Travel To Costa Rica: What Dod Personnel Should Know

Costa Rica is a popular destination for tourists seeking exotic yet safe travel experiences. The country is known for its diverse terrain, including lush forests, wildlife reserves, hot springs, and tropical beaches. While Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in the Western Hemisphere, travellers should still exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions.

When planning a trip to Costa Rica, it is important to be aware of the entry requirements and health protocols in place. All tourists must comply with the immigration processes and provide necessary documentation, such as a valid passport, visa (if required), and proof of economic means. Additionally, travellers should be prepared for the local climate and pack appropriate gear, including rainwear and closed-toe shoes, as the country experiences both dry and wet seasons.

To ensure a memorable and safe trip, travellers should consider supporting local entrepreneurs and engaging in cultural experiences. Learning some basic Spanish phrases can also enhance the travel experience and facilitate connections with locals. It is advisable to book activities with reputable operators and research any restrictions or certifications required in advance.

When exploring Costa Rica, it is important to respect the natural environment and wildlife. Staying on marked trails and avoiding nocturnal hikes can help protect both travellers and the fragile ecosystems. Additionally, it is illegal to disturb wildlife or plants, so it is best to admire them from a distance.

Overall, adopting a pura vida approach, which embodies a relaxed and positive attitude, can enhance the travel experience in Costa Rica.

Entry requirements

To enter Costa Rica, you must comply with the immigration processes established in the General Immigration and Aliens Act. This includes providing:

• A valid passport or travel document. This must be valid for the duration of your stay and will only be accepted if it can be read electronically in line with the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
• A visa, if required.
• Proof of economic means, with a minimum of $100 per month or partial month of legal stay in the country.
• A return ticket to the country of origin or a plan of onward travel that includes the next destination.
• No impediment to entering Costa Rican territory.

The maximum legal stay for foreign nationals will be determined by the immigration agent upon entry into the country. Visitors must have a valid passport and proof that they will be leaving the country before their visa or entry stamp expires. All travellers must therefore have a ticket for return or onward travel.

Non-residents must have a ticket for return or onward travel if they are arriving on a one-way ticket, entering the country with a return ticket that is more than 90 days after their date of arrival, or flying out of a different country.

By law, a return or onward travel ticket may be on one of the following means of approved commercial transportation:

• A pre-purchased bus or flight out of the country.
• Proof of passage on a cruise ship.

If you are carrying $10,000 or more in cash or securities, or its equivalent in other currencies, you must request and complete a form at the immigration checkpoint and present it to the Customs Authority for verification. Failure to do so will result in the immediate forfeiture of the money.

As of July 30, 2007, Costa Rican authorities require all travellers from the following countries to have a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and the Republic of Guyana.

Since April 1, 2022, there has been no vaccine mandate or other COVID-related entry or travel restrictions for Costa Rica. However, all travellers are required to complete a short symptom survey.

Safety precautions

Crime

Costa Rica is a country with a high level of crime, including violent crimes such as armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault. Tourists are often targeted for theft as they are perceived as being wealthy. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded and tourist areas, and to avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewellery. Do not physically resist any robbery attempts and comply with the assailant's demands.

Health

There are several health risks to be aware of when travelling to Costa Rica. It is recommended that you are up to date on all vaccinations and that you consult a healthcare professional before your trip to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medications. Some of the diseases prevalent in Costa Rica include HIV/AIDS, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, and malaria. Exercise caution when consuming food and beverages, as travellers' diarrhea is common. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and seek medical attention if you begin to feel unwell. There have been reports of individuals falling ill or dying after consuming alcohol tainted with methanol.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety in Costa Rica are generally poor, with roads often lacking clear markings, having narrow shoulders, and large potholes. It is recommended to avoid driving at night outside of urban areas. When driving, exercise extreme caution when crossing moving water and do not drive through water. Bridges may be single-lane, even on heavily travelled roads, and some rural roads may lack bridges altogether. Public transportation is unreliable, with pickpocketing being common on public buses. It is recommended to use official taxis that have been booked ahead of time.

Natural Disasters

Costa Rica is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. The rainy season, typically from April to October, can bring torrential rains, landslides, and flooding. Hurricanes are also a risk during the hurricane season, which usually occurs from mid-May to the end of November. Always stay informed of the latest weather forecasts and follow the instructions of local authorities in the event of a natural disaster.

Health and safety

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Costa Rica, with tourists being frequent targets due to the perception of wealth. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded and tourist areas. Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewellery or watches, and keep your belongings secure at all times. It is also recommended to avoid isolated areas, particularly after dark, and to only use official taxis that have been booked ahead of time.

Health

When visiting Costa Rica, it is important to take precautions to ensure your health and safety. Make sure you are up to date with all recommended vaccinations and consult a healthcare professional for specific advice. Additionally, some prescription medications may not be available in Costa Rica, so be sure to bring sufficient quantities of any required medication and keep them in their original containers.

