Nicoya
This town of some 25,000, including surrounding districts, plays a crucial role as the administrative center of the indigenous Chorotega heartland on the Nicoya Peninsula. Named after the Native American chief that first greeted Spanish conquistadores in 1523, Nicoya’s population is made up of mostly Chorotega descendents.
Nicoya is home to the prominent Iglesia San Blas, the nation’s oldest church, which dates back to the seventeenth century. Although the adobe church is under constant renovation, a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts can be observed within.
Like Liberia to the northeast, Nicoya is an important commercial hub for the region’s cattle ranchers. Thus, transportation services are well developed for visitors looking to travel to one of Costa Rica’s other regions or to the nearby beach towns.
Unlike the sought-after beaches of the coast, Nicoya offers no resorts or tidbits of North American culture, only authentic Costa Rica. Budget accommodations and cheap hotels are the only available means of spending the night.
Buses leave from Liberia and San José multiple times per day. All roads from the mainland lead through Nicoya, including Highway 18, which spans the broad Tempisque River.
Nicoya itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Nicoya itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Epic Coast to Coast Couple’s Journey
Costa Rica was awesome. We do a lot of travelling and this was one our best trips ever.
Experiences in Nicoya
Explore hand-picked Nicoya tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Barra Honda Caves (Spelunking)
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
