Getting ready for a trip to Costa Rica? You’re in for a treat—this place is stunning, and I’ve picked up a ton of practical know-how from years of traveling back and forth. I’ve put together this guide to share what I’ve learned, broken down into categories so you can zero in on what matters most to you. It’s a hefty read, but I wanted to cover all the bases—after all, Costa Rica’s got layers, and I’ve peeled back plenty of them over time. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, there’s something here to make your trip smoother and more fun. Let’s get started!
Costa Rica Entry and Exit
Getting into Costa Rica is step one, and it’s worth knowing the ins and outs before you pack your bags. Over the years, I’ve figured out what customs cares about—and what they don’t—so you can breeze through without a hitch.
From electronics limits to passport rules, here’s what you need to keep in mind to start (and end) your trip smoothly. It’s not just about avoiding headaches at the airport; it’s about setting yourself up for the adventure ahead. Trust me, I’ve seen folks turned away at check-in—don’t let that be you.
Limit Your Electronics
Costa Rica has a $500 limit on new goods (like electronics) you can bring in every six months without paying import taxes—think phones, laptops, or that shiny new drone you’ve been eyeing. They might stamp your passport to track it, though enforcement’s spotty. I’ve lugged in cell phones, iPads, and laptops in my carry-on for friends, no questions asked—customs usually just X-rays your bag and waves you through.
But there’s always that one zealous agent who might make you unpack, especially if your gear looks fresh out of the box. Once, I watched a guy sweat bullets explaining his two new cameras—receipts saved him. Taxes can hit 30% or more, so don’t overpack tech unless you’re ready to pay up. My advice? Stick to essentials—your phone and maybe a tablet—and leave the extras at home.
Bring Receipts (Maybe)
Got receipts for pricey stuff like a drone or high-end camera? Toss them in your bag, just in case. It’s not mandatory, but if customs flags you, it’s proof you didn’t buy it to sell. I’ve never had to flash one myself in dozens of trips, but a buddy got grilled over a GoPro once—receipt shut it down fast.
Drones are trickier since they’ve tightened rules on aerial gadgets (you’ll need a permit to fly one anyway). It’s a small prep step that could save you a big hassle, especially if you’re hauling anything that screams “fancy.”
Passport Validity: 6 Months Minimum
This one’s a hard rule—your passport needs at least six months of validity when you land, or you’re not getting on the plane, period. Airlines check it at the counter, and customs double-checks on arrival. Why six months?
Costa Rica lets tourists stay up to 180 days (90 to start, extendable another 90), and they want your passport active for the max stretch. I’ve seen people scramble to renew last-minute—expedited fees can top $200, and standard processing takes 6–8 weeks. One trip, my cousin almost missed out because his passport had five months left; he shelled out for a rush job. Check yours now, and plan ahead—it’s a rookie mistake you don’t want to make.
Proof of Onward Travel
You’ll need to prove you’re leaving within your allowed time—usually a round-trip ticket or an onward one out of Costa Rica. Airlines enforce this before boarding (they’ll get fined if you don’t comply), and customs might ask too, though they’re less strict. I’ve used a bus ticket to Panama once—pre-booked online—and it worked fine, but flights are safer bets.
A friend got stuck at check-in with no exit plan; he had to buy a refundable ticket on the spot for $300. Check my other post for a deep dive, but bottom line: have something booked, even if it’s flexible, to avoid the drama.
Departure Tax
Flying out? There’s a $29 exit tax per person. Most airlines bake it into your ticket price these days—check your fare breakdown to confirm. If it’s not included, you’ll pay at the airport before check-in—cash (USD or colones) or card works, but lines can drag. I forgot once and nearly missed a flight scrambling to pay. It’s a small thing, but it sneaks up on you—double-check so you’re not digging for cash at the last second.
Costa Rica Money
Cash is king when you’re exploring Costa Rica, but figuring out how to handle it can feel like a puzzle at first. Between colones, dollars, and ATMs, I’ve learned what works best—and what’s a waste of time—over countless trips. Here’s the rundown on keeping your wallet happy while you’re there. Whether you’re grabbing street food or tipping a guide, having the right mix of currency makes life easier—and keeps you from overpaying in tourist traps.
