{"id":3229,"date":"2024-04-16T10:02:41","date_gmt":"2024-04-16T16:02:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/?p=3229"},"modified":"2025-11-01T01:50:56","modified_gmt":"2025-11-01T07:50:56","slug":"ultimate-guide-to-puerto-viejo-costa-rica","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/ultimate-guide-to-puerto-viejo-costa-rica\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Puerto Viejo Feels Nothing Like the Rest of Costa Rica"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"3229\" class=\"elementor elementor-3229\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1393c251 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"1393c251\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dfa105f elementor-widget elementor-widget-n-accordion\" data-id=\"dfa105f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;default_state&quot;:&quot;all_collapsed&quot;,&quot;max_items_expended&quot;:&quot;one&quot;,&quot;n_accordion_animation_duration&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;ms&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:400,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"nested-accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-n-accordion\" aria-label=\"Accordion. Open links with Enter or Space, close with Escape, and navigate with Arrow Keys\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2340\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"1\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2340\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Puerto Viejo Costa Rica: What's Covered <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-arrow-alt-circle-down\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M504 256c0 137-111 248-248 248S8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8s248 111 248 248zM212 140v116h-70.9c-10.7 0-16.1 13-8.5 20.5l114.9 114.3c4.7 4.7 12.2 4.7 16.9 0l114.9-114.3c7.6-7.6 2.2-20.5-8.5-20.5H300V140c0-6.6-5.4-12-12-12h-64c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-arrow-alt-circle-right\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M256 8c137 0 248 111 248 248S393 504 256 504 8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8zM140 300h116v70.9c0 10.7 13 16.1 20.5 8.5l114.3-114.9c4.7-4.7 4.7-12.2 0-16.9l-114.3-115c-7.6-7.6-20.5-2.2-20.5 8.5V212H140c-6.6 0-12 5.4-12 12v64c0 6.6 5.4 12 12 12z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2340\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f01af10 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"f01af10\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2340\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c87d1dc e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-child\" data-id=\"c87d1dc\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-14299e5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"14299e5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo de Talamanca offers Afro-Caribbean culture and reggae rhythms completely different from Costa Rica&#8217;s Pacific coast, located 4-5 hours from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/driving-in-costa-rica-road-conditions-tips\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Jos\u00e9 via Route 32<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This Caribbean gem stays surprisingly sunny August-October when<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/your-journey-to-tamarindo-costa-rica-a-paradise-for-sun-seekers\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pacific destinations<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> get drenched. Having a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rental car from Vamos<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> makes exploring easier, though bikes handle the 13-kilometer beach road perfectly from town to Manzanillo.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Quick Facts:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No 4&#215;4 needed\u2014newly paved Route 32 requires just decent ground clearance<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Budget $50-70 daily for hostels and sodas, $100-150 for comfortable stays<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best weather: February-April (driest) or August-October (sunny while Pacific rains)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Punta Uva ranks as most beautiful beach, 8km south with crystal-clear water<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sinac.go.cr\/EN-US\/ac\/aclac\/pnc\/Pages\/default.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cahuita National Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> operates on donations 20 minutes north<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Top 4 Must-Do Activities:<\/b><\/p><ol><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Beach Hop by Bike<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Explore Cocles, Chiquita, Punta Uva, and Manzanillo beaches within 45 minutes cycling<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Jaguar Rescue Center<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; $20-25 tours showing rehabilitation of sloths, monkeys, and margay cats<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Chocolate Tours<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; $30-35 experiences at working cacao plantations with tastings and wildlife<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Surf Salsa Brava<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; January-April brings world-class waves for experienced surfers only<\/span><\/li><\/ol><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo rewards travelers embracing its different pace\u2014plan 3-5 days minimum to properly experience Caribbean Costa Rica&#8217;s unique culture.<\/span><\/p><p><b>If you need any help with a Costa Rica car rental, <a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/contact-us\/\">contact us now<\/a>!