Insider Travel Tips

How long can you vacation in Costa Rica?

As a tourist, you can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days.

How much is a trip to Costa Rica?

The cost of a Costa Rica vacation can vary quite a bit, from US$200 per person per day for a simple introductory or family trip, to more than double that for a more luxurious trip, or one that caters to specific interests such as birdwatching. Budget extra if you want to explore the harder-to-reach national parks such as Corcovado National Park. 

What currency does Costa Rica use?

The Costa Rican Colón is the local currency, trading at around 525 to 1 USD. Many tours and experiences are quoted in USD and for these, it’s better to pay in USD. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but keep some colónes on hand for small, local purchases. 

Do I need to tip in Costa Rica?

Costa Rican restaurants add a 10% service charge, so there’s no need to tip unless your server truly went above and beyond. Leave $2 a day for housekeeping and a dollar per bag for porting your luggage. For cabs, between $1 and $5 is usually enough, depending on the length of the trip. Guides are usually tipped between $5 and $15, depending on the size of your group. If taking a boat tour, tip the crew as well.

Where to go on a Costa Rica vacation

Costa Rica’s staggering biodiversity means no two national parks or regions are exactly alike. Arenal Volcano is the country’s most impressive, surrounded by hot springs, spectacular waterfalls, and the lovely town of La Fortuna. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve harbours more than 3,000 species within its leafy mists, while on the Pacific coast, Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio are the most popular bases. Tortuguero, a nesting habitat for four marine turtle species, is found on the Caribbean side. If you’re spending more than a week in Costa Rica, consider visiting both coasts to appreciate the contrast. Though it’s a little more expensive, Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula always wows those willing to make the trip.

How safe is Costa Rica for vacation?

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in the Americas, but stay alert to petty theft. Rental cars are often a target. So are bags on the beach, or left hanging on chairs at bars and restaurants. Keep any bags where you can see them, and don’t carry more cash or documents (including credit cards) than you need for the day. Stay in a group when walking at night and stick to registered red or orange taxis to avoid scams. Also, it’s common sense, but keep a respectful distance from wild animals you encounter in the parks.

Is Costa Rica LGBTQ+ friendly?

Costa Rica is generally accepting of LGBTQ+ identities and has long been ahead of its Central American neighbours in terms of reform. Same-sex marriage is legal, gender-affirming care is available and non-binary gender is legally recognized. Rural areas can be more conservative, but tourists are unlikely to experience anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination. San Jose has a thriving gay scene, while smaller scenes exist in tourism hubs like Manuel Antonio.  

Can I drink the tap water in Costa Rica?

Over 92 percent of Costa Rica has access to safe drinking water, so unless you’re heading to a really remote area, bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at every opportunity. 

What to pack for a trip to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical destination, so light, breathable fabrics are key. A pair of good hiking shoes and a small, easy-to-carry day pack are must-have items. The locals tend to keep it casual, so a thin rain jacket and microfibre towel will be far more useful than dress clothes. Eco-friendly mosquito repellent and sunscreen are a good idea too, though you can pick up most of the basics at local pharmacies.