Costa Rica Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Costa Rica is a tropical haven, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant wildlife, and commitment to sustainability. From pristine beaches to lush rainforests, this Central American gem offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Visitors can surf in Tamarindo, explore the majestic Arenal Volcano, or hike through Monteverde’s cloud forests. Costa Rica’s luxury villas provide privacy and comfort, often located in stunning settings with ocean or jungle views. With activities like ziplining, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting, along with farm-to-table dining experiences, Costa Rica invites you to embrace its ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle and promises an unforgettable escape.

Why Costa Rica?

  • Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world's biodiversity.
  • Costa Rica is known as "The Switzerland of Central America".
  • Costa Rica is the only country in the world to constitutionally abolish its army.
  • Costa Rica is the greenest country in the world.
  • In Costa Rica, there is a national park for every 500 square kilometers.

History

Costa Rica is a small country located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. Despite its size, it has a rich and colorful history that dates back thousands of years.

The first known inhabitants of Costa Rica were the indigenous tribes, including the Chibcha, Carib, and Boruca people. These tribes lived off the land, farming and hunting for survival. They also developed a complex social and religious system, with powerful leaders and ceremonies to honor their gods.

In 1502, Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus landed in Costa Rica during his final voyage to the New World. He named the land “Costa Rica”, meaning “rich coast” in Spanish, due to the abundance of gold and other resources he found. However, it wasn’t until 1563 that the first permanent Spanish settlement was established in the country.

For the next three centuries, Costa Rica remained under Spanish rule as a part of the Captaincy General of Guatemala. During this time, the country’s economy was largely dependent on agriculture, particularly the production of sugar, tobacco, and coffee. However, it also faced conflicts with indigenous tribes and pirate attacks from the Caribbean.

In 1821, several Central American countries, including Costa Rica, declared their independence from Spain. However, it wasn’t until 1848 that Costa Rica officially became an independent nation, after a civil war broke out against the ruling government. This period of independence marked the beginning of Costa Rica’s modern history.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Costa Rica experienced political instability and economic struggles, including a brief civil war in 1948. However, in the mid-20th century, the country began to make significant progress, with the establishment of a democratic government and the development of a strong economy based on tourism, agriculture, and industry.

In the 21st century, Costa Rica has become known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The country has implemented policies to protect its rich biodiversity and has become a leader in ecotourism. It is also one of the only countries in the world to have abolished its military, redirecting funds towards education and social programs.

Today, Costa Rica continues to thrive as a peaceful and prosperous nation, welcoming visitors from all over the world to experience its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Its history may have been turbulent at times, but it has shaped Costa Rica into the unique and beautiful country it is today.

Transportation on Costa Rica

Getting to Costa Rica and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from Costa Rica is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is typically required for most visitors, but travelers may need to comply with current health and safety regulations, including completing a health declaration or entry form.

Departure Tax

A departure tax of approximately US$29 is charged at the airport for international flights.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the airport or local police stations.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, especially in urban areas, but rural roads may vary, with some unpaved or less-developed areas.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-30 mph (40-48 km/h) in urban areas, and 60-70 mph (96-112 km/h) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of all traffic signals, pedestrians, and local driving customs. Watch out for wildlife, especially in more rural areas, and be cautious on winding mountain roads.

Local Transportation

Costa Rica offers exciting transportation options for exploring its diverse landscapes. Taxis are easy to find in cities and popular spots, while rental cars give you the freedom to drive through rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches at your own pace—4x4s are ideal for more rugged areas. Public buses are affordable, though they can be slow, and for a more scenic adventure, domestic flights and shuttle services are perfect for reaching remote destinations like Tortuguero or the Osa Peninsula.

Know Before You Go...® - Costa Rica Travel Tips

Before making their way to Costa Rica , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Costa Rica even more relaxing.

Capital: San José
Population: 5.3 million (estimated)
Size: 19,730 square miles
Electric Current: 120
Official Language: Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in major cities and popular tourist destinations.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas.
  • ATMs: Available in major towns and tourist areas.
  • Credit and Debit Cards: Major cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most establishments.
  • Contactless Payments: Common in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary, but not mandatory. It is common to leave 10% in restaurants, and small tips are often given to taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax): 13% is typically included in most goods and services across Costa Rica.
Dress Code: Costa Rica has a relaxed dress code, ideal for its tropical climate. Lightweight, breathable clothing is perfect for daytime activities, and swimwear is appropriate at the beach or pool but should be covered when away from the shore. Smart casual attire is recommended for dining in upscale restaurants and resorts.
Topography: Costa Rica is known for its diverse geography, featuring rainforests, volcanic mountains, and beautiful coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Its tropical climate and biodiversity makes it popular for adventure travel.
Telephone: * Country Code: +506 * Area Code: Costa Rica does not have area codes; the country code +506 covers all of Costa Rica. * Mobile Networks: Widely available throughout the country. * Wi-Fi: Accessible in most hotels, resorts, and public spaces.

Costa Rica Weddings and Honeymoons

In Costa Rica, the process of getting married is relatively straightforward, and the country is a popular destination for weddings. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the Civil Registry office.
Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in Costa Rica (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately US$20. Additional fees for the officiant or ceremony can range from US$100 to US$500, depending on location and the type of ceremony. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 2-3 days before the intended wedding date.

See our favorite Costa Rica villas for weddings.