<\/b><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5bd4c5ab elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5bd4c5ab\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo de Talamanca isn&#8217;t your typical Costa Rican beach town. While most visitors flock to the Pacific coast for predictable sunshine and resort towns, this Caribbean gem offers something completely different\u2014Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae rhythms, coconut-infused cuisine, and a laid-back vibe that makes the rest of Costa Rica feel rushed. Located on the South Caribbean coast about 4.5 hours from San Jos\u00e9, Puerto Viejo attracts travelers looking for world-class surfing at Salsa Brava, stunning beaches like Punta Uva, wildlife encounters at the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jaguarrescue.foundation\/en-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jaguar Rescue Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and a cultural scene shaped by indigenous Bribri traditions and Jamaican influences. The best part? When the Pacific coast drowns in rain from August through October, Puerto Viejo stays surprisingly dry.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3b9ec64 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3b9ec64\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b151bb2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b151bb2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo offers a completely different Costa Rica experience with Afro-Caribbean and indigenous Bribri influences rather than typical Latin American culture.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Caribbean coast enjoys sunny weather between August &#8211; October, when the Pacific coast gets hammered with rain.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&#8217;t need a 4&#215;4\u2014<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/driving-in-costa-rica-road-conditions-tips\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the newly paved Route 32<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> makes the drive straightforward from San Jos\u00e9.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beach hopping is the main activity, with each beach offering distinct vibes within 15 minutes by bike.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surfing peaks January-April when Salsa Brava comes alive, but diverse activities keep the town busy year-round.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Budget-conscious travelers find excellent value compared to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/unwind-in-nosara-costa-rica-a-tropical-haven-for-surf-yoga-and-wellness\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pacific coast hotspots<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-87687bb elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"87687bb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Does Puerto Viejo Compare to Other Destinations?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e142871 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e142871\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/your-journey-to-tamarindo-costa-rica-a-paradise-for-sun-seekers\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tamarindo on the Pacific coast<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers consistent sunshine and developed infrastructure. Puerto Viejo counters with authentic culture, less development, more affordable prices, and beaches that stay crowd-free even during high season.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manuel Antonio combines beaches with accessible wildlife viewing <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/unlocking-the-charms-of-san-jose-costa-rica\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">just 3 hours from San Jos\u00e9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Puerto Viejo requires more commitment (4.5 hours) but rewards you with more beach variety, deeper cultural immersion, and lower prices. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/manuel-antonio-national-park\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manuel Antonio&#8217;s national park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> draws huge crowds; nearby <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sinac.go.cr\/EN-US\/ac\/aclac\/pnc\/Pages\/default.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cahuita National Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> operates on donations and sees far fewer visitors.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compared to quieter Caribbean neighbors like Cahuita (more relaxed, smaller) and Manzanillo (fishing village, very quiet), Puerto Viejo offers the most services and nightlife while maintaining that Caribbean vibe.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-628ded9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"628ded9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"584\" src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Caribbean-Coast-vs-Pacific-Coast-1024x935.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-5133\" alt=\"Comparison table showing differences between Costa Rica&#039;s Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo) and Pacific Coast destinations, highlighting weather patterns, culture, beaches, pricing, and travel characteristics to help visitors choose the best region for their trip.\" title=\"\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f726866 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"f726866\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What's the Real Budget for Puerto Viejo?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6da90f8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6da90f8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><b>Accommodation:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Hostel dorms run $12-25 USD, private guesthouse rooms $40-70 USD, vacation rentals $60-120 USD, boutique hotels $100-180 USD, luxury eco-lodges $180-300+ USD.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Food:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Casados at local sodas cost $5-8 USD, restaurant meals $12-20 USD per person, beachside cocktails $6-10 USD, gelato $3-5 USD.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Activities:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> E-scooter rental $40 USD daily, bicycle rental $8-12 USD, Jaguar Rescue Center $20-25 USD, chocolate tours $30-35 USD, Cahuita National Park donation-based (suggested $5 USD).<\/span><\/p><p><b>Daily Budget Examples:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Budget travelers spend $50-70 USD (hostel, sodas, bike rental), mid-range travelers $100-150 USD (vacation rental, mixed dining, activities), and comfortable travelers $200-300 USD (boutique hotel, tours, e-scooter).