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Facts for Visitors

Country name:
Republic of Costa Rica

Data code:
CS

Government type:
democratic republic.

Capital:
San Jose

Administrative divisions:
7 provinces (provinces, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose

Currency:
The Costa Rica currency is the colón plural colones. At present $1.00 U.S. dollar is equivalent to C.450.00 colones.

Disputes - international:
none

Illicit drugs:
transshipment country for cocaine and heroin from South America; illicit production of cannabis on small, scattered plots; domestic cocaine consumption has risen

Visas:
Visa requirements for Costa Rica change rapidly so check with your consulate before leaving.

Currently citizens of the USA, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, Panama, Romania, South Korea, Uruguay, the UK, France and most other Western European countries do not need a visa for a 90-day stay.
Citizens of Australia, Ireland, Iceland, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, South Africa, Vatican City and most of Eastern Europe and Latin America can stay 30 days without a visa.

If you do need a visa, it will cost approximately US$20 from a Costa Rican consulate.

Health risks:
Low risk of Dengue fever, Malaria, Cholera and Hepatitis. No vaccination needed.

Time:
GMT/UTC minus 6 hours

Electricity:
110V, 60 Hz

Weights & measures:
Metric

Clothing:
Sweater or jacket for cool weather, depending on the places to visit, Raingear, Tennis shoes or hiking boots, At least a pair of slacks or pants, Binoculars, Mosquito repellent, Sun screen, Flashlight Alarm clock, Bathing suit, Camera and enough film.