Is Costa Rica safe for travelers?

Yes. Petty theft is the most common problem. Thieves target rental cars and bags left on the beach, so leave nothing in the car. Shootings linked to gangs have become more common in some cities, so ask your hotel which streets to avoid at night. In the sea, watch for rip currents: in recent years about a third of the people who drowned were tourists.

What numbers do I call in an emergency in Costa Rica?

Dial 911 for the police, an ambulance or the fire service. You do not need a Costa Rican SIM to call it. After a crash in a rental car, call 911 and the insurance line of your rental company. Leave the car where it is until the police tell you it can be moved.

How long should I spend in Costa Rica?

Ten days covers three areas: Arenal for the volcano and hot springs, Monteverde for the cloud forest, and one Pacific beach. With two weeks, add the Caribbean coast or the Osa Peninsula. Allow most of a day for each drive between regions.

How long can I stay in Costa Rica as a tourist?

Up to 180 days on a US, UK, Canadian, Australian or EU passport. The officer writes the number of days on your entry stamp, and it can be fewer. You also need a ticket out of the country within that time.

What are the most used ride-hailing apps in Costa Rica?

Uber and DiDi, with InDrive as a third option. All three work in San José, the Central Valley and some beach towns. Licensed taxis are red, with a yellow triangle on the door, and the driver must use the meter, called la maría.

Do I need a 4x4 in Costa Rica?

Not for the main routes. The roads to Arenal, Manuel Antonio and the big Guanacaste beaches are paved. Some dirt roads on the Osa and Nicoya peninsulas need one, especially in the rainy season, when rivers can cover the road. Never drive into a flooded river.

Do you tip in Costa Rica?

Not in restaurants. The bill already includes a 10% service charge by law, so anything extra is optional. Tour guides, drivers and hotel staff are often tipped.

Is Costa Rica expensive?

Yes. Hotels, tours and rental cars cost more than in Mexico or Guatemala, and most tours and park tickets are priced in US dollars. Eating at sodas (small family-run diners) and taking buses keeps costs down. The Costs in Costa Rica section on this page lists each price with its source.

Is Costa Rica a good place to retire?

Yes. The pensionado residence needs a lifetime pension of at least USD 1,000 a month. Costa Rica taxes only income earned in the country, so a foreign pension is not taxed here. Residents must join the CCSS (the Caja), the public health system, and pay a monthly fee based on their income.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

No. Hotels, tour companies and restaurants in tourist areas use English. A few words of Spanish help on buses and in rural areas. You will hear pura vida (the local catchphrase, roughly "all good") used for hello, goodbye and thanks.

Is Costa Rica good for kids?

Yes. Some parks have short, flat trails where children can look for sloths and monkeys. Plan shorter drives between stops, because mountain roads are slow and winding. On the beach, swim near other people, since rip currents are common.

Costa Rica Travel Guide - Visa, Costs & When to Go

A hanging bridge through the cloud forest canopy in Monteverde

Costa Rica Right Now

Last updated 1 November

Weather

Warm and clearing

Morning sunshine frequently gives way to brief afternoon showers as rain patterns ease across the Pacific slope. Coastal regions stay warm while higher elevations offer cooler, mild air.

Late Wet Season

Currency

1 USD = 451 CRC

Rate is lower than usual. You're getting fewer Costa Rican colón than on most days this year.

Year low 445Year high 503

Send money to Costa Rica

Bad rate

−3.5%vs 12-month average

Popularity

Stable

Interest in travel to Costa Rica remained about the same as a year ago, suggesting demand is holding steady.

Google Trends travel searches · last 24 months

0%vs last year

December to April is the dry season in San José and on the Pacific coast, and the best time for most trips. September and October are the wettest months there, with flooded rivers and closed roads. The Caribbean coast gets rain all year, with drier spells in February, March, September and October.

Best monthsAvoid

Region	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
San José	Best month29°1 rainy days	Best month30°1 rainy days	Best month31°2 rainy days	Best month32°7 rainy days	Fine31°17 rainy days	Fine30°18 rainy days	Fine30°14 rainy days	Fine30°16 rainy days	Avoid30°22 rainy days	Avoid29°19 rainy days	Fine29°12 rainy days	Best month29°4 rainy days
Liberia	Best month35°0 rainy days	Best month36°0 rainy days	Best month37°0 rainy days	Fine38°2 rainy days	Fine37°11 rainy days	Fine35°14 rainy days	Fine35°10 rainy days	Fine35°12 rainy days	Avoid34°19 rainy days	Avoid34°17 rainy days	Fine33°7 rainy days	Best month34°2 rainy days
Quepos	Best month31°4 rainy days	Best month32°2 rainy days	Best month32°4 rainy days	Fine32°11 rainy days	Fine31°18 rainy days	Fine31°19 rainy days	Fine31°19 rainy days	Fine30°20 rainy days	Avoid30°21 rainy days	Avoid30°22 rainy days	Fine30°17 rainy days	Best month31°9 rainy days
Limón	Fine31°17 rainy days	Best month31°14 rainy days	Best month31°14 rainy days	Fine32°14 rainy days	Fine32°16 rainy days	Fine32°17 rainy days	Avoid32°21 rainy days	Fine32°16 rainy days	Best month33°11 rainy days	Best month33°12 rainy days	Avoid32°18 rainy days	Avoid31°18 rainy days

Each month shows the average daily high, and a weather icon with the number of rainy days.

