Pura Vida Romance

Visitors to the Republic of Costa Rica will quickly discover that despite its small size (not much larger than Lower Saxony), the country offers an incredible variety of attractions and activities. This tropical paradise is home to nearly 5% of the world's known plant and animal species, making it a true haven for nature lovers.

The country invests heavily in conservation, with almost 25% of its land designated as protected national parks—more than any other country in the world.

You can expect to encounter warm and welcoming people, as well as breathtaking natural beauty: volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, Caribbean and Pacific beaches, rainforests, cloud forests, and dry forests, with a fascinating array of plant life and many animal inhabitants.

On-site, you can enjoy a wide range of activities: hiking (rainforest walks, birdwatching tours), canopy tours, boat trips, horseback riding, swimming, snorkeling, and much more. There are active tours available, as well as more relaxed experiences like visiting a hummingbird garden or a coffee plantation.

For entry into Costa Rica, citizens of the European Union do not require a visa. Upon arrival, you will automatically be granted a stay of up to 90 days, though the final duration is determined by the immigration officer.

Your passport must be valid at least until the day of your planned departure, though it is recommended to have a passport valid for six months to ensure smooth entry.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only required if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic. For travelers from Europe and other regions not considered at risk for yellow fever, no such vaccination is required. There are no other mandatory vaccinations. However, it is advisable to consult with a travel health specialist or tropical medicine institute before your trip.

We do not guarantee the accuracy of this information, as regulations can change. Please ensure you stay informed about the latest entry requirements.

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC; symbol) = 100 céntimos. Banknotes come in denominations of 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, and 1,000. Coins are available in 500, 100, 50, 25, 20, 10, and 5 denominations. US dollars are also widely accepted, but it's best to carry smaller bills, such as $20 notes or less.

Banking

Bank hours: State banks operate Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Private banks are open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Credit cards from MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, while Diners Club and American Express are accepted less frequently. Many banks process MasterCard primarily for cash advances. Cash may be the only form of payment in smaller towns and rural areas, although many places will accept US dollars. However, it's advisable to check the current exchange rate.

ATMs are common in cities and small towns and usually accept foreign cards, though in some regions only Visa cards are accepted. Occasionally, credit card payments may not be possible due to technical issues. It’s recommended to have a good reserve of US dollars in cash, as many expenses like national park entrance fees, tours, or meals in restaurants can be paid in US dollars.

Although travelers can avoid extra exchange fees by using traveler’s checks in US dollars, these are rarely accepted in Costa Rica. It is better to use ATMs or pay by credit card whenever possible.

Costa Ricans drive on the right side of the road. For self-driving trips, your regular driver's license is valid in Costa Rica for the duration of your tourist visa. An international driving permit is not necessary and may not be accepted. To rent a car, you must be over 21 years old and have held a driver's license for at least 1-2 years. A credit card is required for the deposit; debit cards are not accepted.

Infrastructure has greatly improved in recent years, and key roads like the Pan-American Highway, Route 27, and the Costanera Sur (Southern Coastal Highway) are in good condition. Some roads, such as Route 32, are still under construction, and delays at work zones are common. In more rural areas, you might encounter a mix of dirt, gravel, potholes, and mountainous roads.

Taxis are plentiful and affordable in San José compared to Europe. Official taxis are red (except for those serving Juan Santamaría International Airport, which are orange). The taximeter, locally called “María,” should always be used.

Other transportation options include tourist shuttle buses, which offer daily routes and are a safe and comfortable way to travel between hotels. These minibuses are air-conditioned and typically seat a maximum of 12 people, though routes outside major tourist areas are limited.

Domestic flights are available on small aircraft, with SANSA and Aerobell being the most well-known airlines. Some travelers prefer flying to avoid longer drives, but it's worth considering the environmental impact.

Costa Rica also has a public bus network, though there are few central bus stations, with each company operating from its own terminal. In the capital, San José, bus stations are often located in less appealing areas. A downside of the public bus system is the lack of transfer hubs outside the capital, which means you may need to travel through San José or transfer multiple times to reach your destination.

Costa Rica is not a primary destination for gourmet food lovers, but what it lacks in sophistication, it makes up for in variety.

The Caribbean coast is more influenced by island nations, with Jamaican jerk chicken being a staple dish. Rice and beans (Gallo Pinto) are ubiquitous but are often prepared with coconut milk. Curry spices are popular and provide a contrast to the cuisine in the rest of the country.

Costa Rican cuisine is quite hearty, with limited use of dairy or low-fat dishes. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a large part of meals, while pork, chicken, and beef are the most popular meats. Seafood is widely available, especially in coastal areas, with sea bass being the most common fish on menus.

Tap water is usually heavily chlorinated and, although generally safe to drink, may cause mild stomach discomfort for sensitive individuals. Drinking water outside of major cities and towns may be contaminated, so sterilization is recommended. Always ask at your hotel about the safety of tap water; often, they provide filtered water for refilling bottles. Bottled water is available and recommended, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. Milk is pasteurized, and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruits, and vegetables are generally safe to eat.

In the Central Valley, where the majority of Costa Rica’s population lives, the average temperature is around 22°C (72°F), and the region enjoys a spring-like climate throughout the year. In coastal areas, the climate is hotter and more humid, while the Pacific Northwest can experience extreme heat and dryness.

The rainy season starts in May and ends in November, although there are notable regional differences. Generally, the rule is: the further south on the Pacific coast, the wetter and rainier it becomes. June, July, December, and January are the wettest months on the Caribbean side, with September and October being relatively dry, making it the best time to visit this region.

The "warm" dry season on the Pacific side runs from December to April, although temperature differences between summer and winter are minimal. March is the peak of the dry season, with lower humidity, making it a popular time for visitors.

Light cotton and linen clothing is recommended year-round. One or two warmer items are advisable for cooler evenings and higher-altitude areas such as Monteverde or Cerro de la Muerte. Waterproof clothing is essential during the rainy season. Loose-fitting clothing is best. For birdwatching and wildlife observation, it’s a good idea to wear neutral brown and green tones. Always carry insect repellent for day and night, such as the local brand “Off,” which is effective and can be purchased in supermarkets across Costa Rica.

Power outlets in the Republic of Costa Rica are Type B (NEMA 5-15) and/or Type A (NEMA 1-15). If your device's plug does not match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter to connect it. To be safe, it's best to bring an adapter that works with both types.

Outlets provide power at 120 volts AC/60 Hz frequency. If you are plugging in a device designed for an electrical input of 220-240 volts or a device compatible with multiple voltages, an adapter is all you need. If your device is not compatible with 120 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.