Costa Rica Travel Guide
Overview
1. Capital City:
San José
2. Official Language:
Spanish (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
3. Currency:
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
U.S. dollars are accepted in most tourist spots.
4. Time Zone:
Central Standard Time (CST)
No daylight-saving time.
5. Entry Requirements:
San José
2. Official Language:
Spanish (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
3. Currency:
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
U.S. dollars are accepted in most tourist spots.
4. Time Zone:
Central Standard Time (CST)
No daylight-saving time.
5. Entry Requirements:
- Passport: Required with at least 6 months of validity remaining.
- Visa: U.S., Canadian, and EU citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Other nationalities may require a visa.
6. Health & Safety:
- Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations, but it’s recommended to have Hepatitis A and B vaccines and an updated tetanus shot.
- Mosquitoes: Be aware of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, so carry insect repellent.
- Tap Water: Safe to drink in most places, but bottled water is advisable in remote areas.
7. Best Time to Visit:
- Dry Season (December to April): Ideal for beaches and outdoor activities.
- Green Season (May to November): Best for fewer crowds and lush landscapes, though it’s rainy.
8. Popular Destinations:
- Arenal Volcano National Park: Famous for hiking, hot springs, and wildlife.
- Manuel Antonio National Park: Beautiful beaches and diverse wildlife, including sloths and monkeys.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest: Known for zip-lining, bird-watching, and hiking.
- Tamarindo Beach: Great for surfing and water sports.
9. Transportation:
- Local Buses: Affordable and efficient but can be slow.
- Car Rentals: Ideal for flexibility; 4x4 vehicles are recommended for rural areas.
- Domestic Flights: Quick flights connect key regions like San José to coastal areas.
10. Local Etiquette:
- Costa Ricans are friendly and laid-back. A common phrase you’ll hear is “Pura Vida,” meaning “pure life,” a way of saying hello, thank you, or expressing a good attitude.
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A 10% service charge is usually added to restaurant bills.