Your questions about Costa Rica

Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is one of Central America's safest countries, with remarkable political stability and a strong peaceful tradition. Only precaution needed: petty theft in major cities like San José and Limón.

What should you pack for a trip to Costa Rica?

For Costa Rica, pack lightweight and breathable clothing, a rain jacket, hiking shoes, swimsuit, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and binoculars to observe the exceptional wildlife.

What is the climate like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica enjoys a tropical climate with two seasons: dry (December-April) with sunshine mainly on the Pacific side, and rainy (May-November) with intense afternoon showers. Temperatures vary according to altitude.

What is the time difference between Costa Rica and France?

Costa Rica is 7 hours behind France in winter (12 p.m. in France = 5 a.m. in Costa Rica) and 8 hours in summer (12 p.m. in France = 4 a.m. in Costa Rica).

What is the capital of Costa Rica?

San José is the capital of Costa Rica. This city of over 330,000 inhabitants is located in the center of the country, in the Central Valley at 1,200 meters altitude.

What language is spoken in Costa Rica?

The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. English is widely understood in tourist and coastal areas, while English-influenced Creole is spoken in the Caribbean region.

What is the best season to visit Costa Rica?

The best season to travel to Costa Rica runs from December to April, during the dry season. This period offers sunny weather and passable roads throughout the country.

What is the currency of Costa Rica and its exchange rate?

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC). As of September 2025, 1 euro equals approximately 570 CRC. The US dollar is widely accepted throughout the country.

What is the religion practiced in Costa Rica?

Catholicism is the majority and official religion in Costa Rica. Religious freedom is guaranteed: you will find Protestant, evangelical communities, and small Jewish and Muslim minorities.

What is the area of Costa Rica?

Costa Rica covers 51,100 km², equivalent to Normandy and Brittany combined, making it a relatively small country but remarkably rich in biodiversity.

What vaccinations are recommended for a trip to Costa Rica?

No vaccines are mandatory for Costa Rica, except yellow fever if arriving from a high-risk country. Recommended vaccines are DTP, hepatitis A, and typhoid. For longer stays or rural areas, add hepatitis B and rabies.