Population: 5,217,295 INEC (National Institute of Statistics and Census) · 2026 projection
International visitors: 2,943,991 (2025) +0.8% YoY ICT (Costa Rican Tourism Institute), international arrivals by all ports (air, land and sea), from DGME (immigration) records. Counts overnight visitors by nationality. Leaves out cruise passengers, foreign residents, Costa Ricans and crews. · Last updated: 2026
Annual visitors per resident: 0.56× Annual international visitors divided by the population

Top visitor markets

United States 55.3%
Canada 9.3%
Mexico 3.3%
Nicaragua 3.3%
Germany 2.8%

Show fewer Show 5 more

France 2.4%
United Kingdom 2.4%
Spain 2.0%
Panama 1.6%
Guatemala 1.6%

Source: ICT (Costa Rican Tourism Institute): international arrivals by nationality, all ports of entry, from DGME migration records · 2025

Annual visitor arrivals

2019 3,139,008
2020 1,011,912 COVID
2021 1,347,055 COVID
2022 2,349,537 COVID
2023 2,751,134
2024 2,919,483 +6.1%
2025 2,943,991 +0.8%

International visitor arrivals. COVID years (2020-2021) are included for completeness. Source: ICT (Costa Rican Tourism Institute), international arrivals by all ports (air, land and sea), from DGME (immigration) records. Counts overnight visitors by nationality. Leaves out cruise passengers, foreign residents, Costa Ricans and crews. · Last updated: 2026

Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Language: Spanish. English is common in hotels, tour companies and beach towns, less so in rural areas.
Tap water: Safe in most towns, check in remote areas
Time zone: GMT-6 (CST). No daylight saving time.
Power plug: Type A / B, 120V
Dialing code: +506
Driving side: Right
Tipping: Restaurant bills include a 10% service charge by law, so no extra tip is needed. Tour guides and drivers are usually tipped.
Internet: 4G covers the towns and main roads. Signal drops in deep valleys and remote national parks. Fiber Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes in towns.
Emergency: 911 (Police, ambulance and fire)

The wettest months on the Pacific side
Sep to Oct · rain most days
September and October are the wettest months in San José, Guanacaste and around Manuel Antonio. Rain often starts in the afternoon and lasts into the night. Rivers flood, and landslides can close mountain roads for hours. The Caribbean coast is in one of its drier spells at the same time, so go there instead.
Go here instead:
- Portugal Lisbon and the Algarve are warm and mostly dry in September.
Holy Week and the Christmas holidays
Week before Easter (March or April) · late Dec to early Jan
Costa Ricans head to the beach in Holy Week, the week before Easter, and again between Christmas and New Year. Beach hotels sell out weeks ahead, and traffic is heavy on the roads to Guanacaste and the central Pacific. Holy Thursday and Good Friday are public holidays, so banks and many offices close. Book early, or plan these weeks in the mountains.
The Caribbean coast in its wet months
Nov to Jan, and Jul
The Caribbean coast has two wet seasons. Cold fronts from the north bring heavy rain from November to January, and a second peak comes in July. In Limón, July and December are the wettest months. Floods can close roads in Limón province for a day or more. In these months, the Pacific side is drier.
Go here instead:
- Mexico Cancún and Mérida are mostly dry from December to April.

Public holidays & observances, next 12 months

DEC

Christmas Eve (Nochebuena)

Families gather for large meals and many attend Midnight Mass, creating a festive and intimate atmosphere.

Observance onlyMedium impact Worth timing around

DEC

Christmas Day (Navidad)

This is a national holiday where most businesses, banks, and government offices are closed, and families often spend the day together, sometimes at the beach.

Public holidayHigh impact Worth timing around

DEC

New Year's Eve

Costa Ricans celebrate with family dinners, fireworks, and parties, especially at beaches, making it one of the busiest and most expensive weeks of the year.

Observance onlyHigh impact Worth timing around

JAN

New Year's Day (Año Nuevo)

Most businesses, banks, and government offices are closed, and families often gather for traditional meals and barbecues.

Public holidayHigh impact Worth timing around

MAR

Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday)

This is a mandatory paid public holiday, with many businesses closing and religious processions occurring, and coastal areas become very busy as families travel.

Public holidayHigh impact Worth timing around

MAR

Good Friday

This is a mandatory paid public holiday, with many businesses closing, solemn processions filling town centers, and coastal areas being crowded.

Public holidayHigh impact Worth timing around

MAR

Holy Week (Semana Santa)

This is one of the most significant cultural and religious observances, with many businesses and schools closing, and families traveling to beaches, leading to crowded roads and hotels.

Observance onlyHigh impact Worth timing around

APR

Juan Santamaría Day (Día de Juan Santamaría)

This national holiday honors a national hero with parades and civic events, especially in Alajuela, and some businesses may operate on reduced schedules.

Public holidayMedium impact Worth timing around

MAY

Labor Day (Día del Trabajador)

This national holiday celebrates workers, with parades and fireworks in some areas, and most businesses, banks, and government offices are closed.

Public holidayMedium impact Worth timing around

JUL

Guanacaste Day (Día de la Anexión de Guanacaste)

This national holiday commemorates the annexation of Guanacaste to Costa Rica, with celebrations in the Guanacaste province and some business closures.

