Welcome to the country page

Discover & understand Costa Rica

Your comprehensive guide to travel, immigration, cost of living and taxes in Costa Rica.

Photo: Tillor87 · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Currency

Colón (CRC) · USD often accepted

Capital

San José

Official language

Spanish

Climate

Tropical · coasts & highlands

Time zone

UTC−6 · no daylight saving

Dial code

+506

Population

approx. 5.2 million

Power plugs

Type A / B · 120 V

Topic areas

Choose a subpage for detailed information

Travel & Discover

Routes, sights, safety, best travel seasons & insider tips

Immigration & Visa

Visa types, residency, entry rules, bureaucracy guides & residence rights

Living & Costs

Rent prices, grocery costs, health insurance, best neighborhoods & daily life

Taxes & Law

Tax system, company formation, bank accounts & finances

News & Updates

Fresh weekly posts, reports & current developments in the country

Background & lifestyle

Land, people & culture in Costa Rica

Rainforest, volcanoes & two oceans

Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna

Arenal’s cone defines the north: hot springs, hanging bridges and rainforest around La Fortuna. Weather and views change quickly — start early and follow local trail notices. Monteverde’s cloud forest is a classic add-on on the same nature route.

Photo: Bernard Gagnon · CC0

Pacific & Caribbean coasts

Guanacaste (including Tamarindo) means dry season, surfing and sunsets; the Caribbean around Puerto Viejo means rainforest, reefs and Afro-Caribbean culture. Manuel Antonio and the Osa Peninsula bring parks and wildlife — book peak-season stays and park tickets early.

Photo: Mike Vondran · CC BY 2.0

Gallo Pinto, casado & Pura Vida

Gallo pinto (rice and beans) and the casado plate shape everyday meals. “Pura Vida” is greeting, attitude and lifestyle at once. Sodas (small eateries) are often the cheapest and most authentic option — tips and hours vary by region.

Photo: Legendre17 · CC BY 3.0