Adventure Sports and Outdoor Activities

Adventure sports and outdoor activities, such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and hiking, are popular in Costa Rica. However, it is important to exercise caution when participating in these activities. Always use certified tour operators, carry the necessary safety equipment, and avoid venturing off marked trails. The terrain and weather conditions can be unpredictable, and safety features on small boats used for river and lake excursions may not always be reliable.

Natural Disasters and Climate

Costa Rica is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and tsunamis. The rainy season, typically from May to November, can bring torrential rains, landslides, and flooding. It is important to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and follow the instructions of local authorities in the event of a natural disaster.

Food and Water

Take precautions when consuming food and water in Costa Rica to reduce the risk of travellers' diarrhea and other illnesses. Only consume food and beverages from reputable establishments, and avoid tap water unless it has been boiled or treated.

COVID-19

As of April 1, 2022, Costa Rica has suspended all COVID-19-related entry and travel restrictions, including vaccine mandates and health passes. However, it is still recommended to follow general COVID-19 safety guidelines, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distance.

Transport

Air Travel

Costa Rica is served by two international airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Guanacaste. Several airlines offer direct flights to Costa Rica from the United States, including American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United.

Entry/Exit Requirements

All visitors to Costa Rica must present a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and proof of solvency (at least $100 USD per month of their intended stay). Visitors from certain countries in South America, Africa, and Asia may also need to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Getting Around Costa Rica

Due to the country's relatively small size and varied landscape, getting around Costa Rica is generally easy and straightforward. The most common ways to get around include renting a car, taking a bus or shuttle, or booking a domestic flight.

#### Renting a Car

Renting a car in Costa Rica can be a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore multiple destinations during your trip. However, it's important to note that road conditions in Costa Rica can vary significantly, with some roads being narrow, unpaved, or in poor condition. Driving at night is not recommended due to limited visibility and the presence of pedestrians and animals on the roads.

#### Bus and Shuttle Services

Bus and shuttle services are widely available in Costa Rica and can be a cost-effective way to get between popular destinations. Buses are generally comfortable and air-conditioned, but it's important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings to avoid petty crimes such as pickpocketing.

#### Domestic Flights

For longer distances or to save time, domestic flights are also an option. Several local airlines offer flights between San José and popular tourist destinations such as Quepos (for Manuel Antonio), Tamarindo, Liberia, and Puerto Jiménez (for Corcovado National Park).

Travel Safety

When travelling in Costa Rica, it is important to remain vigilant and take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are common, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. It is recommended to keep your valuables secure at all times, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and stay in well-lit and populated areas whenever possible.

Additionally, it is important to be cautious when participating in outdoor activities such as white-water rafting, hiking, and climbing. These activities can be dangerous if you are unprepared, and it is recommended to obtain detailed information about your activity and the environment beforehand.

Activities

Costa Rica has a lot to offer in terms of activities for visitors. However, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, as petty crime and violent crime are prevalent. Here is a list of activities and some safety precautions to consider:

• Adventure Sports: Bungee jumping, skydiving, hiking, rappelling, climbing, whitewater rafting, and kayaking are popular adventure sports in Costa Rica. However, it is important to use caution and common sense when engaging in these activities. Make sure you have appropriate medical insurance that covers your chosen sport. Never participate in adventure sports alone, and always carry identification. For activities such as kayaking and rafting, check river conditions and wear a life jacket and helmet.
• National Parks: Manuel Antonio National Park and the Coca-Cola bus terminal area in San José are popular tourist destinations. When visiting national parks, it is important to abide by signage and stick to marked trails. Register with the park, obtain an entry permit, and consider using a certified tour operator.
• Beach Activities: Swimming, scuba diving, and surfing are popular beach activities in Costa Rica. However, swimming areas at some beaches can have dangerous rip currents, and lifeguards may not be present. Check with local tour operators or your hotel for information on current swimming and surfing conditions. Avoid consuming alcohol while swimming, and do not swim alone, especially at isolated beaches.
• City Exploration: San José, the capital city, offers cultural and historical attractions, such as museums and architectural landmarks. It is important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded and tourist areas, as pickpocketing and purse snatching are common.
• Wildlife Observation: Costa Rica is known for its diverse wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, wild pigs, and poisonous snakes. Organized tours or hikes in nature reserves and national parks can provide opportunities to observe wildlife safely.
• Dining and Relaxation: Costa Rica offers a variety of dining options, ranging from local cuisine to international restaurants. When dining out, be cautious of accepting food and drinks from new acquaintances, as there have been reports of spiked food and beverages. Additionally, tap water may not be potable, so it is recommended to drink bottled water.
• Cultural Events and Festivals: Costa Rica hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Envision Festival and the International Arts Festival. These events offer opportunities to experience local culture, music, and traditions. However, it is important to stay informed about local developments and follow any safety guidelines provided by event organizers.

Frequently asked questions