FAQs
What is the official language of Costa Rica?
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish, but most people in tourist areas speak English. Despite this, it is a good idea to brush up on your Spanish and learn some basic phrases and terminology. Speaking the local language goes a long way in Costa Rica.
What currency is used in Costa Rica?
The official currency of Costa Rica is the Colon which is represented by the symbol ¢. Most tourist areas will accept your U.S. Dollars and you can always pay with your debit or credit card, but it’s always a good idea to exchange some colones as there might be some cases where cash is only accepted. The best place to exchange your dollars are the banks such as the Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional de Costa Rica or the BAC San José bank.
For more information read out blog post.
What airport should I fly into?
Costa Rica has two international airports: the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José code ‘SJO’ and the Liberia International Airport in Guanacaste code ‘LIR’.
The airport in San José is bigger and has more direct flights from the US, Canada, Europa and South America and is closer to most provinces except Guanacaste and Limon. The Liberia airport will spare you the drive from San Jose if your ultimate destination is Guanacaste.
For more information read our blog post.
How Should I Get Around Costa Rica?
The most convenient way is via car rental, but this is the most expensive option. If you will be staying at one destination such as a resort or an area, then you could just take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to that destination. If you will be visiting several areas, then your best option is 1) a car rental, 2) booking domestic flights, and 3) using private shuttles. It also depends on your available budget. If you are looking to save, then public transportation is the best option for you. Costa Rica has a very solid bus network with daily service to most tourist areas.
For more information read our blog post.
What Are the Top Things to Do in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has all kinds of activities for every one and every budget. Here are some of the most popular things to do:
We have partnered with VIATOR to provide all of our clients with tours & excursions in Costa Rica. They are super reputable, have great cancellation policies and they connect with small and large local providers in Costa Rica. We highly recommend them.
For more information read our blog post.
When is the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?
The dry season, which runs from December to April, is typically considered the best time to visit Costa Rica. The weather is dry, sunny, the days are long, and the landscape is typically more arid. It's also the peak tourist season, so it's best to book accommodations in advance and expect to pay higher prices.
The rainy season, during May and June and between August to November, is often overlooked by tourists, but it's a great time to visit. Prices for accommodations, airline tickets and tours are generally lower during this time of year.
For further information read our blog post.
Is Costa Rica Safe?
Be mindful of your belongings at all times. While Costa Rica is generally a safe country, like any other popular tourist destination, it can be a target for petty theft. If you're planning on driving in Costa Rica, be aware that the country's roads can be challenging, especially in rural areas. For Solo Female Travelers in Costa Rica, additional safety precautions are recommended.
So, is Costa Rica a safe destination for travel? The answer is a resounding yes. While no destination can be deemed entirely free from potential hazards, Costa Rica is generally considered a safe country for travelers. Its vibrant culture, rich biodiversity, and spectacular landscapes make it a compelling destination.
For further information read our blog post.
How Expensive are Things in Costa Rica?
Typically the cost of living is the same as in the US. Canada or Europe. Some things are more expensive such as vehicles, but others such as rent, food and utilities are cheaper.
Do I Need to Tip in Costa Rica?
You don’t need to tip as there is a 10% surcharge for service in all bills. Nonetheless, most tourists typically tip extra.
Can I Drink the Tap Water in Costa Rica?
Yes.
Can I Use my Credit Cards in Costa Rica?
All major credit cards are widely accepted. ATM machines are located throughout the country.
Do I Need an International Driver’s License to Drive in Costa Rica?
With a legal driver’s license, you are allowed to drive for three months.
Do I Need a Visa to Enter Costa Rica?
Depending on your country of origin, you may enter Costa Rica without a visa. USA, Canada and most European countries enjoy this privilege.
Do I Need a Passport to Enter Costa Rica?
A valid passport is mandatory to enter Costa Rica.
What Vaccinations do I Need to Enter Costa Rica?
Starting on July 30, 2007, the Costa Rican authorities will demand that all travelers from the following countries possess a yellow fever vaccination certificate: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and the Republic of Guyana.
Do I Need an Electric Adapter?
Outlets are 110 V, with standard US two prong plugs.
How Can I Obtain Legal Residency?
Costa Rica offers different ways to legalize your status: temporary resident, pensioner, foreign government mission. For more legal information, contact the Costa Rican consulate or the Costa Rican Residents Association.
For further information read our blog post.
What Is the VAT Tax in Costa Rica?
VAT tax is 13%.
Can I Use my Cellphone in Costa Rica?
If you want to use a cell phone in Costa Rica, you must bring an unlocked cell phone and buy a prepaid SIM card at the Claro booth in the baggage section of the Juan Santamaría Airport in San José. At the Claro booth, you can ask for the different prepaid SIM cards they offer and it will be inserted in your device. Some of them will include internet access. There are three mobile operators in Costa Rica: Kölbi ICE, Claro and Liberty.
How Much Money Do I Need to Retire in Costa Rica?
If you are planning to live in a non-tourist destination such as Atenas, San Ramon, Puriscal, Tilaran, San Carlos, Orosi or La Garita you can live with $2.000 per month. If you plan on living in a tourist destination in a coastal area such as Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, Playas del Coco, Jaco or Manuel Antonio you will need approximately $3.000 - $7.500 per month depending on your lifestyle preferences. Buying real Estate, long-term rentals and utilities tend to be much more expensive in coastal areas.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Yes. It is always a good idea to get travel insurance for every member of your family while vacationing in Costa Rica. Unforeseen medical emergencies may be encountered while traveling and it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
We currently partner with World Nomads Travel Insurance and highly recommend their travel insurance. Click on the link to visit their website and get a quote today!
What is the Average Price for a Home in Costa Rica?
The average cost of a house in Costa Rica can vary depending on the location and the amenities that are included. The average price for a home in the Metro area of San Jose is $180,000, whereas the average price for a home in the Pacific coast is approximately $250,000. Coastal areas such as Herradura, Papagayo, Tamarindo, Flamingo, the Catalinas, Conchal, Pinilla, Santa Teresa and Nosara have the highest home prices.
You have to factor in other living expenses such as HOA fees, property taxes, and maintenance if you own a home.
What is the Average Rental Price for a Home in Costa Rica?
As a rule of thumb, the Central Valley is much more affordable than the coastal area, especially in the more rural areas such as San Ramon, Palmares, Grecia, Atenas, Orotina, San Carlos, Guapiles and Orosi. You can expect to pay $300 - $500 for an apartment and about $750 - $1,000 for a decent home. The much more spacious and luxury homes in higher income areas of San José such as Escazu, Santa Ana, Rohrmoser, Curridabat, Ciudad Colon and la Guacima are more expensive with prices going from $2,000 - $5,000+.
In the coastal areas, you can expect to pay $500 - $1,000 for an apartment and about $3,000 - $7,500+ for the most luxurious homes. The price ultimately depends on location, if it’s beachfront or has ocean view, if it’s within a gated community or a resort, and the square footage of the house. The farther away you move from the beach, the more economical the prices will be. Coastal areas such as Herradura, Papagayo, Tamarindo, Flamingo, the Catalinas, Conchal, Pinilla, Santa Teresa and Nosara have the highest rental prices.