Colones and Dollars
Costa Rica’s official currency is the colón (CRC)—about 520 to the USD as of March 2025—but U.S. dollars are everywhere, especially in tourist zones like Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio. Hotels, restaurants, and big shops often take USD, but you’ll get change in colones, sometimes at lousy rates.
Small vendors, rural spots, or buses? Colones only. I usually carry $50 in small USD bills (ones, fives) for convenience and 20,000–30,000 CRC for local stuff—taxis, sodas, markets. ATMs spit out both, but dollars can run out fast. Check my “Colones vs. Dollars” post for more, but my go-to? A mix keeps you flexible without stressing over exchange math.
Traveler’s Checks? Nope
These are dinosaurs in Costa Rica. Banks might cash them if you beg, but it’s a slog—paperwork, fees, and grumpy tellers. Shops and restaurants won’t even look at them. I tried once years back and got laughed out of a bank in San José. Save yourself the trouble—cards and cash rule here.
ATMs: Your Best Bet
ATMs are clutch for getting cash—colones or dollars—from U.S. or Canadian accounts. They’re everywhere in cities and tourist towns, less so in the boonies. Here’s what I’ve learned:
They run dry sometimes, especially weekends or holidays—Friday night in Jacó, I hit three empty ones. Midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) is your safest bet.
Fees can stack up—my bank charges $5 per pop, and local ATMs might tack on $2–$3. Ask your bank about international fees; some (like Schwab) refund them. Locals or hotel staff can point you to no-fee machines—BCR and BAC are solid picks.
Limits hover at $300–$500 per withdrawal, depending on the bank. Need more? Hit another ATM, but check your daily cap—mine’s $1,000, but yours might differ.
Don’t pull too much—petty theft’s real (more on that later). I keep $100–$200 on me, max, and stash the rest. Never had an issue, but why tempt fate?
Costa Rica Safety Tips
Costa Rica’s got a laid-back vibe, but like anywhere, it’s not immune to hiccups. I’ve navigated buses, tours, and streets enough to know where to watch out—and where to relax. These tips will keep you safe without cramping your style. It’s less about paranoia and more about smart habits—Costa Rica’s one of the safest spots in Central America, but a little prep keeps it that way.
Bus Safety
Crowded intercity buses are a no-go—accidents spike when they’re packed, especially on twisty mountain roads like Cerro de la Muerte (yep, “Hill of Death” isn’t just a cool name). I’ve seen buses swerve too close to cliffs for comfort. Keep bags on your lap, not overhead—thieves love dozing tourists. Once, a guy in front of me woke up bagless after a nap from San José to Puntarenas. Lockable zippers help; sneaky hands work fast anywhere, not just here. Stick to emptier buses or spring for an Ejecutivo if you can.
Guides and Adventure Sports
Ziplining, rafting, ATV tours—Costa Rica’s adventure game is strong, but stick to legit outfits. Cheap “independent” guides might skimp on gear or know-how—think frayed harnesses or fake certifications. A rafting accident in 2018 killed five because of shoddy prep; don’t roll those dice. I skipped a sketchy-looking canopy tour once—gut said no—and heard later the cables were rusty. Reputable companies cost more ($50–$100 vs. $20–$30), but peace of mind’s worth it. If it feels off, bail.
General Smarts
Petty theft’s the biggie—pickpockets in San José, bag snags on beaches. I’ve never been hit, but I’ve seen wallets vanish at crowded markets. Don’t flash cash, leave valuables in your hotel safe, and keep stuff out of sight (car trunks too—break-ins happen). Violent crime’s rare—1.8 homicides per 100,000 vs. the U.S.’s 5—but it pops up. Stick to lit areas at night, travel with a pal, and you’re golden. Common sense rules.
Getting Around Costa Rica
Moving around Costa Rica can be as chill or as tricky as you make it, depending on how you roll. I’ve hopped taxis, buses, and even planes over the years, and each has its quirks. Here’s what I’ve found works best for getting from point A to B. Whether you’re zipping across town or crisscrossing the country, there’s a way to match your budget and timeline—just don’t expect everything to run like clockwork.
Taxis in Towns
Taxis are a steal for short hops—$2–$5 in cities or small towns. Every legit one’s got a meter (“maría”)—insist it’s on, or you’re overpaying. No meter? Haggle upfront; I’ve paid $3 for a ride that jumped to $10 without a deal. In San José, red taxis are official; in rural spots, look for licensed plates. Beats deciphering bus schedules any day.
