Costa Rica is a beautiful Central American country with lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and rich culture. Thanks to its vibrant wildlife and diverse landscapes, it has become a top destination for beach lovers, eco-tourists, and adventure seekers. The country is definitely a wonderful travel destination, but before you book your tickets, there are certain things you need to know. From local laws and road safety to health risks, medical care, and drug availability, this guide will provide you with all you need to know to plan a memorable trip.
When Should You Visit Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is a wonderful destination with lots of amazing attractions, but the time you visit will determine the type of experience you will get. Are you working on a strict budget? Are you comfortable with places densely packed with tourists? Your answer to these questions and more will help you determine the best time to visit.
Most people visit the country during the dry season, which spans from December through April. Thus, if you’re interested in meeting other tourists, finding a whole lot of outdoor activities, and getting greeted with sunny skies and warm temperatures, it is the best time for you to visit. However, it is worth noting that prices for accommodations and activities will be much higher during this period.
On the other hand, if you intend to save money on your trip and avoid large crowds, the best time to visit is during the rainy season, which runs from May to November. During this period, the country is usually at its greenest, and average temperatures stay under 80 degrees. Airfares, hotel rates, and the cost of activities are usually low, but it is important to note that some of the roads may be muddy, limiting access to some of the attractions [1].
The activities you’re interested in are another factor that may determine the best time for you to visit. For example, if whale watching is something you’re interested in, the best time to visit is between January and March on the Caribbean Coast and between August and October on the Pacific Coast. Regardless of the time you visit, you can expect to be greeted with abundant wildlife, beautiful beaches, and warmth.
How Safe Is Travel to Costa Rica Right Now?
In 2022, the US Embassy in Costa Rica advised Americans against traveling to the country due to COVID-19. However, during the period, necessary measures were put in place to curb the spread of the virus. For example, mask-wearing in all public spaces, limited capacity at businesses and attractions, and a requirement for travelers to present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test upon entry into the country were put in place. These measures led to a significant percentage of the population being vaccinated.
COVID-19 is no longer a threat in Costa Rica in 2023. The country has a Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State. This means it is even considered a safer travel destination compared to France and the UK [1].
At this point, it is worth noting that while the country is considered safe while considering health risks, there is still a risk of petty crime and theft, especially in tourist areas. Violent crimes such as carjackings and express kidnappings have previously taken place in public transport and resorts. It is important to beware of your surroundings and avoid lonely places, especially at night. What’s more, petty crimes such as pick-pocketing are common, so you may want to avoid carrying valuables behind where possible [2].
Finally, Costa Rica is prone to natural disasters such as landslides, floods, and earthquakes. Consequently, it is important to stay informed about potential threats, especially between May and November, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Costa Rica Entry Requirements
There are several important things to be aware of before planning a trip to Costa Rica, one of the most important ones being the entry requirements. Packing every single thing you need before embarking on the trip will help ensure you have a hassle-free travel experience.
The main requirements without which you may be denied entry into Costa Rica include:
Travel Documents
Individuals intending to visit the country must have a passport, valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. They must also have a return or onward ticket – proof that they don’t plan on staying longer than the time assigned.
However, it is worth noting that US citizens do not need a visa unless they plan on spending more than 90 days in the country. As a citizen, the only documents you will need are a valid passport and a return ticket [1]. Note that this may only be applicable if you’re traveling to Costa Rica from America. If you plan on visiting from another country, it is advisable to check the embassy’s site.
Travel Insurance and Visa Requirements
As of August 2021, it was mandatory for anyone visiting Costa Rica to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19 medical expenses if they had not been vaccinated. The insurance was expected to cover a minimum of $50,000 in medical expenses and a minimum of $2,000 for possible quarantine costs. However, things have gotten a lot easier in 2023. The government eliminated the COVID entry requirement, and no health pass is required for entry. Also, unvaccinated visitors can now travel without insurance [3].
Concerning Visa requirements, the government has 4 groups of international countries with different requirements. While citizens of the first and second groups do not require a Costa Rica visa to enter the country, citizens of the third and fourth groups require a restricted visa. People who fall into the first and second groups will receive a visa on arrival and also get their passports stamped [5].
