrounding community.Week-Long Wedding FestivitiesInstead of a single-day event, many couples are extending their celebrations to create a well-rounded experience for their guests. This can include pre-wedding activities like welcome parties, local tours, and group excursions, followed by the wedding ceremony and reception, and concluding with a post-wedding brunch. These extended celebrations turn the wedding into a vacation for the guests and allow more time to explore the destination.Small and IntimateWhile some opt for extended festivities, there is also a trend towards smaller, more intimate weddings. Couples are inviting only their closest friends and family to create a more meaningful and personalized experience. This often allows for more luxurious choices, as the budget can accommodate a higher per-guest spend in the most luscious locations of your choice.Bold Colors for Proclaiming Your LoveWhile soft pastel colors have long been associated with beach weddings, couples have been opting for bold and vibrant color palettes. Think deep blues, coral pinks, and lush greens, creating a visually stunning contrast against the beach’s natural beauty.Choosing Your Perfect Costa Rican Wedding VenueAll-inclusive resorts are highly recommended for weddings, as you won't have to worry about meals and drinks for you or your guests. However, if you are looking to do something more intimate, then a smaller boutique-style property could also work fine for you (daily breakfast included). It really depends on the experience you’re looking for and what reflects most you and your partner’s style.Where to Get Married in Costa Rica?From the laid-back vibes of Tamarindo beach, perfect for a sunset beach ceremony, to the secluded splendor of the Osa Peninsula, where the rainforest meets the ocean, Costa Rica offers a variety of options to fit your style and budget. There are so many options we've included not just our top 10, but also a bonus location. Here are our picks!Wedding Venues in GuanacasteThe Westin Playa Conchal Resort  Location: Conchal Beach, 50 minutes from the Guanacaste International Airport.Venue Type: Beachfront bliss.Style: All-Inclusive barefoot luxury.Capacity: 100 guests or more. The resort itself has +400 rooms and features one of the largest swimming pools in Central America. There is an adult-only section of the resort as well, for couples considering a more intimate gathering but still want to have all the perks an all-inclusive resort can provide.Accessibility: Easy. The hotel is beachfront, and the wedding ceremony is usually set on the beach close to the hotel. Although the resort spans a large area, golf carts are available to facilitate easier movement for guests with mobility challenges.Unique Features: All-inclusive, beachfront, both adults-only and family-friendly areas, ten on-site restaurants.Rates: $$$$$. Wedding packages start at $10,000 for 20-50 guests.Seasonal Considerations: Great wedding location year-round. Blackout dates range from December 20th to January 2nd. Please note: Blackout dates indicate that the resort doesn’t book any large events during this time of the year.JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa  Location: Pinilla Beach, 60 minutes from the Guanacaste International Airport.Venue Type: Beachfront bliss.Style: Barefoot luxury.Capacity: 100 guests or more. With +300 rooms, JW Marriott is another option for a large wedding guest list, offering multiple dining options and event venues.Accessibility: Easy. The hotel is beachfront and the wedding ceremony is usually set on the beach just steps away from the hotel perimeter.Unique Features: Beachfront property and upscale brand.Rates: $$$$$. Wedding packages start at $10,000 for 20-50 guests.Seasonal Considerations: Great wedding location year-round. Blackout dates range from December 20th to January 2nd.Tamarindo Diria  Location: Tamarindo Beach, 60 minutes from Guanacaste International Airport.Venue Type: Beachfront bliss.Style: Tropical beach.Capacity: 100 guests or more. Tamarindo Diria Resort features 240 rooms in four different categories, perfect for a wedding with many guests.Accessibility: Easy. The hotel is beachfront and the wedding ceremony is usually set on the beach just steps away from the hotel.Unique Features: Beachfront, within walking distance of restaurants and bars. Diria is right in the heart of the Tamarindo town, which is known for its party scene.Rates: $$$. Wedding packages