Public holidayMedium impact Worth timing around

AUG

Virgin of Los Ángeles Day (Día de la Virgen de los Ángeles)

This religious holiday honors Costa Rica's patron saint, with a significant pilgrimage to Cartago that can lead to business closures in certain regions.

Public holidayMedium impact Worth timing around

AUG

Mother's Day (Día de la Madre)

This national holiday is celebrated on the Feast of the Assumption, with families gathering to honor mothers.

Public holidayLow impact

SEP

Independence Day (Día de la Independencia)

This national holiday is celebrated with parades, lantern processions, and civic events across the country.

Public holidayMedium impact Worth timing around

Visa type

No visa needed for US, UK, Canadian, Australian and EU passports. Immigration stamps your passport on arrival.

Length of stay

Up to 180 days. The officer decides how many and writes the number on your entry stamp, so check it before you leave the desk.

Extension

The 180-day stay cannot be extended. If the officer gives you fewer than 90 days, you can ask Migración (the immigration service) for one extension of up to 90 days.

Passport validity

For first-group passports, valid for at least one day after you leave.

Onward ticket

You need a ticket out of the country, by air or by bus, within your permitted stay. Airlines often check it before you board. Officers can also ask for proof of at least USD 100 for each month of your stay.

Tourist tax

A USD 29 departure tax when you fly out, normally included in the ticket price. If it is not, pay at the airport by cash or card.

Eligible nationalities

The first group of visa-free countries includes the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and every EU country. Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil and Chile are in it too.

Entry process

Immigration and entry process

There is no visa or online form to fill in before you fly. At the airport, the officer checks your passport and onward ticket and stamps the number of days you get.

Overstaying costs USD 100 for each month over, and you can be refused entry next time. Carry a copy of your passport photo page and entry stamp, because police can ask for ID. Declare cash or goods worth USD 10,000 or more when you arrive.

Source: Visit Costa Rica (ICT): Entry requirements

From Juan Santamaría International (SJO)

In Alajuela, about 20 km northwest of central San José, 30 to 60 minutes by road

Most long-haul flights land here, and so do domestic flights on Sansa. There is no train to the airport. Many visitors pick up a rental car or a booked shuttle here and skip San José.
- Orange airport taxi (Taxi Aeropuerto) to central San José: 30 to 60 min, about CRC 15,000 to 20,000
- Uber or DiDi to central San José: 30 to 60 min
- TUASA public bus to central San José: about 45 min, under CRC 1,000, cash in colones
- Shared shuttle vans to La Fortuna, Monteverde and the beaches: book ahead, priced in US dollars
From Daniel Oduber Quirós International (LIR)

In Guanacaste, about 10 km west of Liberia, the airport for the northern Pacific beaches

Liberia has direct flights from the US and Canada. Tamarindo is about 1 h 15 min away by road. From San José it takes four hours or more, so fly into Liberia if you are going straight to the coast.
- Taxi to Liberia town: about 15 min
- Taxi to Tamarindo: about 1 h 15 min, usually USD 80 to 100
- Shared or private shuttles to Tamarindo, Playas del Coco and the Papagayo hotels: book ahead
To the Caribbean coast

No international flights, so most visitors come by road from San José

Limón has a small airport, but almost all visitors reach the Caribbean by road. Public buses to Limón and Puerto Viejo leave from San José. Tortuguero has no road access: you take a bus or shuttle to the river docks, then a boat.
- Public bus from San José to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: about 4 to 5 h
- Shuttle vans from San José and La Fortuna to Puerto Viejo and the Tortuguero boat docks

56/100

Caution

Petty theft is the most common crime against visitors. Thieves target rental cars and bags left on the beach. Gang violence has grown in some urban areas, including places visitors go. In recent years, 50 to 60 people a year have drowned, many in rip currents, and many beaches have no lifeguard.

Travel Advisories88

Crime46

Global Peace Index63

Murder Rate11

Disaster Risk70

Traffic64

Women's Safety71

LGBTQ72

How this score is built ↗

Natural disasters

Expect frequent small tremors and occasional major earthquakes, though local infrastructure handles them well.
Monitor active volcanoes including Poas, and avoid volcanic areas during heavy rainfall due to lava flow risks.
Heavy seasonal rains from June to November cause flooding and landslides that block roads.

Health & vaccinations

Avoid cheap local spirits and mixed drinks because criminal gangs manufacture them with fatal methanol.
Watch for strong rip currents and crocodile populations while swimming, as drowning and attacks occur.
Bring a properly fitted face mask if you have respiratory conditions, as volcanic ash plumes reduce air quality.

Unrest & security

Secure your belongings and ignore strangers offering help with slashed tires or staged collisions, as these are robbery setups.
Avoid walking alone at night and keep track of your drinks in bars to prevent assault and theft.
Do not traffic or possess illegal drugs of any kind, because minimum prison sentences start at eight years.

Transport & infrastructure

Drive defensively against aggressive local drivers, and leave your vehicle in place after an injury crash until traffic police arrive.
Use only official red or orange metered taxis to avoid scams.
Book adventure tours and small boats only through established companies with experienced staff.

Other notes

Carry your original passport or a printed copy with you at all times for police checks.

Always check your own government's official travel advice before traveling.

Cards work in most places, and US dollars are taken for hotels and tours. Keep some colones for buses, sodas and small shops.

