Costa Rica is a land of diversity. This vibrant Central America country is brimming with culture, sunshine, and beaches. Before you go, learn some of the interesting facts about Costa Rica. There are definitely things I wish I knew before going to Costa Rica; my experience and research will help you to plan the best trip ever.
There are adventures for almost every kind of outdoor and nature enthusiast. Think waterfalls, hikes, surfing, and chocolate tours. Does it get better than that? What if you are looking for relaxation? Discover some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.
31 Fun and Interesting Facts About Costa Rica
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Did you know that US News Costa Rica is ranked in the top ten countries for adventure? Discover these interesting and fun facts about Costa Rica that will help you in planning your international adventure.
1. Tap Water is Generally Safe to Drink
If you have traveled to many Latin American countries, you know that the water quality may be somewhat iffy. Costa Rica is a country that thrives on tourism. It might be one of the biggest questions you have of Costa Rica. The Costa Rican government works hard to provide clean drinking water in almost every part of the country. IF YOU ARE CONCERNED, you may want to stick with drinking bottled water.
As Chris and I returned happy and healthy from our trip to Costa Rica after drinking the tap water, using ice cubes in the restaurants, and enjoying smoothies, we are now happy to share our experience.
We drank water both from the tap at our vacation rental as well as from a filtered water pitcher. Both were fine, though the filtered water tasted just a bit better in my opinion. At the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, we drank water from the tap as well as the bottled water provided for free in our rooms each day.
2. Mosquitos Are Aplenty
One thing you don’t always think about is the need for bug spray in paradise. It is a must for your tropical vacation packing list and one of the very handy tips for traveling in Costa Rica. I am happy to say it is not one of the things I wish I knew before going to Costa Rica. I was grateful that I did my research.
I am a magnet for bites at home while my husband rarely gets bitten. After reading the recommendations from other travelers to bring bug spray, I did a little research and found the BUGGINS Original Gnat & Mosquito Insect Repellent with a light vanilla, mint and rose scent. I didn’t mind the smell at all.
Some tropical locations have mosquitoes and no-see-ums. Having been bitten by both, I prefer not to give those nasty bugs a chance. Sadly, I forgot to spray on bug spray for my last night in Costa Rica. After arriving home I began to notice small bites on my arms and legs.
3. You May Need a Rain Jacket
Although Chris and I traveled to Costa Rica at the beginning of the rainy season, we didn’t see a drop of rain during our week-long stay. In fact, the weather was hotter than normal.
The rainy season is from May to November, and we traveled during the first week in May.
I would recommend tucking in a packable rain jacket just in case. Along with that, I would also suggest a waterproof cover for your backpack, especially if you carry expensive photography gear.
While Chris and I didn’t experience any drastic changes in the weather, from what I could gather from my research, flash rainstorms are quite common.
We did take a day trip from the coast to a tropical rainforest and were sure to bring our rain jackets (just in case). The temperature was at least 15° cooler, but still pleasant. That takes me back to the previous tip however: be sure to wear bug spray!
4. There are 7 Countries in Central America
Did you know that Central America is made up of 7 countries? I know now (as I would normally lump them all into the South America category).
- Belize
- Costa Rica
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Nicaragua
- Panama
5. The Capital of Costa Rica is San Jose
San Jose, in the province of San Jose, is the capital city of Costa Rica. It is nestled in a beautiful valley and offers a mild year-round climate. The majority of Costa Ricans live in San Jose,Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago.
6. There are 7 Provinces within Costa Rica
Within Costa Rica, there are 7 provinces or regions: Guanacaste, Alajuela, Heredia, San Jose, Cartago, Limon, Puntarenas. If you are looking for cool places to visit in Costa Rica, you might find it a challenge to narrow down your location. Puntarenas and Guanacaste are on the Pacific Ocean side of the country, while Limon is on the Caribbean side.
7. Rental Car Insurance Is Required
Chris and I visited Tamarindo, Playa del Coco, Plaga Langosta, Playa Hermosa, Rincon de la Vieja National Park, and the Papagayo Peninsula during our visit to Costa Rica; I definitely recommend getting a rental car.
If you choose to rent a car in Costa Rica, you will surely encounter Rental Car Insurance. Some agencies include the additional insurance in the quote when you make reservations online, and others will simply surprise you with it when you pick up your car.
