FAQs

With very few exceptions the water all over Costa Rica is drinkable.

Electricity in Costa Rica is 110V, and have standard North American 2-pronged outlets. 

The Costa Rican currency is the colón (CRC), and you can find the official exchange rate via the link below to the central bank.  Don't exchange money at the airport--the exchange rate is awful. Instead, use your ATM card to withdraw CRC from the machines (but check with your bank about its own charges first).  Also--most places will accept USD at a reasonable exchange rate.

https://www.bccr.fi.cr/en/SitePages/Home.aspx

Weather apps and websites are NOT very accurate in Costa Rica.  There are also many micro-climates, meaning it could be raining in one area and sunny 50 miles down the coast.  The technical rainy season is from May - December, but peaking in September & October.  Regardless--it rarely rains every day or all day, and is more likely to rain in the afternoon or at night.  From January to April it's the dry season, and very hot and humid--so come prepared. 

Driving:

Use Waze to navigate around Costa Rica as it's a bit more accurate than Google Maps.  Driving from San Jose is pretty easy, especially once you leave the city. Take highway 27 to 34 all the way to Quepos. There are 3-4 toll booths along the way which total about $5-7, and can be paid either in CRC or USD (small bills only).

Flying:

There are several daily flights from the San Jose airport (next to the main international airport) to Quepos, and cost about $110/per person.  Keep in mind baggage weight is limited to 30 pounds--though you can pay extra if it goes over.  During the rainy season, particularly in the afternoons, flights could be subject to cancellation due to weather--to take this into account when planning.

Taxis/Uber:

Taxis are easy and affordable, and you can order one via Whatsapp (8908-0842). Ubers are not common in Costa Rica, and we do not recommend them.  

Busses:

Taking a public bus from San Jose to Quepos / Manuel Antonio is cheap--but not easy.  From the airport you first have to take a bus 17km to the San Jose downtown station (which is not in a good part of town), and then catch the bus back past the airport.  

The Quepos - Manuel Antonio bus, however, is cheap and easy.  Busses pass by every 15 minutes from 7am - 6pm, and then every 30 minutes until 9pm.  The fare is approximately $1 one-way.

It's relatively hot year-round, so don't overpack! Also all restaurants are informal here, so no fancy duds are needed.  Walking or hiking shoes are recommended for some activities (they may get wet, depending on the tour), and sandals for the beach.  It's best to bring sunscreen as it's expensive here--and sunny.  The mosquitoes aren't as bad as most people think, especially outside of the rainy season, but if you're prone to bites bring some anyway.  Lightweight rain gear is also recommended for the rainy season.

Costa Rica in general is a very safe and secure place--however it's important to be mindful.  Most crime--especially the little violent crime--is limited to San Jose, though there is petty theft in tourist areas.  The most common tourist petty theft is in vehicles or at the beach--so don't leave your valuables in your car or at the beach unattended.  Don't go out late at night in Quepos.  Theft in rental properties is rare--but nevertheless be sure to lock up and use the safes when you're not there.  

Mid December to April is the 'high and dry' season, which means more sunshine and busier. March and April are the hottest months. March is also the lesser of the two humpback whale seasons.  

The rainy season technically starts in May, but doesn't peak until October, and isn't as bad as most people think. Even during this 'green season' it's normal to have sunshine for at least half a day, if not more.  September is the peak of the whale season also. From September to early December there is less tourism, and therefore lower prices for accommodations.

The short answer? No. There is one main road between Quepos and the beach, with frequent busses.  Taxis are easy and affordable. Most tours include transportation. 

Having said this--Manuel Antonio is very spread out, and not much of a walking town.  If you want to explore around Manuel Antonio on your own a vehicle is necessary.

Yes, please--for most services. Manuel Antonio is expensive even for Costa Rica, and the cost of living is high.  10% is already included in restaurants, but it's customary to leave another 5-10%. It's also good to tip drivers, tour guides, concierges, and housekeepers.  Your tips are appreciated!

No, there are currently no vaccines required to enter Costa Rica.

The largest and least expensive supermarkets are in Quepos. BM, just north of Quepos, is the biggest. Mini Price hast the best selection of imported and gourmet foods. In Manuel Antonio two supermarket chains--Super Joseth and Super Pura Vida--are pricier and more like convenience stores, but are, well... convenient.