<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0d61a91 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"0d61a91\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Do You Actually Get to Puerto Viejo?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b9e9741 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b9e9741\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>Which Route Works Best from San Jos\u00e9?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Route 32 through Braulio Carrillo National Park takes 4-5 hours. The roads are now well-paved with widened lanes. Traffic backs up with trailer trucks on single-lane sections, so start early (before 7 AM) to avoid congestion. Don&#8217;t drive at night\u2014elevation changes, fog, and wildlife make it risky.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you approach Puerto Viejo, expect minor bumps\u2014just slow down. A regular car with decent ground clearance handles everything fine. You don&#8217;t need a 4&#215;4 for Puerto Viejo, though<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> having a reliable rental from Vamos<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> makes exploring beaches easier than relying on buses.<\/span><\/p><h3><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-airport-guide-sjo-vs-lir\/\"><b>What About Flying <\/b><\/a><b>or Taking the Bus?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lim\u00f3n Airport is 1.5 hours away. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.flysansa.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SANSA Airlines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> flies from San Jos\u00e9 (40 minutes, $85 USD one-way), but you&#8217;ll still need ground transportation to Puerto Viejo.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Public buses (MEPE line) run four times daily from San Jos\u00e9&#8217;s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mepecr.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Terminal Atlantico Norte<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at 6 AM, 10 AM, 3:45 PM, and 4 PM. The journey takes 5 hours and costs about $12 USD one-way. Arrive an hour early to secure seats.<\/span><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-shuttle-services-essential-information\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shuttle services<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.interbusonline.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interbus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> charge $57 USD per person shared or $220 USD private. They&#8217;re more comfortable than buses but less flexible than having your own vehicle.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f9ce032 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"f9ce032\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Do You Get Around Once You're There?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7346362 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7346362\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo stretches along a single main road with beaches lined up like beads. This makes bikes and electric scooters perfect transportation. E-scooters rent for $40 USD daily and handle the 13-kilometer stretch to Manzanillo easily. Maximum biking time to any point is 45 minutes, though most spots fall within 20 minutes.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you drove from San Jos\u00e9, keep the car for day trips to Cahuita (20 minutes) or the Bribri waterfall (25 minutes). Park it at your accommodation and bike for daily beach hopping.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ce4e8d4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"ce4e8d4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">When Should You Visit Puerto Viejo?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-91fd026 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"91fd026\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4603 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Couple-snorkelling-350x188.png\" alt=\"Couple snorkelling\" width=\"838\" height=\"450\" title=\"\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Couple-snorkelling-350x188.png 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Couple-snorkelling.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Couple-snorkelling-768x413.png 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Couple-snorkelling-1536x827.png 1536w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Couple-snorkelling-2048x1103.png 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 838px) 100vw, 838px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 838px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 838\/450;\" \/><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a226e9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3a226e9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>What Makes the Caribbean Coast Different?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&#8217;s the secret: when the Pacific coast gets drenched during &#8220;green season&#8221; (August-October), Puerto Viejo often stays sunny. Different weather systems affect each coast, giving the Caribbean better weather during these months while Pacific towns see daily downpours.<\/span><\/p><p><b>February-April<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> represents the driest period. Hotels fill up, especially around Easter. Book well in advance.<\/span><\/p><p><b>August-October<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers sunny days while the rest of Costa Rica floods. Fewer tourists mean better prices and less crowded beaches.<\/span><\/p><p><b>January and November<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> bring mixed weather with both sunshine and rain.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>When Does Surfing Peak?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">January through April brings the biggest, most consistent swells. Salsa Brava\u2014Puerto Viejo&#8217;s legendary reef break\u2014truly comes alive, attracting experienced surfers worldwide. The wave breaks over a shallow reef and demands respect; it&#8217;s not a beginner spot.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8cd7f1f elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"8cd7f1f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"640\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/When-Should-You-Visit-Puerto-Viejo-1024x1024.