Traveling to Costa Rica? Know Before You Go!

Essential Information for Travelers to Costa Rica

I spent a fair amount of time looking at a map while planning a Central American trip. I wanted to understand the geography before traveling to Costa Rica. My family had to decide what places we wanted to see and activities we wanted to do.

This involved a lot of research. I looked at many online sites, ordered books and talked to people I knew who had been to Costa Rica. Certainly travel experts can make this process much easier.

Organized travel programs take away the guesswork. When you book these trips, people from Costa Rica and those with country expertise make the plans. Still, it’s helpful to know some basic facts before you board the plane to visit Costa Rica.

Where is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is located in Central America between Panama to the south and Nicaragua to the north. The Caribbean Sea is east of the country and the Pacific Ocean is west.

Costa Rica is slightly smaller than the U.S. state of West Virginia. Its land is only about 170 miles across at its widest point, and its length is about 288 miles. Overall, Costa Rica has about 762 miles of coastline. That alone makes its “rich coast ” name appropriate.

Costa Rica has beautiful beaches.

Costa Rica has about 79 islands, but most of them are in a conservation zone. This limits the number of visitors. Cocos Island is one example. Less than 1500 people are allowed to visit the island each year. And getting there is a chore. The boat ride from the mainland to the island is 36 hours long, and the cost for that journey can be quite high.

Mainland hot spots are much easier to access and are abundant. Costa Rica has hundreds of beaches and picturesque rainforest and mountain areas.

The nation is located on the Caribbean Plate, and its interaction with the Cocos Plate in the Pacific Ocean led to the formation of a number of volcanoes. The Talamanca Mountain Range divides the country. And popular visitor destinations include La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano.

Travel Requirements and Documents

Costa Rica Travel Requirements at a Glance

Key Details for Travelers

Visa and Entry Requirements

U.S. citizens can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days without a visa. The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of stay upon entry. Travelers must have a passport valid for the duration of their stay, and any passport damage may result in denied entry. Travelers are required to obtain an entry stamp from immigration officials upon entry, and they should carry a copy of identification and immigration status at all times.

Documents Needed for Entry

• A return or onward ticket is required to prove intent to leave the country.
• Proof of sufficient funds ($100 USD per month of stay) is required by customs officials.
• Travelers from certain areas must present proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Financial Considerations

Travelers with unpaid debts to the Costa Rican government, such as medical bills, unpaid child support, or vehicle injury claims, may be prevented from leaving Costa Rica. Make sure to settle any outstanding financial obligations before departure.

Airport Departure Tax

Visitors must pay a $29 USD departure tax before leaving Costa Rica. Some airlines include this fee in their ticket price, so check ahead. Paying the departure tax upon arrival or in advance can help avoid long lines at the airport.

Insurance Coverage

Make sure your health insurance includes coverage overseas, as most hospitals do not accept U.S. health insurance, and Medicare/Medicaid is not applicable. We strongly recommend purchasing supplemental insurance that covers medical evacuation, which can be costly and must often be paid upfront.

Travel Tips

• Carry copies of your identification and immigration documents at all times, as local authorities may request them during routine checks.
• For travelers with dual nationality or children with Costa Rican citizenship, consult with immigration authorities for requirements.

Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is generally safe to visit, though caution is advised in certain areas. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory, urging travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime.

Crime in Costa Rica

Common crimes in tourist areas include theft and pickpocketing, while more violent crimes, such as armed robbery and sexual assault, can occur. To stay safe:

• Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.
• Do not leave valuables unattended, even in locked vehicles.
• Research rental properties to ensure adequate security.

In the event of a car accident, be aware that local legal processes can be lengthy, and individuals may be prevented from leaving the country until all injury claims are resolved.

How to File a Police Report

• Visit the local office of the Costa Rican Investigative Police (OIJ). Call 800-800-3000 for locations.
• Tourist Police can also assist at popular locations like Tamarindo, Flamingo, Puerto Viejo, Guiones, Dominical, and El Coco.

The U.S. Embassy in San José can help with medical care, contacting relatives, and replacing stolen passports. A police report is required for follow-up and insurance claims.

