Costa Rica is located just south of the middle of the Central American isthmus that connects the North American and South American continents, between Nicaragua and Panama.
San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, and the capital of the province of the same name. It is in the center of the country, in the mid-west of the Central Valley, within San José Canton.
5.3 Million. Demographic data as of July 1, 2024
While the official language of Costa Rica is Spanish, English is widely spoken throughout the country.
Costa Rica observes Central Standard Time (CST) all year. There are no Daylight Saving Time clock changes.
The Papagayo region boasts a blissful coastal climate, where you can bask in endless summers with daytime temperatures comfortably hovering between 82-90°F. Its sunny, dry season December through April which contrasts beautifully with a wet season that is rainiest in September and October with transitional weather in May and November. It creates an ideal destination for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Costa Rica’s climate is a fascinating mosaic of tropical and subtropical weather, shaped by its position between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn and its close proximity to both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Expect diverse weather patterns across the country: the lowlands revel in tropical warmth, the highlands offer cooler respite, and the Caribbean coast enjoys a refreshing, rain-soaked charm year-round.
The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is the national currency of the Republic of Costa Rica, first issued in coin and paper form in 1896. The name “colón” comes from Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón) in Spanish.
Costa Rican residents are generally required to pay taxes on their worldwide income, including income earned within Costa Rica and from foreign sources. Fortunately, Costa Rica is known for its simple tax system and relatively low income tax rates.
The government is a democratic republic; the president of Costa Rica is the chief of state and head of government. Currently, the sitting president, Jesús Chaves Robles, has been in office since 2022. Costa Rica has a variety of private freedoms such as freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, combined with centralized economic planning, and government regulations.
Costa Rica does not maintain a national military, and laws regarding ownership of firearms are strictly regulated. Assault weapons, fully automated firearms, and high-caliber rifles are all prohibited.
The average monthly cost for utilities in Costa Rica is around $100, covering electricity, water, and internet. Transportation costs are variable, but public buses are a cost-effective option.
Not all people who wish to travel to Costa Rica need a tourist visa; this will depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, country of residence and duration of stay. Visa requirements are based on international agreements or treaties. However, the visa does not guarantee entry to Costa Rica and, as in the United States, this depends on the immigration officer upon arrival.
