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We are super excited to be planning our honeymoon in Costa Rica. This will be the first time there for both of us, so I have been deep in the trenches finding out what we need to know before our trip. Here are some of the top tips that I have found!
1. Best Time to Visit
The dry season varies from coast to coast in Costa Rica. Typically the rainy season is from May to October. April and May are the shoulder season. This is a great time to visit! You can find great deals and there won’t be as many tourists. September and October are the worst times to visit. Many of the local businesses shut down due to the amount of rain and to gear up for peak tourist season. If this is the only time you can visit, stay on the Caribbean coast. You will experience dryer weather, as September is still a part of this coast’s dry season.
2. Costa Rica Is Expensive
The prices for food, accommodations, and activities are comparable to those in US cities. It is just pricier than other Latin American countries. Expect to pay entrance fees for natural parks, waterfalls and reserves. Also, when dining out, you will pay a 10% service charge and a 13% sales tax. You can cut costs by staying at hostels or renting shared rooms.
3. Prepare for The Humidity
Humidity is for real in Costa Rica. Things will not dry out and it can wreak havoc on your electronics. Your clothes will start to get a funky smell to them. The best way to combat this is to make sure your accommodations include A/C. If you are trying to cut costs and A/C isn’t available where you are staying, locate one of the local laundromats to dry your clothes. Consider bringing socks filled with rice to help dry out your electronics.
4. Currency
The national currency of Costa Rica is colon (Costa Rican Colones). US dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere as well. There isn’t a need to exchange your currency before heading out on your trip. When shopping you can pay in US dollars and receive change back colones. Also, you can pull colones out at ATMs. Most places will also take card payments.
5. Passport
Unless you are driving in Costa Rica, do not carry your physical passport on you. Costa Rica is a safe area, but petty theft can be an issue. There would be nothing worse than having your passport stolen during your trip. Do make sure to take a picture or make a color copy of the picture page of your passport and the page with your tourist stamp. Police are allowed to stop you and ask you for your papers. The police in Costa Rica are generally very nice and are willing to help tourists out.
6. Car Rentals
If you are looking to rent a car during your stay in Costa Rica, make sure you rent a 4WD vehicle. The roads can be terrible in Costa Rica and can flood during storms. Also note, that you are required to purchase general liability insurance which can jack up the price of your rental. You will need to have your original passport, your original driver’s license, and a valid tourist stamp to drive in Costa Rica. Color copies aren’t acceptable.
7. Water
The tap water is safe to drink in the cities and mountains. Hotels will let you know if the water is safe and so will tour guides. Make sure you bring an insulated water bottle. This helps protect the wildlife areas in Costa Rica. The more remote and rural places usually do not have drinkable tap water but will provide bottled water.
8. Language
Spanish is the national language of Costa Rica. While most people do speak some English, it is best to learn some basic phrases in Spanish. Not only is it respectful, but it is also a fun part of traveling. I have found Duolingo to be a fun way to brush up on my Spanish.
9. It Gets Dark By 6:00
Costa Rica is only 8 – 12 degrees from the equator so the sun rises around 6 AM and it gets dark by 6 PM. Make sure you take this into account when planning your trip. It’s not recommended to drive long distances or walk on the beach or streets at sunrise or after sunset. Also, the mosquitos find prime dining time to be during sunset!
10. Wi-fi Availability
It is common for hotels to offer free wi-fi. You most likely will not be able to find it in public places. Hopefully this will allow you to unplug and take in all the beauty of Costa Rica!
Things To Bring
On top of the travel tips we provided, here are some things you should consider bringing on your trip to Costa Rica.
- Dry Bag – your trip will most likely include either a boat trip, waterfall trip, or beach trip. This is a way to keep your things dry and safe.
- Reef Safe Sunscreen – being this close to the equator you are sure to burn if you don’t load up on sunscreen. Sunscreen is available for purchase in Costa Rica, but expensive.
- Water Shoes – if you are planning any outdoor activities that involve water, you are going to want to have a pair of waterproof sandals.
- LightWeight Rain Jacket – you are sure to experience some rain during your trip to Costa Rica.
- Day Bag – great way to carry all your things when you are out exploring or on tours.
- Reusable Water Bottle – protect the gorgeous wildlife areas by bringing your own reusable bottle.
- Bug Wipes/Bracelets – you will need protection from mosquitoes. It is available for purchase, but you will pay more for it.
