Things To Do
in Horquetas

Rice and beans fried together, typically served at breakfast with eggs, tortilla or plantains; you’ll find it at local sodas (small family restaurants).

Must-Try!

A common lunch plate of rice, beans, salad, plantains and a choice of meat or fish—filling, inexpensive and widely available.

Twice-fried green plantains, crispy and savory, common as a side or snack in local eateries and markets.

Local tours at Tirimbina and nearby farms let you taste fresh cacao, homemade chocolate, and learn traditional processing methods.

Small-town market where locals buy fresh produce—great for fruits like papaya and pineapple, local cheeses, and quick snacks from food stalls.

Frequent stands selling fresh-cut fruit, juices and local snacks; perfect for sampling seasonal fruits and refreshing drinks after outdoor excursions.

Use 'Pura vida' as a friendly greeting or to express thanks and appreciation; it reflects the relaxed local attitude.

A handshake and eye contact are common on first meetings; use first names after introductions and be polite and patient in transactions.

Showing respect for wildlife and protected areas is important—don’t feed wild animals, follow trail rules, and avoid removing plants or animals.

Dress modestly in town and villages; be respectful when photographing people—always ask permission first.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is common in restaurants if service charge is not included. Tip guides, drivers and porters modestly (US$2–5 per person or 5–10% for full-day services) if you received good service.

Cash (Costa Rican colón or USD) is widely used, especially for small purchases, markets and local taxis. Credit cards are accepted at many lodges and larger restaurants, but ATMs are limited—carry cash for remote excursions and smaller businesses.

World-renowned research reserve with well-maintained trails through lowland rainforest, excellent for birding and biodiversity observation; guided walks recommended.

Accessible reserve with interpretive trails, chocolate tours, and a canopy bridge—good for both wildlife watching and educational visits.

Sections of this large national park near Sarapiquí offer more rugged rainforest hikes and varied habitats—check access points and guides for safety.

Many eco-lodges maintain short trails on their properties for wildlife viewing and night hikes—an easy option for guests to explore safely.

The main international airport near San José (about 1.5–2 hours’ drive depending on traffic); most visitors fly into SJO and take a shuttle, rental car or bus to Horquetas.

Limón’s airport and regional flights serve the Caribbean side of Costa Rica; travel times to Horquetas vary and overland transfers take longer—useful if combining Caribbean coast travel.

Vegetarian options are generally available (rice, beans, salads, plantains), but menus may be limited—ask for egg/cheese substitutions or veggie versions of casado; many eco-lodges can prepare vegetarian meals if requested ahead.

Vegan choices require more planning; carry snacks and communicate clearly in Spanish or use translation apps. Fresh fruit, rice, beans and plantains make easy vegan meals but some sauces contain animal products.

Basic dishes are often naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, grilled meats), but processed foods and bread contain gluten—confirm with staff if you have celiac disease.

Food labeling is limited—carry allergy cards in Spanish and inform guides and restaurants; local medical facilities can assist in emergencies, but serious cases should plan to reach larger hospitals in Heredia or San José.