What you should know
Useful information for travelers
As a result from settlement patterns in Costa Rica, ethnic diversity has given the country a rich cultural tapestry that is every bit as interesting as the ecological diversity for which it is better known. Costa Ricans are proud of their democratic Republic, one of the most stable political systems in all of Latin America. The country abolished its military in 1948. Peace is not only a political concept in Costa Rica, but is evident in the spirit and generosity of the people themselves. In accordance with the democratic tradition in Costa Rica, education is free and mandatory. Literacy rate is 96% and the average life expectancy exceeds 78 years. Natural areas are one of the greatest sources of national pride. With 46 national parks, reserves and wildlife refuges, long ago Costa Rica established conservation as one of the country’s top priorities to protect and preserve its rich bio-system. Costa Rica is a small country by most standards: 125 kilometers (77 miles) wide at its narrowest point and 300 kilometers (185 miles) at its widest. Located 10 degrees north of the Equator, its extension is 51.100 square kilometers (about 20,000 square miles) - almost 1½ the size of Belgium in Europe or roughly the size of West Virginia, in the U.S.A. The population of Costa Rica is approximately 4.3 millions.
Immigration policies
Citizens from Western Europe, EEC countries, the United States or Canada need only a valid passport to enter Costa Rica.
Weather & Tourist Seasons
The dry season runs from November to April. More and more tourists enjoy the beauty of the green season, between May and October, when nature reaches its beauty peak. The average temperature is 21°C (70°F) in the highlands and 28°C (82°F) in the lowlands along the coast. The weather is temperate throughout the year, known as an eternal spring climate. Even during the rainy season mornings are dry and sunny.
Public Services
Electricity is 120V / 60 Hz. Potable water is available across the country. Costa Rica boasts a state-of-the art telecommunications system, the most advanced in Latin America.
Taxes and Tips
According to legal dispositions, hotels charge a 13% consumer tax on the price of the room. Restaurants charge a 13% sales tax and a 10% service charge (not always clearly indicated); if the service is excellent, you are welcome to leave an additional tip. Tourists must pay an airport departure tax of US$29 (updated on July 2013).
Health
No vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica. Cholera and malaria do not represent a danger in the country. For those who are planning trips to the jungle and are concerned about the risk of disease, preventive measures are recommended. Public health services in Costa Rica are among the best in the world; excellent medical care is available in hospitals and clinics, most located in the larger cities.
Banks, Currency Exchange and Credit Cards
Banks are normally open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (some offer a late afternoon service until 5:00 p.m.) for all types of international financial transactions. The colón is the national currency and is easily exchangeable in hotels and banks, usually for a minimal fee. Traveler’s checks are not easy to cash. Major credit cards are welcomed in most establishments.
Transportation
The bus system is extensive; taxis are also easy to find in most cities. Car rental agencies are conveniently located across the country. Flights within the country are also available and relatively inexpensive.
Media and Communications
Costa Rica has over six television stations, which broadcast in Spanish. Satellite and cable TV services are also extensively available, offering worldwide programming (U.S., European, Asian and other channels). Internet is widespread. More than 100 radio stations broadcast in Costa Rica. Six daily newspapers are published in Spanish and one online newspaper in English. Monthly magazines, newspapers and foreign publications can be purchased at most bookstores.
Telecommunications System
Costa Rica has a state-of-the–art telecommunications system, one of the best in Latin America. Direct dial calls can be made from almost anywhere to almost everywhere in the world.
When in the country, please dial 124 for further bilingual information (Spanish/English)
Direct dialing country code for long distance calls:
EUROPE
AMERICAS
ASIA
Collect calls from Costa Rica to:
When in the country, please dial 124 for further bilingual information (Spanish/English)
Direct dialing country code for long distance calls:
EUROPE
- Austria 0043
- Belgium 0032
- France 0033
- Germany 0049
- Italy 0039
- Portugal 00351
- Spain 0034
- Sweden 0046
- Switzerland 0041
- The Netherlands 0031
- United Kingdom 0044
AMERICAS
- Brazil 0055
- Chile 0056
- El Salvador 00503
- Guatemala 00502
- Honduras 00504
- México 0052
- Nicaragua 00505
- Panama 00507
- United States 001
- Uruguay 00598
- Venezuela 0058
ASIA
- Japan 0081
Collect calls from Costa Rica to:
- Germany N/A
- Israel 0-800-972 1972
- Italy 08000-39 1039
- Japan 0800-081-1081
- Spain 08000 34 1034
- The Netherlands 0800-031 1111
- United Kingdom 0800-0441044 + number + #
- United States 0-8000-114 114
- Or dial 175
Food and Drinks
Costa Rican cuisine is a mixture of European traditions and local indigenous tropical produce. Food is tasty and well seasoned. Everything grows in this rich land! Rice and beans is the main dish. A wide array of vegetables, tubers and fruits are cultivated all year long in different regions: from lettuce, potatoes and strawberries in the highlands to bananas, papaya, pineapple and other exotic fruits in the lowlands. You can find typical restaurants that serve local food as well as many others such as Italian, Chinese, Spanish, Peruvian and Oriental. Supermarkets offer a great variety of national and international products.
What you should bring
- US dollars only, Traveler checks, International credit cards (Visa, Master Card, and American Express) (Eurochecks not accepted)
- Light pullover for the evenings in San José and mountainous regions
- Swimming suit and shorts; sun protection lotion
- Drivers license
- Alarm clock for hostels without wake-up service
- Small traveling bag for excursions
- Special medications
For forest visitors:
- Light rain jacket or poncho for excursions in the rain forest Hiking or rubber boots
- Light wind jacket and thicker pullover (for higher altitudes)
- Light long trousers and long sleeve shirts
- Several pairs of light socks
- Insect repellent (to be obtained in Costa Rica, too)
- Sun protection lotion (and hat, too)
- Binoculars