Costa Rica

Known for its spectacular natural beauty and biodiversity, Costa Rica boasts over 15 different ecosystems with dramatic changes in landscapes, climate and nature. Magnificent beaches stretch for miles along an unspoilt coastline. High on the mountains, cool and pristine cloud forests are alive with mysterious sounds and below splendid tropical rain forests are packed with life.

The country is famous for its progressive approach to conservation and is the prime eco-tourism destination in Central America due to its wealth of protected areas. Over 25 percent of the country consists of protected areas, spread between 75 different national parks, wildlife refuges and biological reserves.

In such a small geographical area it is surprising how much there is to see and do. A holiday in Costa Rica offers activities to suit all travellers and any mood, from action to relaxation. These include surfing, snorkelling and sunbathing, horse riding, hiking and wildlife-spotting, deep sea fishing or river cruises. One can also simply enjoy a soak in the hot springs.

Travellers are also drawn to the country because of the endearing Tico hospitality. Costa Ricans are known for their incredible gregariousness and delightful ability to pamper guests - whether pointing out the right direction or cooking a typical authentic meal, they will be full of smiles and warmth. All this together with easy accessibility and an efficient infrastructure makes Costa Rica the jewel of Central America and a gem of a vacation destination.

Climate

Being tropical, there is little difference in temperature throughout the year, but there is a lot of rainfall, particularly from May to November. Temperatures along the coast are hotter, averaging 89ºF (32ºC), although they are tempered down by sea breezes. The highland areas are warm during the day and can be quite cool at night.

Money

The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is divided into 100 céntimos and is the official currency, although US Dollars are also widely accepted. US Dollars and travellers cheques can be exchanged in banks and many hotels. Banks charge a service fee for cashing travellers cheques and currency other than US$ is difficult to exchange. Using black market exchange options is risky as they have been known to pass on counterfeit bills printed in Colombia. Banks close anywhere from 3pm to 6pm. Major credit cards are widely accepted, although American Express and Diners Club might be more limited. ATMs are available in major towns throughout the country, but it is advisable to always have some local cash handy.

Passport Visa

All foreign passengers to Costa Rica must have return/onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country. Note: an onward ticket may be a bus or a plane ticket. Extensions of stay for those who are visa-exempt can be arranged on arrival. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in Costa Rica within six days of leaving or transiting through one of the following countries: Angola, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Peru, Sierra Leone, Sudan or Venezuela. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
• British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days, provided the passport is endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas) or British Overseas Territories Citizen.
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Costa Rica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Health

There are no vaccination requirements for Costa Rica. There is a risk of malaria in some areas year-round and advice should be taken on precautions and medication. Water in cities is generally safe but it is advisable to buy bottled water, especially outside the main towns where there is a risk of contamination. Dengue fever is one of a number of diseases carried by insects that also occur in this region, especially during the rainy season; protection against insect bites is the best prevention. Medical services are reliable in cities and the standard of hygiene and treatment is very high.

Embassy Consulates

• Embassy of Costa Rica, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 234 2945.
• Embassy of Costa Rica, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7706 8844.
• Embassy of Costa Rica, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 562 2855.
• Honorary Consulate of Costa Rica, Johannesburg, South Africa: +27 (0)11 486 4716.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, San Jose: +506 2519 2000.
• British Embassy, San Jose: +506 2258 2025.
• Canadian Embassy, San Jose (also responsible for Australia): +506 2242 4400.
• South African Consulate-General, San Jose: +506 2222 1470