Travelers from the US, Canada, EU, and many other countries don’t need a visa for stays up to 180 days. Just bring a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
The Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Read more: Costa Rica’s Currency
Yes, most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards. That said, it’s wise to carry some cash for remote areas or smaller businesses.
Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, so you’ll usually get by just fine.
Yes, Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America. Like anywhere, use common sense — avoid flashing valuables and watch your belongings. Read more: Is Costa Rica Safe for tourists?
Costa Rica uses Type A and B plugs, just like in the US, with a voltage of 120V.
Tap water is safe to drink in most cities and tourist areas, but in remote regions, bottled water is a safer bet. Read more: Can I Drink Tap Water in Costa Rica?
It depends. You can travel on a budget or splurge in luxury. Local meals and buses are cheap; tourist restaurants and private tours cost more.
The dry season (December to April) is the most popular time for sunshine and beach days. The green season (May to November) is great for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and better prices.
Top picks include Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado, Isla del Cano, and the beaches of Guanacaste.
Routine vaccines are recommended, and yellow fever vaccination is required if you’re arriving from a high-risk country. Check with your doctor before your trip.
Yes, like dengue and chikungunya. Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and avoid stagnant water areas.
Absolutely. Private hospitals and clinics in major cities offer high-quality care. Always travel with insurance.
Definitely. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities. Read more: What travel insurance do I need for Costa Rica?
Yes, pharmacies are everywhere and many medications are available without a prescription.
Yes, but encounters are rare. Don’t feed or touch wildlife. Watch where you step on jungle hikes!
Costa Rica has occasional earthquakes and volcanic activity, but nothing to panic about. Locals are well-prepared.
Yes, especially in established restaurants. Be cautious with street food and always check freshness.
Stick to known safe swimming spots — some rivers and beaches have strong currents or crocodiles (yes, really).
There are no major restrictions now, but it’s wise to check updated guidelines before travel.
Zip-lining, white-water rafting, surfing, scuba diving, canyoning, and hiking volcanoes — pick your thrill.
Yes, especially during peak season (December–April). Popular tours fill up fast.
Yes! Top spots include Caño Island, Marino Ballena National Park, and Cahuita on the Caribbean coast.
Absolutely. There are different classes of rapids for all skill levels, from beginner to extreme.
Yes. Caño Island, Catalina Islands, and Bat Islands offer incredible dives with turtles, sharks, and rays.
There’s something for everyone — from easy waterfall trails to challenging volcano hikes. Read more: Hiking in Costa Rica
Sometimes! But your best chance is inside parks or guided nature tours.
Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, bug spray, and a good sense of adventure.
Many are! Just check the age limits and intensity levels when booking.
Christmas, New Year’s, Semana Santa (Holy Week), Independence Day (Sept 15), and festivals like Palmares.
It’s busy! Many locals travel and beaches are packed. Book early and expect limited services.
Yes! Envision Festival, Ocaso, and various local food fairs happen throughout the year.
Ticos are polite and friendly. Say “buenos días,” don’t rush, and be respectful.
It means “pure life” — used for everything from hello to goodbye to “no worries.” It’s a whole vibe.
Tipping isn’t required, but it’s appreciated. Restaurants often include a service charge.
Casual is king, but dress modestly when visiting churches or small rural towns.
A little, yes — especially at artisan markets. Be polite and friendly.
In tourist areas, yes. In remote towns, less so — a few Spanish phrases go a long way.
Generally, yes. Use common sense and keep your belongings close, just like anywhere.
Santa Teresa, Conchal, Manuel Antonio, Uvita, Nosara, and Playa Flamingo are top favorites.
Yes, but watch for riptides and always check local advice or signs.
Manuel Antonio — it’s famous for its beaches and wildlife.
For popular parks, yes. Book online especially during holidays and weekends.
Some allow it, but it’s limited. Most people stay in eco-lodges or hotels nearby.