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-5134 lazyload\" alt=\"Month-by-month weather and activities calendar for Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, showing optimal visit times from February to April and the unique advantage of August to October when the Caribbean coast stays sunny while the Pacific coast experiences heavy rain, plus surfing seasons and turtle nesting periods.\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/When-Should-You-Visit-Puerto-Viejo-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/When-Should-You-Visit-Puerto-Viejo-e1760975839273-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/When-Should-You-Visit-Puerto-Viejo-1536x1536.png 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 640px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 640\/640;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-417f410 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"417f410\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Where Should You Stay in Puerto Viejo?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f8d7723 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f8d7723\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>What&#8217;s the Difference Between Town and Beach Road?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo town centers around restaurants, shops, and bars with that Caribbean village feel. You&#8217;ll walk to nightlife easily, though the town beach isn&#8217;t the area&#8217;s most impressive.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The &#8220;beach road&#8221; stretches south through Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Punta Uva to Manzanillo (13 kilometers away). Hotels here offer beachfront access and tranquility, but require bikes or vehicles to reach town.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most travelers prefer accommodations along the beach road for superior beaches while making occasional trips into town.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Which Hotels Actually Deliver?<\/b><\/h3><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bananaazul.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Hotel Banana Azul<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Playa Negra, 4.5+ rating) offers beachfront rooms with a beach club, restaurant, and spa services.<\/span><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/cariblue.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Cariblue<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Playa Cocles, 4.5+ rating) features two pools, a swim-up bar, jacuzzis, a spa, a restaurant, and surf school\u2014more resort-style while maintaining local character.<\/span><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/Hotel_Review-g3685190-d531478-Reviews-Tree_House_Beachfront_Lodge-Punta_Uva_Puerto_Viejo_de_Talamanca_Province_of_Limon.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Tree House Lodge<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Near Punta Uva, 4.8+ rating) provides five luxury eco-houses across 10 acres near the area&#8217;s most beautiful beach.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Vacation rentals<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> range from simple apartments near town ($60-80 USD nightly) to beachfront houses ($150-300 USD).\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><b>Hostels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like Playa 506, Selina, and Lionfish offer dorms ($12-25 USD) or private rooms ($40-60 USD).<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1e615d1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1e615d1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Which Beaches Should You Actually Visit?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-02d414e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"02d414e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>Why Is Punta Uva Special?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Punta Uva (8 kilometers south) consistently ranks as the area&#8217;s most beautiful beach. White sand meets crystal-clear water framed by palm trees, creating that postcard scene. Natural rock formations break waves in sections, creating calm pools perfect for families. Costa Rican law prohibits private beach ownership, so every beach stays accessible to everyone.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What About the Other Beaches?<\/b><\/h3><p><b>Playa Cocles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (3 kilometers from town) offers consistent surf and expansive golden-brown sand. Strong waves demand respect from swimmers. Several hotels and restaurants provide nearby amenities.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Playa Puerto Viejo (Chino Beach)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> works for quick dips when you don&#8217;t want to bike. Natural rock pools create gentler swimming. Beach shacks like Pirata Tike Bar serve food and drinks steps from the sand\u2014perfect for sunset cocktails.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Playa Chiquita<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> sits between Cocles and Punta Uva with a more tranquil, less developed feel. Good swimming (watch the waves) and easy access to scattered accommodations.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Manzanillo<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> marks the end of the road (13 kilometers from town). This tiny fishing village within the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge offers long, wild beaches with fewer people. Playa Grande stretches endlessly with a famous shipwreck and pelican flocks. Excellent restaurants make it worth the bike ride.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e382a8a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e382a8a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4667 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Tortuguero-National-Park-Limon-Costa-Rica-350x188.png\" alt=\"Tortuguero National Park, Limon, Costa Rica\" width=\"855\" height=\"459\" title=\"\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Tortuguero-National-Park-Limon-Costa-Rica-350x188.png 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Tortuguero-National-Park-Limon-Costa-Rica.