Is it safe to drive in Costa Rica?

Yes, but stick to daytime driving. Road conditions change quickly, and signage can be sparse in rural wildlife areas.

Do I need anti-malarial medication?

Generally, no, but check with your doctor regarding the specific regions you plan to visit, particularly if visiting remote areas in the Osa Peninsula.

Planning a Two-Week Wildlife Route in Costa Rica

Focus your two weeks on the Osa Peninsula and the Northern Highlands to maximize wildlife sightings. Spend 4 days in Corcovado for rare species, 4 days in Arenal for rainforest activity, and 6 days in Tortuguero and the Central Pacific to round out your sightings.

Prioritize the Osa Peninsula. Do not skip Corcovado National Park. It contains 2.5% of the world's biodiversity. Book your park entry and mandatory guide at least 3 months in advance.
Select the right transport. Rent a 4x4 vehicle. Many roads leading to remote wildlife lodges are unpaved, steep, and prone to flooding. Relying on buses will cut your wildlife spotting time in half.
Hire local specialized guides. Wildlife in Costa Rica is hard to spot without a professional eye. Hire a certified guide for every park hike; they carry high-end spotting scopes that allow you to see animals you'd otherwise walk right past.
Mix coastal and cloud forest ecosystems. To see the widest variety of animals, divide your time between sea level (Tortuguero/Osa) and high elevation (Monteverde). Each altitude hosts different species like Quetzals and Sloths.

Is it safe to drive in Costa Rica?: Yes, but stick to daytime driving. Road conditions change quickly, and signage can be sparse in rural wildlife areas.
Do I need anti-malarial medication?: Generally, no, but check with your doctor regarding the specific regions you plan to visit, particularly if visiting remote areas in the Osa Peninsula.