start at $5,000 for 10-20 guests.Seasonal Considerations: Tamarindo is a great wedding location year-round. Blackout dates range from December 20th to January 2nd.Jardin del Eden  Location: Tamarindo, 60 minutes from Guanacaste International Airport.Venue Type: Adults-only beach destination.Style: Tropical beach.Capacity: Perfect for intimate gatherings and ideal for small to medium groups, around 20 to 50 guests.Accessibility: Easy to Moderate. You can plan and celebrate your wedding either in the hotel or at their sister property, the Tamarindo Diria, which is a short distance away. For this, you still need to go through the town.Unique Features: Adults-only, meal package offered, within walking distance of restaurants and bars.Rates: $$$. Wedding packages start at $5,000 for 10-20 guests.Seasonal Considerations: Great wedding location year-round. Blackout dates range from December 20th to January 2nd.Wedding Venues on the Central Pacific CoastHotel Villa Caletas  Location: Central Pacific, 60 minutes from San Jose International Airport.Venue Type: Oceanview sunset extravaganza.Style: Luxury eco-resort, stunning sunset views meets Ancient Greek opulence.Capacity: Perfect for intimate gatherings of around 40 to 50 guests.Accessibility: Moderate to difficult. Because of its mountainous setting, walking up and down steep ramps and many stairs is not for the faint of heart or legs. They do have a few rooms near the registration area you may want to consider for guests with mobility issues or families with small children.Unique Features: A Greek-style amphitheater and infinity pool to watch the sunset from, a nearby beach, eco-friendly and nature-focused policies. Feel like a private guest at a palace—there are stunning antiques and works of art accessible everywhere around you, and some gorgeous landscaping. Compared to nearby Jacó, this is incredibly upscale, elegant, and very private.Rates: $$$$. Wedding packages start at $7,500.Seasonal Considerations: December to April is the dry season, offering the most stable and predictable weather, ideal for weddings. May to August are also favorable months for hosting an event, though the weather can be slightly more variable. Finally, steer clear of the rainy season from September to mid-November, as conditions are not great for outdoor activities.Si Como No Resort  Location: Manuel Antonio, a three-hour drive from San José.Venue Type: Beach and jungle romance.Style: Sunset over the Pacific at an eco-friendly resort.Capacity: Perfect for intimate gatherings of small to medium-sized groups, around 20 to 50 guests.Accessibility: Easy to Moderate. The hotel is set on the ridge, above jungle-covered hills and has many steps and inclined pathways that are not ideal for guests with mobility issues. Make sure to get street-level rooms for them.Unique Features: Good for wildlife enthusiasts, nearby beach, eco-friendly and nature-focused. Spectacular panoramic rainforest jungle and ocean views!Rates: $$$. Wedding packages start at $5,000, and there are eloping options available.Seasonal Considerations: December through April is the dry season, giving you the best shot at clear skies and sunny days for your wedding. May through August can also work well, though the weather is a bit more hit-or-miss. It's best to avoid the rainy season altogether, from September to mid-November.Los Altos Beach Resort  Location: Manuel Antonio, a three-hour drive from SJO International Airport.Venue Type: Modern luxury over rainforest and beach.Style: Breathtaking sunset by the sea.Capacity: Perfect for intimate gatherings, around 40-50 guests.Accessibility: Moderate. Los Altos is set on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s a large property, which is only partly developed. The rest is a rainforest, with the hotel's private trails. Several are listed as challenging due to elevation changes. The hills and stairs might pose an issue for guests with mobility difficulties. The reception staff provides excellent shuttle service for access to all areas of the resort (restaurant, pool, yoga platform, private beach).Unique Features: Rainforest, nearby beach, eco-friendly and nature-focused. The suites are very modern, clean, and spacious with fantastic views.Rates: $$$$. Customized wedding packages are prized according to the group size.Seasonal Considerations: December through April is the dry season, with the most stable weather, and perfect conditions for any outdoor