Discover
Costa Rica’s essential travel information - from visas and safety
to culture and top attractions. Plan your perfect trip to this
tropical paradise of rainforests, beaches, and pure adventure.
Country: Costa Rica
Continent / Region: Central America
Capital City: San José
Government Type: Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 5.2 million
Official Language(s): Spanish
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~35% (much higher in tourism zones)
Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT−6
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B – 120V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 11–12 hours (direct to San José in peak season; otherwise 1 stop)
Best Time/Months to Travel: December–April (dry season)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 90 days; free entry
- Vaccinations Needed: Hepatitis A & Typhoid recommended; Yellow Fever required if arriving from risk countries
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Costa Rica):
Average Daily Costs: £35 / £70 / £150+
Tipping Culture: 10% service charge usually included; additional tips appreciated
Public Transport Options: Buses, taxis, shuttles, domestic flights
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: CRC 200–350 (local buses)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G; Kolbi, Movistar, Claro
Main Climate Type: Tropical; dry and wet seasons
Average Temperature: 20–30°C year-round (cooler in highlands)
Major Cities: San José, Liberia, Cartago, Alajuela
Natural Attractions: Rainforests, volcanoes, beaches, hot springs, wildlife reserves
Popular Destinations: La Fortuna, Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Tortuguero
Main Religions: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Gallo pinto, casado, plantains, ceviche, fresh fruit
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero canals
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe; petty theft possible
Common Scams: Taxi meter scams, overpriced tours, distraction thefts
Health Risks: Mosquito-borne illnesses, dehydration, rip currents
Recommended Clinics: International hospitals in San José, Liberia
Insurance Recommendation: Strongly recommended, especially for adventure activities
Internet Speed: Good 4G in towns; slower in remote areas
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio beaches, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Rio Celeste, Tortuguero National Park
Unique Experiences: Zip-lining, wildlife safaris, surfing, hot spring resorts, sloth-watching tours
Hidden Gems: Santa Teresa, Osa Peninsula, Puerto Viejo, Cahuita National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Popular Areas to Stay: La Fortuna, Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Puerto Viejo
Average Hotel Prices: £30 / £60 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Tamarindo Beachfront, San José bars, Jaco nightlife
Local Drinks: Imperial beer, guaro, tropical cocktails
Entertainment: Beach bars, surf parties, live music, eco-lodges with night tours
Car Rental: Common; 4×4 recommended for rural roads
Domestic Flights: Frequent small-plane services
Trains: Minimal service
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Uber available in major areas; taxis inexpensive with meter
Best Markets: San José Central Market, Tamarindo night markets, Monteverde artisan shops
Popular Souvenirs: Coffee, chocolate, wooden crafts, hammocks, local art
Local SIM Card Providers: Kolbi, Movistar, Claro
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Safe in most areas; bottled water recommended in rural regions
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Costa Rica contains over 5% of the world’s biodiversity despite being smaller than Scotland.
