Proper documentation is the sole responsibility of each traveler. The information below was accurate at the time of writing, but Costa Rican immigration is the only authoritative source for passport, visa and other entry requirements (their website migracion.go.cr has pdf documents with specifics … [Read more...]
Departure Tax (Exit Tax)
For decades the Costa Rica departure or exit tax (aka "departure tax" $29 per person) was paid at a counter in the airport before check-in. The "new" system including the departure tax in tickets has been phasing in since November of 2014. See Examples & Is It Included in My Ticket? NOTE: … [Read more...]
Arrival, Entry or Tourism Tax
There are a total of $58.19 Costa Rica taxes and fees typically charged to international air tickets. Most people don't notice these because they are included in the advertised price of airfares. In July of 2019 Costa Rica's new value added tax (Impuesto al Valor Agregado – IVA) applies to … [Read more...]
Travel Insurance
No Coverage = No Refunds, No Exchanges & No Credits Use it or lose it. It's a standard policy for airfare, cruise reservations, and tickets to events like concerts. For international travel "use it or lose it" frequently extends to ground transportation, activities, tours and lodging which is … [Read more...]
Sixaola Panama Border Run
Costa Rica Departure Tax The $7 departure tax when leaving Costa Rica by land is considerably less than the $29 exit tax charged if you are departing by air. It can be just as painful however. Theoretically paying the departure tax should be a breeze at machines similar to ATMs … [Read more...]
Immunization Records
There are currently no immunization requirements for travelers entering Costa Rica directly from the U.S., Europe or Canada. You do not need to carry your World Health Organization international certificate of vaccination which is probably a good thing since you almost certainly don't have … [Read more...]