What Is the Average Cost of a Destination Wedding in Costa Rica?

Planning a destination wedding in Costa Rica usually starts with one simple question: what is the real number?

In 2026, the average cost of a destination wedding in Costa Rica falls between $25,000 and $45,000 for celebrations with 20 to 50 guests. Elopements typically range from $7,500 to $21,000, while luxury multi-day experiences with 70+ guests often exceed $80,000–$100,000.

What surprises most couples is that the total isn’t driven only by guest count. Many of the most important services are fixed costs. Photography, planning, legal officiants, and venue buyouts stay relatively constant whether you invite 25 guests or 60. Catering and bar service are the biggest variables, usually ranging from $100 to $300 per person depending on style and venue.

For example, I photographed a 42-guest wedding in Manuel Antonio last season. The couple spent around $38,000 total. Roughly half went to venue and catering. Photography and video were about 15%, planning another 12%, and the rest was split between florals, entertainment, and guest transportation. It felt elevated but relaxed. Nothing excessive. Just thoughtful choices.

The biggest budgeting mistake I see? Couples focus on decor trends instead of experience. Imported flowers that wilt in the humidity. Custom installations that look good for 20 minutes of daylight.

My advice as someone who has photographed weddings here for over 15 years: reduce the guest list before you reduce quality. A 35-guest wedding with a strong planner, great light, and experienced vendors will always feel better than a stretched 80-guest event trying to cut corners.

Costa Rica is not the cheapest destination in Central America. But when you compare it to a $36,000 ballroom wedding in the U.S., you’re trading a hotel conference room for jungle cliffs, beaches, and volcano views.

That difference is why couples choose it.