YOU ARE REQUIRED BY COSTA RICAN LAW TO ACCEPT THE MINIMUM RENTAL CAR COMPANY’S COLLISION DAMAGE WAIVER AND THIRD-PARTY INSURANCE.
This is regardless of the coverage you receive through your own credit card. You may, however, be given the option of different levels of coverage.
Chris and I opted for the minimum coverage. We had our rental car for one week, and the extra insurance added on approximately $150 to the total cost. If you aren’t expecting this cost and haven’t budgeted for it, you will definitely be surprised.
8. Most Rentals have a Manual Transmission
One of things to know about Costa Rica is that manual-transmission vehicles are the standard option. An automatic may be available, but you will need to request one in advance and it will most likely cost more to rent.
9. Plan to Rent a 4×4
Is a 4×4 rental in Costa Rica a good thing? Yes. Yes. Yes.
This is one of the things I wish I knew before going to Costa Rica. Chris and I did not rent a 4×4 and found that even getting up the hill to our vacation rental was a challenge in our low end car. Going back for another visit, we would definitely get a 4×4.
We also traveled over some very bumpy and questionable “roads”. A 4×4 would have been so much nicer. There are limited options for local transport if you choose not to rent a car.
Additional Tips for Driving in Costa Rica:
- Be a defensive driver and drive with caution
- Some roads are toll roads which require cash
- Police have been known to conduct routine stops to check documentation. You will need to show them your license and passport (to prove that you are driving within the time limit of your visa—30 days for tourists).
10. Attendants Will Pump Gas for You
When you drive into a gas station, sit tight in your vehicle while an attendant fills the tank for you. If it is your lucky day, they may even clean your windshield free of charge!
11. The Road Conditions Can be Iffy
As noted above, be a cautious driver. Many mountain roads are often winding and narrow; one of the things to know about Costa Rica is that you will find nicely paved roads as well as dirt roads that are bumpy and filled with potholes.
12. Costa Rica’s National Currency is the Colón
The national currency in Costa Rica is colones ₡. You may be able to pay for accommodation and tours in USD as well as with your credit card, but having local currency on hand to pay at local eateries and such may be required.
1 USD is approximately = 600 colones
13. Carry Cash with You
Many of the places you stay, pre-booked attractions, and some restaurants will accept credit cards. It is a good idea, however, to exchange money for colones to be able to pay some extras:
- Tips
- Local eateries
- Toll roads
- Small shops
Chris and I booked a couples massage while in Costa Rica. When booking, they requested that we have the necessary amount in local currency to pay in colones. If you are unsure, ask.
14. Tipping is Not Mandatory in Costa Rica
One of the things to know about Costa Rica is that tipping is not mandatory. You will find that many establishments already include a 10% tip or service charge. If you feel as though your guide, driver, hotel maid service, server, or excursion host has given you superior service, tips are always appreciated.
The standard amount to tip in Costa Rica is 10% and you can give either Costa Rican colones or US dollars.
15. Sales Tax and Service Fees
In Costa Rica, it is required by law that restaurants include a 10% service fee that translates as a tip. Sales tax for restaurants, retails stores, and tourism services is currently 13%.
16. Fun Facts about Costa Rica? There is No Daylight Saving Time
One of the important things to know about Costa Rica is that it does not follow Daylight Saving Time. Costa Rica is located roughly 10 degrees north of the equator.
From March to November, the current time in Costa Rica is the same as Mountain Daylight Time in the United States. For Chris and I, there was no time change at all. Yay for no jet lag! From mid-March to mid-November, the current time in Costa Rica would be the same as Central Time in the United States.
Sunset occurs around 6:00 pm EVERY evening and the sky start to get light in the morning around 5:00 am.
17. Pay Attention to the Seasons When Booking
One of the interesting facts about Costa Rica is that it has two tropical season: dry season and green season.
Dry season (also known as high season) is from December to April. During these months, many tourists arrive in Costa Rica to enjoy the tropical weather. Green season aka the rainy season is from May to November.
Chris and I visited at the beginning of the rainy season. We did not experience any rain; in fact, the weather was unseasonably hot. Many of the locals that we talked with were anxious for some cooler weather and rain.