Cards work in most places

Visa and Mastercard are taken in hotels, supermarkets, tour companies and most restaurants, and contactless payment is common. Market stalls, small sodas (family-run diners) and many buses take cash only.
Dollars are accepted, change comes in colones

Hotels, tour companies and national parks quote prices in US dollars, and most shops take dollar bills. Change usually comes back in colones, at the shop's own exchange rate. Paying in colones avoids that rate.
ATMs give colones or dollars

Bank ATMs from BAC, Banco Nacional and BCR take foreign cards, and many let you choose colones or US dollars. Check the screen for the machine's fee before you confirm. Your own bank may charge a fee too.
Pay in colones on card machines

When a card machine or ATM offers to charge you in your home currency, decline and pay in colones. The home-currency option uses a worse exchange rate.
Check whether prices include tax

Some restaurant menus list prices before the 13% VAT and the 10% service charge. Together they add 23% to those prices. A price marked i.v.i. (impuestos incluidos, taxes included) already includes them. There is no VAT refund for visitors.

68/100

Affordable

Hotels, tours, park tickets and rental cars are priced in US dollars, and they add up quickly. A meal at a soda (a small family-run diner) and a public bus cost far less.

Hotel 3-star (per night)$100

Fleur de Lys (central San José, 1 km from downtown) (San José)

CRC 30,017, seen 2026-10. US$66 Standard Double or Twin Room, breakfast included, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 2 adults, 3-star filter; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 30,017

Hotel El Cerro (Liberia, 150 m from downtown) (Liberia)

CRC 55,031, seen 2026-10. US$121 Double Room, breakfast included, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 2 adults, 3-star filter; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 55,031

Bonding Coffee Roaster Café & Hotel (Quepos, 250 m from downtown) (Quepos)

CRC 50,028, seen 2026-10. US$110 Standard Queen Room (discounted from US$122), breakfast included, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 2 adults, 3-star filter; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 50,028

Average (inc. tax & service)$100

Average of the 3 places we track: San José, Liberia, Quepos. Hotels in Costa Rica quote rates in US dollars, and Booking. com shows them with the 13% sales tax included.

Last checked on: October 2026

Hotel 5-star luxury (per night)$228

Intercontinental Hotels Costa Rica At Multiplaza Mall By IHG (San José)

CRC 85,995, seen 2026-10. Price for a Classic room in USD, converted to CRC. 1 USD = 455 CRC.

Hotel Aguas Claras Member of the Cayuga Collection (Puerto Viejo) (Limón)

CRC 120,120, seen 2026-10. Price for a standard room in USD, converted to CRC. 1 USD = 455 CRC.

Average (inc. tax & service)$228

Average of the 2 places we track: San José, Limón. Luxury hotel prices are often quoted in United States Dollars. The Caribbean coast generally offers lower prices for high-end accommodation compared to the Pacific coast.

Last checked on: October 2026

Airbnb 1-bed (per night)$82

Cando Living Apartments in Central Avenue, Standard Apartment (San José, 1.1 km from downtown) (San José)

CRC 34,110, seen 2026-10. US$75 (discounted from US$91), entire apartment, 1 bedroom, 30 m2, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 2 adults; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 34,110

Casa Tatich AC near Guanacaste Airport, One-Bedroom Apartment (Liberia, 500 m from downtown) (Liberia)

CRC 38,658, seen 2026-10. US$85, entire apartment, 1 bedroom, 30 m2, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 2 adults; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 38,658

Los Sueños RyG 3, One-Bedroom Apartment (Quepos, 200 m from downtown) (Quepos)

CRC 30,926, seen 2026-10. US$68, entire apartment, 1 bedroom, 40 m2, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 2 adults; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 30,926

Caribbean View, One-Bedroom Apartment (Puerto Limón) (Limón)

CRC 44,116, seen 2026-10. US$97, entire apartment, 1 bedroom, 16 m2, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 2 adults; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 44,116

Average (inc. tax & service)$82

Average of the 4 places we track: San José, Liberia, Quepos, Limón. Short-stay apartments are priced in US dollars on Booking. com and Airbnb, with taxes added at checkout.

Last checked on: October 2026

Hostel dorm (per night)$16.88

Costa Rica Backpackers (San José, 1.4 km from downtown) (San José)

CRC 5,458, seen 2026-10. US$12 Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 1 adult, hostel filter; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 5,458

Hostel Dodero (Liberia, 1.3 km from downtown) (Liberia)

CRC 7,277, seen 2026-10. US$16 Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 1 adult, hostel filter; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 7,277

Senda Adults Only Hostel (Manuel Antonio, 2 km from Quepos) (Quepos)

CRC 9,096, seen 2026-10. US$20 bed in 4-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 1 adult, hostel filter; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 9,096

La Ruka Hostel (Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Limón province) (Limón)

CRC 8,641, seen 2026-10. US$19 Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room, includes taxes and fees; Booking.com, 1 night Wed 11 Nov to Thu 12 Nov 2026, 1 adult, hostel filter. Puerto Limón city has no dorm hostel on Booking.com; this is the main backpacker town on the Limón coast; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 8,641

Average (inc. tax & service)$16.88

Average of the 4 places we track: San José, Liberia, Quepos, Limón. Hostels price dorm beds in US dollars, and many in San José include breakfast. On the Caribbean side the hostels sit in Puerto Viejo rather than in Limón city.