event. May through August are also great months, although the weather pattern is a bit less stable than in the dry season. Avoid planning during the rainiest part of the rainy season, which is from September through mid-November.Wedding Venues in Arenal Volcano AreaThe Springs Resort & Spa  Location: La Fortuna, a three-hour drive from either the San José or Guanacaste International Airports. It’s also a 20-minute drive to La Fortuna downtown.Venue Type: Luxury resort elegance.Style: Bask in the lap of luxury by the stunning volcano.Capacity: Perfect for 100-150 guests.Accessibility: Moderate. One of the things that makes the views at the Springs Resort spectacular is being on a hillside facing the volcano. The downside of that is that you may have to walk up five floors to breakfast, and three to the pool. You can wait for a golf cart, and there’s an elevator. However, the amount of stairs, narrow paths, and low lighting can be a problem for guests with limited mobility. Note that the resort is a little outside of La Fortuna, with a bumpy ride at the end.Unique Features: Hot springs pools in the rainforest, volcano views, premium spa, and wildlife refuge on site. The property and rooms are stunning and there are amazing views in every direction. Even when the hotel is full, nothing feels crowded. The resort also has swimming pools, five restaurants, an on-site river, and adventure activities such as a rock climbing wall, horseback riding, and river floats.Rates: $$$$$. Wedding packages start at $10,000.Seasonal Considerations: Arenal Volcano is a great year-round destination for weddings. Note that this area follows Caribbean weather patterns, which means it generally experiences more rainfall than other regions in the country. Resort blackout dates are December 20th to January 2nd, due to the holiday season.Amor Arenal  Location: La Fortuna, a three-hour drive from either the San José or Guanacaste International Airports.Venue Type: Volcano and rainforest romance.Style: Romantic and intimate.Capacity: Perfect for intimate gatherings of 40 to 50 guests.Accessibility: Moderate. The resort is set on a steep incline, with +30 bungalows following the main road to the restaurant and pool area. Being at the bottom of the hill you will get a good workout, but make sure to book any guests with mobility issues closer to the restaurants. An open-air pagoda, where wedding ceremonies are held, is a short walk from the restaurant. Golf carts are at guests disposal.Unique Features: Boutique style, luxury bungalows, personalized serviceRates: $$$$. Wedding packages start at $ 7,000.Seasonal Considerations: Arenal Volcano is a great year-round destination for weddings. Remember it generally experiences more rainfall than other regions in the country. Resort blackout dates are December 20th to January 2nd.Cloud Forest Weddings, Central Cordillera MountainsEl Silencio Lodge  Location: Bajos del Toro Amarillo, Poas Volcano area. It’s an hour's drive from San Jose International Airport.Venue Type: Cloud forest elegance.Style: Luxurious and eco-friendly wellness romance.Capacity: Perfect for intimate gatherings of 20 to 30 guests.Accessibility: Moderate to difficult. Accommodation is in chalet-style lodges (16 suites and eight villas total), set on the mountainside. The walk up to them is steep. For guests that have mobility issues, ask for a cabin that is low down, or let them drive them everywhere in golf carts. The walkways are hilly and it is quite dark at night. If you drive yourself, do it during the day. The roads are challenging.Unique Features: Cloud forest, eco-friendly, nature-focused, with an outstanding premium spa on-site. There are also stunning waterfall photo ops in the vicinity. El Silencio Lodge is a distinguished member of Relais & Châteaux, set on a 500-acre nature reserve, cascading down the slopes of Poas Volcano.Rates: $$$$. Wedding packages start at $7,500.Seasonal Considerations: Bajos del Toro is a great year-round destination for weddings. Make sure to check with the lodge for specific blackout dates. Note that the weather is cold and changeable, so trousers, sweaters, and jackets are more appropriate for this climate. Avoid rainy months from September to mid-November.Villa Blanca  Location: San Ramón, 90 minutes from San José International Airport.Venue Type: Tradition and charm in the cloud forest.Style: Traditional Costa Rican casita—a bungalow-style rustic resort with its own chapel.Capacity: