FAQs ABOUT COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is Central America's jewel. It's an oasis of calm among its turbulent neighbors and an eco-tourism heaven, making it one of the best places to experience the tropics with minimal impact. It also has a long coastline, which means great surfing, beaches, and a climate built for relaxation, nature, and adventure. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, and useful information about Costa Rica.

 

Tree Frog, Costa Rica

What Are the Entry Requirements?

No visa is necessary for most travelers visiting Costa Rica (including folks from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the majority of European countries). However, everyone must have a valid passport, good for at least six months after the arrival date into the country. Moreover, most visitors must be traveling on a round-trip ticket, with proof of onward travel.

 

When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

 

The best time to visit Costa Rica will depend on the type of vacation you want. If all you want is sun and beach, the best time to visit is the dry season or Costa Rica’s summer. The sunniest and driest months are January – April or October on the Caribbean coast. December is also a great month as it is right at the start of the dry season but it is very busy with the Christmas and winter holidays. If you want to see wildlife like whales, dolphins, and turtles, then July – November are the best times of the year. If you’re on a budget or want to avoid large crowds, then May, June, September, and October are excellent months but it is the rainy season. You can read more about the best time to visit Costa Rica in this post.

 

Rainy Cloud Forest

Is Costa Rica Safe?

In broad terms, yes, Costa Rica is very safe. That said, petty crime and robberies against tourists are very common. Pickpockets prey on flashy shows of wealth and distracted tourists, especially on crowded city streets and buses. Leave your jewelry at home, and be especially protective of your belongings as you walk about. Never leave anything unattended on the beach or visible in a car. Make good use of your hotel safe. Use common sense and caution at all times.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Families?

Yes! Costa Rica is a wonderful country for families whether they are young families, seniors, or multi-generational families. There is something for everyone and toddlers, kids and teens will have a blast exploring this beautiful tropical country. They will love all the beaches, rainforests, and volcanos.

 

What is the time zone?

Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time (-6GMT) and does not observe Daylight Savings.

 

Is it cheap in Costa Rica?

Not particularly.  Costa Rica is slightly less expensive than the U.S., Canada, or Europe, but is relatively highly-priced compared to other Central American countries.

 

Luxury Hotel Costa Rica

 

Can I use my credit card in Costa Rica?

Yes. Some are free to use, while others charge up to 5% international fees

 

Is it necessary to be fluent in Spanish?

No. English is widely spoken and taught in schools as a second language. Spanish is the official language, of course, but you will be surprised at how many people even in small villages speak English.

 

What is the food like in Costa Rica?

 

With its wide range of farming conditions, Costa Rica produces a full assortment of tropical food. There is everything from shrimp to river trout, avocados to asparagus. Add a cosmopolitan society whose citizens trace their heritage to dozens of European and Asian countries, and the country is a natural culinary melting pot, with delicious dishes to sample.

 

Typical Costa Rica Dish

Do you tip in Costa Rica?

Yes.  Costa Ricans typically do not tip but tourists are expected to. With a minimum wage of around $US2 an hour tips are greatly appreciated, and in recent years expected.

 

What voltage does Costa Rica use?

 

Costa Rica uses the same 110-volt 60-cycle electricity and two-or three-pronged outlets as are used throughout the United States and Canada. However, if you are bringing any three-pronged devices, it’s a good idea to also bring along a three-to-two-prong adapter.

 

Do you need malaria tablets for Costa Rica?

No, unless you are visiting Limon or surrounding areas on The Caribbean coast.

 

Can I drink the water?

 

The local authorities state that the drinking water when traveling to Costa Rica is perfectly safe, but we recommend that you stick to the bottled variety wherever possible. Water in certain areas may disagree with your system, so we suggest you play it safe and be cautious of what you consume.

 

Where are the nicest beaches?

With two coasts, on both the Atlantic and Pacific Coast, there are a wide variety of beaches in Costa Rica on 1200 km of coastline to choose from! There are a variety of spectacular beaches in Costa Rica with different widths, sand color, water color, waves, and surrounding foliage. For example, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Puerto Viejo, Santa Teresa, and Nosara.

 

Guanacaste Costa Rica

 

Where can I exchange money?

Exchange US Dollars – Exchanging money is possible at higher-end hotels and also at banks. Banks are likely to offer you a better deal. You can also simply get colones from the many ATMs you can find around the country, but make sure you are aware of the exchange rate. US dollars are accepted in the most touristy areas but make sure to bring colones when going off the beaten path. Credit cards are widely accepted by most businesses in Costa Rica. Most vendors give discounts for using cash, as credit card companies charge high percentages on transactions.

 

Should I purchase travel insurance?

We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to protect your vacation investment. Unforeseen last-minute events and emergencies can occur that may cause you to cancel or alter your vacation. In many cases, the money you’ve paid will be completely non-refundable, so insurance is vitally important.

 

Hummingbird, Monteverde

If you have a question that does not appear here, please feel free to ask one of our expert Travel Advisors at Va Expeditions. Who will be happy to tell you all about Costa Rica.