Monkeys, sloths, toucans, frogs, coatis, and more. Costa Rica is a wildlife paradise!
Most are, especially Blue Flag beaches. Always carry out what you bring in.
Usually not. Drone use is restricted in many parks to protect wildlife.
Yes — usually around $10–$20 USD for foreigners. Bring your passport.
Yes! Uvita’s Marino Ballena National Park is famous for humpback whale watching.
Renting a car offers freedom, but shuttle services and domestic flights are great too. Public buses are cheap but slow.
Yes, but roads can be rough and signage limited. Use a GPS and drive during daylight.
No, if your license is in Roman alphabet and valid, you’re good for 180 days.
Yes — use official red taxis or ride apps like Uber in San José.
San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR), depending on where you’re going. Read more: Complete Guide to Airports in Costa Rica
Yes! Small airlines like Sansa and Green Airways offer short flights to remote areas.
It’s affordable but slow. Great for budget travelers with flexible plans.
Yes, especially to places like Tortuguero or the Nicoya Peninsula.
Yes — 10–15% is a good rule of thumb if you’re happy with the service.
Costa Rica looks small on the map, but don’t let that fool you — due to mountainous terrain, narrow roads, and unpredictable weather, travel times can be longer than expected. A cross-country drive from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean (like from Tamarindo to Puerto Viejo) can take 8 to 10 hours, even though the distance isn’t huge. Always plan with extra time, and avoid driving at night if possible.
Yes, but don’t count on it everywhere. In tourist hubs like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio or La Fortuna, you’ll find plenty of people who speak at least basic English. But in small towns, on local buses, or in family-run sodas (local restaurants), Spanish is the norm. A few key Spanish phrases can make your life much easier—and locals really appreciate the effort.
You’ll survive, definitely—but expect some minor hiccups. Most travelers get by with a mix of English, gestures, and Google Translate. Still, learning basic Spanish for travel in Costa Rica helps with directions, menus, shopping, and even emergencies. Plus, you’ll feel more confident and connected to the culture.
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. It’s the same Spanish you’d hear in other Latin American countries, but with its own Costa Rican twist—called “Tico Spanish.” Expect lots of friendly slang (like “pura vida”) and a more relaxed, sing-songy tone compared to Spain or Mexico.
Not really. In fact, Costa Rican Spanish is known for being one of the clearest dialects in Latin America. Locals generally speak slowly and enunciate well. The only thing that might throw you off is the slang—words like “mae” (dude) or “tuanis” (cool)—but they’re easy to pick up once you’re here.
Here’s a mini survival list:
Just using one or two of these will earn you big smiles.
You don’t have to—but it’s a great idea. Even learning the basics (numbers, greetings, directions) will help you avoid confusion and make your trip smoother. Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, or just a quick phrasebook can go a long way. It’s about showing respect for the local culture more than becoming fluent.
Absolutely. Apps like Google Translate are widely used by travelers in Costa Rica and work great for menus, signs, or short conversations. Just be sure to download Spanish for offline use, since signal can be patchy in the mountains or jungle. Pro tip: the camera feature for translating text on signs or menus is a lifesaver.
Very warmly. Even if you butcher the pronunciation, locals will usually smile, help you out, and encourage you. Costa Ricans (or “Ticos”) are famously friendly and welcoming. They appreciate the effort and often meet you halfway in English if they can. Trying matters more than getting it perfect.
Ah, the magical phrase of Costa Rica! “Pura vida” literally means “pure life,” but here it means way more—it’s a greeting, a farewell, a thank you, a way to say “it’s all good.” You’ll hear it everywhere, and using it shows that you’re embracing the local vibe. Say it often and with a smile.
If you plan to venture beyond touristy areas—say, small surf towns, remote beaches, or local festivals—then yes, a bit of Spanish will help a lot. Locals in those areas may not speak English, and signage or menus might not be translated. Having some language basics helps you travel more independently and avoid getting stuck.
