01
Entry and documents
Foreign visitors must carry a valid travel document, a visa when applicable, proof of economic means and a return or onward ticket. Immigration determines the authorized stay on entry, and it varies by nationality.
Check rules before purchasing flights. Certain origins or itineraries require a yellow-fever certificate. Carrying US$10,000 or more—or equivalent—in cash or securities triggers a declaration requirement.
- Do not assume a previous stay guarantees the same period.
- Keep a passport and entry-stamp copy separate from the original.
- Check transit requirements for every connection.
- Use official pages for immigration changes.
02
Health, insurance and emergencies
Buy cover for hospitalization, evacuation and activities such as hiking, surfing or diving. Carry medication in original packaging and sufficient quantity; check applicable restrictions.
Heat, sun, humidity and elevation cause problems even on relaxed trips. Hydrate, acclimatize and follow alerts for currents, storms or volcanic activity.
- Emergency number: 9-1-1.
- Repellent, sunscreen and a basic first-aid kit.
- Do not drink from a source without confirming potability.
- Do not touch wildlife or irritating plants.
03
Money and connectivity
The currency is the colón. Cards are common, but cash helps on buses, at markets, parking and in remote areas. Confirm fees and exchange rates.
An eSIM, local SIM or roaming helps with navigation, but coverage disappears in mountains and protected areas. Download maps, confirmations and contacts for offline use.
04
Everyday safety
Use normal precautions: leave nothing visible in a vehicle, use identified transport, avoid isolated beaches or trails after dark and ask locally about conditions.
Rip currents may exist without signs or lifeguards. At rivers and waterfalls, rain upstream can cause flash floods. Follow closures and never risk a crossing to preserve the itinerary.
- Share your location or route.
- Separate documents, cards and cash.
- Do not display expensive equipment unnecessarily.
- If a situation feels unsafe, change the plan.
05
Responsible tourism and final checklist
Book clearly identified businesses and, when possible, certified or community-managed initiatives. Do not feed animals, remove shells or plants, and carry waste out.
Seventy-two hours before: review weather, road status, reservations, flight and transport. The day before: charge devices, download maps and confirm the real departure time.
- Reusable bottle and bag.
- Light clothing, rain layer and warmth for elevation.
- Appropriate footwear, not only sandals.
- Respect communities, private property and protected-area rules.
