Important facts about Costa Rica you should know before you visit
- 6 hours ago
- 5 min read
Costa Rica is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world — and for good reason. From volcanoes and rainforests to beach towns and vibrant local culture, this small Central American country offers an incredible variety of experiences.
But before you visit Costa Rica, there are some important and interesting facts you should know. Understanding the country’s culture, geography, transportation, and lifestyle will help you travel smarter, avoid surprises, and truly enjoy the Pura Vida way of life.
Whether you’re a backpacker, a family planning a vacation, or a solo traveler seeking adventure, this guide will help you prepare for your trip to Costa Rica the right way.
1. Understanding Costa Rican Culture
"Pura Vida” Is more than a phrase
You’ll hear “Pura Vida” everywhere in Costa Rica. It literally means “pure life,” but locals use it as a greeting, a farewell, a thank-you, and even “no worries.”
More than just a phrase, it represents a relaxed and positive mindset. Life moves a little slower here, and people value relationships, nature, and well-being over stress.
Costa Ricans are called “Ticos” and “Ticas”
The nickname for a Costa Rican man is Tico, and for a woman, Tica.
This comes from a linguistic habit of using “-tico” instead of “-ito” in Spanish. Over time, the nickname became part of national identity and pride. Understanding this small cultural detail helps you connect more easily with locals.
2. Costa Rica Is a Peaceful and Stable Country
One of the most surprising facts about Costa Rica is that it abolished its military in 1948.
Instead of funding an army, the country invested in education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
Today, Costa Rica is considered one of the most stable democracies in Latin America.
This political stability greatly contributes to the sense of safety and welcome for travelers.
3. Nature and Biodiversity Are Everywhere
Costa Rica may be small, but it contains nearly 5% of the world’s biodiversity.
You can experience incredible wildlife and ecosystems in places like:
More than 25% of the country is protected land, making Costa Rica a global leader in conservation.
4. The Geography is more diverse than you think
There are only two main seasons
Costa Rica has:
Dry Season (December to April)
Green Season (May to November)
The green season brings afternoon rain but also lush landscapes and fewer tourists. For more info, check out our blog : best time to visit Costa Rica : rainy season, green season, or dry season?
The highest active Volcano is Irazú
Costa Rica has over 60 volcanic formations. The highest active volcano is Irazú, located near San José.
On clear days, you may even see both coastlines from the summit — a rare and unforgettable experience.
5. The Nicoya Peninsula is one of the World’s Blue Zones
The Nicoya Peninsula is officially recognized as one of the five Blue Zones in the world — regions where people live significantly longer than average.
Researchers attribute this longevity to:
Strong family connections
A plant-rich traditional diet
Daily physical activity
A strong sense of purpose
This reflects the deeper meaning of the Pura Vida lifestyle.
6. Transportation takes longer than expected
Costa Rica looks small on the map, but travel times can surprise visitors.
Mountain roads, single-lane highways, and weather conditions can significantly extend driving times.
A trip that looks short on Google Maps may take 4–5 hours.
Planning transportation in advance is essential, especially if you have a tight itinerary.
7. Costa Rica is not as cheap as many expect
Compared to neighboring Central American countries, Costa Rica can be more expensive.
Reasons include:
Strong environmental regulations
High import taxes
Higher standard of living
Budget travel is still possible, but planning ahead helps manage expectations.
8. Practical things to know before you visit Costa Rica
Currency
The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón, but US dollars are widely accepted. Check out our blog article "Costa Rica Currency: everything you need to know before traveling" for more info
Electricity
Costa Rica uses 110V, the same as the United States.
Tap water
In most tourist areas, tap water is safe to drink.
Tipping
A 10% service charge is typically included in restaurant bills. Additional tipping is appreciated but not required.
English is widely spoken
Spanish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in most tourist areas.
9. Sustainability is a way of life
Costa Rica generates nearly all of its electricity from renewable sources. Sustainability is not just a tourism trend here — it’s part of national identity.
As a visitor, you can help by:
Using reef-safe sunscreen
Avoiding single-use plastics
Respecting wildlife
Supporting responsible tour operators
Travel smart and embrace Pura Vida
Costa Rica is an extraordinary destination — but understanding these important facts before you visit will make your trip smoother and more rewarding.
From cultural details like the meaning of “Tico” to practical realities like transportation times and seasonal weather, being informed helps you travel with confidence.
At Pura Vida Traveling, our goal is to help backpackers, families, and solo travelers explore Costa Rica easily and stress-free — whether that means planning transportation, booking tours, or finding the best places to stay.
Come prepared, stay flexible, and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Costa Rica will take care of the rest.
Plan Your Trip with Pura Vida Traveling
Need help getting around Costa Rica? We offer:
Personalized travel advice
Let us help you experience Costa Rica the stress-free way.
Frequently asked questions
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?
Yes, Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America. While petty theft can happen in tourist areas, violent crime against visitors is rare. Use basic travel precautions, avoid displaying valuables, and choose reputable transportation services.
Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?
Many travelers from North America and Europe do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, entry requirements can change, so always check official government guidelines before traveling.
Is tap water safe to drink in Costa Rica?
In most major destinations, such as San José and La Fortuna, tap water is safe to drink. In remote rural areas, it’s best to confirm locally.
What currency is used in Costa Rica?
The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, and credit cards are commonly used in hotels and restaurants.
What are Costa Ricans called?
Costa Rican men are called “Ticos” and women are called “Ticas.” The nickname comes from a linguistic tradition of adding “-tico” as a diminutive in Costa Rican Spanish.
What is the best month to visit Costa Rica?
The best months to visit Costa Rica are typically December through April during the dry season. For fewer crowds and lower prices, May, June, and November are excellent alternatives with mostly sunny mornings.
How many national parks are there in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has more than 30 national parks and over 150 protected areas, covering more than 25% of the country’s territory — making it one of the world leaders in conservation.
Is Costa Rica expensive to visit?
Costa Rica is more expensive than many neighboring Central American countries. However, travelers can reduce costs by using public transportation, staying in hostels, and eating at local sodas.
Why is Costa Rica called a Blue Zone?
The Nicoya Peninsula is one of the world’s five Blue Zones, meaning people there live significantly longer than average. This is attributed to diet, strong family connections, physical activity, and a strong sense of purpose.
What are the most important facts about Costa Rica before visiting?
Before visiting Costa Rica, travelers should know about the two main seasons (dry and green), transportation travel times, safety precautions, currency (Costa Rican Colón), and the “Pura Vida” culture. Planning ahead makes travel much smoother.
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