Costa Rica

REPUBLICA DE COSTA RICA
(Republic of Costa Rica)

Costa Rica is Central America's jewel. It is an oasis of calm among its turbulent neighbors and an eco-tourism heaven, making it one of the best tropical countries to visit. It is composed mostly of  coastlines, which means it is a great surfing location and a haven for beach lovers.

Aside from magnificent landscapes and volcanoes, the prolific flora and fauna in Costa Rica proves to be another enticing sight to behold in this country.  Costa Ricans or Ticos, as they are usually called, put in a lot of effort to protect the diverse  species of plants and animals found in their country.

CLIMATE

Costa Rica is a tropical country.  Dry season starts on December and lasts until April.  During the summer season, extreme heat can be experienced and there are rare chances of raining.  On the other hand, wet season starts on May and lasts until November. Heavy rains, however, are expected to come on September.

Summer is a peak season for tourists from various countries. Expect a lot of hustle and bustle at various tourists spots during the months of December until April. Hotels and other establishments may offer discounts to their clients during off peak season (rainy season).

PEOPLE

Although Spanish is the official language used in Costa Rica, Ticos can also read, write, and speak English.  Ticos are naturally warm and friendly.  They put a lot of importance on family and brotherhood. 

Costa Rica is a democratic country. Visitors from various parts of the world have a fairly easy time living amongst the natives and other inhabitants who come from different ethnic bacgrounds.

CURRENCY

Costa Rican money is called Colón. To convert USD or other currencies in to Colón click on the link: Currency Converter

ACTIVITIES

The possibilities are endless when it comes to Costa Rica. Although it is possible to go around the whole country in a day, adventure awaits those who choose to traverse the roads in public transportation. From walking to and fro to actually signing up for a tour, Costa Rica's magnificent landscapes and water formation provide visitors an experience unlike any other. Possible things one can do during a visit in Costa Rica:

Biking                 Bird watching               Rafting

Guided tour          Coffee Tour                 Hiking

Surfing                Tour search                 Horse Back Riding

Scuba                 Diving                         Fishing

Hot Spring swimming                             Canopy & zip trails etc.

ENTRY REGULATIONS

Passport is needed when entering Costa Rica. Passport validity must atleast be more than six months before it expires. Costa Rican immigration officers are very particular with the state of the passport so be sure that your passport is not damaged in any way.

Visa depends on the country you came from. Most European countries, USA and Canadian residents don't need one prior to entering Costa Rica.

Inoculations needed to enter Costa Rica can just be the usual tetanus or booster shot. There are but a few cases of diseases in the country, however, one must be wary of Dengue cases in a tropical island such as Costa Rica.

There is departure tax in Costa Rica. A fee of 26$ will be asked before you exit the country. Departure tax can be paid in US dollars, colones or Visa Card.

For more Frequently Asked Questions, click here.

SOURCES:

University  of Costa Rica

Lonely Planet

CIA Factbook-Costa Rica

Bureau of Consular Affairs, USA

Anywhere Costa Rica

The Real Costa Rica