As interest in visiting Costa Rica continues to grow, we’ve noticed a number of recurring questions from travellers planning their journey. To help you prepare for an unforgettable experience, we’ve put together answers to some of the most commonly asked queries about travel to this remarkable destination.
Here are some commonly asked questions about Costa Rica
We recommend taking US dollars and a bank card when travelling to Costa Rica. US dollars are widely accepted across the country, including in shops, hotels, and restaurants. There’s no need to obtain Costa Rican colón in advance, as local currency can easily be withdrawn from ATMs if needed during your trip.
The flight time from the UK to Costa Rica is approximately 12 hours, and there are now direct options available with British Airways. We also work with all major airlines and can arrange flights via the USA, Panama, or a European hub, depending on your preferences. Including connection times, the total journey usually takes around 15 to 16 hours.
UK passport holders do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for up to 90 days for tourism. However, if you are transiting through the USA or Canada, you will need an electronic travel authorisation:
USA: Apply for an ESTA at esta.cbp.dhs.gov
Canada: Apply for an eTA at canada.ca
We recommend having at least six months’ validity on your passport from your return departure date.
No vaccinations are currently required for travellers arriving from the UK. However, if you’re coming from or transiting through a country with a risk of yellow fever (such as parts of South America), you may be asked to provide proof of vaccination. It’s always best to consult your GP or a travel health clinic for the most up-to-date guidance before you travel. Tap water is generally safe to drink in major towns and hotels across Costa Rica, but in rural or remote areas, it’s advisable to stick to bottled water as a precaution.
When travelling within Costa Rica, particularly on domestic flights, luggage allowances are quite limited—18kg for hold luggage and 4.5kg for hand luggage per person. To make the most of the available space, soft-sided bags are strongly recommended, as they’re easier to stow on small aircraft and in vehicles. Hard-shell suitcases are best avoided due to space restrictions. Packing light and efficiently will make internal travel much smoother.
For a trip to Costa Rica, pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm, tropical weather, along with a waterproof jacket for sudden rain—especially in the wet season (May to November). Long sleeves and trousers are useful for both sun and insect protection. Include a light jumper for cooler highland areas. Comfortable walking shoes or trainers are essential for hikes, and sandals or flip-flops are ideal for the beach. Don’t forget swimwear, sun cream, insect repellent, a hat, and a small daypack for daily outings.
Our Top Tips!
Take decent bug spray, especially if visiting the rainforest, the jungle brand is the one I find good!
Take a tin (or non plastic) water bottle single use plastic water bottles are being eradicated, so hard to find.
There is no bad time to visit the country, depending on what you wish to do, and there are huge savings to be made in the green season.
