After 15+ years of guiding tourists in Costa Rica, we have seen every mistake in the book. This guide compiles the most important tips we give to our guests — the practical stuff that travel blogs often miss.
Money and Payments
1. US Dollars Are Accepted Everywhere
The official currency is the Costa Rican colon (CRC), but US dollars are accepted at almost every tourist business. You do not need to exchange money before arriving. However, you will often get change back in colones, so you will end up with both currencies anyway.
2. Use ATMs Inside Banks
ATM skimming exists in Costa Rica. Only use ATMs that are inside bank branches or reputable shopping malls. Avoid standalone ATMs on the street or in small shops.
3. Credit Cards Work, But Carry Cash
Hotels, restaurants, and tour operators accept Visa and Mastercard. But small sodas (local restaurants), taxis, and roadside vendors are cash-only. Keep $50-100 in small bills on you at all times.
Safety Tips
4. Costa Rica Is Safe, But Use Common Sense
Costa Rica is the safest country in Central America, but petty theft exists. Never leave valuables visible in a parked car — even for 5 minutes. Use hotel safes. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
5. Do Not Leave Anything on the Beach
This is the number one way tourists get robbed. When you go swimming, thieves can grab your bag in seconds. Either have someone watch your stuff, use a waterproof pouch you can swim with, or leave valuables locked in your car trunk.
6. Beware of Rip Currents
More tourists die from drowning than any other cause in Costa Rica. Many beaches have strong rip currents. Swim only at beaches with lifeguards, or ask locals which areas are safe. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore — not against it.
7. Get Travel Insurance
Medical care in Costa Rica is good but can be expensive for foreigners. A broken leg can cost $10,000+. Adventure activities like zip-lining and rafting may not be covered by basic insurance — check your policy carefully.
Driving and Transportation
8. You Probably Need a 4x4
If you plan to visit Monteverde, drive to remote beaches, or travel during rainy season, you need a 4x4. Many roads are unpaved with river crossings. Regular sedans get stuck — we see it every week. Rental car insurance often does not cover damage from unpaved roads with a 2WD vehicle.
9. Use Waze, Not Google Maps
Google Maps is unreliable in Costa Rica — it often routes you through impassable roads. Locals use Waze, which has better real-time updates on road conditions and construction. Download offline maps as backup for areas without signal.
10. Watch for Motorcycles
Motorcycles will pass you on both sides, even in traffic. When changing lanes or turning, always check your mirrors twice. This is the biggest adjustment for North American drivers.
11. Never Drive at Night
Roads are poorly lit, potholes are invisible, and pedestrians walk on roadsides wearing dark clothes. We strongly recommend arriving at your destination before sunset. Plan your driving days accordingly.
12. Private Transfers Are Worth It
If driving sounds stressful (it can be), consider private transfers or shared shuttles. You can relax, see the scenery, and arrive without the stress. For groups of 3+, private transfers are often the same price as shuttle buses.
Health Tips
13. Tap Water Is Safe (Mostly)
You can drink tap water in most of Costa Rica — the water treatment is excellent. Exceptions: some remote Caribbean areas and very rural locations. When in doubt, ask your hotel or drink bottled water.
14. Bring Strong Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are common in lowland areas and can carry dengue fever. Bring repellent with at least 25% DEET or use picaridin-based alternatives. Apply generously at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
15. No Vaccinations Required
Costa Rica does not require any vaccinations for entry. However, the CDC recommends being up-to-date on routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A. Consult your doctor if you plan to visit very remote areas.
What to Pack
16. Pack Light, Wash Often
You will sweat through clothes daily in the humidity. Pack quick-dry fabrics and plan to do laundry. Most hotels offer same-day laundry service for a few dollars. Heavy luggage is a burden when transferring between hotels.
17. Bring a Waterproof Day Bag
Afternoon rain showers are common, and many tours involve water. A small waterproof backpack or dry bag protects your phone, camera, and wallet during rafting, boat tours, and sudden downpours.
18. Good Walking Shoes Are Essential
Trails in national parks are often muddy, rocky, and have roots everywhere. Flip-flops are not appropriate for hiking. Bring sturdy closed-toe shoes with good grip — hiking sandals like Chacos work well if you prefer open footwear.
19. Layers for Monteverde
The cloud forest is 10-15 degrees cooler than the rest of Costa Rica and often misty. Bring a light jacket or sweater if visiting Monteverde — you will be cold in just a t-shirt.
Culture and Etiquette
20. Learn to Say Pura Vida
"Pura Vida" (pure life) is the national motto and used constantly. It means hello, goodbye, thank you, no problem, life is good — basically everything. Use it and locals will smile. Say "Pura Vida, mae!" to really fit in.
21. Tipping Is Expected
Restaurants add a 10% service charge, but it does not always go to your server — leaving a small additional tip is appreciated. For tour guides, $10-20 per person per day is standard. Drivers get $5-10 per person per day.
22. Embrace Tico Time
Things move slower here. Buses may leave late, restaurants may take longer than expected, and "five minutes" might mean thirty. Do not stress — it is part of the pura vida lifestyle. Build buffer time into your plans.
Practical Information
23. Get a Local SIM Card
Buy a prepaid SIM at the airport for about $15-20 with data included. Kolbi (government carrier) has the best coverage in remote areas. WhatsApp is the primary communication method — tour operators, restaurants, and hotels all use it.
24. No Adapter Needed (For Americans)
Costa Rica uses the same outlets and voltage as the United States and Canada (Type A/B, 120V). Your devices will work without an adapter. European and Australian visitors need an adapter.
25. Book Popular Tours in Advance
During high season (December-April), popular tours like Tortuguero, Monteverde zip-lining, and Manuel Antonio guided walks can sell out days in advance. Book at least 48 hours ahead, or better yet, before you arrive.
Questions About Your Trip?
Our team has been helping visitors navigate Costa Rica for over 15 years. Ask us anything — we are happy to help.