We did not experience heavy rain nor mud, but if you travel to Costa Rica during the months of the rainy season, you will want to be prepared for the weather and driving conditions. It is always a good idea to bring your rain gear with you, even if the skies start out blue in the morning.
As far as the best time to go to Costa Rica? I would say, “Whenever you can get away!” I would think the shoulder season would be ideal: April to May and November and December.
18. Spanish is the Official Language
Wherever you travel in this great big world, it is a good idea to have a few LOCAL words and phrases ready to go when you visit. The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. As one of the best tips for traveling in Costa Rica, do yourself a favor and learn a few of these basics words and phrases:
- Hello – Hola
- Goodbye – Adiós
- Please – Por favor
- Thanks – Gracias
- You’re welcome – Con Mucho Gusto
- Good morning – Buenos días
- Good evening – Buenas noches
- How are you? – Cómo estás?
- Pure Life – Pura Vida
19. You Will Hear “Pura Vida” Often
One of the fun facts about Costa Rica? You will hear “Pura Vida” often as it represents Costa Ricans’ relaxed attitude towards life. It can be used to say “hello”, “goodbye”, “everything is okay”, and to brush off negativity. It is a way of life and an attitude.
20. Wildlife
Costa Rica is full of a diverse population of animals and wildlife.
As Chris and I followed our guide in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and tropical forest, we were surprised when he showed us snakes, butterflies, a toucan, and insects. We would have never known they were there.
We visited the Diamante Animal Sanctuary as well where we saw monkeys, butterflies, sloths, jaguars and more. Again, if you are hiking in the forest, you may never spot them on your own.
The most common creature that we saw while snorkeling was the sea urchin. While the water was not nearly so clear as the water in Moorea, Tahiti, there was still plenty to see in Costa Rica.
21. Howler Monkeys are LOUD!
We saw plenty of monkeys at Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. They were abundant in the trees around the resort. The first morning we saw them, we said, “Oh, how cute.”
One of the things I wish I knew before going to Costa Rica is that some of those cute howler monkeys are LOUD! Important things to know about Costa Rica and monkeys: if they happen to be in the trees outside your hotel room as the sun goes down, you are in for a noisy night. The sounds coming out of these cute little monkeys is not so cute!
22. The National Animal is the Sloth!
Like much of the wildlife in Costa Rica, you may never see a sloth in its natural habitat unless someone points it out to you.
23. A “Soda” Isn’t What You Think it Is
One of things to know about Costa Rica is that a soda is a small eatery, much like a mom and pop restaurant. Sodas typically offer open-air seating, traditional Costa Rican food, and a relaxed vibe.
One of the cool places to visit in Costa Rica is a soda; it is an awesome way to immerse yourself in the culture while also saving a little money!
24. The Food is Not Typically Spicy
You and I would probably expect that Costa Rican food be spicy as you might find Mexican food to be. However, your typical meal of rice, beans, veggies and tropical fruit is not spicy.
25. A Tour Guide is Worth the Investment
One of the benefits to a guided tour is having a guide who is accustomed to spotting the wildlife in nature that you would typically walk past without seeing.
Chris and I enjoyed a guided tour through the rainforest with Joaquin of Sensoria as one of our Costa Rica highlights. Our tour included a hike, waterfalls, time to relax in the thermal pools, climbing to the top of the viewing tower to see the volcano in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park, and lunch.
Joaquin, our guide, shared his expert knowledge of the rainforest along with a few snake sightings. “Don’t worry”, he said. “Pit vipers aren’t easily excited!” Yikes!
26. WiFi is Available
As a forward-thinking country that relies on the tourism industry, Costa Rica is no stranger to technology. One of the important things to know about Costa Rica is that many populated areas have access to either cable or DSL high-speed Internet. WiFi is available free of charge in certain locations throughout the country.
Chris and I enjoyed great service at our vacation rental in Playa Hermosa as well as at the Andaz resort on the Papagayo Peninsula.
27. Costa Rica is a Farming Country
Tourism is important to Costa Rica. It supports the country’s economy along with many growing tech businesses. However, Costa Rica is also largely agricultural with many farms growing coffee, cacao, pineapple, and bananas.
28. Costa Rica Does NOT Have a Military
One of the interesting facts about Costa Rica is that they do not have a military. They do maintain small forces capable of law enforcement, but Costa Rica has no permanent standing army.
