Costa Rica: Tips & General Information for Your Dream Trip

Costa Rica is, and always will be, a paradise come true. How do we know? Because we’ve seen it for ourselves.
Rich biodiversity that’s rare to find globally, an exotic wildlife scene, endless pristine sandy beaches, locals who welcome you with open arms, and plenty of fresh culinary delights.
In this guide, we’ve gathered all the essential information, general advice, and tips you should know before and during your trip to Costa Rica.

COSTA RICA IS THE RIGHT DESTINATION FOR YOU IF...

• You want to explore the country on your own, by car or public transport. All major spots are easily accessible for tourists.
• You’re excited to meet warm-hearted locals, who generally speak Spanish.
• You’re in the mood for a mix of beach vacation and adventure travel.
• You’re a fan of all-inclusive vacations, backpacking, flashpacking, active travel, or road trips. Costa Rica offers something for every type of traveler.
• You’re a coffee lover.

1. BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO COSTA RICA

You can travel to Costa Rica year-round, so the best travel time depends on your personal preferences.

During the dry season from December to April, you’ll enjoy ideal weather for a perfect beach vacation. Rainfall is relatively low, and temperatures stay consistently high.
However, the dry season is also the high season, and especially around Christmas and New Year’s, many travelers from colder regions head south to enjoy the warmth.

We spent our entire stay during the rainy season, which starts in May and lasts until November. During these months, there is considerably more rainfall than in the dry season.
The extent of rainfall is quite unpredictable: anything from days of continuous rain to daily heavy tropical downpours is possible.
During our trip, it rained heavily once a day or at night, but only for a few minutes. We didn’t experience any long-lasting rain.

Our conclusion: Although many say that the dry season is the best time to visit Costa Rica, this doesn’t necessarily hold true.
While it’s statistically drier, that doesn’t mean it’s the “best” travel time.
In fact, it’s also the most expensive and busiest time with long queues at national parks, crowded beaches, and often unbearably high temperatures.

2. THE CLIMATE IN COSTA RICA

Costa Rica has a tropical-subtropical climate, meaning you can expect average temperatures of around 30°C year-round.
The water temperature remains steady and pleasant at around 27°C all year on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

Humidity on the Pacific side is high, generally around 80%. On the Caribbean side, it’s even higher, averaging around 87%.

3. IDEAL TRIP DURATION

As with the best travel time, the ideal trip length depends on your personal preferences. Many tourists spend about two weeks in Costa Rica, which is enough time.
However, if you want to see and experience a lot, two weeks may lead to rushing from one highlight to the next without much time for relaxation.

We recommend a three-week stay to fully immerse yourself in the unique beauty of the country at a relaxed pace.
‍In general, the longer, the better. We spent a total of 3.5 weeks in Costa Rica and believe that an additional three weeks could easily have been filled with more experiences.

GOOD TO KNOW

For your trip to Costa Rica, you’ll need a power adapter, as the country uses plug types A and B. These plugs are different from those used in many other parts of the world, so make sure to bring the appropriate adapter for your devices. Find the right adapter here: Travel Adapter Costa Rica.

4. OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

Spanish is the official language. However, many of the locals, affectionately called Ticas and Ticos, communicate with each other in a version of Spanish that has Costa Rican twists.
On the Caribbean side, English and an English-based Creole language are also widely spoken due to the many Jamaicans who live there.

Given the high number of tourists from the U.S. and Canada, many locals across Costa Rica speak good English. This means you’ll generally have no problem communicating in English.

5. TIME DIFFERENCE

The time difference between Costa Rica and many other regions varies depending on the time of year. For example, compared to regions observing daylight saving time, Costa Rica is typically 6 to 8 hours behind. When it’s 12 pm in San Jose, it could already be evening in parts of Europe, Asia, or Africa.

6. CURRENCY & PAYMENT METHODS

The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC or ₡).

However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted for excursions, restaurants, and tips. Regardless of the currency you use, always double-check the calculations!
Sometimes it’s more expensive to pay in U.S. dollars, though at times, it may be cheaper or comparable to paying in colones.

You can usually withdraw cash from ATMs (also called cajeros automáticos) with most major credit cards. Fees vary depending on your bank.
Credit cards are also widely accepted in Costa Rica, even for small amounts.

