
🇨🇷Costa Rica
Central America· Updated 06/03/2026
Information
Capital
San José
Population
5,160,000
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC ₡)
Languages
Spanish, English
Continent
Central America
Calling code
+506
Timezone
America/Costa_Rica
Area
51,100 km²
Government
Presidential Republic
National day
September 15 - Independence Day
Internet domain
.cr
About
Costa Rica is a Central American nation known for its political stability and robust democratic institutions. The country has a diversified economy and is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability.
Safety
Risk areas
Crime(Medium)
- Avoid gang-controlled areas, especially in coastal provinces
- Do not display signs of wealth (jewelry, expensive electronics)
- Use official taxis or trusted transportation services
- Stay vigilant in tourist areas where pickpockets operate
Terrorism(Low)
- The terrorist risk is low but authorities remain vigilant against drug trafficking activities.
Transport
- Avoid driving at night outside main urban areas
- Use official public transportation or licensed taxi services
- Keep doors locked and windows closed while in transit
Natural risks(Moderate. Costa Rica is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes, landslides, and seasonal floods.)
- Familiarize yourself with evacuation procedures in case of an earthquake
- Avoid coastal areas during the rainy season (May to November)
- Check weather alerts before traveling
Health(Good. Costa Rica has a relatively developed healthcare system with available public and private services.)
- Yellow fever vaccination recommended for certain regions
- Prevention against dengue, Zika, and chikungunya (use insect repellents)
- International health insurance recommended
- Tap water generally drinkable in urban areas
Practical tips
- Register your presence with your embassy
- Keep copies of important documents separately from originals
- Maintain increased vigilance in public transportation and tourist areas
- Avoid political protests and mass gatherings
Cost of living
Accommodation
Food
Transport
Leisure
Health
Others
Indicative prices in USD · as of 11/06/2025
Practical information
Electricity
Emergency numbers
Practical information
Right
Safe
10% in restaurants, optional but appreciated
Photos

Point de vue panoramique
Costa Rica
Luis Alberto Arias

Point de vue panoramique
Costa Rica
Jean Paul Montanaro

Point de vue panoramique
Costa Rica
Warner Brenes Quesada

Point de vue panoramique
Costa Rica
Kenny Fotos CR

Point de vue panoramique
Costa Rica
ismael jim

Monument emblématique
Costa Rica
Mario Spencer

Monument emblématique
Costa Rica
Veronika Andrews

Monument emblématique
Costa Rica
Koen Swiers

Monument emblématique
Costa Rica
Veronika Andrews

Monument emblématique
Costa Rica
Jake Marsee

Site UNESCO
Costa Rica
Koen Swiers

Site UNESCO
Costa Rica
Lexo Salazar

Site UNESCO
Costa Rica
Mario Spencer

Site UNESCO
Costa Rica
Enrique Hidalgo

Site UNESCO
Costa Rica
Oleg Kotelskiy
Visas
Plan your trip
Tours and activities
Book excursions ahead, with free cancellation.
Travel insurance
Medical cover and repatriation, can be taken out mid-trip.
eSIM data
Stay connected on landing, with no roaming charges.
Partner links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Guides to prepare your trip
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?▾
It depends on your nationality: some passports enter visa-free, others need an e-visa or a consular visa. Select your nationality in our checker to get the exact rule for your passport, with documents, fees and processing times.
Check by my nationality→Is it dangerous to travel to Costa Rica?▾
The overall risk level is currently rated "Moderate. Costa Rica is generally considered one of the safest countries in Central America, but some areas pose risks related to organized crime and drug trafficking.". See the Safety section on this page for details by topic (crime, transport, health, areas to avoid) and practical tips.
What currency is used in Costa Rica?▾
The official currency is Costa Rican Colón (CRC ₡). See sample prices (accommodation, meals, transport) in the cost of living section above.
What is the capital of Costa Rica?▾
The capital of Costa Rica is San José. The main spoken languages are: Spanish, English.