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Tortuguero-National-Park-Limon-Costa-Rica-768x413.png 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Tortuguero-National-Park-Limon-Costa-Rica-1536x827.png 1536w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Tortuguero-National-Park-Limon-Costa-Rica-2048x1103.png 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 855px) 100vw, 855px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 855px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 855\/459;\" \/><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-557a62b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"557a62b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Activities Matter Beyond Beaches?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0709301 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"0709301\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>Why Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This sanctuary offers refuge to injured, orphaned, or electrocuted wildlife. Sloths, monkeys, birds, and a margay cat receive rehabilitation care. Two morning tour slots ($20-25 USD, 90 minutes) provide insights into each animal&#8217;s story. Important rules: no touching, no photography during certain periods, no interactions disrupting rehabilitation. The center operates entirely through entrance fees and donations. After tours, walk the grounds during afternoons when many residents roam freely.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Is Cahuita National Park Worth It?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cahuita sits 20 minutes north by car, 45 minutes by bike. The park protects 8 kilometers of coastline with rainforest, beaches, and coral reefs. Easy trails follow the coast, offering ocean views while sloths, raccoons, and monkeys appear in trees. Entry operates on donation (suggested $5 USD). Bring water and swimming gear\u2014you can swim at various beaches along the route.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What&#8217;s the Chocolate Tour Experience?<\/b><\/h3><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cacaotrailscr.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cacao Trails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and Caribbean Chocolate Tour guides visitors through working plantations where cacao grows under the rainforest canopy. Tours ($30-35 USD, 2-3 hours) include seeing cacao pods, tasting the sweet fruit, learning fermentation and drying, and grinding your own chocolate. Create custom chocolate by adding tropical fruits or spices. Cacao Trails specifically winds through the forest where wild capuchin monkeys and sloths sometimes appear.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Where&#8217;s the Bribri Waterfall?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Bribri indigenous community lives near the Panama border, maintaining a distinct language and traditions. The waterfall requires a 25-minute drive followed by a guided walk from the village. Tours include the village visit, waterfall hike, and often a traditional lunch. You don&#8217;t need a 4&#215;4 even during the dry season.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What About Tortuguero National Park?<\/b><\/h3><p><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/tortuguero-national-park-guide\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tortuguero on the northern Caribbean coast<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> operates like Costa Rica&#8217;s Amazon\u2014canals replace roads. The park requires overnight trips (starting $140 USD per person), including transportation, accommodation, meals, and boat tours. Wildlife density is incredible: caimans, river turtles, sloths, poison dart frogs, and countless birds. During turtle nesting season (July-October), nighttime beach walks offer chances to witness sea turtles laying eggs. Plan a trip to this amazing area before or after your stay in Puerto Viejo.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Does Surfing Require Experience?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Salsa Brava breaks over a shallow reef, generating powerful waves demanding respect\u2014exclusively for experienced surfers. Playa Cocles offers more forgiving waves for intermediate surfers. Several surf schools teach beginners at Cocles rather than Salsa Brava. Best surf season runs January-April when Caribbean swells peak.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What About Other Activities?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">White water rafting on the surrounding rivers costs $75-100 USD and combines adrenaline with rainforest wildlife viewing. Bird watching reveals over 300 species, including Great Green Macaws found only on Costa Rica&#8217;s Caribbean side. Early morning walks (before 7 AM) provide the best viewing. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/aramanzanillo.org\/book-now\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ara Manzanillo<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> focuses on restoring endangered populations and is open to visitors.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a06119d elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"a06119d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"631\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/What-Wildlife-Will-You-Actually-See-1024x1010.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-5135 lazyload\" alt=\"Quick wildlife spotting guide for Puerto Viejo showing six common animals including sloths, monkeys, toucans, Great Green Macaws, and sea turtles with difficulty ratings and viewing tips for the Caribbean coast.\" title=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 640px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 640\/631;\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-00f04ee elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"00f04ee\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Where Should You Eat in Puerto Viejo?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e2f2494 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e2f2494\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caribbean-influenced food dominates\u2014coconut milk flavors rice and beans, jerk seasoning spices proteins, pat\u00ed (Caribbean empanadas) fills lunch menus, and fresh seafood appears everywhere.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Soda Lidia&#8217;s<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (4.5+ rating) exemplifies authentic local Caribbean cuisine with homemade hot sauce and traditional rice and beans ($5-8 USD).