Travel to Costa Rica

QUICK COSTA RICA FACTS

Currency: Costa Rican colón can be withdrawn from ATMs throughout Costa Rica, however keep in mind that smaller cities or towns may not have access to ATMs and its recommended to withdraw cash and take it with you.

Power Points: Most power points are the same as North American power points (2 flat prongs). I would recommend you take a Travel Adapter.

Official Language: The official language of Costa Rica is Costa Rican Spanish, which is different to Spanish spoken in Spain.

Health: There are a number of health concerns in Costa Rica for travellers  including malaria, dengue fever and zika. I would recommend that you contact your doctor a few weeks before you travel as in some cases you need to start any medication a few days before your trip or you may need to get a vaccination.

Drinking Tap Water: The tap water is generally safe to drink, however, if you are unsure, make sure to ask your hotel receptionist or host.

Visa: Most countries don’t require a visa for short stays, to visit Costa Rica.

Popular foods:
– Gallo Pinto (breakfast dish made of rice and beans).
– Casado (a mix and match of rice, beans, salad, tortillas, fried platano maduro, and meat).
– Arroz con Leche (rice dessert).
– Patacones (flattening plantains, fried twice).

When to go: The driest and warmest weather in Costa Rica falls between December and April on the Pacific Coast, and between March and September on the Caribbean coast. Additionally, travelling during May and June or in November can still be enjoyable as it’s Costa Rica’s green season (the “wet season”).