Beach Safety

Many Costa Rican beaches have dangerous rip currents, and lifeguards may be absent. To stay safe:

• Swim only at lifeguarded beaches or inquire about conditions from a hotel or tour operator.
• Lifeguarded beaches include:
  • Pacific Coast: Manuel Antonio, Caldera, Esterillos Oeste, Bahia Ballena, Ventanas, Tamarindo.
  • Caribbean Coast: Cocles, Manzanillo, Negra (Limon).
• Do not swim alone.

For more on rip currents, visit the NOAA Rip Current Safety page.

Adventure Sports Safety

Costa Rica is popular for adventure sports, but not all operators meet international safety standards. Guidelines for safety include:

• Ensure your tour operator is certified by the Ministry of Health.
• Always carry identification and avoid participating in activities alone.
• Before rafting or kayaking, check river conditions and use safety equipment.
• Stick to marked trails when hiking or rappelling, and let others know your plans.

Natural Disaster Preparedness

Costa Rica is an active earthquake and volcanic zone. Guidelines for natural disaster preparedness:

• Monitor local alerts regarding volcanic activity, and avoid unauthorized climbs.
• Avoid driving into flooded areas during the rainy season (April to October).

For up-to-date information, refer to the U.S. Embassy Costa Rica website, the Costa Rican National Emergency Commission, or the Costa Rican Volcanic and Seismic Observatory.

Additional Safety Tips

Costa Rica remains a popular and generally safe travel destination if you exercise caution and stay informed. Check for updates from local authorities before traveling.

Health Considerations for Travelers to Costa Rica

Travelers to Costa Rica should be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Vaccinations & Health Risks

Travelers visiting certain areas may need prescription medication to prevent malaria. Mosquito-borne illnesses, including Dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, are present throughout the country. Rabies exposure can occur if bitten or scratched by an animal. Tap water in some areas, especially rural and national parks, may not be potable—consider using a reusable water bottle and drinking bottled water.

Emergency Medical Care

For emergency services in Costa Rica, dial 911. Costa Rica offers good quality medical treatment, including private clinics and hospitals, but be prepared for the costs and the need for upfront payment. Medical care in San José is generally adequate, but outside urban areas, services can be limited, and ambulances may lack necessary equipment. Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are available locally, but it is recommended to bring your own medications in original packaging with a doctor’s prescription. Ensure your health insurance provides overseas coverage, and consider supplemental insurance for medical evacuation, as U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply abroad.

Tips to Stay Healthy

• Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.
• Drink bottled water or confirm the safety of tap water, especially in rural areas.
• Be cautious of purchasing medication overseas—only buy from reputable establishments.
• Carry your prescription medications in their original packaging, and check with Costa Rican immigration authorities to ensure they are permitted.

Travelers’ diarrhea is a common health issue; take appropriate precautions with food and water. Staying informed and prepared will help ensure a healthy and enjoyable visit to Costa Rica.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

The best time to visit Costa Rica depends on your preferences for weather and activities. The dry season runs from December to April in most regions, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and beach days. The rainy season (also known as the wet season) extends from May to November, bringing lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. The Caribbean region experiences more evenly distributed rainfall, with the best weather often found in March-April and September-October.

Costa Rica Weather by Region

Monthly Average Weather in Costa Rica

Rainfall and Weather Details

Currency in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Official Currency

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), named after Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón). Bills come in denominations of 1,000 to 50,000 colones, while coins range from 5 to 500 colones. Each bill features colorful designs depicting some of Costa Rica’s iconic animals, such as sharks, sloths, and butterflies. For the most current exchange rates, check the Central Bank of Costa Rica’s website.

Exchange Rates and Using U.S. Dollars

The exchange rate between the colón and U.S. dollar fluctuates; currently, it is around 612 colones to 1 USD. A quick reference is to double the first number of the colón to approximate its value in dollars (e.g., 1,000 colones is roughly $2 USD). U.S. dollars are widely accepted in Costa Rica, but it’s best to bring smaller bills ($1, $5, $10, and $20) in good condition. Most places will provide change in colones, and larger bills like $50 or $100 are harder to use, often requiring an exchange at a local bank.

