The Basics
Country: Costa Rica
Where is it?: Central America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama
Why do people go here?: This Central American country draws more tourists than any of its neighbors due to its unfair share of ecological blessings. Nature is world-renowned here, as is the tourism department’s attempts to promote it.
What are the main entry points?: Drive, bus or fly into the country, stopping along the coast or in the capital, San Jose.
Currency used: Costa Rican colon (CRC)
Country Code: 506
Religion: Roman Catholic 76.3%, Evangelical 13.7%, Jehovah’s Witnesses 1.3%, other Protestant 0.7%, other 4.8%, none 3.2%
Population: 4 million
Ethnic Breakdown: 80% White, 15% Mestizo, 3% Black, 1% Amerindian, 1% Chinese
Government: Constitutional Democracy
Languages: Spanish (official), English
Travel Information
Major Cities: San Jose
Attractions: San Jose, beaches, eco-tourism
Accommodation: Costa Rica Hostels, Costa Rica Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: Costa Rica Instituto Costarricense de Turismo Calles 5 y 7 avenida 4, P.O. Box 777-1000 San Jose, Costa Rica +506-223-1733; FAX +506-223-5452
Health Issues: No vaccination requirements for any international traveller. Moderate malaria risk in the Limon and Alajuela Provinces, low risk in Guanacaste and Heredia. Chloroquine is recommended.
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Shoulder seasons may be slightly wetter, but cheaper.
Specific Events/Holidays: Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Getting Around: Buses are a great option, although you may have to go back through the capital. If you have a little bit more to spend, hiring a taxi is a decently affordable option.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The main airport serving cheaper flights to Costa Rica is the Juan Santamaría International Airport
Need more information?: Check out the Costa Rica travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