29. There are Numerous Volcanoes in Costa Rica
Fun facts about Costa Rica: The country has a large number of volcanoes—six of them are active volcanoes and at least 61 are dormant or extinct. The most active volcano in recent years? Arenal.
You can book tours to hike to volcanoes even.
30. The Coast is One of the Cool Places to Visit in Costa Rica
“Soft sand, warm sun, ocean breezes and the reassuring sounds of the waves—the beach thrills us and calms us in equal measure. With oceans on two sides of the country, Costa Rica boasts about 800 miles of coastline. Surfers can find great waves all year, and every beach is open to all visitors because everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy the experience.” ~ Visit Costa Rica
31. Soccer (or Football) is the National Past Time
As in many countries around the world, soccer (or football), is a popular sport. Perhaps that is because it is so inclusive as one ball can be shared by many. Additionally, a game of soccer can be played almost everywhere. Many of the towns in Costa Rica have a “cancha” or soccer field.
Travel and Photography Gear
If you are a photographer at heart, you will want to be sure you have packed all of the necessary gear. Here are a few camera and lens options for varying skill levels:
- Canon Powershot G1 X Mark III – A point and shoot with Manual mode options
- Canon t8i plus a lens kit – Perfect for beginners
- Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS My favorite lens for the Canon t8i
- Canon 6d Mark II DSLR – An upgraded camera for intermediate photographers
- Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens for the Canon 6d Mark II
You can see more of my photography gear recommendations on my Amazon Storefront. Click the box below to take a look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I be concerned about my valuables?
Don’t flash expensive jewelry, electronics, purses, or clothing. You’ll want to do your best to blend in. Be mindful of handing over your phone to a stranger to take pictures for you. Really, if you have valuables that you are concerned about, just leave them home.
What is Costa Rica known for?
Costa Rica is famous for its incredible natural wonders, aromatic coffee, chocolate, Pura Vida lifestyle, beautiful beaches, wildlife, rainforest, volcanoes, mountains, delicious food, and progressive government.
What is the population of Costa Rica?
There are approximately 5 million people living in Costa Rica.
Are there volcanoes in Costa Rica?
Yes. There are over 200 volcanic formations. Of those, approximately 100 actually show signs of activity and only six are classified as active within the past 50 years.
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Final Thoughts on 31 Fun and Interesting Facts About Costa Rica
There you have it! These are not ALL of the things to know about Costa Rica but it’s a good start. Some of these are things I found in my research, and some turned out to be things I wish I knew before going to Costa Rica. If you are wondering what to pack, be sure to check my FREE Costa Rica Packing List.
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This is such a great post on tips and facts about Costa Rica! Wish I had read this before we went on a 2 week trip last year!
I went down to Panama and Colombia a few years ago but haven’t made it to Costa Rica yet. Your post is making me want to visit asap. Thanks for the tip!
Thank you for this super helpful and thorough guide! Definitely is good to know the water is safe to drink since thats always been a concern for me in South America.
My husband and I were going to go to Costa Rica in April. But he renewed his passport in mid January and we were worried that it wasn’t going to come in time so we canceled it, and we are going to Japan instead later in the fall. He did get his passport in time weeks before we were to leave, but it worked out because my uncle died and my mom and stepdad had to go to the Philippines for his funeral and I had to watch my autistic sister (who’s under my mom’s care). That said, I still really want to go to Costa Rica; it’s so beautiful and I was so looking forward to going! I will see if we can go next year!
Costa Rica looks like a beautiful country to visit! I would love to see the sloths!
This post is very helpful! I am traveling to Costa Rica this winter and saved this post to refer back later. Thank you for all of the helpful info!
Great tips and facts about Costa Rica for anyone that wants to travel there.
Great post with so much useful information! Costa Rica is super high on my wishlist, and your post definitely helped my desire to go! But I will be remembering to bring bug spray because I suffer like you for being easy bug food 🙁 Thank you for sharing!
I have been thinking about visiting Costa Rica, but have not made up my mind yet. Your information and tips are valuable for Costa Rica travel planning. Thanks for sharing!
Very helpful! We love Costa Rica!
My in-laws are considering moving to Costa Rica. Going to send this along to them!
Thank you for providing the map of the Guanacaste Region of Costa Rica and interesting facts about Costa Rica. Following the tips provided in the blog will surely help in exploring Costa Rica.