BANKS
Banks hours depending on whether they are public or private. Generally, hours are Monday – Friday from 9am – 3pm. Credit cards and U.S. Dollars are widely accepted. ATM’s are available in most towns, but can be difficult to locate.

CURRENCY
The Costa Rican currency is called Colon. US dollars and major credit cards are widely accepted.

CLIMATE
The climate in Costa Rica varies depending upon elevation and location.
The coastal plains are warm and tropical. Mountainous regions are much cooler and the Central Plateau has a spring-like climate year-round, with little variation in temperature from month to month (the average daily temperature is 75 F or 25 C).

DEPARTURE TAX

Departure tax is $26 U.S. Dollars, payable only at the airport when you check in for your flight home. Acceptable forms of payment include cash (Colones or U.S. Dollars), Visa and MasterCard.

DRIVERS LICENSE
A U.S. Drivers License is acceptable for up to three months.

ELECTRICITY
Outlets are 110 V, with standard US two prong plugs.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A valid passport and a round trip ticket are mandatory to enter Costa Rica. Depending on your country of origin, you may enter Costa Rica without a visa. USA, Canada and most European countries have this privilege.

TOURISM SEASON
December through April is the dry season, when rain is quite uncommon. May through November is considered the rainy, or "green", season, although mornings are usually quite sunny, with most of the rain falling in afternoon showers.

VACCINATIONS     
No vaccinations or preventative medications are recommended for travel to Costa Rica. However, we always suggest that you speak to your family physician for a personal recommendation.

WATER TEMPERATURES AND WETSUITS
Water temperatures generally range between 75 – 80°F
Most people find wearing a 3mm – 5mm wetsuit keeps them comfortable.