Last checked on: October 2026

Local restaurant meal$11.34

Spoon (San José chain, 16 GAM branches) (San José)

CRC 6,850, seen 2026-10. Casado de Arroz con Pollo CRC 6,850 on the official online menu (Ejecutivos); drink included

Restaurante Luna Liberiana (north side of Mercado Municipal, Liberia) (Liberia)

CRC 4,800, seen 2026-10. Casado Filet de Pescado CRC 4,800 on its Uber Eats menu

Entre Tenedores y Sabores (Calle 2 Avenida 3, Limón centro) (Limón)

CRC 3,700, seen 2026-10. Casado con pollo CRC 3,700 on its Uber Eats menu

Average (inc. tax & service)$11.34

Average of the 3 places we track: San José, Liberia, Limón. The standard local lunch is the casado: rice, beans, salad, plantain and a meat. It costs CRC 3,700 at a soda in Limón and CRC 6,850 at a San José cafe chain.

Last checked on: October 2026

Cappuccino$3.99

Mocapan (Escalante/Nunciatura, San José) (San José)

CRC 2,400, seen 2026-10. Capuccino 12 oz CRC 2,400 on its Uber Eats menu

Cafeteria Dulce Aroma (Barrio La Guaria, Liberia) (Liberia)

CRC 1,200, seen 2026-10. Capuchino CRC 1,200 (Cafes Calientes section, size not stated) on its Uber Eats menu

Average (inc. tax & service)$3.99

Average of the 2 places we track: San José, Liberia. A cappuccino costs CRC 1,200 at a small cafeteria in Liberia and CRC 2,400 at a bakery cafe chain in San José.

Last checked on: October 2026

Beer local (at a bar)$5.54

Palermo Restaurant Sport & Bar (Avenida 4, Liberia) (Liberia)

CRC 2,500, seen 2026-10. Bavaria Light CRC 2,500 (domestic FIFCO brand, listed under Cervezas Premium) on its Uber Eats menu; size not stated

Average (inc. tax & service)$5.54

Priced in Liberia only. Imperial and Pilsen are the national lagers and cost less than imports on the same menu: CRC 2,500 against CRC 3,100 for a Corona at Los Antojitos.

Last checked on: October 2026

Taxi / ride-share (5km)$9.64

Official Red Taxi (Sedan) (San José)

CRC 4,350, seen 2026-10. Base fare (first km): CRC 870. Additional 4 km at CRC 870/km. Total: 870 + (4 * 870) = 4350.

Official Red Taxi (Sedan) (Liberia)

CRC 4,350, seen 2026-10. Base fare (first km): CRC 870. Additional 4 km at CRC 870/km. Total: 870 + (4 * 870) = 4350.

Official Red Taxi (Sedan) (Quepos)

CRC 4,350, seen 2026-10. Base fare (first km): CRC 870. Additional 4 km at CRC 870/km. Total: 870 + (4 * 870) = 4350.

Official Red Taxi (Sedan) (Limón)

CRC 4,350, seen 2026-10. Base fare (first km): CRC 870. Additional 4 km at CRC 870/km. Total: 870 + (4 * 870) = 4350.

Average (inc. tax & service)$9.64

Average of the 4 places we track: San José, Liberia, Quepos, Limón. Official red taxis operate with a meter and have nationally regulated fares set by ARESEP. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are common in San José but less so in other areas.

Last checked on: October 2026

Rent 1-bed (monthly)$804

Se alquila Apartamento, Condominio Vertical, Torre Latitud Los Yoses (Encuentra24, San José) (San José)

CRC 475,000, seen 2026-10. CRC 475,000/month, 1 bedroom, 45 m2, unfurnished except kitchen and washer-dryer, 1 parking space; listing updated 27/10/2026

Alquiler de apartamento en Quepos, amueblado (Encuentra24, near central Quepos) (Quepos)

CRC 250,000, seen 2026-10. CRC 250,000/month, 1 bedroom, furnished, no parking; listing by León & León Bienes Raíces updated 25/10/2026

Average (inc. tax & service)$804

Average of the 2 places we track: San José, Quepos. Landlords ask for a deposit of one month's rent, and San José tower apartments are listed in US dollars while smaller towns list in colones. Outside San José the rental stock is mostly 2-bedroom units, with CRC 250,000 renting one in Liberia.

Last checked on: October 2026

Local gym (monthly)$46

Smart Fit Costa Rica, Smart plan (San José metro gyms) (San José)

CRC 20,552, seen 2026-10. US$39.99/month + IVA, Smart plan with no fidelity period; plus 13% IVA = US$45.19. First month advertised at 100% off; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 20,552

Average (inc. tax & service)$46

Priced in San José only. Smart Fit, the main budget chain, prices in US dollars plus 13% sales tax and has its gyms in the San José area. Its no-contract plan costs CRC 20,552 a month with tax.

Last checked on: October 2026

Premium gym (monthly)$91

World Gym (Escazú) (San José)

CRC 41,108, seen 2026-10. USD 80 + 13% IVA. Exchange rate on 2026-10-28: 1 USD = 454.74 CRC. Calculation: 80 * 1.13 * 454.74 = 41108.304

Average (inc. tax & service)$91

Priced in San José only. Premium, chain fitness clubs are mainly found in the San José metropolitan area. Prices are frequently quoted in US dollars, before the 13% value added tax.

