Journey Costa Rica is excited to welcome you to Costa Rica! This booklet will help to provide an overview of the country, information about your upcoming travel, and some tips and suggestions on how to prepare for and maximize your holiday experience. As you take the time to read this helpful booklet, you may find that some of your pre-trip questions and issues may be addressed. Enjoy your adventure!
Prior to your departure, please make sure the following documents are in order, as they are important documents for your trip.
✓ Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the last day of your trip.
✓ Return ticket
✓ Airline Tickets.
✓ Money (Cash, debit cards, credit cards).
✓ Visa, if required under these guidelines. (USA, UK, Canada do not require visa)
Confirmed Accommodation details
We recommend that all participants obtain a short-term traveler’s insurance policy covering baggage, accident/life, and trip cancellation.
Vaccination is not required to enter Costa Rica. If you need more information, please click here.
Immigration:
Inspection: An immigration official will check your documents, stamp your Tourist Permit and Passport, and indicate the number of days (up to 180) you can stay.
Proceed: After inspection, proceed to customs process. Once the procedure is complete, you will meet your driver who will guide you to your destination.
Wash-and-wear, lightweight natural fabrics are recommended. In keeping with Costa Rica’s relaxed lifestyle, dress is informal on most occasions. However, in larger cities, dress is a bit more formal, as it is customary to wear long pants and a collared shirt. It is recommended that you carry a light jacket and/or rain gear when in doubt about what the weather may bring.
For the Beach:
Swimwear: Bring multiple swimsuits for swimming and sunbathing.
Sunscreen: High SPF, water-resistant, and reef-safe if you’re snorkeling or swimming in the ocean.
Hat and Sunglasses: To protect yourself from the sun.
Flip-Flops or Sandals: Ideal for walking on the beach.
Lightweight, Quick-Dry Clothing: Include cover-ups or dresses for when you’re not in the water.
Waterproof Bag: To keep your valuables and electronics safe from sand and water.
Insect Repellent: To ward off sand fleas or mosquitoes.
For the Mountains:
Layered Clothing: Temperatures can vary, so bring base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer.
Hiking Boots or Sturdy Shoes: Good traction is essential for uneven terrain.
Rain Jacket or Poncho: Mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Backpack: For carrying essentials like water and snacks.
Water Bottle: To stay hydrated on the trails.
Hat and Sunglasses: For sun protection at higher altitudes.
Insect Repellent: For protection against bugs in forested areas.
For Rafting:
Quick-Dry Clothing: Wear something that can get wet and dry quickly, like synthetic fabrics.
Water Shoes or closed shoes: Secure footwear that can get wet and provide good grip.
Swimwear: As a base layer underneath your quick-dry clothing.
Waterproof Bag: To keep your belongings dry while on the raft.
Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses with straps to keep them secure.
General Items for All Activities:
Travel Documents: Passport, insurance information.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial.
Cash and Credit Cards: Many places but not all places accept cards, especially in remote areas.
For international flights, passengers are allowed to check luggage of up to 50 lbs (25 kgs). Carry-on is limited two pieces and must fit under the seat. Rules are subject to
change, always confirm with your airline.
For domestic flights within Costa Rica, luggage restrictions vary. In most airlines, passengers are allowed to check luggage for up to 40 lbs (18 kgs) and carry-on up to 10 lbs (4.5 kgs) per person. When you travel with more luggage than the allowed, or if your luggage is heavier or larger than permitted, you will be charged excess luggage. In all cases, excess luggage will be accepted subject to space in aircraft.
In cities outside the USA, a two to three hour check-in is often required. If you are making a stop in route, remember that international flights must be reconfirmed 72 hours in advance of departure
ARRIVAL & CUSTOMS
Arrival: Go to the immigration area with your forms.
Immigration Check: Join the line for foreign visitors. An immigration official will:
• Check your documents.
• Write on your Tourist Permit how many days (up to 90) you can stay.
• Stamp your Tourist Permit and Passport.
• Give you a copy of the Tourist Visa.
• Send you to customs.
Baggage Claim: Collect your luggage and take your Customs Declaration Form to the exit gate.
Customs Check:
• You’ll see a traffic light (red or green) and may have a button to press, or a machine to insert your form.
• Green Light: You can leave without inspection.
• Red Light: Your bags will be checked.
