When to go
The best time to go to Costa Rica is during the dry season, which is to say between December and April. On the other hand, the prices are lower and there are fewer tourists during the green season but the climate is less favourable and more humid.Entry requirements
If you are staying less than 90 days you do not need a visa. Your passport will need to be valid for at least one day after the end of your stay and evidence of return or onward travel is all that is required for a stay in Costa Rica.
-
Health advise
If you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic then you will need a vaccination certificate for a trip to Costa Rica You are also recommended to ensure your DTP vaccination is up to date. Others, such as typhoid, and hepatitis A and B are also recommended.
You should also protect yourself against insect bites by wearing long clothes and using protective sprays.
Finally, drink bottled rather than tap water.
If you would like more information consult the NHS website.
Airline tickets
Flights from London to San Jose start from as little as £500 Obviously prices vary according to the season and the airline.Time difference
Costa Rica is 6 hours behind the UK in winter and 7 hours in summer. So, when it is 7 a.m. in Costa Rica in November, it is 1 p.m. in the UK.Language
The official language is Spanish. There are numerous indigenous languages spoken in different regions.Relevant contacts
British Embassy in Costa Rica
Edificio Centro Colon
Paseo Colon
- San José
Costa Rican Embassy in UK
Flat 1
14 Lancaster Gate London W2 3LH
Emergencies: 911 (police, fire brigade, ambulance, Red Cross)
Phone and internet connection
The international telephone code for Costa Rica is 506.
In the towns there is no problem getting onto the internet. There is wifi in most hotels, youth hostels, restaurants and cafes. On the other hand, if you are going into the jungle, it may be more difficult to get a connexion.
