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.
Spanish, official language
The Castilian (Spanish) is the official language of Costa Rica since independence. It is the language used in administration, education and media. The Costa Rican accent has some local peculiarities but remains easily understandable for any Spanish speaker.
Other languages spoken
- English : well mastered in tourist areas (Guanacaste, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde) and coastal cities. Many guides and hotel staff speak English.
- English Creole : spoken mainly in the province of Limón (Caribbean coast) by communities of Jamaican origin.
- Indigenous languages : some communities still speak Bribri, Cabécar or Guaymí, but these languages are minority.
Advice for travelers
A few notions of Spanish greatly facilitate exchanges with locals, especially in rural areas. Costa Ricans appreciate the efforts of visitors and are very patient with beginners.