Costa Rica

The Land of Jungles
and Joy

Flag of Costa Rica

Costa Rica, located in Central America, is renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and commitment to environmental conservation. The country’s landscapes range from pristine beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts to active volcanoes and dense jungles teeming with biodiversity.

Costa Rican culture emphasizes "Pura Vida" (pure life), a laid-back and positive outlook on life. The cuisine is fresh and simple, with staples like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and tropical fruits. Known for its ecotourism, Costa Rica is a haven for nature lovers, offering everything from zip-lining through forests to relaxing on idyllic beaches.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Costa Rica.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Costa Rica.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from these nations can enter Costa Rica with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, most EU countries).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from these nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Costa Rica (e.g., India, China – check specific requirements).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Costa Rica without an additional visa if from visa-exempt countries; otherwise, a visa is required.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a Costa Rican visa if the visa is valid for at least 6 months from entry date.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa if from visa-exempt countries or with a valid permit from the US/Canada/EU (minimum 6 months validity).

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Costa Rica using only a valid national ID card:
    • None; a passport is required for all entrants (no regional ID agreements apply).

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period, extendable with approval.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays (e.g., work/study permits).
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions.
Toll

Driving in Costa Rica

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, the main toll roads in Costa Rica include:

  • Ruta 27 (San José-Caldera): Connecting San José to the Pacific coast, with multiple toll points.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Costa Rican Road Authority website: https://www.ruta27.com/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system (Quick Pass) is implemented. Check https://www.quickpasscr.com/ for updates.

Driving in Costa Rica

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution, especially on rural roads or during rainy seasons in mountainous areas.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license; foreign licenses are valid for up to 90 days.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Costa Rica is considering implementing a vignette system for road use. Check https://www.mopt.go.cr/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Costa Rica has been improving road safety, but remain vigilant, especially at night or in mountainous regions.
  • GPS and Maps: While GPS is generally reliable, keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially in remote areas like the Osa Peninsula.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 911 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Costa Rica Currency

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 CRC
  • Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500 CRC
  • Symbol: ₡ (sometimes written as CRC)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels. U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct CRC withdrawals (some dispense USD).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash (CRC or USD) for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Costa Rica website: https://www.bccr.fi.cr/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Costa Rica

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Costa Rica, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and certain outdoor areas (e.g., parks).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing land disputes or environmental controversies casually.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships and marriage are legal. Costa Rica is progressive, though rural areas may be less accepting of public displays of affection.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or critical infrastructure (e.g., airports). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in indigenous communities.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., turtle items).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Costa Rican Tourism Institute or Consumer Protection Office.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated in major tourist areas like Manuel Antonio.

Key Resources

Costa Rica Travel Safety

Suriname is generally safe for travellers, with low to moderate crime rates and a reputation for natural diversity. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or public transport in Paramaribo. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Suriname is considered safe, with locals often hospitable. Avoid isolated areas at night, especially in urban centers.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poor rural road conditions.
    • Avoid night driving in the interior or during rainy seasons.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural stays).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country or visiting the interior.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases:
    • Use insect repellent to guard against dengue, Zika, or malaria in coastal and rainforest areas.
  • Altitude Sickness:
    • Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (minimal in Suriname, mostly lowland terrain). Ascend gradually if traveling to higher border regions.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Academic Hospital Paramaribo offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 115 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 113 | Fire: 110 | Police: 115.
  • Tourist Police (Paramaribo): +597 477 777.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/interior areas. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Brownsberg Nature Park).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing colonial past or indigenous issues.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be moderate in Paramaribo; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Costa Rica

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