20 of Costa Ricas Frequently Asked Questions
Before coming to Costa Rica many people have a lot of questions. We’ve answered 20 of Costa Ricas most frequently asked questions to ensure you are as prepared as possible before coming to Costa Rica.
Cost Ricas Frequently Asked Questions - Everything You Need to Know!
General Questions
Costa Ricas Frequently Asked Questions
One of Costa Ricas frequently asked questions is what documents I need to enter Costa Rica. It is important to know this before arriving at customs.
- Passport
- Accommodations (where you will be staying)
- Proof of onward travel (a bus or plane ticket to leave Costa Rica within the next 180 days)
- While at customs they may also ask your itinery, occupation, or other related questions (it is best to have all of these documents printed or easily accessible on your phone before arriving)
This may come as a surprise to many people, but it is completely safe to drink the water in Costa Rica! You do not need to buy bottled water while here and instead you can drink the tap water. There is no risk of getting sick from the water here like many people expect. It is a good idea to bring an insulated reusable waterbottle for your trip.
In Costa Rica you can use both the local currency (Colones) or USD. If you are using USD it is important that all of your bills are in very good condition and do not have any rips, tears or markings; if they do they will not be accepted. It is also recommended to have smaller bills such as $20s or below since not everywhere will have change for larger bills.
At most places if you use USD you will receive colones as your change. Make sure to stay up to date on the exchange rate. Also, card is accepted almost everywhere as well in Costa Rica. It is a great idea to bring a card that does not receive foreign transaction fees with you on your trip.
There are a variety of common scams in Costa Rica. Some of these scams target tourists, some target locals and others target people online. We have gone through all of the most common scams that you should be aware of before visiting Costa Rica. Click here for a comprehensive guide of Costa Rica scams and how to avoid them.
The simple answer is no. In most area, especially tourist areas, Spanish is not essential, but it can be very helpful to at least know some basic phrases before arriving.
This will make it much easier if you are somewhere that someone does not know English. Also learning Spanish is a great way to connect with locals while you are there.
Location
Costa Ricas Frequently Asked Questions
Costa Rica is filled with tons of hidden waterfalls, and you can’t take a trip to Costa Rica without visiting a waterfall! Some of these waterfalls you can swim in and others you cannot. Click here for our full blog of some of the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica that you must visit while you are here.
Costa Rica is filled with beautiful beaches, and each has their own unique features. One of the most popular beaches for tourists to visit is Playa Tamarindo. We have broken down all the best beaches into beaches with activities, secluded beaches, social beaches, etc. Click here to check out this comprehensive list to find out which beach is best for you.
One of the most popular hot springs is Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath in the Guanacaste Province. Click here to book a tour to Rio Negro Hot Springs
Costa Rica is filled with endless places to see. You can spend time in the forest, on the beach, exploring wildlife, and so much more. Click here for our blog that breaks down all of the best places to visit in Costa Rica based on what type of experience you are looking for (National Park, beach, etc.).
If you are looking for adventure tours one of the best ones is the Mega Combo Tour this tour includes the longest jungle waterslide, zip lining, horseback riding, hot springs and so much more!
El Rincon Tours has lots of other adventure tours as well such as white-water river tubing, volcano hikes, and waterfall hikes. Click here to see all the tours El Rincon Tours has to offer!
Tours and Transportation
Costa Ricas Frequently Asked Questions
There are benefits to each option and it will depend on your group. Renting a car is a great way to have freedom while you are traveling. Just be aware of any possible hidden fees when you are booking a rental car because many people do not know about the mandatory insurance you have to purchase when renting a car.
If you are not comfortable driving in Costa Rica. Private transportation is a great option for you. There are many reputable transportation companies that can help you arrange transportation while in Costa Rica.
Arranging transportation is easier than you think. The most important thing is that you find a reputable transportation company. This ensure that you are being driven in an ensured vehicle and will safely make it from one location to the next.
A great company you can use if you are in the Guanacaste Province is El Rincon Tours and Transportation. You can contact them at el***********@gm***.com for all your transportation needs.
One of the best ways to ensure you are working with a reputable tour guide or company is to check out their Google Reviews. This ensure that they provide good customer service and will provide everything that they promised.
You can also join Facebook Groups for people visiting Costa Rica. These group are a great way to connect with local travelers and find out what tours they have enjoyed and who they would recommend.
CR Travel Facebook Group: This Facebook group is a great way to connect with other traveler and ask any question you may have before visiting Costa Rica.
La Leona Waterfall Facebook Group: We have also started a Facebook Group so travels can ask any questions they may have about Costa Rica and receive answers by both travelers and locals.
Public buses are a great option for solo travelers but if you are a family, it is a better option to book private transportation. When using public transportation, it will take longer to get to your next location, and it is important to have the local currency Colones because most buses only accept Colones. If you need assistance finding the bus routes the Moovit app is a great app to use for up-to-date bus schedules.
In Costa Rica, Uber is considered illegal because they government has not found a way to tax it but many people still use it here without any issues and it is a common occupation for many locals.
Here Uber is very reliable and can be a safer option because it shows the prices before you book and exactly who is picking you up. The one area you can not use Uber is at the airport. If you would like to use it at the airport you must arrange with your driver to meet you outside of the airport.
Weather and Environment
Costa Ricas Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! This is a common misconception about the rainy season. In Costa Rica most tour companies are prepared for the rainy season and know how to ensure you have a great day despite any rain that may come.
Also, a common misconception is that it rains all day long during the rainy season, which is not the case. Usually it is just 1-2 hours in the late afternoon. If you are looking to avoid the rain it is best to book a tour in the morning.
During the dry season in Costa Rica, typically from December to April, the weather usually consists of warm temperatures very little rain, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. This season is also the high season so it is when you will see the most tourists. If you are planning to book a vacation during this time, make sure to book everything in advance and be that prices will probably be higher.
The rainy season in Costa Rica is from May-November and is known as their winter. When most people think of the Costa Rica rainy season, they think of rain all day long. That is not the case 99% of the time in Costa Rica. When there is rain it is usually in the afternoon so you can book any tours in the morning and most of the time avoid the rain. Also usually there usually is a lot of rain for 1-2 hours and then no more. It is easy to still have a great vacation in Costa Rica even during the rainy season. This time of year is also usually when there is the least amount of tourists making it easier to book tours and often times less expensive.
A common question many people have when visiting Costa Rica is how to I avoid the mosquitos. It is a great idea to have lightweight long pants and long sleeves to use at night and protect yourself from the mosquitos. Also, you should pack bug spray with you because that is your best defense, and it can be much more expensive here than it is in other places. You will see the most mosquitos during the rainy season and in coastal areas so come prepared.
Who Are We
At La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike, we pride ourselves on being the highest rated tour company in the Rincon de la Vieja area, and quite possibly all of Costa Rica. We specialize in providing unforgettable hiking tours to La Leona Waterfall, but we offer more than just hikes – we also provide exhilarating river tubing and zip-lining experiences. Our expertly trained tour guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of Costa Rica and will ensure you have a fun, educational, and safe trip in Costa Rica.
With our top-rated tours, you can trust that your adventure with us will be the highlight of you trip to Costa Rica.
Tour Options Available
La Leona Waterfall: Group Tour or Private Tour
La Leona Waterfall provides the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. This hike will keep you on your toes as you climb in and out of the crystal-clear blue waters of the Rio Blanco. We have both group tours and private tours available to fit the specific needs of you and your group.
White Water River Tubing
Embark on an exciting tubing expedition down the refreshing blue river the Colorado River right next door to the La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike. You will be guided through numerous rapids by expert tour guides the entire way.
