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FAQ - TRAVELING TO COSTA RICA

Do I need a passport to travel to Costa Rica?
Yes. All international travelers must have a valid passport to enter Costa Rica, and it must remain valid for the duration of their stay.
Depending on your country of origin, you may enter Costa Rica without a visa. Citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European countries can visit Costa Rica as tourists for short periods without a visa. It is recommended to verify specific requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). However, the U.S. dollar is widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist destinations, making transactions easier for travelers.
Yes, major credit cards are widely accepted in Costa Rica, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. However, it is recommended to carry some cash for purchases in rural areas or small businesses. ATMs are also available throughout the country for easy cash withdrawals.
No, an international driver’s license is not required to drive in Costa Rica. You can drive with a valid license from your home country for up to 90 days.
The departure tax is approximately $29 USD per person. It is usually included in the airline ticket, but if not, it can be paid at the airport in U.S. dollars, colones, or by credit card.
The value-added tax (VAT) in Costa Rica is 13%. This tax is generally included in most product and service prices.
Costa Rica uses 110V electricity with Type A/B plugs (U.S. style), so travelers from the U.S. typically do not need an adapter.
Yes, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for an unforgettable wedding surrounded by unique natural landscapes. Whether on the beach, in the jungle, or in the mountains, foreigners can legally get married. You must be at least 18 years old and present documents such as birth certificates, a valid passport, and required certifications, properly authenticated before traveling.
Yes, Costa Rica offers a digital nomad program that allows foreigners to work remotely while enjoying the “Pura Vida” lifestyle. This program extends stays for up to one year, with the option to renew for an additional year, subject to certain requirements.
Yes, Costa Rica offers several options for obtaining legal residency, including temporary resident, pensioner, or investor categories. To learn about updated requirements and receive specialized guidance, you can consult the Costa Rican consulate or visit the Association of Residents of Costa Rica (ARCR): https://arcr.cr
Yes, traveling with pets to Costa Rica is allowed. Dogs and cats must have a health certificate issued by an authorized veterinarian, endorsed by the appropriate authority, within two weeks prior to travel. They must also be up to date on vaccinations such as rabies (mandatory from 4 months of age), distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, and parvovirus, in compliance with Costa Rica’s entry requirements.
Yes, Costa Rica has English-language media and publications aimed at tourists and residents, offering local news and useful information. A well-known example is The Tico Times (www.ticotimes.net ), one of the most recognized English-language news sources about Costa Rica.
Yes, water in Costa Rica is potable in most parts of the country, especially in urban and tourist areas. In some rural areas, bottled water is recommended. For a more sustainable experience, it is suggested to carry a reusable bottle and refill it before heading out, as refill stations may be limited in certain areas.
In general, there are no mandatory vaccinations for most travelers visiting Costa Rica. However, the yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals coming from or who have recently been in countries with a risk of transmission, mainly in regions of Africa and South America such as Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela. The vaccination certificate must be issued at least 10 days before travel to be valid.
To enjoy Costa Rica’s beaches safely, it is recommended to keep your belongings secure or within sight, use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid swimming alone, and check ocean conditions with local authorities. It is also important to respect warning flags, avoid entering the ocean if you cannot swim, and if trying surfing for the first time, do so under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
The main difference lies in altitude and climate. Rainforests are found in lowland areas with warmer temperatures and heavy rainfall, while cloud forests are located in mountainous regions with cooler climates, high humidity, and constant mist. These conditions create distinct flora and fauna in each ecosystem.
To explore the rainforest comfortably and safely, it is recommended to bring insect repellent, a waterproof jacket with a hood, comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight quick-dry clothing, and sunscreen. A water bottle and a small backpack are also useful for carrying your belongings during hikes.
Costa Rica is one of the best destinations for whitewater rafting, with renowned rivers such as the Pacuare, Reventazón, Sarapiquí, Naranjo, Savegre, and Corobicí. These rivers offer options for all levels, from beginners to experts, surrounded by spectacular natural scenery.
Sea turtle nesting can be observed in destinations such as Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast and Ostional on the Pacific coast, both globally recognized for this natural phenomenon. Other notable beaches include Playa Grande and Gandoca-Manzanillo, where turtles can be seen during nesting season, always under regulations for their protection.
Some national parks in Costa Rica have accessible trails, although accessibility varies depending on the destination.

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