Practical Information

Exotic flowers are seen everywhere - Click picture for bigger format.

Costa Rica is a is democratically elected Republic that warmly welcomes visitors. Costa Ricans are friendly, jovial and try to make you feel at home. Compared with the rest of Latin Amer-ica living standards are at desirable with a per capita income double that of the regional average. Like all Latin American countries, Costa Rica is predominantly Catholic, but other de-nominations are found throughout the country. Population is 3.5 million of which over 50% live in the Central Valley which comprises only 4% of the entire country. Spanish is the native language, but other languages such as English, French, Italian, and German are frequently spoken especially in tourist areas. Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time.

Almost ideal year-round, the climate is a moderate 20–25 degrees in the highlands, while the lowlands and coastal areas range from 20 to 30 degrees. Evenings in San Jose are free of humid heat. Rainy season ends by November. Costa Rica is bordered to the north by Nicaragua and to the south by Panama. It has both a Pacific and Atlantic Coast. A series of volcanic chains runs from the Nicaraguan border in the Northwest to the Panamanian border in the southeast, splitting the country in two. In the center of these ranges is a high-altitude plain (Central Valley), with coastal lowlands on either side.

A valid passport is required to enter and visas are needed for certain nationalities – please check before travelling. For many European nations visa is not required for short visits. Visa regulations as a .pdf file.

Departure tax is 26 USD by air.

The Costa Rican monetary unit is the Colon. The exchange rate is 1 EUR = 700 CRC and 1 USD = 520 CRC (April 2007), recommended to change the money in Costa Rica. Most major credit cards are accepted. ATM machines available.

Office hours are generally from 8:00 am to 4:30-5:00 pm with an hour for lunch between 12 noon and 1 pm.

Electricity current is 110 volts, 60 Hertz.

Telephone service is efficient.

Public health facilities in Costa Rica compare favorably with that of many developed countries and are numerous and dependable. There is a 13% sales tax and an additional 3% tourist tax at hotels. A 10% service charge is generally added to all restaurants bills so act accordingly. Taxi drivers generally do not receive a tip.