Imagine this: You’re sipping freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, your itinerary wide open and the forecast calling for clear skies and 80-degree bliss.
As you plan your next move, the options feel endless:
Will it be a day lounging on palm-fringed beaches? A hike through lush rainforests alive with color and sound? Or maybe an afternoon lost in the rhythms of local festivals, where towns pulse with tradition, music, and meaning?
If you’re planning a trip during Easter, you’re arriving at one of Costa Rica’s most vibrant times of year.
Sunny days, rich cultural traditions, and a spirit of community fill every corner of the country.
At Blue Pass, we are a local tour operator with more than 30 years working with travelers around the world—and we’re here to help you make the most of it.
What to Expect During Easter in Costa Rica
During Holy Week (Semana Santa), Costa Rica moves to a slower, more reflective rhythm.
Schools across the country close for the entire week leading up to Easter Sunday. Families often take advantage of this break to travel together to the beach, the mountains, or to visit relatives.
Most businesses and offices remain open until Wednesday, but starting Thursday (Holy Thursday) and Friday (Good Friday), almost everything shuts down—including banks, government offices, and many stores.
Essential services like some restaurants, hotels, and supermarkets in tourist areas remain available, but expect a more relaxed pace and limited operations.
In Costa Rica, Easter is known as Semana Santa (Holy Week). It’s a time when life slows down, cities empty out, and families head toward the beaches and mountains to relax and celebrate.
If you’re curious about Costa Rica’s traditions, Easter Week is the perfect time to see the country’s faith and community spirit in action.
Holy Thursday: Many towns hold silent processions reenacting the Last Supper.
Good Friday: Elaborate “Stations of the Cross” processions take place, with locals in detailed costumes portraying key biblical scenes.
Easter Sunday: Celebrations are usually more understated, but you might catch joyful church services and small local festivities
Remember: These are solemn events—feel free to observe, but always be respectful when taking photos.
Semana Santa: Experience Costa Rica's Spiritual Heart
Holy Week (Semana Santa) transforms Costa Rica each March or April. The normally laid-back country shifts into a more contemplative mode, especially in cities like San José, Heredia, and Cartago.
What does this mean for you as a traveler? You’ll witness eye-catching processions where streets become artistic canvases covered with flowers and elaborate costumes. Locals craft these ephemeral artworks with remarkable skill and devotion.
Something to keep in mind: many businesses close during this time, especially Thursday and Friday of Holy Week. Rather than seeing this as an inconvenience, embrace it! This slower pace gives you the perfect excuse to experience Costa Rica like a local—gathering for special meals, enjoying family time, and perhaps heading to the beach for some relaxation.
Meanwhile, cultural traditions take center stage.
Throughout the country, towns host religious processions that reenact important biblical events. Streets are transformed with flower carpets and silent parades that commemorate the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection.
These events are a meaningful expression of Costa Rica’s deep-rooted Catholic heritage—and a beautiful experience for travelers to witness.
Practical Tips for Traveling During Easter and Holy Week
- Book your accommodations yesterday. Seriously, Semana Santa is a major holiday when locals flock to the beaches. Don’t wait until the last minute or you’ll find yourself without options.
- Embrace the traffic situation. Roads to popular beach destinations can get congested during Holy Week. Build extra time into your schedule and practice your deep breathing exercises!
- Check operating hours before making plans. Many businesses operate on limited schedules during Holy Week. That tour you’re eyeing might not be running on Good Friday.
- Pack for dry weather but bring a light rain jacket. While April is generally sunny, the occasional afternoon shower can happen, especially toward the end of the month.
- Consider inland activities during Holy Week. While locals head to the coast, you might enjoy a more peaceful experience exploring cloud forests, volcanoes, or coffee plantations.
Sample Easter Itinerary: Adventure & Relaxation in La Fortuna
At Blue Pass, we recommend a balance between culture and nature:
Day 1 – Arrival & Cultural Start in Alajuela
Arrive at the airport and head straight to Alajuela, just minutes away.
Settle in and stroll through the lively downtown—visit the central park, cathedral, and local markets.
During Semana Santa, expect traditional processions and a reflective local vibe.
Day 2 – Transfer to La Fortuna & Hot Springs
Enjoy a scenic ride to La Fortuna with volcano views en route.
Relax in your hotel and unwind in natural hot springs by sunset.
Day 3 – Adventure in Arenal
Start with a volcano hike or hanging bridges, then go ziplining, rafting, or paddleboarding.
End the day with dinner overlooking the Arenal Volcano.
Day 4 – Nature & Culture Combo
Explore La Fortuna Waterfall, visit a Maleku indigenous reserve, or take a coffee & chocolate tour.
Optional: Add a wildlife night walk or spa session.
Day 5 – Easy Morning & Departure
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and Blue Pass transfer back to the airport or your next destination.
Easter Travel with Blue Pass: Your Local Experts
Easter in Costa Rica is one of the most magical times to visit—but it does require smart planning.
With Blue Pass, you have a local team ready to guide you, connect you to authentic experiences, and make your trip as smooth and memorable as possible.
✨ Come for the weather. Stay for the soul. ✨
Discover the magic of Costa Rica during its most vibrant season.
From the breathtaking sights of La Fortuna to the profound cultural moments of Semana Santa is when Costa Rica opens its arms and heart to travelers.
Secure your April 2026 adventure with Blue Pass today and experience pura vida in its most authentic form—before the best spots are gone.