Perfect for elopements or intimate gatherings of 20 to 30 guests.Accessibility: Easy. Villa Blanca features 35 traditional casitas in a property that is mostly flat, with small inclines on pathways. It’s easily navigable, even for guests with mobility issues. The wedding chapel is a five to ten-minute walk from any part of the property.Unique Features: Small casita-style rooms, cloud forest, walking trails with hummingbird garden, small church on site.Rates: $$$. Wedding package starting at $5,000.Seasonal Considerations: Year-round. Note that the weather is cold and changeable, so take the necessary precautions. Avoid rainy months from September to mid-November.Details to Consider for Your Dream WeddingWhen planning your dream wedding in Costa Rica, there are several key aspects to consider that go beyond just picking a venue and setting a date. First, understand the legal requirements of a wedding outside your home country. Non-residents need to provide valid passports, birth certificates, and a sworn statement indicating marital status. These documents may need to be translated into Spanish and authenticated by the Costa Rican consulate in your home country.Choosing local vendors is another essential step. Costa Rica has a great pool of talented professionals, from photographers and florists to caterers and decorators. Opting for local vendors not only supports the local economy but also saves on logistics and shipping costs. It's beneficial to work with a local wedding planner who can provide insight into the best local suppliers and help get through any language or cultural barriers.Incorporating cultural elements can also enrich your wedding experience. Consider including traditional Costa Rican foods in your menu, or perhaps enjoying a local marimba band during your reception.Tips and Tricks on Planning Your Costa Rican Wedding  Start your wedding plans by selecting the right vendors. Prioritize those with good reviews and solid portfolios that align with your vision. It's advisable to visit Costa Rica at least once before the wedding to meet potential vendors and inspect venues personally. This trip can be crucial for making informed decisions and building a rapport with local suppliers.Managing guest accommodations is another vital aspect. Choose a venue that offers, or is near lodging options that cater to a range of budgets. You want all your guests to have somewhere comfortable to stay, that's also within their budget. Provide your guests with a detailed itinerary and a list of accommodations along with transportation options.Lastly, have a clear plan for the wedding day. This includes having a detailed schedule that all vendors and participants can follow. Come up with contingency plans for weather-related issues, especially if you're planning an outdoor ceremony during the rainy season. Have a local point of contact or coordinator who can handle any last-minute issues that arise.Comparing Costa Rica’s Wedding VenuesCheck this chart to get a sense of how the venues compare with what you want. This is how you choose what your best destination will be.VenueLocationAccessibilityStarting AtGuest CapacityWestin ResortBeachfrontEasy$10,000+100JW Marriott ResortBeachfrontEasy$10,000+100Tamarindo DiriaBeachfrontEasy$5,000+100Jardin del EdenBeachClose to venues$5,00020-50Hotel Villa CaletasOcean FrontSteep terrain$7,50040-50Si Como No ResortOcean FrontInclined pathways$5,00020-50Los Altos Beach ResortOcean FrontHillside settingN/A40-50The Springs ResortVolcanoHillside setting$10,000100-150Amor ArenalVolcanoHillside setting$7,00040-50El Silencio LodgeCloud ForestSteep incline$7,50020-30Villa BlancaCloud ForestMostly flat$5,00020-30Ready to Start Planning Your Forever Journey in Costa RicaAre you ready to plan your wedding in Costa Rica? Let us help. With expert inside knowledge, we’ll gladly put together a destination wedding for you and your partner. Tying the knot in the tropics is not just a romantic gesture and a great way to find the perfect backdrop for your photos: it’s a way to create memories that will last a lifetime along with those you love and appreciate most. Seize the opportunity, Costa Rica awaitsAbout the AuthorMarco MadrigalTravel Consultant at Costa Rican VacationsAs a Costa Rican, Marco knows all the ins and outs of traveling and exploring the country. He is also our in-house wedding expert, organizing destination weddings in Costa Rica that travelers will always treasure.