Buses Between Cities
Cheap and reliable for longer hauls—San José to Jacó’s about $5–$8. Local buses stop every five minutes (slower, cheaper); Ejecutivo buses go direct and shave hours off ($10–$15). Schedules are online (e.g., thebusschedule.com) or at terminals, but they shift—confirm the day before. I’ve missed a bus by 10 minutes because “mañana” meant “afternoon.” Load up early—seats fill fast.
Bus Comfort
Long rides (4+ hours) test your patience—stops are driver’s choice, bathrooms are a myth, and sleeping’s a joke with bumpy roads. San José to Liberia once took six hours with a screaming kid and no AC. Short trips (1–2 hours)? Cheap and fine—$2–$4, minimal stops. Bring snacks and grit for the long ones.
Domestic Flights
Time’s tight? Flights like San José to Quepos ($100, 40 minutes) beat a 3-hour drive. Sansa, NatureAir, and Skyway cover hotspots—book early, fares climb closer to date. Small planes (12–20 seats) mean weight limits—pack light. I flew to Drake Bay once; stunning views, worth every penny.
Toilet Paper PSA
Bring a roll—seriously. Gas stations, bus stops, rural joints? No TP half the time. I’ve been stranded mid-jungle thanking past me for that stash. Cheap insurance for a basic need.
Things to See in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s packed with jaw-dropping spots, and I’ve hit enough of them to know which ones stand out. From volcanoes to surf towns, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Here’s my take on the must-sees that’ll make your trip unforgettable. It’s a country that begs you to explore—nature’s the star, and I’ve got the highlights to prove it.
Arenal Volcano
Four hours from San José, Arenal’s a classic—active volcano (quiet since 2010), waterfalls like La Fortuna, and Tabacón Hot Springs ($70 entry, worth it). I spent three days soaking, hiking, and gawking—day trips cram it too tight. Two–three nights let you breathe it in.
Monteverde Rainforest
Four hours from San José or Liberia, it’s a misty wonder—400+ bird species (quetzals if you’re lucky), trails from 2–6 hours, and ziplines that soar (Sky Adventures, $50). I did a night walk once—glow-in-the-dark fungi blew my mind. Two days minimum; one-day tours from the coast are brutal.
Cerro Chirripó
Costa Rica’s highest peak (3,820 meters) isn’t for casuals—start in San Gerardo de Rivas (3.5 hours from San José). It’s a 2-day climb, 20 km round-trip, with basic huts at 3,400 meters. I huffed up in 2019—sunrise views over both coasts were unreal. Book permits early ($18/day); it’s not technical, just tough.
Quepos/Manuel Antonio
Three hours from San José, it’s beach-and-park perfection. Manuel Antonio National Park ($16 entry) has monkeys, sloths, and postcard shores; Quepos offers fishing charters ($500+). I stayed cheap ($60/night) and splurged on fish tacos—balance it your way.
Nosara Surfing
A haul from anywhere (5 hours from Liberia), but surfers rave about Playa Guiones’ breaks. I’m no pro, but the laid-back town—yoga, seafood, sunsets—hooked me for two days. Board rentals are $15/day; non-surfers still vibe here.
Osa Peninsula Eco-Lodges
National Geographic’s “most biodiverse” spot—think jaguars, macaws, whales off Corcovado. Eco-lodges ($150–$300/night, all-in) mix hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. I stayed three days at Lapa Rios—bugs bit, but the wildlife payoff was insane. Pack repellant.
Food and Eating Out
Food’s a big part of the Costa Rica experience, but it’s not all carefree munching. I’ve learned where to be cautious and where to dig in over years of eating my way through the country. Here’s how to enjoy the flavors without any regrets. From street stalls to coffee farms, it’s a feast—if you play it smart.
Water Safety
Tap water’s iffy outside San José or big resorts—stick to bottled (under $1) or skip ice in drinks. A filter bottle (Sawyer S1, $40) saved me in the sticks once. Montezuma’s Revenge is real; my “Staying Healthy in Central America” post has more. Don’t risk it.
Uncooked Foods
Rural joints might not wash veggies well—salads or raw stuff can carry parasites or pesticides. I got queasy from a roadside ceviche once; cooked meals since then, no issues. Ask how it’s prepped if you’re unsure—heat’s your friend.
