Travel Vaccines and Advice for Costa Rica

Do I Need Vaccines for Costa Rica?
Is Zika In Costa Rica? How Can I Protect Myself From Zika?
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Costa Rica?
How is Costa Rica’s Climate?
Will I Be Safe In Costa Rica?
What Should I Take To Costa Rica?
Where Is the U.S. Embassy In Costa Rica?

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Vaccine-preventable diseases are not the only threats. Dengue fever and chikungunya, two mosquito-borne diseases, are also present. Take proper precautions to avoid mosquitoes and mosquito bites such as using repellents and netting.

Traveler’s diarrhea is another threat. The CDC estimates as many as 70 percent of travelers will fall ill to traveler’s diarrhea. Avoid questionable eateries and bring a remedy like DiaResQ or a traveler’s diarrhea kit.

To find out more about these vaccines, infections and preventions, see our vaccination pages.

Protection is key to a happy trip. Start your journey on the right path today and book an appointment at your local Passport Health by calling or scheduling online today.

Do I Need A Yellow Fever Vaccine for Costa Rica?

The yellow fever immunization is not recommended for travelers to Costa Rica. However, a yellow fever vaccine may be required for entry to Costa Rica. If you are coming to Costa Rica from a country where yellow fever is present you may be required to show proof of immunization. For example, if you are traveling from Brazil to Costa Rica, proof of yellow fever immunization may be required.

 

Is Zika In Costa Rica? How Can I Protect Myself From Zika?

Zika virus is present in Costa Rica. While relatively few cases have been confirmed compared to other nations bordering the Caribbean, the virus is still a threat.

The CDC recommends the following to prevent Zika while in Costa Rica:

• Pregnant women should consider not traveling to Costa Rica. If you must travel there, speak with your primary care physician about risks and what you can do to mitigate them. The same applies for women who are planning to become pregnant within a travel timeframe.


• Cover exposed skin with a long-sleeve shirt, or long pants. While not necessarily comfortable, it will keep you protected.


• Use an EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of eucalyptus. Be sure to use it as directed.


• Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering.


• Be sure to take precautions after returning. If you begin to feel sick, please visit your doctor. Men are also advised to use condoms after travel to avoid any potential sexual transmission of the disease.

For more information on Zika, please see our Zika virus page.

Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Costa Rica?

You will need a passport to enter Costa Rica. But, a visa is not required for stays less than 90 days. Costa Rican authorities do require proof of either a round-trip ticket or onward travel to another country.

Please remember, your passport needs to be in good condition otherwise Costa Rican authorities may deny entry.

If you are coming from a country where yellow fever is present (South America or Sub-Saharan Africa) you will be required to show proof of yellow fever immunization.

Is your passport up-to-date? Is it clean and ready for travel? If not, our Passport and Visa Expediting team will help you get ready for your upcoming trip. Simply call us at 1-844-366-8472 or contact us online today to get your passport process started.

Is A …	Required for Entry to Costa Rica?
Passport	Yes
Passport Validity	Must be valid for length of stay
Blank Passport Pages	At least one blank page
Tourist Visa	Not required for stay of less than 90 days
Other Types of Visa	Contact our Visa Services Department

Sources: Costa Rican Embassy and U.S. State Department  

How is Costa Rica’s Climate?

Having an the Pacific Ocean to the west and Caribbean Sea to the east has given Costa Rica a very unique climate. There is no ‘real’ summer or winter in the country, just a ‘rainy’ and ‘dry’ season.

• Caribbean Coast– Tropical and humid all year long, the Caribbean Coast is known for it’s amazing beaches and warm weather.


• Central Mountains– These regions are receive heavy rain all year long. Don’t forget your umbrellas as 25 feet of rain per year isn’t uncommon.


• Pacific Region– This area enjoys the best climate at an average of 72 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Rain is more common from December to April, prepare accordingly.

Will I Be Safe In Costa Rica?

Incidence of tourist-related crime is high in Costa Rica, according to the U.S. State Department. Many of these crimes are theft and pickpocketing, but more violent ones have been known to occur. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid wearing anything that may attract unwanted attention.

Most beaches in Costa Rica have no lifeguards nor warning signs. In 2013, 118 drownings were reported, many due to riptides. Take extra precautions if you are at an unprotected beach. Remember to never swim alone.

What Should I Take To Costa Rica?

In addition to vaccinations and medications, there are a few other things you should bring to Costa Rica:

• Lightweight rain gear– Even if you are traveling to Costa Rica outside the rainy season this is a must. Many areas receive relatively heavy rainfall year-round, especially in the mountains.


• Extra socks– Your feet will get wet while hiking or participating in other activities. Having dry socks won’t just help you stay comfortable, but also protect your feet from fungi and other contaminates.


• Field guides– Even if you aren’t an avid bird watcher, consider bringing a few field guides. Birds and other animals are very common in even some of the more populated areas. Having something to reference can be fun and helpful.


• Flashlight– You may also consider bringing a small flashlight, especially if you’ll be staying in outlying regions. This will help if lighting hasn’t been installed on trails or roads between areas.

Where Is the U.S. Embassy In Costa Rica?

There is only one U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica and no consulates. The embassy is located at:

U.S. Embassy San José
Calle 98, Via 104
Pavas
San José, Costa Rica

Telephone: +(506) 2519-2000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(506) 2220-3127
Fax: +(506) 2220-2455

The State Department recommends all travelers to Costa Rica register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This program alerts travelers of any new risks or threats that may occur in the region.

If you do have a serious issue, such as a lost passport, contact the U.S. Embassy in San José immediately.

Beach, jungle, adventure, Costa Rica has something for almost every type of traveler. Make sure your journey is protected by visiting your local Passport Health. Our travel health specialists will help you receive everything you need to help you stay healthy as you go. To schedule your appointment today, call or book online now.