Costa Rica

A Natural Paradise

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Costa Rica A Tropical Paradise

Costa Rica stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, a distance of 200 miles. The variety of landscapes and microclimates that can be enjoyed in a single day make this country a paradise destination. In just 51,000 square kilometers, travelers can find sun and sand, adventure, nature, and culture—all in one place, necessary components to satisfy the tastes of thousands of tourists who find Costa Rica their ideal vacation spot.

Costa Rica occupies a privileged location in the heart of Central America, for its beaches bathed by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, separated by just three hours by car or 45 minutes by plane.

The Caribbean region stands out for its variety of aquatic ecosystems and its black and white sand beaches, ideal for nature and ocean-focused activities, such as sport fishing and diving in clear waters, as well as for enjoying the sun and walking along the seashore.

The Pacific coast is home to large tourist centers and its beaches are popular for surfing, for example, Esterillos, Jacó, Hermosa, Boca Barranca, and near the Marino Ballena National Park and in the Golfito sector, where the famous "long left wave" forms.



Visas

Depending on your nationality, you may be able to enter the country without a visa. Those holding passports from the United States, Canada, and most European countries are eligible for this privilege.


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Departure tax

The departure tax is USD 29, payable in dollars, colones, or by credit card. As of June 2015, several airlines have already charged this tax on your ticket; we suggest you check with your airline.



Yellow fever vaccine

In Costa Rica There is NO yellow fever
However, to enter Costa Rica, it is mandatory to present the International Certificate of Vaccination against Yellow Fever if you come from countries with a risk of active transmission of this disease. This measure applies to both foreigners and Costa Ricans who have been in these countries in the last six days.

Countries that require the yellow fever vaccine to enter Costa Rica:
South America and the Caribbean: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago.

Africa: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, South Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia.

This list was made official by Ministerial Resolution No. DM-RC-2214-2024 and entered into force on March 11, 2025.



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Things to consider before your trip to Costa Rica

Drinking Water

Water is drinkable throughout most of the country. However, we recommend drinking bottled water, especially in areas near the coast.

Currency and Credit Cards

The Costa Rican currency is the colón. US dollars and credit cards are used in almost all establishments in the country. Most major credit cards are accepted. You'll also find ATMs throughout the country.

Electrical Adapter

Our electrical system handles 110 volts, with a standard 2-prong plug.

Climatology

To learn about the weather conditions during your stay in our country, we suggest you visit the Costa Rica Meteorological Institute website at the following link.

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