Note: Withdraw cash during the day or before dusk, as some ATMs are turned off for security reasons after 10 pm.

In San José and larger towns, you can exchange money easily at banks and licensed exchange offices. Some places may ask for your passport when exchanging money.
Rates are generally consistent, but it doesn’t hurt to compare.

Tip: Avoid currency exchange booths at the airport! They have very poor rates.
If you urgently need cash, it’s better to use one of the two ATMs, as their rates are better than the exchange booths.
We recommend bringing some U.S. dollars with you from home, so you always have cash as a backup.

IS COSTA RICA AN EXPENSIVE DESTINATION?

Costa Rica is the most expensive country in Latin America, so it’s not a “cheap” travel destination by any means, though it’s also not extremely expensive.
We think it’s comparable to the average cost of a trip to Western Europe.

Here are some price examples:

• In supermarkets: 1.5L water $2, 0.5L local beer $1.80, 1 kg bananas $1.20, 1 kg beef $8.20.
• In restaurants: Meals in fast-food or budget restaurants between $6–$11 per person, in mid-range restaurants $15–$25 per person.
• Admission fees & car rentals: For Arenal Volcano $10 per person, Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges $26 per person, 4x4 car rental around $40 per day.

7. CRIME IN COSTA RICA

Compared to its Latin American neighbors, Costa Rica has a relatively low crime rate.
Most crimes involve pickpocketing, theft of valuables and cash, and break-ins of rental cars and occasionally hotels and vacation homes.
Vehicle break-ins, particularly near Tarcoles River (Crocodile Bridge) and at beaches (even in guarded parking lots), are common.
On the Caribbean coast, especially in port cities like Moin and Limón and in Downtown San José, violent crime is relatively high.

There is crime everywhere in the world, so don’t let statistics or news reports worry you! During our entire stay, we never felt unsafe.

Just keep the following tips in mind:

• Be extra vigilant with valuables in tourist hotspots and large crowds, like markets.
• Always keep an eye on your valuables and never leave them unattended — even in your rental car!
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying handbags in public.
• Keep your valuables concealed and only carry as much cash as you need.
• Leave valuables, passports, and large amounts of cash safely locked in your hotel safe.
• Try to return to your accommodation before dusk.

8. ENTRY & ARRIVAL

Entry into Costa Rica is possible with a valid passport, which must remain valid for at least six months beyond the travel period at the time of entry.

A visa is generally not required for short tourist stays, but travelers should check the specific entry requirements for their country of citizenship.

When leaving Costa Rica by air, an exit tax of around $29 per person applies, though this is often included in your flight ticket.
If you are transiting through the United States, ensure you comply with U.S. entry requirements as well.

Most international flights to Costa Rica arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, the country’s largest airport.

Flight times vary depending on your departure location, but direct flights are common from major cities in North America, South America, and other regions.
If you arrive late in the evening and plan to stay overnight in San José, be aware that the airport is located about 20 km (12 miles) from the city center.
Travelers can find and compare flights on platforms such as skyscanner.com or their preferred booking site.

For longer stays or detailed entry regulations, consult the appropriate government agency or your country’s foreign affairs office for the most up-to-date information.

9. GETTING AROUND COSTA RICA

To get from A to B, you have several options that will take you to your destination on partially well-developed and partially less well-developed roads.

YOUR OWN RENTAL CAR

If you prefer flexibility and would like to explore Costa Rica on your own, consider renting a car.
Many hotels and other accommodations offer free parking for guests' rental cars, so you don’t have to worry about that. You can easily book your rental car in advance on rentalcars.com.
Rental car prices vary depending on the vehicle class. For our vehicle, we paid around $40 per day, including comprehensive insurance, an additional driver, and all-wheel drive.

