1 – Are Credit Cards accepted in Costa Rica?
Most hotels, restaurants and stores accept Visa and MasterCard. In smaller towns, you may be charged extra to pay with a credit card.
2 –Are the Parks and reserves wheelchair accessible?
Some national parks and reserves have trails that are wheelchair friendly. For example, you can park your car at the Poás Volcano National Park parking lot, get on a wheelchair, go onto the paved crater trail, and see the main crater. Carara National Park also has a flat trail through old-growth and new-growth rainforest that is wheelchair friendly. It is best to call in advance to determine park conditions and trail possibilities.
3– Are there domestic airlines that travel withing the Country?
Sansa and Aerobell are Costa Rica’s two regional airlines. Both service major tourist destinations with daily flights, while more remote destinations may only see one or two flights per week. Sansa is headquartered next to the international airport in Alajuela and Aerobellflies out of Pavas, about 20 minutes from the airport.
4- Can I enter Costa Rica with one -way ticket?
To enter Costa Rica, you must show proof of onward travel, either a pre-paid airline or bus ticket to exit the country. Airlines do not always ask for this documentation, but Costa Rica Immigration may deny you entry without proof of onward travel.
5-Can I exchange money at the airport?
To enter Costa Rica, you must show proof of onward travel, either a pre-paid airline or bus ticket to exit the country. Airlines do not always ask for this documentation, but Costa Rica Immigration may deny you entry without proof of onward travel.
6-Can I take my pet to Costa Rica?
Yes, bringing a dog or a cat to Costa Rica is a relatively simple process. These pets are not subject to quarantine, provided they have the correct paperwork and vaccines. Birds, snakes, horses and other “exotic” or agricultural animals may be subject to additional restrictions.
7-Do Costa Rican speak English?
Many Costa Ricans speak conversational English in the tourism industry. As you travel into more rural areas of the country, you will encounter more people who speak only Spanish. Costa Ricans are known for being friendly, so if you’re having trouble communicating, a smile, hand gestures and an English-Spanish dictionary will serve you well.
8-Do I need an adapter for my electrical Devices?
Costa Rica’s electricity operates at 110 volts and 60 hertz, the same as in the United States and Canada. Visitors from countries with other electrical systems, such as those in Europe will need adapters for their electrical devices.
9-Do I need an international drivers license to drive in Costa Rica?
No, your home license is valid in Costa Rica for the duration of your tourist entry stamp. When driving, always carry your passport, or a copy of your passport ID page and entry stamp page, showing proof of legal status in the country.
10- Does it rain everyday during the green Season?
Not necessarily. The months of September and October usually see the most rain and showers can be minimal – usually limited to late afternoon thunderstorms that last one or two hours. In exchange for a bit of rain, you’ll receive of up to 10-40% off high season hotel rates.
11. How are Costa Rica´s medical services?
Costa Rica is internationally recognized for its top-notch medical services, both public and private, thanks to its wealth of skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities. For minor aches and pains, visit a local pharmacy. All pharmacies are required to have a licensed pharmacist on staff, and they can diagnose certain ailments and prescribe medication on the spot.
12- How is the weather in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a temperate tropical climate marked by two seasons: the dry (December- April) and the wet (May-November). The average temperature throughout the year is between 71°F and 81°F. During the rainy season, also known as the green season, mornings are generally sunny followed by late afternoon showers.
13- How much do I tip in Costa Rica?
Tipping is not customary in Costa Rica, but in the tourism industry tipping for professional services is universal. It is considered polite to tip guides and drivers for performance and services rendered. While largely a personal decision, a tour guide may be tipped $2-$10, depending on the size of your group. Note that all restaurant bills include a mandatory 10% tip and leaving extra is uncommon.
14- How much is the departure tax?
All passengers on outbound flights are required to pay a $28 departure tax, payable in cash or by credit card at the airport. If departing the country overland or by sea, the departure tax is waived.
15- Is Costa Rica affected by hurricanes?
Due to its location, Costa Rica is rarely affected by hurricanes on the Atlantic or Pacific coasts. Hurricanes generated in the Caribbean basin can increase rainfall in the country, but direct hits are seldom experienced.
16- Is internet widely available throughout the country?
Internet is very common throughout the Central Valley and many tourism destinations. Hotels often provide free WiFi service, and local Internet cafes offer high-speed connections for around $1 per hour.
17- Is it safe to dring water in Costa Rica?
Yes, you can drink the tap water throughout most of the country. In certain remote areas, water may not be potable. You will see warning signs of “Agua No Potable.”
18- Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?
If you are short on time and visiting more than two destinations, we recommend a car rental. Distances can be deceiving, and winding mountain roads often take longer to negotiate than planned. Your own transport will be much more efficient than public buses. Another option for getting around is one of the country’s private shuttle companies that offer door-to-door service to most tourist destinations for less than $40 per person each way.
19- Do I need a passport?
The requirements to enter Costa Rica depend on your country of nationality. Generally, citizens of the United States, Canada and the European Union countries do not require a visa application to enter Costa Rica since they will automatically be given a tourist visa at the immigration point of entry. With a valid passport these nationalities can enter Costa Rica and remain in the country for up to a maximum of 90 days.
20- What is the attitude toward gays and lesbian in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is a popular destination for gay travel in Latin America. Many tourism destinations are gay-friendly, but keep in mind that Costa Rica is a Catholic country and sexuality can be a sensitive topic. By far, Costa Rica’s two most gay-friendly locations are San Jose and Manuel Antonio.
21- What is the local currency in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s currency is called the colon (CRC), named after Christopher Columbus. In most tourist towns, stores and restaurants accept U.S. dollars. You can exchange U.S. dollars and Euros at banks throughout the country.
22- When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Every month in Costa Rica offers its own rewards; excellent wildlife watching, and adventure tours are on offer throughout the year. The main difference between high season and low season is the amount of rain — between December and April, most of the country receives little to no rain. Travel during the low season, or rainy season, has its own set of perks including fewer crowds, lush countryside and discounted hotel rates.