Attraction in Costa Rica
Corcovado National Park
Corcovado National Park covers 424 square kilometres of the Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica, protecting the largest remaining stand of primary lowland tropical rainforest on the Pacific coast of the Americas. National Geographic has described it as the most biologically intense place on Earth, a claim supported by its full complement of all four Costa Rican monkey species, all six wild cat species including the jaguar, and over 400 bird species including the largest population of scarlet macaws in Central America. Access is restricted to guided entry, and rangers enforce daily visitor limits to maintain the integrity of the ecosystem.
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Airalo eSIM
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Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Costa Rica
Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Costa Rica page at Yoogo.
Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican colón (CRC). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants, often at favourable exchange rates. Cards are accepted at most established businesses. Carry colónes for local transport, smaller restaurants, and markets.
Costa Rica is one of the safer destinations in Central America. Petty theft, including bag-snatching and opportunistic theft from rental cars, is the main concern for tourists, particularly in San José and at beaches. Some coastal areas have experienced increased gang-related crime. Keep valuables out of sight, avoid deserted beaches at night, and use reputable transport.
Car hire is the most practical way to explore Costa Rica's national parks and natural attractions independently. Public buses are affordable and extensive. Taxis and ride-hailing services operate in San José. Domestic shuttle services run between key tourist destinations. Roads can be rough, especially to remote parks and beach areas, where 4WD is often recommended.
The dry season from December to April (verano) is the most popular time to visit, with sunny skies and accessible roads. The green season from May to November brings afternoon rains that keep the rainforests lush. Guanacaste province on the Pacific coast is driest from December to April. The Caribbean coast has a different pattern, with September and October being relatively dry.
Spanish is the official language. Costa Rican Spanish is considered clear and relatively easy to understand. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, national parks, upscale hotels, and tour operations. The phrase 'pura vida', meaning pure life, is used constantly as a greeting, farewell, and general expression of contentment.
No vaccinations are legally required for most travellers. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies (for those spending time outdoors in rural areas) are commonly recommended. Dengue fever is present; use insect repellent, especially during the wet season. Tap water is generally safe in urban areas. Travel health insurance is strongly recommended.
A 10% service charge is included in most restaurant bills by law. Additional tipping for exceptional service is appreciated but not required. Taxi drivers are not typically tipped. Tour guides, hotel porters, and shuttle drivers appreciate a modest gratuity of two to five US dollars.