Last checked on: October 2026

1-hour massage$70.90

The Spa Sabana (Sabana Norte, San José) (San José)

CRC 32,000, seen 2026-10. CRC 32,000 for MASAJE RELAJANTE 1 HORA (60 min), price on the spa's Fresha booking page

Average (inc. tax & service)$70.90

Priced in San José only. City day spas in San José price massages in colones, while beach-town and resort spas quote US dollars at several times the city rate.

Last checked on: October 2026

Doctor / GP checkup$52

Dr. Jordan Navarro Mora at Centro Médico Tres Ríos (Tres Ríos) (San José)

CRC 23,500, seen 2026-10. ¢23.500 for a general medicine consultation.

Average (inc. tax & service)$52

Priced in San José only. Private doctor consultations are readily available. Prices for a standard GP visit are often listed on online booking platforms.

Last checked on: October 2026

Soft drink (at a restaurant)$3.21

Los Antojitos (Mexican restaurant chain, San José) (San José)

CRC 1,900, seen 2026-10. Gaseosas CRC 1,900 on the September 2026 menu PDF; prices include IVA and service

Restaurante Luna Liberiana (north side of Mercado Municipal, Liberia) (Liberia)

CRC 1,000, seen 2026-10. Coca-Cola CRC 1,000 (size not stated) on its Uber Eats menu

Average (inc. tax & service)$3.21

Average of the 2 places we track: San José, Liberia. Some sodas include a 355 ml Coca-Cola with a casado. Ordered on its own, a Coke costs CRC 1,000 in a Liberia restaurant and CRC 1,900 at a San José sit-down chain.

Last checked on: October 2026

International preschool (monthly)$1,139

Country Day School (Escazú, San José) (San José)

CRC 513,659, seen 2026-10. Pre-Kinder Full Day US$12,253/year tuition + US$1,300 annual matriculation fee = US$13,553/year, /12 = US$1,129.42/month; 2026-2027 fee page. One-time entrance and family fees for new students not included; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 513,659

Average (inc. tax & service)$1,139

Priced in San José only. International schools in Costa Rica set fees in US dollars and add an annual matriculation fee on top of tuition. New families at Country Day also pay one-time entrance and family fees.

Last checked on: October 2026

International primary school (per year)$21,824

Country Day School (Escazú, San José) (San José)

CRC 9,847,345, seen 2026-10. Grades 1-5 US$20,352/year tuition + US$1,300 annual matriculation fee = US$21,652; 2026-2027 fee page. One-time entrance fee US$2,500 and family fee US$1,000 for new students not included; converted at 1 USD = 454.80 CRC = CRC 9,847,345

Average (inc. tax & service)$21,824

Priced in San José only. The international schools are in the San José suburbs, mainly Escazú and Santa Ana, and bill in US dollars. Country Day charges CRC 9,847,345 a year for grades 1 to 5 including the matriculation fee.

Last checked on: October 2026

Price Index64

How local prices compare with a global baseline, based on the World Bank's Price Level Index. It captures what a typical basket of goods and services costs against the world average. The pricier a country is to live in, the lower it scores on the affordability bar here.

GDP per capita (monthly)$1,591

A country's economic output per person, shown per month in US dollars, from IMF, World Bank and UN data. We use it as a rough proxy for local incomes. Where people earn more, rent, wages and services tend to cost more too, so a higher figure usually points to a pricier place to live.

Big Mac$5.62

What a Big Mac costs at a local McDonald's, converted to US dollars. The same burger is cheap in some countries and expensive in others, so it's a quick, familiar read on local prices. We collect these figures ourselves.

Groceries and fuel

Chicken breast (500g)$4.17

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is sold by the kilogram. Prices can differ significantly between supermarket chains for similar products.

Walmart

CRC 1,875, seen 2026-10. CRC 3,750 per kilogram for 'Filete de Pollo Sin Piel Don Cristóbal Nacional Empacado'. Math: 3750 / 2

Average (inc. tax)$4.17

Last checked on: October 2026

Dozen eggs$2.53

Supermarkets sell eggs in cartons of 15 or 30 priced by the kilo, so the shelf tag shows a per kg price, not a per carton price.

Walmart Costa Rica (online store)

CRC 1,156, seen 2026-10. Huevo Gallina Don Cristobal Blanco, carton of 30, CRC 1,700 per kg; catalog carton weight 1.7 kg = CRC 2,890 per 30; /30*12 = CRC 1,156

Mas x Menos (online store)

CRC 1,116, seen 2026-10. Huevo Gallina Don Cristobal Marron, carton of 15, CRC 1,550 per kg; catalog carton weight 0.9 kg = CRC 1,395 per 15; /15*12 = CRC 1,116

Average (inc. tax)$2.53

Last checked on: October 2026

Milk (1L)$2.53

A liter of Dos Pinos whole UHT milk costs CRC 1,120 to CRC 1,160. Store brands such as Sabemas cost less, at CRC 950 to CRC 960.

Walmart Costa Rica (online store)

CRC 1,120, seen 2026-10. Leche Entera Dos Pinos UHT 1,000 ml CRC 1,120

Mas x Menos (online store)

CRC 1,160, seen 2026-10. Leche Entera Dos Pinos UHT 1,000 ml CRC 1,160

Average (inc. tax)$2.53

Last checked on: October 2026

Yogurt (plain, 500g)$3.61

Plain yogurt is available in_regular and Greek styles. Common container sizes are 500g and 1000g.

