UK and most European citizens are permitted to enter Costa Rica without a visa for a maximum stay of up to 90 days. On arrival, you will be asked to produce evidence of your return flight or onward travel arrangements.

When to Travel

Although Costa Rica is a relatively small country, it experiences great variations in climate between its two coasts and highland and lowland regions.

The highlands are cool and misty, particularly in the cloud forest belt. San José and the Central Valley have a pleasant year round climate, while both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts are hot and humid all year-round.

The dry season from December to April has less rain, particularly along the north Pacific coast, the driest part of the country. In May, the rainy season begins but the early months of the rainy season are actually a great time to travel to Costa Rica, as you can avoid lots of tourists and accommodation can be cheaper. Note that while the Caribbean coast experiences high rainfall year-round, the northern Pacific coast is typically dry outside of the comparatively short rainy season. The southern Pacific coast, on the other hand, experiences very high levels of rainfall.

Health & Immunisation

Costa Rica demands that all travellers coming from the following countries have a yellow fever vaccination certificate: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and the Republic of Guyana.

Please consult the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest advice on immunisations.

Malaria is considered very low-risk in Costa Rica, and anti-malarials are not usually advised, but do consult your doctor/travel clinic for the latest guidelines.

Medical facilities in Costa Rica limited. We recommend carrying basic first-aid supplies with you, such as painkillers, bandages, plasters and Imodium.

It is important to remember not to swim in rivers or lakes unless you know them to be safe – if unsure, ask your guide. Otherwise, general hygiene is largely common sense i.e. wash hands before preparing food and eating, and do not drink unfiltered tap water.

We must stress that our suggestions for medical protection are purely advisory and you should consult your GP or travel clinic for the latest information.

Currency

The local currency is the colón, there are approx. 500 colón to the US$.  The notes are very colourful, and depict a species endemic to Costa Rica.

US$ are generally accepted at restaurants and stores (preferably $10 & $20 bills) as are major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and Amex). ATM machines are distributed throughout the country. It is only necessarily to exchange a small amount of spending money into local currency when travelling in Costa Rica.

National Banks are open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Some banks offer their services after regular hours until 7:00 p.m., while others are open on Saturdays. Ask your guide for advice.

Tipping

The following is a guide only:

Hotel porters - US$1 to 3 per bag
Guide - US$8 to 10 per person per day
Driver/ass't guide - US$5 to 8 per person per day

Restaurants frequented by tourists will usually add a 10% service charge to the bill; if not you might leave a small tip to show your appreciation, but it is not required. Local restaurants will not add a service charge; though tipping is not customary, it is appreciated.

Tips are of course at your discretion and depend on the quality of service received. Tipping culture is not as pronounced in Costa Rica as in other parts of the world, such as East Africa.