For domestic flights within Costa Rica, luggage restrictions vary. In most airlines, passengers are allowed to check luggage for up to 40 lbs (18 kgs) and carry-on up to 10 lbs (4.5 kgs) per person. When you travel with more luggage than the allowed, or if your luggage is heavier or larger than permitted, you will be charged excess luggage. In all cases, excess luggage will be accepted subject to space in aircraft. In some cases, additional luggage cannot be guaranteed to be on the same flight. Rules are subject to change, always confirm with your airline.
CULTURE & CUSTOM
Costa Rica is extremely rich and varied in culture. Costa Rican people are great lovers of music, food, and dance! Their hospitality, friendliness, and openness are unmatched around the world. Each region possesses its own customs, local holidays, culinary specialties, and preferred sports. The majority of the country follows soccer (fútbol), but other sports like surfing are also popular, especially in coastal areas. Costa Rica contains numerous traces of pre-Columbian civilizations, including the Diquís, Chorotega, and Huetar, which influence many aspects of life nowadays. Costa Rica is also home to distinct and vibrant modern cities. San José is the capital and a cultural hub with a rich blend of tradition and modernity. Costa Rica has its own distinct culture, although it shares similar characteristics with other Central American countries.
GEOGRAPHY
Costa Rica is comprised of 7 provinces: San José, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste, Puntarenas, and Limón. Its northern border stretches along Nicaragua, and its southern border meets Panama. Surrounded by numerous bodies of water, Costa Rica borders the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east. The physical geography is rather varied throughout the country. The high, rugged mountains are contrasted by low-lying coastal plains, high plateaus, and lush rainforests. The highest point in the country is Cerro Chirripó at 3,820 m (12,533 ft), and the lowest is the Pacific Ocean at sea level.
GOVERNMENT
Costa Rica is run by a democratic republic under a centralized government. The capital of Costa Rica is San José. Costa Rica abolished its military in 1949 and has since focused on education, health, and environmental protection. The Constitution was promulgated on November 7, 1949. Costa Rica’s national day of independence is September 15. The government consists of an Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branch. Presidential elections are held every 4 years, and there is a one-term presidential limit in the constitution.
COMMUNICATION WITH HOME
TELEPHONE:
In the final packet that you received from Journey Costa Rica, the names and numbers of each hotel in which you will be staying are provided should family or friends need to reach you. Most hotels can be contacted directly; however, if the person you are trying to reach is on a trek, it would be best to call the offices of Journey Costa Rica. Please give our phone number to family members and others who may want to contact you in an emergency.
EMAIL:
Just about every town and city in Costa Rica (except for very rural or remote villages) has internet access in the hotel.
Wi-Fi:
Wi-Fi is available in hotels and during transfers. Most hotels provide Wi-Fi in guest rooms and common areas, though the signal strength can vary. While you can generally expect decent connectivity, interruptions may occur during streaming or calls, particularly in areas with weaker signal. Additionally, Wi-Fi during transfers depends on the signal strength and may experience occasional outages.
ELECTRICITY
Electricity in Costa Rica is 110 volts, the same as the US. Visitors from outside of the US should bring an adapter. Check with your local consulate to be sure.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
In Costa Rica, the climate varies according to region and altitude. Coastal areas and lowlands are hot and humid, while the central valley has a temperate climate even in winter. The highlands have a milder climate but experience sharp changes in temperature between day and night. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the Pacific coast receiving the most rain between September and October. The Caribbean coast experiences more consistent rainfall throughout the year. The dry season, or “summer,” typically runs from December to April. Rainfall and weather conditions can vary significantly across different regions.
In Costa Rica, tipping is appreciated but not always expected in the same way as in other countries. Here are some guidelines:
Restaurants: A 10% service charge is usually included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is customary to leave an additional 5-10%. In smaller, informal dining establishments, leaving some change is a kind gesture of gratitude.
Hotels: It is customary to tip housekeeping staff $2-5 USD per person, per night. For porters, $1-2 USD per bag is standard.
Taxi Drivers: Taxi drivers do not generally expect a tip unless they have gone out of their way to provide special assistance. Rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Local Guides and Drivers: For local guides, $10-15 USD per person, per day, or $5-8 USD per person for a half-day is appropriate. For drivers, $5-10 USD per day is sufficient. If you have a premium guide who accompanies you throughout your stay and assists beyond the standard tours, tipping $15-20 USD per day is recommended. Ultimately, tipping is at your discretion and should reflect the level of service you feel you received.