Walmart

CRC 1,630, seen 2026-10. CRC 1,630 for 500 g

Average (inc. tax)$3.61

Last checked on: October 2026

White rice (1kg)$2.22

White rice is commonly sold in bags of 1. 8 kg, 4 kg, and 5 kg.

Walmart

CRC 1,000, seen 2026-10. Arroz Ezio premium empacado al vacío 99% grano entero, 1000 g for CRC 1,000

Average (inc. tax)$2.22

Last checked on: October 2026

Bananas (1kg)$1.30

Bananas are sold by the kilo, at CRC 560 to CRC 660 per kg in supermarkets.

Walmart Costa Rica (online store)

CRC 610, seen 2026-10. Banano Criollo CRC 610 per kg

Mas x Menos (online store)

CRC 560, seen 2026-10. Banano Seleccion Especial CRC 560 per kg on promotion (regular CRC 660 per kg)

Average (inc. tax)$1.30

Last checked on: October 2026

Bottled water (1.5L)$2.06

Supermarkets sell water in 1. 75 L and 2 L bottles rather than 1.

Walmart Costa Rica (online store)

CRC 1,011, seen 2026-10. Cristal Agua Tapa Plana 1.75 L CRC 1,180; /1.75*1.5 = CRC 1,011

Mas x Menos (online store)

CRC 848, seen 2026-10. Agua Alpina Purificada 2,000 ml CRC 1,130; /2*1.5 = CRC 848

Average (inc. tax)$2.06

Last checked on: October 2026

Beer (supermarket, 330ml)$1.63

Mainstream domestic beers like Imperial and Pilsen are widely available in supermarkets. Prices for a single 350 ml bottle are around CRC 800, while larger 1000 ml bottles can be more economical.

Masxmenos

CRC 743, seen 2026-10. Imperial Botella Retornable - 350 ml for ₡800. (800 / 350) * 330 = 754.28

Masxmenos

CRC 729, seen 2026-10. Cerveza Pilsen Lata 6 Pack - 2100 ml (6 x 350ml) for ₡5,100. (5100 / 6 / 350) * 330 = 801.42. Price per can is ₡850.

Average (inc. tax)$1.63

Last checked on: October 2026

Wine (mid-range bottle)$13.25

Supermarket red wine is imported, mostly from Chile, Argentina and Spain. An everyday Argentine cabernet costs CRC 5,350 to CRC 6,600.

Walmart Costa Rica (online store)

CRC 5,350, seen 2026-10. Vino tinto Trapiche Cabernet Sauvignon 750 ml CRC 5,350 (Argentina)

Mas x Menos (online store)

CRC 6,600, seen 2026-10. Vino Santa Julia Cabernet Sauvignon 750 ml CRC 6,600 (Argentina)

Average (inc. tax)$13.25

Last checked on: October 2026

Gasoline (1 litre)$1.59

ARESEP sets one national pump price, so every station charges the same: CRC 719 per liter of regular and CRC 764 for super.

ARESEP (Autoridad Reguladora de los Servicios Publicos), September 2026 extraordinary fuel study

CRC 719, seen 2026-10. Gasolina Regular (RON 91) approved pump price CRC 719.00 per liter (up CRC 12 from CRC 707), announced 1 October 2026 in Bol. 47-2026

Average (inc. tax)$1.59

Last checked on: October 2026

Save money?

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from RoamFX. Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy Policy.

Best option for most travelers: an eSIM you set up before you arrive. You'll be online the moment you land, with no airport line and no tourist pricing.

Travel eSIMs Connect the second you land. Zero hassle. Skip the airport line and paperwork. Activate before you fly and land connected. Find the best eSIM →

Prefer a local SIM?

4G covers the towns and main roads. Signal drops in deep valleys and remote national parks. You need your passport to buy and register a prepaid SIM. Prices below are for prepaid plans and change often.

Kolbi

State-owned network

Kolbi belongs to ICE, the state power and telecom company. Its SIM Turista, sold in Kolbi stores, includes 100 minutes of local calls, 30 texts and 5 GB of data for social apps. Regular prepaid packages start at CRC 2,000 for 7 days and 4 GB.

SIM Turista: CRC 12,095 including tax
Liberty

Most mobile lines

Liberty, formerly Movistar, is one of the three main networks. The Ultra plan renews by itself every 30 days, so cancel it or let the balance run out.

Prepago Ultra, 30 days, 5 GB: CRC 5,000
Claro

Smallest network

Claro covers San José and the main towns. Before a trip to a remote park, check that park on the coverage map of SUTEL, the telecom regulator.

Prepaid SIM and data packages sold in Claro stores

72/100

Good

Fiber internet is common in towns, and cards work in most shops and restaurants. Roads are slow: many are narrow, steep and unlit, and heavy rain can close mountain routes for hours.

Happiness 97

A country-level read of how satisfied residents say they are with their own lives, from the annual World Happiness Report survey. Higher means happier.

Source: World Happiness Report (SDSN)

Getting by in English 60

Source: English Proficiency Index (EF Education First)

Corruption 64

How clean the public sector is seen to be, from Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index. A higher score means less corruption in everyday dealings with officials and institutions.

Source: Corruption Perceptions Index (Transparency International)

Income equality 50

How evenly income is spread across the population, based on the World Bank's Gini index. A higher score means a smaller gap between the richest and poorest.

Source: Gini Index (World Bank)

Gender equality 71

How equally the country treats women and men across health, empowerment and the labor market, from the UN's Gender Inequality Index. Higher means more equal.