<\/span><\/p><p><b>Bread and Chocolate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (4.8+ rating) serves breakfast and lunch with fresh-baked goods and creative plates.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Koki Beach Lounge<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (4.6+ rating) excels at seafood and steaks ($12-20 USD per entr\u00e9e).<\/span><\/p><p><b>La Pecora Nera<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (4.7+ rating) delivers authentic Italian pizza and pasta ($20-35 USD per person).<\/span><\/p><p><b>Stashu&#8217;s con Fusion<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (4.6+ rating) offers creative drinks and excellent desserts with refined dining.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Deelite<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (4.8+ rating) serves gelato rivaling Italy with tropical flavors.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local sodas throughout town serve authentic casados for $5-8 USD\u2014best value and often most authentic Caribbean flavors.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2b09f87 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2b09f87\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1919 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/localfood480x605-e1483585389802-350x202.jpg\" alt=\"Local Food\" width=\"859\" height=\"496\" title=\"\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/localfood480x605-e1483585389802-350x202.jpg 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/localfood480x605-e1483585389802-300x173.jpg 300w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/localfood480x605-e1483585389802-150x87.jpg 150w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/localfood480x605-e1483585389802.jpg 479w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 859px) 100vw, 859px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 859px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 859\/496;\" \/><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4765e3c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"4765e3c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Should You Know About Practical Stuff?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f8b6867 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f8b6867\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><b>Safety:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Puerto Viejo experiences typical beach area petty theft. Don&#8217;t leave valuables on beaches, lock accommodations, and avoid walking alone or drunk late at night. Violent crime against tourists remains rare. Use common sense.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Money:<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/costa-rica-currency-a-guide-to-handling-and-exchanging\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Several ATMs operate in town<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but sometimes run out during busy weekends. Many places accept US dollars, but you&#8217;ll get better value with colones. Keep enough cash for a few days\u2014smaller places operate cash-only.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Cell Service:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Coverage works reasonably well in town and along the beach road. WiFi at accommodations handles messaging and email, but often struggles with streaming.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Water:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Tap water is generally safe, though some travelers prefer bottled water during the first few days. Many accommodations provide filtered water stations.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Groceries:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Small stores stock basics. Don&#8217;t expect a massive selection. For serious shopping, some make runs to Hone Creek\u2019s budget Pali supermarket.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a0f81aa elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a0f81aa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Should You Plan Your Itinerary?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fa6e02d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"fa6e02d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><b>3 Days Minimum:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Several beaches, one tour (Jaguar Rescue or chocolate), absorb the vibe.<\/span><\/p><p><b>5 Days Ideal:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Beach hopping, two to three activities, genuine relaxation time.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Sample 3-Day Plan:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 1: Arrive afternoon, settle in, explore town, dinner at Soda Lidia&#8217;s<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 2: Morning Playa Cocles, afternoon Punta Uva, evening town dinner<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 3: Cahuita National Park morning hike, afternoon Chino Beach, farewell dinner\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Sample 5-Day Plan:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 1: Arrive, afternoon Playa Cocles<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 2: Morning Jaguar Rescue Center, afternoon Punta Uva<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 3: Morning chocolate tour, afternoon Playa Chiquita<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 4: Full day in Cahuita National Park<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day 5: Morning Manzanillo bike ride, afternoon final beach time, farewell dinner at La Pecora Nera<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><a href=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/first-time-costa-rica-mistakes\"><b>Week-Long Plans<\/b><\/a><b>:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Add Tortuguero overnight, white water rafting, Bribri waterfall, surfing lessons, or simply slow down.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b9e9161 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b9e9161\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-4604 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Beach-in-Puerto-Viejo-de-Talamanca-Costa-Rica-350x188.png\" alt=\"Beach in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica\" width=\"830\" height=\"446\" title=\"\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Beach-in-Puerto-Viejo-de-Talamanca-Costa-Rica-350x188.png 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Beach-in-Puerto-Viejo-de-Talamanca-Costa-Rica-1024x551.