Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Costa Rica depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for Costa RicaEmergency Numbers
- General
- 911
Currency
- Name
- Costa Rican Colón
- Code
- CRC
- Symbol
- ₡
USD is widely accepted across the country. Cards accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. Carry colones for local buses, small sodas (local restaurants), and rural markets.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type A, Type B
- Voltage
- 120V
- Frequency
- 60Hz
Time Zone
CST (UTC−6) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
December–April is the dry season (verano) — ideal for beach, wildlife, and hiking. Pacific beaches peak December–March. Caribbean coast is drier in September–October. Wet season (May–November) brings green jungle and waterfalls at their best, and fewer tourists.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | A 10% service charge (servicio al cliente) is already added by law — additional tipping is discretionary |
| Taxis | Round up | Official taxis are red with a yellow triangle — always use the meter (maria) |
| Tour guides | $5–10 USD | Guides work hard in the heat — tips are genuinely appreciated |
| Hotels | $1–2 USD per bag | — |
Dress Code
- Very casual — Costa Ricans (Ticos) dress practically
- Beach attire stays at the beach
- Light, breathable clothing is ideal in the heat and humidity
- Modest dress in churches and smaller villages
Social Etiquette
- Pura vida! — 'pure life' is the national motto and means everything from hello to you're welcome to it's all good
- Ticos are warm, laid-back, and non-confrontational — match the energy
- Time is flexible — if someone says 'tico time', expect things to run late
- Environmental consciousness is valued; support eco-certified tours and lodges
- Always greet before asking a question — jumping straight in is considered abrupt
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Drug possession, even small amounts, can result in arrest and imprisonment
- Drinking alcohol on the beach outside designated areas is prohibited in many places
- Wildlife is protected — do not touch, feed, or take wildlife. Howler monkeys can bite
- Children must use appropriate car seats — available for rental in most hire car companies
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Life is good / Thank you / You're welcome | ¡Pura vida! | POO-rah VEE-dah — the ultimate all-purpose phrase |
| Hello | Hola | OH-lah |
| Thank you | Gracias | GRAH-syahs |
| How much? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | KWAHN-toh KWES-tah |
| Where is…? | ¿Dónde está…? | DOHN-deh es-TAH |
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