Costa Rican Culture

Authentic Cultural Experiences

On your Costa Rica vacation, we don't just scrape the surface of what this beautiful country has to offer. We show you the real Costa Rica, its warm people and vibrant culture.

Learning about Costa Rican culture

We believe that Costa Rican culture is something found not in museums, but in el campo. It is captured by the way everyday people live their lives. To learn about it, you need to get away from the big tourist destinations and, to experience it, you need to step into someone else’s shoes.

On our Premium Trips, your dedicated guide and transport is available to you 24/7, meaning you have the flexibility to explore. Your Serendipity guide will act as your walking encyclopedia about Costa Rican culture. He will help you select the best food and explain the pilgrimage of the Dia de La Virgen de Los Angeles. He will also seek out local flavor, by finding local fiestas so you can watch horses dance at a tope or fight a bull the Tico way or learn to dance salsa to a local band.

Cultural activities you can experience in Costa Rica:

Traditional Music and Dance: Attend folk music and dance performances showcasing Costa Rican culture such as the “punto guanacasteco” and “bailes típicos.” These performances often feature colorful costumes and lively rhythms.
Artisan Markets: Explore local artisan markets like the Mercado Nacional de Artesanías in San José or the Feria Verde in Heredia. Here you can find handmade crafts, traditional artwork, and locally produced goods.
Coffee Tours: Discover the cultural significance of coffee in Costa Rica by taking a coffee tour at one of the many coffee plantations throughout the country. Learn about the coffee-making process and its impact on Costa Rican culture and economy.
Culinary Experiences: Delight your taste buds with Costa Rican cuisine through cooking classes or food tours. Sample traditional dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a typical lunch dish), and ceviche.
Indigenous Communities: Engage with indigenous communities such as the Bribri and Boruca peoples to learn about their traditions, language, and way of life.
Traditional Crafts Workshops: Take part in workshops where you can learn traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and wood carving from local artisans.