Availability of Vaccination
Individuals looking to travel to Costa Rica are required to provide proof of certain vaccinations. The specific vaccination may vary depending on what country they plan on entering Costa Rica from. Individuals from African or South American countries, like Peru or Brazil, are required to present proof of a yellow fever vaccination. However, on a more general note, the recommended vaccinations for the country are vaccines that protect against measles, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, etc.
Obligation to Declare Money
Individuals traveling to Costa Rica are expected to declare any amount of money that exceeds $10,000 – this is to prevent money laundering. This includes money orders, checks, and any type of monetary instrument. Interestingly, the government did not put any restrictions on importing and exporting US dollars and other local currencies [4].
Local Laws
Before traveling to Costa Rica, it is worth noting that you become subject to all its laws and penalties once you set foot on the soil. Some of the most important laws to keep in mind include drug laws, traffic laws, environmental laws, beach laws, and cultural laws.
The country has strict drug laws, and breaking them can lead to hefty fines and lengthy jail time. It has a high accident rate, so the government takes traffic offenses seriously. The use of helmets for motorcyclists and seat belts for vehicles is mandatory. Also, speed limits must be observed at all times, and a blood-alcohol limit of 0.05% must be followed at all times.
Some beaches in Costa Rica prohibit fishing or diving and have strict hours of operation. These laws must be followed, as breaking them may attract penalties. At this point, it is worth noting that the country expects tourists to respect its cultural laws. Some of them include refraining from loud or disruptive behavior in public places, avoiding public displays of affection, and dressing moderately when visiting religious sites.
Road Safety
Although the country has made significant improvements in road infrastructure over the years, the condition of some roads remains poor. Consequently, it is important to be cautious and follow the rules of the road to avoid accidents. Always plan your route in advance, be prepared for narrow and winding roads, take precautions at night, and beware of local driving habits. Keeping these tips in mind will help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Health Risks, Medical Care, and Drug Availability
It is important to be aware of the potential health risks, availability of medical care, and the accessibility of necessary medications before traveling to Costa Rica or any other country. For example, mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya, are present in Costa Rica. There is also the risk of contracting foodborne illnesses, such as traveler’s diarrhea and altitude sickness if you’re visiting high-altitude areas such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Prepare for these risks so you don’t fall sick during your visit.
Medical care in Costa Rica is generally good. However, the quality can vary based on location and resources. While main hospitals in major cities such as San Jose are generally well-equipped, smaller hospitals and clinics in rural areas may have limited resources.
In the area of drug availability, it is worth noting that the country has strict drug laws. Also, some medications that may be available over the counter (OTC) in your country of residence may require a prescription in Costa Rica. Consequently, it will be a great idea to carry your necessary prescription medications, a note from your healthcare provider, and copies of the prescriptions.
If you plan on buying Viagra in Costa Rica or other sexual enhancement drugs such as Cialis or Levitra, be sure to take a valid prescription along with you, as most pharmacies do not sell without it. Although it is possible to source the meds from overseas vendors, you will need to have some information at your fingertips so you don’t get counterfeit.
Safe Food and Water Precautions
For a beautiful experience free of illnesses during your stay, it is important to be aware of food and water safety precautions. For starters, it is safe to drink tap water in the country, but it is advisable to either use a water purifier (to be on the safe side) or stick to bottled water. Costa Rica has great meals, but if you must try them out, be sure to stick to restaurants with lots of customers as this will help you rest assured the food is fresh. Pill your own fruits and avoid street food vendors.
Natural Disasters and Climate
Costa Rica experiences a range of natural disasters and climate events; you should be aware of this and take necessary precautions when visiting. The hurricane season typically runs from June to November, so if you’re traveling within this period, you should keep up with weather forecasts and pay attention to warnings from local authorities.
Earthquakes can occur in the country at any time, as it is located in a seismically active zone. While the magnitudes of the quakes are generally small, it is important to be prepared. Take note of the exits in your accommodation and keep an emergency kit with water, food, and first aid supplies nearby at all times.
In Closing
Before traveling to Costa Rica, it is important that you gather all the necessary travel documents, including travel insurance and a valid passport. Be up-to-date on health risks, medical care, and drug availability. Do not forget to check the vaccination requirements for the country you plan on leaving for Costa Rica. Also, remember to complete the online health form before traveling. By following these guidelines, you can rest assured you will have a smooth and enjoyable trip to this beautiful country.
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