TREADING LIGHTLY ON THE LAND
Journey Costa Rica is dedicated to preserving the character of the destinations we visit. We recognize that our trips impact indigenous cultures and the environment, but we believe that our trips can provide meaningful and important ways for local people to create economic development, which relieves pressure on primary and natural resources.
Costa Rica boasts a rich history that began with some of the earliest and most advanced civilizations in Central America. Indigenous groups like the Diquís, Chorotega, and Huetar developed intricate societies known for their impressive art and architecture. The Diquís are especially renowned for their perfectly round stone spheres, which still puzzle archaeologists today. These ancient cultures set the foundation for a country that would later captivate explorers and settlers.
In 1502, Christopher Columbus arrived on Costa Rican shores, ushering in Spanish colonization. This period led to the establishment of settlements and the integration of indigenous populations into colonial society, with Costa Rica becoming part of the Captaincy General of Guatemala under Spanish rule. After gaining independence from Spain on September 15, 1821, Costa Rica briefly joined the Mexican Empire before becoming a sovereign nation. Notably, Juan Mora Fernández, Costa Rica’s first head of state, played a crucial role in shaping its democratic foundations. The country distinguished itself in the 20th century by abolishing its military in 1948, focusing on education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. Today, Costa Rica is celebrated for its commitment to democracy and sustainability, leading in ecotourism and renewable energy, with over 98% of its electricity coming from renewable sources.
GOVERNMENT
Costa Rica is run by a democratic republic under a centralized government. The capital of Costa Rica is San José. Costa Rica abolished its military in 1949 and has since focused on education, health, and environmental protection. The Constitution was promulgated on November 7, 1949. Costa Rica’s national day of independence is September 15. The government consists of an Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branch. Presidential elections are held every 4 years, and there is a one-term presidential limit in the constitution.
HEALTH
There are no vaccinations required for entry to Costa Rica. For all health recommendations, please check with your personal physician and/or local health organization. It is advisable to carry with you an up-to-date record of your allergies, health conditions, and/or chronic medical problems so that emergency medical treatment, if necessary, can be carried out without endangering your health.
U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica
Calle 98 Vía 104, Pavas, San José, Costa Rica
TEL:
From Costa Rica: (506) 2519-2000
From the U.S.: 011-506-2519-2000
British Embassy in Costa Rica
Edificio Centro Colón, Paseo Colón, San José, Costa Rica
TEL:
From Costa Rica: (506) 2258-2025
From the U.K.: 00-506-2258-2025
While we make every effort to ensure that the information contained herein is accurate at the time of publishing, conditions on the ground and policies and procedures are subject to change. Please help us keep this information updated by notifying us of any discrepancies or important information you would like to see included. We appreciate your understanding and assistance!
The official tourism site for Costa Rica:
http://www.visitcostarica.com/en
U.S. State Department:
www.travel.state.gov
U.S. Center for Disease Control:
www.cdc.gov
UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office:
www.fco.gov.uk
U.S. Customs:
www.customs.ustreas.gov
Determining the correct time anywhere:
www.worldtimeserver.com
Rich Biodiversity: Costa Rica is home to about 5% of the world’s biodiversity, despite its small size. The country has a wide range of ecosystems, including rainforests, cloud forests, and coral reefs.
Blue Zone: The Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica is one of the world’s five “Blue Zones,” areas where people live longer and healthier lives. This region has a high number of centenarians.
Pura Vida: The phrase “Pura Vida,” meaning “pure life” or “simple life,” is a common expression in Costa Rica. It reflects the country’s laid-back attitude and emphasis on enjoying life.
No Army: Costa Rica has not had a standing army since 1949. Instead, the country invests heavily in education and healthcare.
Volcanoes: Rica has over 60 volcanoes, and several are active. The Arenal Volcano is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.
Coffee is one of the principal traditional exports of Costa Rica: The production and brewing of coffee bean plants have been a significant part of its culture and economy for over 200 years. Costa Rica’s Arabica beans are considered among the finest in the world.
Eco-Tourism Leader: Costa Rica is a pioneer in eco-tourism and sustainable practices. Over 25% of the country’s land is protected in national parks and wildlife reserves.
Costa Rica has ambitious plans to become carbon neutral: It intends to achieve this goal by 2050. The country already generates more than 98% of its electricity from renewable sources such as hydroelectric, geothermal, solar, and wind power.
