Electricity

Costa Rica uses 120 volts at a frequency of 60Hz. Power outlets typically accommodate Type A (flat two-pin plugs) and Type B (three-pin plugs with two flat blades and a round grounding pin), the same as in North America.

Language

Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and larger cities, but less commonly understood in rural regions.

Money

The Costa Rican colon (CRC) is divided into 100 centimos and is the official currency, although US dollars are also widely accepted. US dollars can be exchanged in banks and many hotels, but currency other than US dollars is difficult to exchange. Using black market exchange options is risky, as these unofficial outlets have been known to pass on counterfeit bills printed in Colombia. Banks close anywhere from 3pm to 4pm. Major credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available in major towns throughout the country, but it's advisable to always have some local cash handy.

Tipping

A 10 percent service charge is usually included in restaurant bills and, if service is particularly good, leaving an additional five to 10 percent tip is appreciated but not required. Hotels may not automatically include service charges; tipping bellhops and housekeeping staff with small amounts (around $1 to 2) is customary. Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but rounding up the fare is common practice. Tour guides typically receive a tip of five to 10 percent of the tour price.

Health

Routine vaccinations are recommended, including hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid, and yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for those arriving from a country where yellow fever is present. The malaria risk is minimal and confined to a few low-lying regions; visitors should consult a travel health professional for the latest advice.

Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever, Zika, and chikungunya occur, particularly during the rainy season (May to November). Preventative measures include using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities, but bottled water is advised in rural or remote areas. Healthcare services in urban areas are modern and reliable, with high standards of hygiene and care.

Safety

Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft from vehicles can occur, especially in San José, at airports and on public transportation.

Visitors should be cautious with belongings, avoid displaying valuables, and use official taxis or registered transportation. They should also avoid changing money on the street.

Protests and road blockades can occur with little notice, particularly on routes between San José and the coasts. It's best to monitor local news and plan travel accordingly.

Local customs

Costa Ricans, known as 'Ticos', are friendly, polite and family-oriented. Traditional gender roles remain influential, though society is gradually becoming more progressive. The population is largely mestizo and Catholic, though religious and ethnic diversity is growing. A conservative attitude prevails in social and business settings, with emphasis on courtesy and formality.

Doing business

Business culture in Costa Rica is formal, and professional dress, punctuality and scheduled appointments are expected. Regarding language, many professionals speak English but Spanish is the primary means of communication, so having business cards and promotional materials in both languages is considered respectful.

Business practices may move at a slower pace than some visitors are accustomed to, as Costa Ricans tend to be risk-averse and methodical in decision-making. Women increasingly hold leadership roles, but the business environment remains somewhat male-dominated. Visiting businesswomen are treated with courtesy and professionalism once their authority is established. Typical business hours are 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, with a long lunch break around 12 to 2pm.

Duty free

Travellers to Costa Rica over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 3 litres of alcohol; 500g of tobacco or 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars. Perfume for personal use is allowed provided it is a reasonable quantity.

Communications

The international access code for Costa Rica is +506. Costa Rica has one of the most advanced telecommunications systems in Latin America and WiFi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes.

Passport & Visa

All foreign visitors must present a return or onward ticket, valid travel documents for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds for their stay. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only for those arriving from a high-risk country, excluding Argentina and Panama, or from Tanzania or Zambia.

Although entry requirements vary by nationality, travellers are advised to have at least six months' passport validity beyond their departure date, even if shorter validity is technically permitted. Immigration officials may apply entry rules differently than airline or travel agents advise, so it's best to confirm the latest official guidance.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay in Costa Rica, but do not need a visa for stays of up to 180 days.

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after their date of departure, but can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 180 days under a tourist visa waiver. The exact period is at the discretion of the immigration officer on arrival.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay in Costa Rica. A visa is not require for stays of up to 180 days. The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of their stay when they enter Costa Rica.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after their date of departure, but can visit Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Useful contacts

Costa Rica Tourism Board, San Jose: www.visitcostarica.com

911 (General Emergency Helpline)