Costa Rica is famously friendly, laid-back, and welcoming. People value politeness, nature, and quality time with family. “Pura vida” isn’t just a saying—it’s a way of life. Expect slower pace, warm smiles, and a deep respect for the environment.
A friendly “Hola” or “Buenos días” goes a long way. Handshakes are common, and among friends, a single cheek kiss is the norm. Always greet people when entering a room, store, or small restaurant—it’s a sign of respect.
It means “pure life,” but it’s used for everything: hello, goodbye, thanks, you’re welcome, and even “no worries.” It reflects the relaxed and optimistic Costa Rican mindset. You’ll hear it a lot—feel free to say it back with a smile.
Not exactly. “Tico time” is a real thing. People often arrive a bit late to casual plans, and things move at a slower pace. Don’t take it personally—it’s just the cultural rhythm. For tours and transport though, schedules are usually on time.
Beachwear is fine on the beach, but dress modestly in towns or when visiting churches. Locals tend to dress casually but neat—flip-flops and swimsuits in supermarkets might get you a few stares. In cooler mountain areas, bring layers.
And I beg you… do not go shirtless in public places that are not the beach. Even if you look like a young god, such semi-nudity is disgusting and replicates the stereotype of tourists
In most stores and restaurants—no. But at open-air markets or souvenir stalls, some polite negotiation is acceptable. Just keep it friendly. Asking “¿Puede darme un mejor precio?” (“Can you give me a better price?”) is a good start.
Costa Rica is a mostly Catholic country, and religion plays a quiet but present role in daily life. Respect for churches and religious events is appreciated, even if you’re just observing. No need to be overly formal—just courteous.
Being loud, impatient, or too direct can come off as disrespectful. Ticos value politeness and friendliness, so avoid confrontation. Always say “por favor” and “gracias,” and never throw trash on the ground—locals care deeply about nature.
Not really. Drinking in the street or on the beach is technically illegal, though enforcement varies. Stick to bars, restaurants, and private spaces to be safe. And remember—drinking and driving laws are strict, with zero tolerance for tourists too.
Costa Ricans are generally open-minded and well-informed, but politics isn’t usually a casual topic. People might have strong opinions, especially on local issues, so it’s best to stay respectful and listen more than you speak. If you’re curious, ask politely—but steer clear of heated debates, especially if you’re just visiting.
With years of experience in extreme sports, outdoor exploration, and adventure tourism, I have dedicated my life to discovering the most exciting and unforgettable experiences. From climbing cliffs and exploring deep caves to leading guided tours through Costa Rica’s jungles, rivers, and oceans, I know what it takes to create a truly remarkable adventure.
What sets me apart? I personally test every tour to ensure safety, quality, and excitement. I don’t offer anything I wouldn’t do myself. My knowledge of Costa Rica’s landscapes, hidden gems, and best adventure spots means you’ll get an authentic experience, free from tourist traps. Whether you’re looking for hiking, zip-lining, ATV rides, snorkeling, or wildlife encounters, I make sure every trip is well-organized and unforgettable.
More than just a guide, I’m someone who genuinely cares about your experience. Your safety, enjoyment, and satisfaction are my top priorities. When you book with me, you’re not just signing up for a tour—you’re joining an adventure led by someone who truly loves what they do.
At Go Explore With Me, every tour is carefully planned to give you the best Costa Rica adventure experience. We work with trusted local partners who share our passion for quality and authenticity. Whether it’s hiking through rainforests, diving into the ocean, zip-lining over treetops, or exploring hidden caves, we make sure every experience meets the highest standards.
I personally test and verify every tour before offering it to my clients. If I wouldn’t pay for it myself, I won’t recommend it to you. My goal is to provide exciting, safe, and worthwhile adventures that create lifelong memories.
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Have questions or need help planning your trip? I’m here to assist you! Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or part of a larger group, I can help organize the perfect Costa Rica vacation tailored to your needs. Contact me anytime, and let’s start planning your adventure!
