Costa Rica Visa Requirements

No, US citizens can visit Costa Rica without a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism, transit, or business purposes. Your passport must be valid for at least one day beyond your arrival date, though having 6 months validity is recommended for smoother entry. You should have proof of onward travel (return or onward ticket) and may be asked to show sufficient funds for your stay. Costa Rica is one of the most accessible countries in Central America for US visitors.

Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America and has no military, investing instead in education and conservation. That said, petty crime like pickpocketing, bag snatching, and car break-ins occur, especially in San José and at popular beaches. Don't leave valuables visible in rental cars or on the beach. Use hotel safes, avoid walking alone at night in urban areas, and use official taxis (red with yellow triangles) or ride apps. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon but does occur. The country has excellent tourism infrastructure and generally welcoming locals (ticos). Most visitors have safe, wonderful experiences.

Costa Rica has two seasons: dry season (December-April) and green/rainy season (May-November). The dry season is peak tourist season with guaranteed sunshine but higher prices and more crowds. The green season offers lower prices, fewer tourists, and lush landscapes; rain typically falls in the afternoon, leaving mornings clear. Wildlife viewing can be better in green season. The Caribbean coast (Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero) has its driest months in September-October when the Pacific coast is wettest. Microclimates vary significantly; it can rain in one valley while the sun shines in the next. Pack layers as temperatures vary greatly with elevation.

No vaccinations are officially required for US travelers visiting Costa Rica unless arriving from a yellow fever endemic country, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required. However, routine vaccinations should be up to date, and Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended by the CDC for most travelers. If spending time in rural jungle areas, discuss Hepatitis B, Rabies, and Malaria prophylaxis with your doctor. Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue and Zika are present; use repellent containing DEET. Tap water is safe to drink in most of Costa Rica, a rarity in Central America.

Costa Rica is one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, home to about 5% of global species. Commonly spotted wildlife includes howler, spider, and capuchin monkeys; two and three-toed sloths; colorful toucans, scarlet macaws, and quetzals; poison dart frogs; crocodiles; sea turtles (nesting seasons vary by coast); and diverse marine life for snorkeling and diving. National parks like Corcovado, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero, and Monteverde offer excellent wildlife viewing. Hiring local guides dramatically increases sightings, as they spot camouflaged animals invisible to untrained eyes. Dawn and dusk are best for wildlife activity. Bring binoculars and respect animal distances.