Going solo also means you’ll experience a little adventure.
But before you hit the road in your rental car, consider or be aware of the following points:

• To rent a car, you must be at least 18 years old and have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year.
  All drivers under 25 years old must pay an additional young driver fee of about $25 per day. An international driver’s license is usually not required in Costa Rica.
• The maximum blood alcohol level allowed is 0.5‰.
• The type of vehicle you book depends on what you plan to do during your trip. A 4x4 (all-wheel drive) vehicle is a safer choice even off the main roads.
  For some of our accommodations, a 4x4 was essential.
• Navigation systems are not standard equipment in most rental cars. You can either add a navigation system when booking or get a local SIM card to navigate with apps like MAPS.ME, WAZE, or Google Maps. With a local SIM card, you also have the option to contact someone in case of problems.
• Speed limits are indicated on each highway, 60 km/h on rural roads, and 40 km/h in urban areas.
• There are toll-free roads as well as toll highways (Cuota, Maxipista). You pay the fee directly at the toll booth.
  ‍Always ask for a receipt, as there are frequent police checks that require proof of payment!
• Gas stations, called “Bombas” or “Gasolineras,” have attendants who will fill up your car for you.
  You can usually pay in cash or with a credit card. If you opt for the latter, it’s recommended to keep an eye on the attendant for security reasons.
  While rare, credit card fraud can occur in Costa Rica. Also, keep in mind that there may be long stretches without gas stations, so it’s better to stop and fill up more often than to risk running out of fuel.

ADDITIONAL TIPS:

• Consider the time needed for your routes; travel times in Costa Rica are often much longer than in many other countries.
  A 200-kilometer journey can take up to four hours due to the terrain and road conditions.
• Never leave any valuables in your car, especially not in plain sight! Car break-ins are not uncommon in Costa Rica.
• Fines for traffic violations are generally very high – so it’s better to always drive by the rules. If you’re stopped by the police for speeding, do not pay your fine in cash.
  Instead, ask for a ticket and discuss the infraction with your rental car provider when you return the car.
• It’s generally advisable to drive early in the morning or during the day and avoid long trips at night, as driving conditions can be challenging (fog, heavy rain, unexpected landslides, and pedestrians and cyclists who may be hard to see).

BY TAXI

No matter how small or remote the places are in Costa Rica, you’ll always find at least one taxi. Prices are affordable, making taxis popular among tourists.

Official taxis are red and equipped with a meter (called a "María"). The meter starts at 650 colones (about $1).
The price stays fixed for the first few minutes of the trip and then begins to increase. Trips without a meter are not allowed in Costa Rica.
Therefore, always check before starting your trip if your taxi driver has one! If the driver claims to have one but says it’s broken, negotiate the fare in advance to avoid disputes at the end of the ride.

In very remote places with little public transport, such as Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean side, there are exceptions to the meter requirement.
Here, there are often fixed prices for trips from accommodations to beaches. If there is no fixed price, again, always negotiate the fare beforehand.
You won’t find red taxis here; they are usually private vehicles used by the drivers.

In Costa Rica, it is not customary to tip for taxi rides, but it is always appreciated.

Note: Besides the official red taxis, there are also official orange taxis around the airport, which are exclusively intended for trips to and from the airport.
These usually cost a bit more but offer a higher standard, and the drivers often speak good English. A ride from the airport to downtown San José costs about $30.

BY BUS

Local buses are the most common means of transport for locals. They operate within cities and in the Central Valley, connecting large cities like San José, Cartago, and Heredia.
The rides are very cheap. For example, a trip from San José to Cartago (about 26 km) costs around $2.

For many travelers, bus travel in Costa Rica can feel like an adventure, as schedules are often only available at the departure station.
All subsequent stops depend on traffic, so there’s no telling exactly when the bus will arrive.
The routes are also rarely available on websites, so planning your trip in advance regarding time and bus lines is only partially possible.
The best approach is to ask the driver before boarding if they’re heading in your direction. If it’s correct, hop on and pay the fare directly to the driver – there is no ticket counter.
‍Tickets for long-distance buses can only be purchased online from certain companies.

When you need to get off, you have three options. There are buttons to press in the bus or a line to pull. If neither is nearby, simply call out “Parada” (stop) to the driver – that works too.

Good to know: If you don’t want to annoy bus drivers, never stand in the light beam near the entry or exit! This beam counts how many people get on and off. At the end of their shift, drivers must deposit the money for the approximate number of people who boarded, so if the number doesn’t match, they could face issues.

10. HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

The range of hotels and accommodations across Costa Rica is vast and very diverse. From budget hotels to affordable mid-range hotels to luxurious all-inclusive hotels, there’s something for every taste.In addition to hotels, there are also plenty of self-catering accommodations available.
On platforms like Airbnb or booking.com, you’ll find numerous apartments, vacation homes, and hostels.