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Beach-in-Puerto-Viejo-de-Talamanca-Costa-Rica-768x413.png 768w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Beach-in-Puerto-Viejo-de-Talamanca-Costa-Rica-1536x827.png 1536w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Beach-in-Puerto-Viejo-de-Talamanca-Costa-Rica-2048x1103.png 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 830px) 100vw, 830px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 830px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 830\/446;\" \/><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b19b4f2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"b19b4f2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What's Your Next Step?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1472849 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1472849\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo rewards travelers who embrace its different pace and cultural flavor. Book accommodations along the beach road between Cocles and Punta Uva for the best beach access while keeping the town&#8217;s restaurants within biking distance. Plan to stay at least three full days, but ideally longer.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The drive from San Jos\u00e9 takes 4-5 hours on well-maintained roads that don&#8217;t require a 4&#215;4. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/reservations.vamosrentacar.com\/Search\/Init\/Vamos\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Renting from a company like Vamos that specializes in Costa Rica<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> means getting a vehicle that handles everything from the airport to Puerto Viejo without issues, plus local knowledge from staff who actually know these routes.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit August-October for sunny Caribbean weather while the rest of Costa Rica gets rain, or February-April for the driest conditions. Leave room for spontaneity\u2014discovering a new beach, stumbling into an amazing meal, or extending your stay because the vibe works. That&#8217;s the Caribbean coast effect, and it&#8217;s exactly what makes this corner of Costa Rica worth the drive.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-78dc8ad elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"78dc8ad\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-3221 size-full lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cover-Vamos-Rent-a-car.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1500\" height=\"500\" title=\"\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cover-Vamos-Rent-a-car.png 1024w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cover-Vamos-Rent-a-car-350x117.png 350w, https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cover-Vamos-Rent-a-car-768x256.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1500\/500;\" \/><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-195e27c elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"195e27c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8fb711c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"8fb711c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-211626c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"211626c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><b>Do I need a 4&#215;4 to drive to Puerto Viejo from San Jos\u00e9?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, you don&#8217;t need a 4&#215;4. The Route 32 drive from San Jos\u00e9 to Puerto Viejo is now well-paved with widened lanes\u2014a huge improvement from years past. A regular sedan or SUV with decent ground clearance handles the route just fine.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll encounter some rough patches on the roads near Puerto Viejo. Just slow down and you&#8217;re good. The roads are totally manageable without 4-wheel drive.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Pro Tip:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A car with slightly higher clearance (like a small SUV) gives you more comfort on those bumpy sections, but it&#8217;s not required. Regular cars make this drive every single day without issues.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How many days should I spend in Puerto Viejo?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 days minimum, 5 days ideal. Here&#8217;s why: Puerto Viejo has six distinct beaches within 30 minutes of each other, plus activities beyond just beaches (Jaguar Rescue Center, Cahuita National Park, chocolate tours, snorkeling).<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Three days lets you hit the highlights\u2014a couple of beaches, one or two activities, and get a feel for the Caribbean vibe. Five days gives you time to properly beach hop, take a few tours, maybe do a Tortuguero overnight trip, and actually relax instead of rushing.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re a surfer chasing Salsa Brava waves or someone who just wants to decompress completely, a week works perfectly. The laid-back pace makes longer stays feel natural rather than excessive.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Is Puerto Viejo safe for tourists?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, with normal precautions. Puerto Viejo is generally safe, but like any beach tourism areas there is petty theft. Unattended bags disappear from beaches, unlocked rental cars get rifled through, and valuables left visible attract opportunistic thieves.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main issues are theft of opportunity, not assault or serious crime. Here&#8217;s what works:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&#8217;t leave stuff on the beach when you swim<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lock your accommodations and car<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid walking alone, drunk, late at night in unlit areas<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&#8217;t flash expensive jewelry or electronics unnecessarily<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The laid-back vibe can make you complacent\u2014that&#8217;s exactly when theft happens. Stay aware without being paranoid, and you&#8217;ll likely have zero issues.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>When is the best time to visit Puerto Viejo?