Visit Costa Rica for less than $50 a day

Get in touch with your wild side in this tropical nature lover’s landscape.

This blurb was originally published at Thrillist as part of a bigger story called “17 Unforgettable Countries You Can Visit for Less Than $50 a Day.”

Costa Rica has two stunning, lush coastlines worth exploring — for the most part, hikes are free and waterfall entrance fees are less than $10. Just beware pricey tourist traps; the more well-trafficked areas will hike up prices for food and parking, but a fresh fish dinner can still be had for $5 to $10 at smaller cafes. Instead of soaking in the Tabacon Hot Springs in Arenal (fees are pretty steep at $94), opt for a lazy day of lounging at the Tabacon River. In Tamarindo you can rent a surfboard for $10 before catching happy hour on the beach — many bars have karaoke and will give you a free shot every time you sing.

If you get a chance to splurge: Tour the cloud forest in Monteverde. Admission, plus a guide (you’ll want one to point out the howler monkeys, sloths, tree frogs and other wildlife) is $28.