Casados for Lunch
Lunch (“almuerzo”) is the main event—casados (rice, beans, plantains, meat or fish) run $5–$8 at sodas. Juices like tamarind or cas come free sometimes—double-check the water source. I’ve filled up for $6 in Nosara and felt like royalty.
Open Markets
Local markets are a blast—piles of mangoes, papayas, weird fruits like guanábana, still gritty from the field. Peel or soak raw buys; I learned that after a sketchy unwashed tomato. It’s cheap, fresh, and a cultural win—haggle a little for fun.
Finding Good Eats
Sodas packed with locals signal quality—$5 plates beat $15 tourist traps. For pizza or burgers, reviews matter—90% good out of 100? Go for it. A San José burger joint bombed once (greasy mess); reviews would’ve warned me.
Coffee and Gallo Pinto
Coffee’s a religion—dark, smooth, often via chorreador (wooden drip, $5 souvenir). Gallo Pinto’s my breakfast jam—rice, beans, egg, Lizano sauce ($3/bottle to take home). Every soda’s got it; Ritz Carlton’s version still slaps.
Menus 101
Local menus trip up non-Spanish speakers—“a la plancha” (grilled) stumped me once, landed me mystery fish. Brush up on basics—carne (meat), pollo (chicken)—or you’re rolling dice. I’ve laughed off a few flops, but prep saves face.
Customs and Culture Tips
Getting a feel for Costa Rican culture can make your trip smoother and more fun. I’ve picked up some quirks over time that’ll help you blend in—or at least not stick out like a sore thumb. Here’s what to expect. Ticos are warm, but their ways might catch you off guard—lean into it.
Pura Vida Time
Costa Rica’s “Switzerland of Central America” tag skips the clock—folks run 15–30 minutes late, no sweat. I waited 45 minutes for a guide once; he rolled up smiling, no rush. Buffer your plans—tight schedules fray fast.
Machismo Alert
Ladies, catcalls are a thing—solo or with gals, you might hear whistles or “hola, linda.” It’s cultural, rarely aggressive, but it rattled a friend once. Travel with a guy or shrug it off—your call if it bugs you.
Tipping Norms
Restaurants tack on 10% service—extra’s up to you ($1–$2 if they shine). Guides or drivers? $5–$10 per person’s fair for a great day. Taxis skip tips; airport porters snag $1–$2 per bag. I overtipped a stellar guide once—$20—his grin was worth it.
Costa Rica Lodging Tips
Where you stay can shape your whole trip, and Costa Rica’s got options for every wallet. I’ve crashed in everything from hostels to Airbnbs, and each has its perks and pitfalls. Here’s what I’ve learned about bedding down in style—or on a budget. From dorm bunks to jungle villas, there’s a fit for you.
Hostels
$20–$30 per night, per person—bare-bones beds, shared baths (private if you luck out). Backpackers and 20-somethings flock here; I bunked in Tamarindo once, $25, and survived on earplugs. No frills, just a roof—fine for cheapskates.
Airbnb Boom
Massive here—$50/night studios to $200+ villas. Low season (May–Nov) drops prices; I scored a 3-bedroom in Manuel Antonio for $120 split four ways. Beats hotels for groups—check my “Airbnb vs. Hotels” post for the full scoop.
Hotels
Budget ($50–$80) to luxe ($200+)—13% tax and 10% service can sneak in, so read the total. A $60 spot in Quepos was clean but basic; $250 at Arenal got me a hot tub. Book direct or compare—deals shift.
Quick Reference: Key Costs and Tips
| Category | Details | Cost/Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics Limit | Max $500 every 6 months | Bring receipts if questioned |
| Departure Tax | $29, usually in ticket | Pay cash/card if not |
| ATM Withdrawal | $300–$500 limit, fees possible | Midweek for best access |
| Taxi in Town | Metered, short rides | $2–$5, agree if no meter |
| Bus (Intercity) | Local vs. Ejecutivo | $5–$15, depending on route |
| Flight (Domestic) | San José to Quepos, e.g. | ~$100, 40 mins |
| Hostel | Per person, basic | $20–$30/night |
| Tipping | Service charge in restaurants | $5–$10 for guides, optional |
Final Thoughts
That’s my rundown—read this far, and you’re practically a Tico! Costa Rica’s a blast if you prep right. Pura vida!