During our 21-night road trip, we stayed in both hotels and Airbnb apartments.
You can find all our accommodations in our post: Costa Rica Adventure/ 3-Week Road Trip – Our Route, Tips & Highlights.

11. FOOD & DRINKS

The essential foundation of all typical Tico dishes is beans and rice. Even at breakfast, you'll traditionally be served Gallo Pinto, which is rice with black beans, onions, and eggs.

Lunch and dinner also usually consist of rice and beans, accompanied by plantains, vegetables, meat, fish, and sometimes yucca.
Soups, such as olla de carne (meat and vegetable soup), are also common starters. Generally, many dishes in Costa Rica are prepared with chicken or fresh fish.

For dessert, many restaurants serve sweet arroz con leche (rice pudding) and the classic flan (a custard-like dessert made from eggs, sugar, and milk).

Our tip: Be sure to try the local tamales and empanadas. Tamales consist of meat with cornmeal, wrapped in a banana leaf. Empanadas are pastries filled with minced meat, cheese, or vegetables – delicious!

If you’re looking to travel on a budget, cooking yourself is the way to go. Most Airbnb’s and hostels offer separate or shared kitchens. When grocery shopping, focus on regional products.
Imported foods (like pizza and pasta) are comparatively expensive in both supermarkets and restaurants, whereas local goods like rice, beans, and fruits such as melons, bananas, pineapples, and papayas are affordable and very fresh.

A compromise between “restaurant” and “cooking yourself” is the so-called Soda. A Soda is a typical Costa Rican eatery found at nearly every corner in smaller villages.

The menu is usually limited, with breakfast Gallo Pinto and traditional Casado (rice, beans, plantains, or meat) available for lunch or dinner.
These dishes are inexpensive, costing around 3,000 colones (about $3–$4).

When it comes to drinks, Costa Rica has you covered. Drinks are affordable in cafés, restaurants, and street vendors alike. If you’re a coffee lover, you’re in the right place.
Costa Rica, often called the coffee mecca, grows coffee both for local consumption and for export worldwide.
Our impression was that whether it’s a trendy coffee shop or a street stall, the coffee tastes equally good everywhere. A cup usually costs about $1.

In addition to all the coffee, you should definitely try the fresh fruit juices made from local fruits, mixed with either water or milk, and offered just about everywhere.
Common flavors include banana, pineapple, honeydew melon, watermelon, papaya, and blackberry.
Depending on the season, there are also delicious juices from passion fruit, star fruit, and guanabana.

Our tip: At roadside stands, you’ll often find Pipa fria (cold coconut). For about 700 colones, you get a fresh coconut to drink – delicious!
For those who enjoy an evening drink, you can choose between beer (Imperial, the local favorite, or Bavaria and Pilsen, the imported options) or one of the delicious cocktails mixed with fresh fruits.

12. SPECIAL VACCINATIONS FOR COSTA RICA

Although Costa Rica is a tropical destination, no special vaccinations are generally required for travelers.
However, it is recommended to have standard vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis A, and typhoid, especially if you plan to visit rural areas.
For country-specific health advice, check with your national health authority or travel clinic.

13. POISONOUS ANIMALS IN COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is home to a total of 17 species of venomous snakes, including the bushmaster, rattlesnake, true coral snake, and various types of vipers.
Not every snake you might encounter will be venomous, of course.
There are many non-venomous species as well, such as the boa constrictor, tropical rat snake, and false coral snake.

In the event of a bite, seek medical attention as quickly as possible. On the way, try to immobilize the affected limb if you can.
Avoid sucking on or pressing the wound, as this can worsen the bite.
In Costa Rica, almost every doctor’s office has two antivenoms available for local snakes.

Spider bites or scorpion stings can be quite painful, but they are generally not fatal for healthy adults.
However, young children and the elderly should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Preventative Measures:

• Wear sturdy, calf-high shoes (like hiking or trekking shoes).
• Thoroughly shake out your clothes and shoes before putting them on.
• Walk firmly if possible, as snakes react to vibrations and will likely flee.
• Avoid putting your hands into tree holes or rock crevices.
• Never walk barefoot, especially in the rainforest.

