With its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventure opportunities, Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that draws nearly 1.7 million tourists each year. From pristine beaches and magical cloud forests to active volcanoes and exciting wildlife, a Costa Rican vacation lets you experience the county’s beauty and charm.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, excitement, or a bit of both, Costa Rica promises an unforgettable experience on the Caribbean coast. Explore the following Costa Rica travel guide to help you plan your time and ensure a fun, safe vacation for you and your family.
Basic Information About Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a small country in Central America, bordering Nicaragua and Panama to the north and south. It has a varied topography, including mountains, rainforests, and beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
Costa Rica has a tropical climate with year-round warmth, high humidity, and a rainy season typically lasting September through November.
The country has a population of about 5 million people, with the majority having Spanish descent. The official language is Spanish, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Although US dollars are widely accepted, Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican colon (CRC). Larger cities like San Jose have banks and currency exchange offices where you can exchange money. However, many rural areas don’t provide access to ATMs or credit card services, so it’s a good idea to carry cash when visiting Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Travel Planning
There are many things to do in Costa Rica, making it an ideal vacation spot for couples and families. You’ll want to plan for your trip to ensure you understand cultural norms and travel requirements so your vacation goes smoothly. As you plan a Costa Rica trip, keep the following travel information in mind:
Travel Requirements
There are several requirements for US citizens traveling to Costa Rica, including a valid passport to enter the country. Costa Rica also requires all visitors to have a return flight ticket and proof of intent to exit the country within 90 days of arrival.
Travel Safety
Costa Rica is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, taking precautions is still important, such as not carrying large amounts of cash and being mindful of your surroundings. Always check the US government’s travel advisory page for updates before traveling.
Using your phone abroad may require an international SIM card or an eSIM card for iPhones. Speak with your phone carrier before you leave to ensure your communication device works properly abroad.
Heath Precautions
The CDC offers health and safety recommendations for those traveling to Costa Rica. Although recommendations may change, the CDC advises tourists to obtain travel insurance covering medical evacuation and healthcare when visiting another country.
The CDC also advises that travelers visit their medical provider a month before departing to ensure all immunizations are up-to-date and receive shots for malaria, rabies, and typhoid, which are not typical in the US.
Tap water in Costa Rica is generally safe, but the CDC recommends drinking factory-sealed bottled water to prevent illness while traveling to rural areas.
Transportation Options
Costa Rica has several transportation options, including rental cars, buses, and shuttles. If you’re planning to explore multiple destinations, renting a car in Costa Rica may be the best option, but if you’re staying in one place, a shuttle or bus is likely safer and more convenient. Taxis are also widely available but agree on the fare before getting in.
Etiquette and Cultural Norms
As a tourist, it’s helpful to understand the cultural norms and etiquette of the country you’re traveling to. The following are a few cultural elements of Costa Rica to be mindful of when visiting:
Greetings and Communication
Greetings in Costa Rica are warm and friendly, and it’s common to shake hands and address people using formal titles and their last names. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, but it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak Spanish.
Dress Code
Costa Rica is a casual country, and lightweight clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. Beachwear is acceptable at the beach and pool but cover up when visiting religious sites or small villages.
Social Customs and Norms
Costa Ricans are known for their “Pura Vida” (pure life) philosophy, which emphasizes living a simple, relaxed, and happy life. They value hospitality and respect for others, and it’s considered impolite to raise your voice or display anger in public. Tipping is expected for dining and tour services, but it’s not mandatory.
Food and Drink
Costa Rican food is a mix of Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences and features fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Food is a meaningful element of Costa Rican culture, so try some of these local dishes during your stay:
- Gallo Pinto. A staple dish of rice and black beans, usually served for breakfast with eggs and tortillas.
- Casado. A typical Costa Rican lunch dish features rice, beans, chicken, or fish and various sides like plantains, vegetables, and salsa.
- Chifrijo. A popular appetizer consisting of rice, beans, pork, and salsa, typically served with tortilla chips.
- Tamales. A traditional dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with ingredients like chicken or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed.
- Coffee. Costa Rica is famous for its coffee, with high-quality beans grown in the Central Valley region.
- Smoothies. Made with fresh fruit, they are a refreshing and healthy drink option in the tropical climate.
- Agua fresca. A popular non-alcoholic beverage made from fresh fruit, water, and sugar.
- Guaro. A clear, distilled liquor made from sugarcane, commonly used as a base for cocktails.
Venture to Costa Rica
With its diverse landscapes, friendly people, and delicious cuisine, Costa Rica makes the perfect getaway for anyone looking for a relaxing, memorable vacation. Papagayo Luxury offers exclusive luxury villas in the Peninsula Papagayo region. With breathtaking ocean views and personal concierge services, our team will help you create an unforgettable experience in Costa Rica.
Book your Costa Rica trip today and experience the beauty and excitement of the country for yourself. From the incredible landscapes to the vibrant culture and friendly people, you’re guaranteed to have a vacation of a lifetime.