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">February through April for guaranteed sunshine, August through October for the secret advantage.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Feb-April represents the driest, most consistently sunny period. Hotels fill up and prices peak, but you&#8217;re almost guaranteed great weather. If you&#8217;re visiting during these months, book accommodations well in advance, especially around Easter.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&#8217;s the insider knowledge: August through October offers sunny Caribbean days while the Pacific coast drowns in rain. Different weather systems affect each coast, so when Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio see daily downpours, Puerto Viejo often stays surprisingly dry and sunny. You&#8217;ll get occasional rain, but nothing like the Pacific side. Plus, fewer tourists mean better prices and less crowded beaches.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Surfing Note:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> January through April brings the biggest, most consistent swells to Salsa Brava. If you&#8217;re chasing waves, visit during these months.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What&#8217;s the best beach in Puerto Viejo?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Punta Uva consistently wins for overall beauty, but the &#8220;best&#8221; beach depends on what you want:<\/span><\/p><p><b>Punta Uva<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (8 km south): White sand, crystal-clear water, palm trees leaning over the beach, and natural rock pools creating calm swimming areas. This is the postcard-perfect Caribbean scene everyone imagines.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Playa Cocles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (3 km south): Best for surfing with consistent waves and multiple peaks. More energetic vibe with surf schools and beachside restaurants.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Chino Beach<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (in town): Most convenient for quick dips and sunset cocktails when you don&#8217;t want to bike anywhere. Not the prettiest, but the accessibility and beach bars make it great for casual afternoons.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Manzanillo<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (13 km south): Wild, less developed, long stretches of sand with fewer people. Worth the bike ride for solitude.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The beauty of Puerto Viejo is having all these different beaches within 30 minutes by bike. Spend a day beach hopping and decide which vibe fits you best.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Is Puerto Viejo expensive compared to other Costa Rica destinations?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, Puerto Viejo is actually more affordable than Pacific coast hotspots. You&#8217;ll pay less here than in Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, or the fancy Guanacaste beach towns.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Budget breakdown: Hostel dorms run $12-25\/night, casados at local sodas cost $5-8, bike rentals are $8-12\/day, and Cahuita National Park operates on donation (suggested $5). A budget traveler can do Puerto Viejo for $50-70\/day comfortably.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mid-range travelers spending $100-150\/day get vacation rentals, mix of local and nicer restaurants, e-scooter rentals, and activities. Even upscale boutique hotels ($150-250\/night) cost less than comparable Pacific coast properties.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The lack of big resorts and heavy commercialization keeps prices reasonable. Authentic sodas run by local families serve amazing Caribbean food for a fraction of what you&#8217;d pay at tourist restaurants in Tamarindo.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Should I stay in Puerto Viejo town or along the beach road?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stay along the beach road between Cocles and Punta Uva for the best beaches, then bike into town when you want restaurant variety or nightlife.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puerto Viejo town puts you within walking distance from restaurants, bars, and services, but the town beach (Chino Beach) isn&#8217;t the area&#8217;s most impressive. You&#8217;ll end up biking to better beaches anyway.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The beach road south of town gives you direct access to Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Punta Uva\u2014the area&#8217;s best swimming and scenery. Hotels here offer more tranquil settings, though you&#8217;ll need bikes or a car to reach town (10-20 minutes).<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most travelers prefer the beach road location. You get the superior beaches for daily use while keeping the town&#8217;s dining and nightlife within easy reach by bike. Best of both worlds.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Puerto Viejo Costa Rica: What&#8217;s Covered Puerto Viejo de Talamanca offers Afro-Caribbean culture and reggae rhythms completely different from Costa Rica&#8217;s Pacific coast, located 4-5 hours from San Jos\u00e9 via Route 32. This Caribbean gem stays surprisingly sunny August-October when Pacific destinations get drenched. Having a rental car from Vamos makes exploring easier, though bikes [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":3230,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"yes","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3229","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-posts"],"modified_by":"Zachary Ellison","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3229","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3229"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3229\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6762,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3229\/revisions\/6762"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3230"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3229"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3229"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vamosrentacar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3229"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}