Of its 500,000 species, 900 are birds: Costa Rica is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 900 avian species, including the resplendent quetzal, scarlet macaw, and hummingbirds of myriad hues. Birding enthusiasts flock to its diverse habitats, binoculars in hand, in search of rare sights
Shopping Hours:
Bank Hours: 9 am to 4 pm.
Holidays:
Restaurants: Typically open from 8 am to 9 pm.
Non-Tourist Areas: Some places may close from 2-4 pm. Check locally for exact hours.
Jan 1 – New Year’s Day
Apr 11 – Juan Santamaría Day
May 1 – Labor Day
Jul 25 – Annexation of Guanacaste
Aug 2 – Virgin of Los Angeles Day
Aug 15 – Mother’s Day
Sep 15 – Independence Day
Oct 12 – Día de las Culturas (Day of Cultures)
Dec 25 – Christmas Day
We recommend that all participants obtain a short-term traveler’s insurance policy covering baggage, accident/life, and trip cancellation. Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for non-refundable air and land costs, should you have to cancel the trip due to personal or family illness. It also covers the cost of emergency evacuation from remote areas.
MEDICAL: Our trips are not rigorous expeditions but they are physically demanding. For most trips spending extended time in remote areas, Journey Costa Rica will furnish a first aid kit and attempt to secure, but does not guarantee, the services of a doctor. Journey Costa Rica assumes no liability regarding the provision of medical care. Members are urged to check their insurance coverage to ensure it is adequate. For remote excursions, each trip member will receive a medical questionnaire, which must be completed and signed. In general, you must be in good health to participate in one of our adventures; it is vital that persons with medical problems make them known to us well before departure.
The trip leader and/or trip doctor have the right to disqualify any member from the group at any time if considered medically necessary or to avoid endangering the group, or if the participant in question is physically unfit for the rigors of the trip. Refunds are not given under such circumstances. Trip members should have a personal supply of any special medications that they may need. These medicines should be carried with you at all times. It is understood that Journey Costa Rica is not a medical facility and therefore has neither expertise nor responsibility regarding what medications or inoculations you and your private physician should decide are necessary for your safe participation in the tour.
Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. There are numerous indigenous languages that are still spoken in some regions. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Costa Rican people are extremely open and relaxed, very warm, and uncommonly friendly! Family, soccer, and socializing are of utmost importance to most Costa Ricans. Sundays are often put aside for spending time with families walking through the park, eating big dinners, and participating in activities with friends and family. Although their population is rather diverse, one commonality shared amongst the various peoples is their hospitality and willingness to help and befriend new visitors.
The current population of Costa Rica is about 5 million people, with about 2 million residing in the Greater Metropolitan Area, which includes the capital city, San José. Other major cities include Alajuela, Cartago, and Heredia.
Costa Rica offers a variety of regional dishes with fresh meats, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and drinks. The country is known for its quality coffee, often shade-grown and fair-trade. While international food is available, traditional “sodas” (local restaurants) provide authentic local options. The Nicoya Peninsula, noted for its long-lived residents, contributes to the focus on simple, nutritious food. Additionally, the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is known for its distinct flavors, including dishes featuring coconut, plantains, and spicy jerk seasoning
The unit of currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in major cities and tourist areas. However, in more remote locations, using credit cards might be challenging, so it’s a good idea to carry cash for tips or shopping. U.S. dollars in small denominations are also commonly accepted in most cities and tourist areas.
Costa Rica is generally very safe, but it’s always smart to stay aware of your surroundings while you’re exploring. Keep your passport and important documents handy and it’s always good keep an eye on your luggage and personal items, especially in busy spots like airports, hotel lobbies, and restaurants.
And remember, consider leaving valuable jewelry at home. Embracing a more modest style will help you blend in and enjoy the pura vida lifestyle to the fullest!
Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time (CST), which is GMT -6 hours. Unlike some countries, Costa Rica does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time difference remains consistent throughout the year.
Journey Costa Rica is dedicated to preserving the character of the destinations we visit. We recognize that our trips impact indigenous cultures and the environment, but we believe that our trips can provide meaningful and important ways for local people to create economic development, which relieves pressure on primary and natural resources.
While we make every effort to make sure that the information contained herein is accurate at the time of publishing, conditions on the ground and policies and procedures are subject to change. Please help us keep this information updated by letting us know of any discrepancies or important information that you would like to see. We appreciate your understanding and assistance!