Hi! My name is Catalina Cuervo, owner of ElopeinCostaRica.com. Today I wanted to post a quick guide to eloping in Costa Rica! Eloping has become a popular option for couples seeking an intimate and unique wedding experience. Among the myriad destinations available, Costa Rica stands out as an ideal location for an elopement adventure! Our little Central American paradise offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of romantic settings for your consideration. Here’s your ultimate guide to eloping in Costa Rica!
Why Eloping in Costa Rica?
Natural Beauty
Costa Rica is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. From lush rainforests and pristine beaches to majestic volcanoes and serene hot springs, our country provides a variety of stunning backdrops for your special day. Whether you envision exchanging vows on a sandy beach at sunset, in the heart of a tropical forest, at the base of a waterfall, or atop a mountain with panoramic views, Costa Rica has it all!
Adventure and Relaxation
Costa Rica is perfect for couples who love adventure as well as those who seek relaxation. This is why I created our signature “Elopement Honeymoon Adventure” trips over a decade ago. Having the backing of my travel company C.R. Referrals Travel, I knew that I could offer full service travel planning as well as full service wedding planning, and have it all come together seamlessly. I started ElopeinCostaRica.com, and it took off! You can start your journey with an adrenaline-pumping zip line tour through the rainforest canopy, followed by a peaceful soak in natural hot springs. Surfing, hiking, rafting, canyoneering, horseback riding, cooking classes, wildlife volunteering, there is SO much to do here, something for everyone! After the wedding, you can enjoy your Costa Rica honeymoon adventure, lounging on beautiful beaches or exploring vibrant landscapes.
We design your Costa Rica ceremony and honeymoon to perfectly match your travel style, these are bespoke trips, created for each couple.
Warm Climate
The tropical climate of Costa Rica is ideal for a destination wedding. However, it’s essential to consider the country’s wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from December to April, is typically the most popular time for weddings due to its sunny and dry conditions. The wet season, from May to November, sees more rainfall, but it can also offer lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists. In the months of September and October, we only plan indoor ceremonies due to weather concerns. If you are thinking about eloping or having a wedding in Costa Rica you need to consider what month you are traveling. We will help guide you with that.
Legal Requirements – Costa Rica Marriage
Getting married in Costa Rica is relatively straightforward for foreign couples. Weddings here are recognized worldwide and all you really need is a passport. You simply fill out the “Requisite for Costa Rica weddings” form that we will send you giving us the basic information needed, and scan a copy of your passports. If you are divorced, just jot down your divorce information on the Requisites form we send.
It’s as simple as that! If anyone tells you otherwise, they are either wrong or going about things the hard way.
Choosing the Perfect Location
Beach Elopements
Costa Rica is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. On our Pacific coast we have many beach areas to choose from. Locations like Manuel Antonio, Esterillos, Dominical, on up through Samara, Tamarindo, and up the gold coast. These areas offer stunning sunsets and golden sands. We will help you find the perfect beach location for your wedding vows.
Rainforest Elopements
For a more intimate and magical setting, consider a rainforest elopement. Costa Rica’s rainforests are teeming with life, and the dense foliage, vibrant flora, and enchanting sounds of the jungle create a mystical atmosphere. These settings are perfect for nature-loving couples looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Mountain and Volcano Elopements
Costa Rica’s mountainous regions and active volcanoes provide dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrops. These locations offer breathtaking views and a sense of adventure, perfect for couples who want a bit of thrill with their romance.
Waterfall Elopements
Imagine exchanging vows with the sound of a cascading waterfall in the background. Costa Rica’s numerous waterfalls, such as La Fortuna, Nauyaca, Rio Celeste (pictured) and Llanos de Cortés, to name a few, provide picturesque and romantic settings for an elopement. The beauty and tranquility of a waterfall elopement make it a truly magical experience.
Planning Your Elopement
Hiring a Wedding Planner – That’s me! 🙂
While eloping might seem simpler than planning a traditional wedding, hiring a local wedding planner is invaluable. And I am not just saying that because I am a wedding planner! 🙂 We can help with everything from legal paperwork and venue selection to arranging all wedding day vendors and ensuring your day runs smoothly. A planner with experience in Costa Rica will have local knowledge and connections to make your elopement stress-free. With the added bonus of being an award winning travel company, your elopement honeymoon adventure will take shape!
Here I am, Catalina Cuervo, your wedding planner, on location! 🙂
Choosing the Right Time
Selecting the right time for your elopement is crucial. The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular due to its favorable weather. However, the green season, from May to November, can offer lush landscapes and more availability. Consider your preferred weather conditions, budget, and the type of experience you want when choosing your date. I do not typically take any wedding trips in September and October due to weather.
Accommodation and Travel
We offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to eco-lodges and vacation rentals. We will help you find a place that fits your style and budget. When booking flights, San José (SJO) and Liberia (LIR) are the main international airports, with many destinations within a few hours’ drive.
Eloping in Costa Rica is a dream come true for many couples. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and warm climate, it provides the perfect setting for an intimate and unforgettable wedding. By planning carefully and taking advantage of local expertise, you can create a unique and magical experience that you and your partner will cherish forever. Whether you choose a beach, rainforest, mountain, or waterfall setting, Costa Rica promises an elopement filled with romance, adventure, and lasting memories.
