15 Important Things to Know About Visiting Costa Rica in 2025

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Whether you're coming to surf the Pacific waves, explore lush rainforests, or simply relax on stunning beaches, there are a few key things to know before you land. This guide covers essential tips that will help you travel smarter, avoid common surprises, and enjoy the pura vida lifestyle to the fullest.

1. Costa Rica is One of the Safest Countries in Central America

Costa Rica consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Latin America. Violent crime is rare in tourist areas, and political stability and a strong health care system contribute to its reputation. That said, petty theft can happen—so always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist hubs like San José or Jacó.

Tip: Use a crossbody bag and avoid leaving valuables in your rental car.

2. U.S. Dollars Are Widely Accepted, But You’ll Want Colones Too

The official currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón, but U.S. dollars are accepted nearly everywhere—hotels, tours, and even small restaurants. However, local sodas (small diners) and buses usually prefer colones.

Tip: Use ATMs to get colones at the best rate—just choose the option to withdraw in local currency.

3. Costa Rica Has Two Seasons, Not Four

Forget spring, summer, fall, and winter. Costa Rica operates on two main seasons: dry season (verano) and rainy season (invierno). The dry season lasts from December to April, perfect for beach vacations. The rainy season, from May to November, is greener and quieter—but expect afternoon showers.

Bonus: Green season often means lower prices and fewer crowds!

4. Tap Water Is Safe in Most Areas

Costa Rica has some of the best water quality in Central America. In most areas, especially the Central Valley and tourist towns, tap water is perfectly safe to drink. Still, if you’re in a remote village or unsure, go for bottled or filtered water.

Eco Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to reduce plastic waste.

5. English Is Spoken in Tourist Areas

While Spanish is the official language, most people working in tourism speak English, especially in areas like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and La Fortuna. Still, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way and be appreciated by locals. Try “¡Pura vida!” – a versatile expression meaning “all good”, “thanks”, or “you’re welcome”.

6. Pura Vida Isn’t Just a Saying—it’s a Lifestyle

You’ll hear pura vida everywhere. It means “pure life” and represents the relaxed, positive, and friendly attitude of the Costa Rican people, or Ticos. It’s used as a greeting, a farewell, and a general expression of gratitude or good vibes. Embrace it—it’s part of what makes Costa Rica so special.

7. You’ll Need a 4x4 for Some Destinations

While major highways are well-paved, many beautiful off-the-beaten-path places—like Monteverde, Santa Teresa, and Nosara—have rough, gravel roads. In the rainy season, some rivers rise and roads become muddy.

• Tips: If you're renting a car and heading to remote areas, get a 4x4 or AWD. Also, consider renting a GPS or using Waze (more reliable than Google Maps here).

• Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.

8. Public Transportation Is Cheap but Slow

Costa Rica has a reliable, countrywide bus system—but it’s slow and often crowded. Local buses are great for budget travelers, but if you're short on time or going to a remote area, shared shuttles, private transfers, or rental cars are better. Popular shuttle routes include San José to La Fortuna, Tamarindo to Monteverde, and more.

9. Don’t Underestimate Travel Times

Costa Rica might look small on a map, but travel times can be long due to narrow roads, winding mountain routes, and traffic delays. A 150 km drive can take over 4 hours. Always give yourself extra time when traveling between destinations.

Pro Tip: Try not to schedule too many places in one trip—2 or 3 regions is ideal for a 1-2 week stay.

10. You Don’t Need a Visa for Short Visits

If you're from the U.S., Canada, UK, or most European countries, you can stay in Costa Rica for up to 90 days without a visa. However, you’ll need proof of onward travel (like a return flight) to enter the country. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.

11. Eco-Tourism is a Way of Life

Costa Rica protects over 25% of its land through national parks, wildlife refuges, and private reserves. This makes it one of the top eco-tourism destinations in the world. From sloths and toucans to volcanoes and cloud forests—nature lovers are in for a treat. Don’t miss Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

12. It’s a Blue Zone for a Reason

The Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica is one of only five Blue Zones in the world—places where people live significantly longer, healthier lives. Their secret? A traditional diet, strong community, plenty of sunshine, and a low-stress lifestyle. Want to experience it yourself? Visit places like Nicoya, Nosara, or Playa Carrillo.

13. The Wildlife is Incredible—but Don’t Feed It

You’ll see monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and exotic birds everywhere, even outside your hotel. But please: don’t feed the animals. It can harm their health, make them aggressive, and upset the natural balance. Instead, join a guided wildlife tour in a national park for ethical animal encounters.

14. Tipping is Customary (But Not Required)

A 10% service tax is usually included in restaurant bills, but it’s common to leave a little extra if service is good. For tour guides, shuttle drivers, and hotel staff, a tip of $5–10 is appreciated.

Tip: Keep small bills and coins handy, especially in rural areas where change can be hard to find.

15. Wi-Fi is Everywhere, But It’s Not Always Fast

Most hotels, cafés, and even hostels offer free Wi-Fi, especially in tourist towns. However, in remote areas or during storms, internet speeds can drop significantly. Don’t expect high-speed connectivity in the jungle.

Tip: Download offline maps like Maps.Me and content before heading into nature.

Bonus: What NOT to Expect in Costa Rica

• Ultra-cheap prices: Costa Rica is not the cheapest country in Central America. Budget carefully. For more advice and tips, check out our blog article Costa Rica on a Budget: How to Travel This Tropical Paradise Without Breaking the Bank

• All-inclusive resorts everywhere: While there are a few, most travelers opt for boutique hotels or eco-lodges.

• Fast service: Things move slower here—it’s part of the charm. Embrace the laid-back pace.

Final Thoughts: Costa Rica Is Worth the Hype

With its friendly people, stunning natural beauty, and commitment to sustainability, Costa Rica offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, or sipping a fresh coconut on the beach, it’s easy to fall in love with the country’s pura vida spirit.

Just remember: come with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and plenty of bug spray—and you’re in for the trip of a lifetime.

Frequently asked questions