Important Facts
Important Facts and What to Bring for Your Costa Rica Trip
Costa Rica is a place of stunning natural beauty, offering everything from tropical rainforests and pristine beaches to active volcanoes and misty cloud forests. To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to be prepared. This guide will walk you through key travel information, including entry requirements, weather conditions, and a handy packing list to help you enjoy a comfortable stay. As a Destination Management Company (DMC), CRS Tours is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Airlines Flying to Costa Rica
Costa Rica is well-connected globally, with two main international airports offering frequent flights.
- Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO):
Located in Alajuela, near San José, SJO is the largest and busiest international airport in the country. It’s the best option if you’re heading to the capital or nearby areas. - Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR):
Situated in Liberia, Guanacaste, LIR serves travelers visiting the northern Pacific beaches and popular tourist spots like Tamarindo, Arenal, and Monteverde.
Domestic Airlines
For getting around Costa Rica, Aerobell Airlines and Sansa Airlines offer convenient flights to more remote destinations such as Nosara, Drake Bay, and Puerto Jiménez.
Airlines and Routes (Updated 2024)
- Flights to San José (SJO): Direct flights are available from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Houston, and Washington, D.C., with airlines like Alaska, United, American, and JetBlue.
- Flights to Liberia (LIR): You can fly into Liberia from cities like Los Angeles, Denver, Dallas, and Atlanta. Major carriers include United, Delta, American, and Southwest.
Departure Tax
Since 2016, Costa Rica has included its $29 departure tax in most airline tickets. If your ticket doesn’t include it, you’ll need to pay at the airport, using either US dollars, Costa Rican colones, or a credit card.
Entry Requirements for Costa Rica (Updated 2024)
- General Entry Information: Travelers from the U.S., Canada, and European Union can enter Costa Rica without a visa for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements: If you’re arriving from a country where yellow fever is present—such as Brazil, Colombia, or Venezuela—you must show proof of vaccination. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before you enter Costa Rica. This also applies if you’ve had a layover longer than 12 hours in one of these countries.
Money Matters in Costa Rica
- Currency: The Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. ATMs are easy to find and typically offer both colones and US dollars.
- Credit Cards: Most businesses accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard. However, it’s a good idea to carry cash, particularly in rural areas or with smaller vendors who may not accept cards.
- Tipping and Taxes: Costa Rica adds a 13% Value Added Tax (VAT) to most goods and services. Many restaurants also add a 10% service charge to the bill, so additional tipping is not expected but always appreciated for great service.
CRS Tours Tip: Always have small bills in colones for local markets, small eateries, or tipping tour guides and drivers.
Health and Safety
- Healthcare: Costa Rica is known for high-quality healthcare, both in public and private hospitals. Popular private hospitals like Clínica Bíblica in San José are frequently used by international travelers. Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance as private hospitals may require payment upfront.
- Vaccinations: No specific vaccines are required unless you’re coming from a yellow fever area. It’s recommended to be up to date with routine vaccines like tetanus, hepatitis A, and influenza.
CRS Tours Tip: If you need assistance finding medical care or pharmacies, we’re here to help with local recommendations and emergency contacts.
Phone Use in Costa Rica
- Phone Service and SIM Cards: You can either use your international roaming plan or buy a local SIM card for your unlocked phone. Costa Rica’s major providers—Kolbi, Claro, and Movistar—offer affordable prepaid SIM cards, which can be purchased at the airport or local stores.
Traveler Tip: A local SIM card with data is often the most economical way to stay connected, and WhatsApp is widely used for communication, even with CRS Tours.
- Wi-Fi: You’ll find Wi-Fi available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes, though connections in more remote areas may be slower.
- Emergency Services: Costa Rica’s emergency number is 911, and it can be dialed from any phone, even without a SIM card.
CRS Tours Tip: We provide 24/7 customer support through WhatsApp and phone. If you have connectivity issues or need help, we’re just a message away.
What to Bring for Your Costa Rica Trip
Packing smartly for Costa Rica’s varied climate is key to a successful trip. Here’s a list to guide you.
- Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics for the hot and humid coastal areas and rainforests.
- Long-sleeved shirts and light pants for mosquito protection in the rainforest.
- A rain jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season (May to November).
- A sweater or light jacket for cooler regions like Monteverde or the Central Valley.
- Swimsuits for beach days, hot springs, and water activities.
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots for exploring national parks and volcanoes.
- Flip-flops or sandals for casual walks around town or beach trips.
- A hat and sunglasses to shield you from the sun.
- Accessories:
- High-SPF sunscreen due to Costa Rica’s proximity to the equator.
- DEET-based insect repellent, especially for rainforests and coastal areas.
- A waterproof dry bag to protect your electronics and valuables during water-based activities or if it rains.
- A quick-dry travel towel for beach outings, waterfalls, or spontaneous swims.
- A daypack for your daily essentials on hikes or excursions.
- A reusable water bottle—many hotels offer filtered water stations to help reduce plastic waste.
CRS Tours Tip: When you book eco-lodges or tours with us, we’ll let you know if you need any special gear for the activities planned.
- Health and Safety Essentials:
- Bring enough prescription medication for your entire trip and a copy of your prescription.
- A basic first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister care, and pain relievers.
- Hand sanitizer and face masks for use in crowded areas or where handwashing facilities are limited.
- Tech and Travel Gear:
- A portable charger or power bank to keep your devices charged during long outings.
- An electrical adapter isn’t needed if you’re traveling from North America (Costa Rica uses the same 110-volt system), but travelers from Europe will need a plug adapter.
- A camera or smartphone for capturing Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Binoculars, especially for birdwatching in places like Monteverde and Tortuguero.
- Important Documents:
- Your passport, which should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Printed or digital copies of your travel insurance details.
- A valid driver’s license if you plan to rent a car (no need for an international permit if you’re from the U.S. or Europe).
CRS Tours Tip: If you forget to pack something, many essentials are available for purchase in Costa Rica, though imported products may be more expensive. We can recommend local shops where you can find outdoor gear or travel supplies.
By packing thoughtfully and understanding what to expect, you’ll be fully prepared for your Costa Rican adventure. CRS Tours is here to ensure your trip is seamless and enjoyable—from packing advice to travel arrangements and local tips, we’ve got you covered!
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