Traveling to Costa Rica? Here’s What You Need to Know
Costa Rica is one of the many countries in Central America with a lot of natural beauty and wildlife. In addition, they have some great beaches and other tourist attractions. However, before you start planning your trip, there are some things that I would like to share with you about Costa Rica, as well as what you should do when you get there so that your trip goes smoothly without any glitches along the way.
Costa Rica has long been known as a pure-life country. It is a perfect place for nature lovers. It is a country rich in wildlife habitats and incredible natural scenery. Due to their pure fauna, they have the most visited beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Here, you are likely to find some of the clearest water you’ve ever seen. Also, you can engage in a wide range of activities, such as fishing (through the Los Suenos fishing charters), mountain trekking, and rainforest exploration.
There is no doubt that Costa Rica is a beautiful country, but some places can also be unsafe. There are many reasons that people visit Costa Rica, but there are also some risks involved during the pandemic. However, you can consider booking a luxurious resort, such as one similar to Si Como No, to get quality facilities in Costa Rica with COVID-19 protocols in place. Additionally, you can go through some guidelines to prepare and consider when traveling to Costa Rica, especially during this coronavirus global pandemic period.
Costa Rica, despite being only the size of West Virginia, is a land of plenty. It translates literally as “rich coast.” According to legend, Christopher Columbus discovered it in 1502. Mother Nature, however, is the only person who deserves credit for its breathtaking natural wonders. This tranquil Central American country has long coastlines on both the Caribbean and Pacific. Costa Rica has some of the most bio-diverse ecosystems on the planet, in addition to world-class beaches. Scientists who invented ziplines to study the many layers of the country’s cloud forests estimate that 5% of the world’s species can be found there. If you want to know more about what places to visit in Costa Rica, the time zone, or the best time to visit, you can explore the ‘Costa Rica Travel Guide‘ on Vacation Mode website.
Is It Open for Tourists?
Costa Rica has opened up its tourism since November 2020. The Nation had already limited its restrictions for the fast weeks and started developing an electronic traveler’s visa to encourage tourists who are making great contributions to their local economy.
Who Are Allowed to Enter the Country?
Costa Rica has opened its gate for everyone. However, due to the pandemic. There are still restrictions, and everyone must follow the standard visa regulations of the country.
Although they don’t require a negative Covid-19 test result, all incomers should accomplish a health pass 72 hours before traveling.
Travel Insurance Needed
All tourists bound for Costa Rica must have travel insurance coverage for any probable quarantine facility of up to 2,000 Dollars and about 5,000 Dollars for any Covid-19 related medical expenses. All documents must have certification with English and Spanish version. If your insurance doesn’t cover this kind of policy, there are some suggestions that you will find when you fill out the health pass that you may consider doing. Tourists who are already vaccinated are not exempted and are still required to have the same insurance policy. Furthermore, tourists that plan on taking part in adventure sports or other extreme activities should consider taking out a TPD policy (click here) as well. After all, Covid-19 is a big concern right now but that doesn’t mean every other precaution should fall by the wayside.
Another thing is that Costa Rica Nationals and Residents may be put on self-quarantine upon arrival depending on their health conditions and other COVID-19-related circumstances. However, tourists traveling by land are already reopened for Nationalities who don’t need a visa entry.
Covid-19 Situation in Costa Rica
As of the 19th of June, this year, there are nearly 350,000 total cases on Covid-19 and 4,459 deaths. All travelers must follow the standard health regulations like wearing masks and keeping 6 feet (1.83 meters) away from each other. Even the already fully vaccinated tourists may still be at risk for acquiring and transferring COVID-19 variants. Therefore, everyone must follow the health protocols implemented in all areas wherever they go in the country.
What You Should Expect as A Tourist
Costa Rica is starting to go back to normal, although there are still restrictions depending on the actual situation of the place you chose to visit. The beaches and national parks have limited open times, open from 9 AM until 6 PM, and can only allow not more than 50% of its capacity. The bars and restaurants are open until 11 pm, same with other business establishments. However, the clubs are still closed, and events with big groups are not still allowed. In addition, the country has implemented a night curfew starting from 11 PM5 AM until 5 AM. Hotels are allowed to have a maximum of 75% of their capacity.
Please also note that before you enter Costa Rica, you will have to book a two-way ticket because it will be asked when you pass by the immigration. They normally grant 90 days stay in the country for many nationalities.
Also, you must always carry a copy of your passport and other travel documents wherever you go because the authorities may stop you for some reason and ask you for your documents. If you are traveling by vehicle, you must carry your original passport and driver’s license with the tourist stamp with you all the time.
Please follow every rule so that your vacation will be hassle-free and enjoy the beautiful place. Keep safe!