Costa Rica is Central America's eco-paradise — 'pura vida' lifestyle, dense rainforests, active volcanoes, surf beaches, and abundant wildlife (sloths, monkeys, toucans, sea turtles). Visa-free for Filipinos, with world-class national parks and adventure activities.
Visa
Visa-free for Philippine passport holders for 90 days
Best months
Best: Dec–Apr (dry)
Flights
Flights MNL→Arenal: via US (visa) or via Mexico
Realistic budget
~7 days · per person
₱130,000 – ₱260,000
All-in: airfare from MNL · visa · accommodation · food · local transport · activities
Visa-free for PH (90 days), eco-lodges Arenal + Manuel Antonio, shuttle transfers, zip-lining + thermals.
Sources: Budget Your Trip, Numbeo. Ranges are 2024–2025 estimates — peak season, FX, and personal spending style will shift them. Always verify before booking.
Plan & book Arenal
These are affiliate links. We may earn a commission — at no extra cost to you.
✈️Flights
- Compare MNL → Arenal flights →
Skyscanner · Affiliate link · we may earn a commission
- Kiwi.com flexible flights & multi-city →
Kiwi.com
- Trip.com — MNL → Arenal flights →
Trip.com · Asia's largest OTA — often competitive on regional routes
🏨Hotels
- Hotels in Arenal →
Booking.com
- Agoda deals in Arenal →
Agoda
🎟️Tours & Activities
- Tours & attractions in Arenal →
Klook
- Top experiences in Arenal →
GetYourGuide
📶eSIM & Connectivity
- Buy a Costa%20Rica eSIM →
Airalo · Stay connected on arrival
🛡️Travel Insurance
- Compare PH travel insurance →
PGA Sompo / Standard Insurance · Local PH provider — direct link
- International travel medical insurance →
SafetyWing
Things to do
- • Arenal Volcano & hot springs
- • Monteverde cloud forest zipline
- • Manuel Antonio National Park
- • Tortuguero turtle nesting
- • Corcovado rainforest hike
- • Surf at Tamarindo or Nosara
Free things to do
- ✓ National park beaches (some)
- ✓ Public hot springs near Arenal
- ✓ Wildlife spotting
Best for
With kids
Costa Rica is one of the world's top family destinations — ziplines, wildlife, and safe beaches.
With seniors
Lodges are well-maintained. Some trails are uneven. Healthcare is excellent.
Visa
Visa-free for Philippine passport holders for 90 days. Bring return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds. Always confirm requirements with the embassy before travel.
When to go
Best: Dec–Apr (dry). Avoid: Sep–Oct (peak rainy). Wildlife is great year-round.
Getting there from MNL
Flights MNL→Arenal: via US (visa) or via Mexico. Total travel time ~26+ hrs.