14. LOCAL SIM CARD OR WIFI?

If you don’t plan to stay at an all-inclusive resort and want to venture outside the hotel frequently or take a road trip, a local prepaid SIM card is highly recommended.
You can quickly check a restaurant’s opening hours, call an Uber, or look up directions on Google Maps.
Plus, you can stay connected on social media apps like WhatsApp and Instagram and contact someone by phone in case of an emergency.

The main providers are Claro and Kölbi. You can buy a prepaid SIM card at kiosks, some supermarkets, or the airport. Depending on the duration and amount of data, SIM cards cost between $8–50. Internet speed in Costa Rica varies depending on coverage, but it’s generally slower than in many highly developed countries.

15. TRAVEL INSURANCE

HEALTH INSURANCE

Medical expenses in Costa Rica are not typically covered by national health insurance systems from other countries, so it’s essential to have private international health insurance.
Some credit cards include private international health insurance, but if yours doesn’t, consider comparing and choosing a policy on portals like Check24.
This insurance usually costs a small annual fee and is invaluable in case of an emergency.

Our tip: Be sure to select a policy with full coverage and no sum limit, as well as coverage for repatriation in case of serious illness.
Also, keep all receipts for medical treatment and any prescriptions you had to pay for, so you can claim them with your insurance later.

BAGGAGE INSURANCE

Unfortunately, luggage or individual valuables may go missing during a trip, so we purchased additional baggage insurance for our valuable tech items like our camera and drone.
These insurances usually cost a small amount per trip or year and are worth it in case of an emergency.
Compare the best baggage insurance options for you on check24.de.

Our tip: For expensive equipment, be sure to select full coverage with no sum limit.

16. OTHER IMPORTANT TIPS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP

• Travel Adapter: Costa Rica uses plug types A and B. Find the right adapter here: Costa Rica Travel Adapter.
• Patience: Take your time; punctuality is not emphasized. A common saying is “Mañana es otro día” – “Tomorrow is another day”.
• Tap Water: It’s generally safe to drink but can cause stomach issues. Be cautious in rural areas.
• Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants; often, the “servicio” is already included in the bill. Tips are also appreciated by porters, housekeeping staff, gas station attendants, and parking lot attendants.
• Bargaining: It’s rare, except in markets or with tour providers. “Rebaja” means discount, while “precios fijos” means fixed prices.
• Humidity: Costa Rica’s tropical climate means high humidity year-round, which may cause clothing to smell musty or even lead to mold on surfaces like fabric or synthetic leather.
  This is just part of life in a tropical climate.
• Loud Rain: From May to November, the rainy season, rain can be very loud, especially at night. Many buildings in Costa Rica are simply constructed and often poorly insulated, so the sound of rain may wake you up – just go with it.
• Encounters with Critters: Expect to see various insects and small creatures in your accommodation, including geckos, cockroaches, centipedes, ants, mosquitoes, scorpions, spiders, and large grasshoppers. These animals are normal in tropical areas and have nothing to do with hygiene. You’ll quickly get used to checking shoes, showers, and beds before using them.
  Stay calm; most of these creatures are harmless and can easily be caught and released outside.
• Toilet Paper Disposal: A crucial point often overlooked – in Costa Rica, toilet paper should not be thrown in the toilet. The simple sewage system can clog easily, so it’s customary to dispose of toilet paper in the bin next to the toilet, as in some other countries.

With these tips, you’re all set for your Costa Rican adventure!

THIS POST WASN’T ENOUGH FOR YOU? YOU WANT EVEN MORE TIPS, INSPIRATION, AND SIGHTS FOR YOUR COSTA RICA TRIP? THEN MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR FOLLOWING POSTS:

• Costa Rica Round Trip: Top Sights & Highlights
• Costa Rica Adventure/ 3-Week Road Trip – Our Route, Tips & Highlights
• Costa Rica: The Most Beautiful National Parks in the Country

Enjoy exploring and planning!

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Find affordable rental cars at rentalcars.com
• Discover the best accommodations
• Find affordable flights at skyscanner.com
• The Right Travel Adapter for Costa Rica
• The Best Travel Guides for Costa Rica
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Costa Rica

Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.