Source: Gender Inequality Index (UNDP)

Press freedom 79

How freely the press can report without censorship or reprisal, from the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index. Higher means fewer restrictions on independent journalism.

Source: World Press Freedom Index (RSF)

67/100

Strong

In most years, almost all of the electricity comes from renewable sources, mainly hydropower. A drought in 2024 cut the share to 86%, and it rose to 98.6% in 2025. About a quarter of the land is protected as parks and reserves.

Air quality 97

How clean the air is on average across the year, based on measured fine-particle (PM2.5) pollution. Higher means cleaner air and fewer bad-air days.

Source: World Air Quality Report (IQAir)

Clean water 81

The share of people with safely managed drinking water at home. Higher means tap water is more widely safe and reliable.

Source: Safely managed drinking water (WHO / UNICEF JMP)

Waste EPI 4

How well the country collects and recovers its waste rather than dumping or burning it, from the Environmental Performance Index. Higher means cleaner streets and better waste systems.

Source: Environmental Performance Index (Yale)

CO2 per capita 97

Carbon emissions per person, scored so lower emitters rank higher. A high score means a smaller per-person carbon footprint.

Source: EDGAR Global GHG Emissions (European Commission JRC)

Renewables 100%

The share of electricity generated from renewable sources like solar, wind and hydro. Higher means a cleaner power grid.

Source: Global Electricity Review (Ember)

Protected land 27%

The share of land set aside as protected natural area. Higher means more of the country is conserved.

Source: Terrestrial Protected Areas (World Bank)

Planning & moving around

How long should I spend in Costa Rica?

Ten days covers three areas: Arenal for the volcano and hot springs, Monteverde for the cloud forest, and one Pacific beach. With two weeks, add the Caribbean coast or the Osa Peninsula. Allow most of a day for each drive between regions.
How long can I stay in Costa Rica as a tourist?

Up to 180 days on a US, UK, Canadian, Australian or EU passport. The officer writes the number of days on your entry stamp, and it can be fewer. You also need a ticket out of the country within that time.
What are the most used ride-hailing apps in Costa Rica?

Uber and DiDi, with InDrive as a third option. All three work in San José, the Central Valley and some beach towns. Licensed taxis are red, with a yellow triangle on the door, and the driver must use the meter, called la maría.
Do I need a 4x4 in Costa Rica?

Not for the main routes. The roads to Arenal, Manuel Antonio and the big Guanacaste beaches are paved. Some dirt roads on the Osa and Nicoya peninsulas need one, especially in the rainy season, when rivers can cover the road. Never drive into a flooded river.

Safety & medical

Is Costa Rica safe for travelers?

Yes. Petty theft is the most common problem. Thieves target rental cars and bags left on the beach, so leave nothing in the car. Shootings linked to gangs have become more common in some cities, so ask your hotel which streets to avoid at night. In the sea, watch for rip currents: in recent years about a third of the people who drowned were tourists.
What numbers do I call in an emergency in Costa Rica?

Dial 911 for the police, an ambulance or the fire service. You do not need a Costa Rican SIM to call it. After a crash in a rental car, call 911 and the insurance line of your rental company. Leave the car where it is until the police tell you it can be moved.

Read our travel insurance guide

Money & costs

Do you tip in Costa Rica?

Not in restaurants. The bill already includes a 10% service charge by law, so anything extra is optional. Tour guides, drivers and hotel staff are often tipped.
Is Costa Rica expensive?

Yes. Hotels, tours and rental cars cost more than in Mexico or Guatemala, and most tours and park tickets are priced in US dollars. Eating at sodas (small family-run diners) and taking buses keeps costs down. The Costs in Costa Rica section on this page lists each price with its source.
Is Costa Rica a good place to retire?

Yes. The pensionado residence needs a lifetime pension of at least USD 1,000 a month. Costa Rica taxes only income earned in the country, so a foreign pension is not taxed here. Residents must join the CCSS (the Caja), the public health system, and pay a monthly fee based on their income.

Culture & etiquette

Do I need to speak Spanish?

No. Hotels, tour companies and restaurants in tourist areas use English. A few words of Spanish help on buses and in rural areas. You will hear pura vida (the local catchphrase, roughly "all good") used for hello, goodbye and thanks.

Families & kids

Is Costa Rica good for kids?

Yes. Some parks have short, flat trails where children can look for sloths and monkeys. Plan shorter drives between stops, because mountain roads are slow and winding. On the beach, swim near other people, since rip currents are common.

Costa Rica travel guide: trip costs, safety and exchange rates

Is Costa Rica right for you?

Costa Rica Right Now

When to go to Costa Rica

Need to Know

Top visitor markets

Annual visitor arrivals

When not to go

The wettest months on the Pacific side

Holy Week and the Christmas holidays

The Caribbean coast in its wet months

Upcoming Holidays

Costa Rica Visa & Entry

Getting To Costa Rica

From Juan Santamaría International (SJO)

From Daniel Oduber Quirós International (LIR)

To the Caribbean coast

Safety Advice

Travel Advisories

Money & Payments

Costs in Costa Rica

Send money to Costa Rica

Compare Providers

SIM Cards & Data

Prefer a local SIM?

Kolbi

Liberty

Claro

Liveability

Sustainability

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning & moving around

Safety & medical

Money & costs

Culture & etiquette

Families & kids