Currency Exchange Tips

• Exchange money at local banks such as BCR (Bank of Costa Rica), BN (Banco Nacional), or BAC for the best rates. Avoid airport kiosks, as their rates are less favorable.
• It’s helpful to have smaller bills when buying from local convenience stores or “sodas” (small eateries), as larger colones bills can be difficult for vendors to break.
• Credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, but check with your bank for international transaction fees. Travelers checks are not recommended, as they are less accepted compared to cash or cards.

Public Transportation and Currency

When using public transportation or hiring taxi drivers, it is advisable to carry smaller bills or coins for easier transactions. Official taxis in Costa Rica are red with a yellow triangle and accept colones. Paying with exact change helps avoid overcharges.

General Money Tips

• Always have a mix of both colones and U.S. dollars, as some businesses prefer local currency while others accept dollars.
• Keep copies of your financial documents in case they are lost or stolen. The Costa Rican government and local authorities may require proof of your legal ability to stay, including funds for your visit.
• ATM machines are available throughout urban areas, but fees may apply for international withdrawals. Carrying a reusable water bottle and staying hydrated is essential while waiting in lines at ATMs, especially during peak hours.

What Time Zone is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is in the Central Time Zone (GMT-6). The country does not change its time based on seasons like most regions of the United States. For that reason, Costa Rica will be one hour behind cities like New York during standard time. But it’s two hours behind during daylight savings time that runs from mid-March to early November.

For the west coast of the United States, Costa Rica will be two hours ahead during standard time. And the country will be one hour ahead during daylight savings time.

Where Should You Visit in Costa Rica? National Parks and More

Where you go in Costa Rica depends on your travel time and your interests. There are several common destinations. In the north, La Fortuna in the Arenal Volcano region and Monteverde Cloud Forest are great choices. These areas are teeming with wildlife and have picturesque mountain views.

Rustic Pathways students kayak in beautiful Lake Arenal right at the foot of the volcano. Copyright: © 2015 Rustic Pathways

To the northwest, travelers often visit the Nicoya Peninsula. This is a well-known destination for surfers and beach lovers. There are also nature preserves like the Camaronal Wildlife Refuge that protect endangered sea turtles.

Farther south, Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast is one of the country’s most popular destinations. It’s the nation’s smallest national park, but the area is renowned for its beautiful beaches and wildlife. This includes sloths, howler monkeys and many species of birds. While in the region, travelers can search for animals and take in the views while hiking on easy trails.

Less commonly visited spots include the Osa Peninsula in southern Costa Rica and parts of the Caribbean coast. The Osa Peninsula has areas of untouched scenery that can give travelers a more remote jungle experience. Corcovado National Park is just one of the places you can check out while in this area.

The Caribbean coast has traditionally been a more popular destination for Europeans than travelers from countries like the United States. Along the coast there are places with more of a Caribbean vibe. Scenic destinations include Cahuita National Park and the town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca in the southeast.

One possible note of caution is that the port city of Limon has a higher crime rate. It’s located almost directly east of San Jose on the Caribbean coast. During my family trip, it was the one spot where we felt we needed to be more cautious when we traveled through.

This city is not a popular destination for travelers. And there are a few other spots like this in the country. This includes the León XIII, Tibás neighborhood in the northern part of San José and an agricultural region bordering Nicaragua. These are areas where travelers are unlikely to go. Overall, Costa Rica is known for its safety, which is a key reason it’s a popular travel destination.

What Activities Should You Do in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica there are many activities to try including adventure activities, cultural activities and service activities.

It is the perfect travel destination for adventure seekers and with opportunities for cultural immersion and the chance to give back to the local communities, it’s tough to go wrong with a trip to Costa Rica.

Adventure Activities

On the adventure front, popular activities include ziplining, white water rafting, rappelling and surfing.  Ziplining is available in many regions of Costa Rica. The nation is known for canopy tours that allow you to fly above rainforests and waterways. The highest zipline in the country is in the Arenal Volcano area. It reaches a height of 656 feet, which is higher than the country’s tallest building.

