Greet with a warm 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes' to show politeness. Punctuality is flexible, so allow some time for social gatherings.
Cultural Norms to Know
Dress and Behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid loud or aggressive behavior. Casual wear is common but neatness is appreciated.
Tipping and Courtesy
Tipping around 10% in restaurants is customary. Always thank hosts and service providers with a smile to build good rapport.
Getting Around Costa Rica
Explore the main transportation options available, from buses to car rentals, to plan your travel with ease.
Public Buses
Costa Rica’s public buses cover most routes affordably, connecting cities and towns with frequent schedules.
Car Rentals
Renting a car offers flexibility to explore remote beaches and mountains at your own pace.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Official taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber provide convenient short-distance travel in cities.
Domestic Flights
Short flights connect major cities and popular tourist spots, saving time on longer journeys.
Biking and Walking
In towns and beach areas, biking and walking are great ways to enjoy local sights and culture.
Stay Safe, Travel Smart
Essential Safety Tips for Costa Rica Visitors
Follow practical safety measures to protect yourself and enjoy your stay. Being aware of your surroundings and respecting local customs helps ensure a smooth visit.
How can I protect my belongings?
Use hotel safes or secure lockers for valuables. Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry or electronics in public areas to reduce theft risk.
Carry only necessary cash and keep copies of important documents separate from originals.
What should I know about local transportation safety?
Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps instead of hailing cabs on the street. When renting vehicles, inspect them carefully and understand local traffic laws.
Avoid driving at night in rural areas due to limited lighting and road conditions.
Are there areas to avoid for safety reasons?
Stay informed about neighborhoods with higher crime rates, especially after dark. Ask locals or your rental host for current advice on safe zones.
Stick to well-populated tourist areas and avoid isolated spots, particularly at night.
How can I respect local customs to avoid misunderstandings?
Greet people politely and use formal titles when appropriate. Dress modestly in rural or religious areas to show respect.
Avoid sensitive topics in conversation and be patient with local service providers.
What health precautions should I take?
Drink bottled or filtered water and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. Carry basic first aid supplies for minor injuries.
Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations before traveling.
How to stay safe during outdoor activities?
Inform someone about your plans before hiking or exploring remote areas. Use guides for unfamiliar trails and follow posted safety signs.
Wear appropriate footwear and carry sufficient water and sun protection.
What emergency contacts should I have?
Save local emergency numbers such as police (911), medical services, and your country’s embassy. Keep contact details of your rental host handy.
Use your phone’s location services to share your position if needed.
Taste Costa Rica’s authentic flavors
Savor traditional dishes like gallo pinto, ceviche, and casado at local eateries that capture the true spirit of Costa Rica’s cuisine.
Try popular spots such as Soda Tapia in San José or La Luna in Tamarindo for fresh, flavorful meals that locals love.
Eating local enhances your stay with genuine tastes and cultural connection.
