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How to Book a Trip to Costa Rica

How to · Travel

How to Book a Trip to Costa Rica

See the cloud forest during the green season and spread out the cost without paying extra interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,100 before anything else
Across the 0% window $140.00/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,100 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

You want to walk among the cloud forests of Monteverde, listen to howler monkeys, and watch the rain roll over the canopy. Going during the rainy green season means fewer tourists and much lower hotel rates across the country.

A typical trip runs about $2100 once you factor in flights, places to stay, and getting around. Spreading that cost out over time makes it easier to manage while you lock in your dates.

Remember that the 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers is a hard deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left when those 15 months end, regular interest kicks in on what you owe.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your green season dates

    Aim for the months between May and November when the rainforest is lush and room rates drop. You will see afternoon showers, but mornings are usually clear for hiking and spotting wildlife.

  2. 02

    Lock in your flights and lodging

    Book your main expenses while availability is open and prices match your budget. Knowing your fixed costs early helps you plan out the exact monthly math.

  3. 03

    Use the 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers

    Put the $2100 trip costs on your Discover it Cash Back card to use the 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. If you divide $2100 across the 15-month window, you get $140.00 per month.

  4. 04

    Set up automatic monthly payments

    Schedule a transfer for at least $140.00 every single month so you stay on track. Automating this step means you do not have to think about it while you are away.

  5. 05

    Check your buffer before you go

    Make sure your monthly payment fits comfortably inside your baseline budget before you book anything. You want to enjoy the cloud forest without stressing about the bill waiting at home.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

The green season runs from May through November. You get lower prices and fewer crowds, though you should expect afternoon rain.

How much does a trip to Costa Rica cost?

A typical trip runs around $2100 for flights, lodging, and transport. Your actual total depends on where you stay and how you get around.

What does 0% intro APR mean for my trip?

It means you pay no interest on your purchases for a set period. For this card, you get 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.

What happens if I don't finish paying in 15 months?

Any remaining balance left on the card after the 15 months will start accruing regular interest charges. Make sure your monthly payments cover the full amount before the deadline.