A Rustic Pathways student zip lines through the rainforest canopy near Arenal Volcano. Copyright: © 2013 Rustic Pathways

There are zipline systems that will take you across miles of landscapes so you can see a diversity of flora. If you want to be more cautious, many regions also have smaller ziplines, so you don’t have to challenge your bravery as much.

For white water rafting, the Pacuare River is one of the best rafting locations in the world. It has thrilling class IV rapids. Plus, the river is clean and is set amid some beautiful scenery.

Rustic Pathways students enjoy white water rafting while on the Pura Vida Service program. Copyright: © 2016 Rustic Pathways

Like ziplining, different levels of white water rafting are available depending on your preference. You can select rafting rides called safari floats that take you on mild Class I and II rapids. One option for this is Rio Balsa near Arenal Volcano.

On the other end of the spectrum, the El Chorro section of the Naranjo River has Class V sections. It’s located east of Manuel Antonio. Children under 12 are not allowed in this section. It’s geared towards people with white water experience who are prepared for advanced runs through narrow and steep canyons.

Speaking of canyons, canyoning and waterfall rappelling is also an option in the Arenal Volcano area, along with numerous other locations like Manuel Antonio National Park. In these activities, your goal is to get down a steep cliff often using ropes

For surfing, Costa Rica is considered a world-class destination. Some of the best beaches for catching a wave are off the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula in Guanacaste Province. This includes places like Playa Avellanas that’s also known as Little Hawaii. On this beach, the waves tend to be in the two to four-foot range, making it a perfect spot for people at different surfing ability levels.

Hone your surf skills alongside fellow travelers. Copyright: © 2016 Rustic Pathways

In addition to these adrenaline-pumping activities, most people take the time to hike while in Costa Rica. A walk through the rainforest provides the best opportunities to see wildlife like those adorable sloths. Plus, there are many parks with added areas of interest, such as volcanic rocks and hanging bridges.

Cultural Activities

Cultural opportunities are also abundant in Costa Rica. If you’re lucky, you can enjoy a cultural music and dance performance and then try some of your own dance steps. This type of activity is easier to experience on a student travel program like Pura Vida Service.

Try some dance moves in Costa Rica. Copyright: © 2016 Rustic Pathways

Many other cultural activities center around food. You can tour chocolate and coffee farms where you’ll learn how these important products are made.

Coffee is one of the nation’s top exports, and both items are treasured parts of the culture. During a tour you can see how the beans are grown and then transformed into consumable products. You also can do your share of taste testing!

Eating locally grown food is a big part of the cultural experience in Costa Rica. Aside from chocolate, you’ll want to try the many tropical fruits in the country, along with traditional rice and bean dishes. These dishes include gallo pinto and casado.

Gallo pinto is a rice and bean dish often served with a slightly sweet and spicy lizano sauce. An egg may be added for breakfast. Casado often includes rice, black beans, plantains, salad, a tortilla, and an optional protein source such as chicken or beef.

After you’re full, you can go shopping for locally made crafts. This might include small replicas of traditional ox carts, jewelry, and various fabric items, including clothes and handbags.

Service Activities

If you’re interested in service, signing up for a travel program is your best bet. Nonprofits like the Rustic Pathways Foundation have deep ties to the local Costa Rican communities and work with residents to coordinate projects.

Initiatives include infrastructure projects at schools, environmental work at national parks and animal conservation initiatives at wildlife refuges.

A Rustic Pathways student gathers sea turtle eggs to save them from poachers in Costa Rica.

In 2023, Rustic Pathways students provided more than 15,700 hours of community service in Costa Rica. The tasks they tackled included:

• Helping build a classroom at Linda Vista School
• Installing water pipes in Arenal National Park
• Adding tiles at San Jose Pinilla School
• Improving playground facilities at El Poró
• Gathering 6,403 sea turtle eggs to protect them from poachers

Check out the video below for a beginner’s travel guide to Costa Rica or contact us with questions about traveling to Costa Rica!