The Land
132 miles of coastline on the Caribbean along with 635 miles of coastline on the Pacific make Costa Rica a beach traveler’s dream. Although small in size, Costa Rica is a land of extreme contrast, distinctive climatic zones and immense biodiversity. Hot steamy jungles, fertile pastureland, chilly highlands and mountain peaks make Costa Rica a land of spell bounding variety. In one day you can travel from the bone chilling crispness of the Chirripo to the fresh breeze of the Central Valley to the steaming heat of the coastal rainforest to the sun-baked beaches of the Caribbean or Pacific coasts, both coastlines are blessed with some of the most enchanting beaches in the world.

Climate
There are two basic seasons: wet and dry; referred to locally as ‘winter’ and ‘summer’. The winter months, also known as wet, rainy, or green season, run from May through November and the summer months (dry season) last from December through April.

Packing
Packing for Costa Rica is a challenge considering the country’s variable weather conditions which can change greatly in a single trip, from near freezing temperature on mountain top to blistering heat and humidity on the coast. We recommend that you pack versatile clothing suitable for ‘layering’; light enough for the coastal heat, warm enough for the Central Valley, and able to keep you dry in unexpected showers. Click here for more Travel Tips.

Maps
Costa Rica is divided into Seven Provinces - see Map: San Jose, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste, Puntarenas and Limon. Each province has its own unique characteristics but in general Costa Rica is a very homogeneous country. Keep in mind that place names are repeated around the country so it is important to specify, for instance, which ‘Playa Hermosa’ you are traveling to – the one in Guanacaste, or the one near Jaco or Dominical.

Events
From a Saint’s day to seasonal harvests, Ticos love celebrating special occasions and fiestas which invariably include exhibits of food, animals, arts, carnivals and Days-Off. Check Special Events to see what is happening around the country and The Tico Times weekend calendar for updates on cultural activities.

Money
Most hotels accept payment in US Dollars or will gladly exchange Dollars for Colones. You will probably get a better rate in the bank, where the official exchange rate fluctuates by a small amount daily. Most hotels and tourists facilities accept international credit cards. More information here on Banking and Tipping.

Language
English is fast becoming the second language in Costa Rica and you will be surprised at how easily you can get around without speaking a word of Spanish. However, a basic interest or curiosity in the local Language will help you get the most of your travel and enhance your enjoyment of the local 'Tico' Culture.

Entry and Exit
Americans, Canadians, western Europeans and Latin Americans do not require visas to travel to Cost Rica, but you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months. A 90-day visa will be stamped in your passport on entry. If you plan to travel in the country for longer you will need to leave and re-enter. More information on passports and visas can be obtained from your country’s Embassies in San Jose. On departure, be at the airport about 3 hours before flight departure time. There is a uniform departure tax of $26.00 for all passengers, which can be paid in Dollars or Colones or with a major credit card.

Transport
If you are planning to head straight for the beaches of Guanacaste, book your flight into the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia. This will save you a long ride from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) 30 minutes outside of San Jose where majority of flights arrive. The SJO terminal has several shops, a food court, a VIP lounge with internet and TV. Wi-Fi access is available at the boarding gates. Bank, currency exchange window and ATMs are also here. Taxis at the airport accept Dollars and fare to most points in San Jose is around $20. Get more travel information here on flights, intercity buses and San Jose taxis.