Essential Travel Tips for First-Timers in Costa Rica

Plugs and voltage

Costa Rica uses the same plugs as the United States: Type A and Type B (flat blades, sometimes with a round grounding pin). The voltage is 120V at 60Hz, so US devices work without a converter.

• Travelers from Europe, the UK or Australia need a simple plug adapter
• Most phone and laptop chargers handle 120V automatically, but check the label
• Bring a power strip so one adapter charges several devices

Language basics

Spanish is the official language. English is common in tourist hubs like La Fortuna, Monteverde and the beach towns, but a few words go a long way.

• Hola (hello), gracias (thank you), por favor (please)
• Pura vida means everything from hello to thank you to "it's all good" - locals love when you use it
• Cuanto cuesta? (how much?) is handy at markets and sodas

Packing

Costa Rica has two seasons: dry (December to April) and green/rainy (May to November). Both are warm and humid.

• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing and a packable rain jacket
• Reef-safe sunscreen and strong insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
• Sturdy sandals plus closed shoes for jungle hikes like Corcovado or Arenal
• A reusable water bottle - tap water is safe to drink in most of the country

Connectivity

Mobile coverage is good along the Central Valley and main tourist routes but patchy in remote areas like the Osa Peninsula. The main carriers are Kolbi, Claro and Movistar.

• Wifi is widely available in hotels and cafes but often slow
• An eSIM is the easiest way to get data the moment you land at SJO or Liberia airport
• Download offline Google Maps for areas with no signal

Quick tips

• Pay small vendors in colones; cards and US dollars are widely accepted elsewhere
• Tipping isn't expected - a 10% service charge is usually included in restaurants
• Use official red taxis or apps; agree on the meter (la maria)
• Roads can be rough - rent a 4x4 if heading off the beaten path
• Watch for strong rip currents; swim only at patrolled beaches
• Sunrise is early (around 5:30am) - start hikes and wildlife tours early
• Carry a copy of your passport, not the original

Stay connected in Costa Rica

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online from the moment you land, so maps, translation and last-minute bookings just work - with no roaming bills.