Essential local hacks for navigating everything from currency exchange to ordering a beer
You’ve landed in Costa Rica, stepped off the plane with “pura vida” echoing in your head, only to realise you’ve no clue how to ask for the loo, your pockets are jingling with mysterious coins, and the bartender looked confused when you confidently asked for “a beer”. Welcome to the jungle—literally and linguistically. But don’t worry, you won’t be wandering around like a lost sloth. This guide will sort you out with the practical, quirky, and downright genius local hacks that turn rookie mistakes into veteran travel moves. Whether you’re wrangling with colones or trying to order an icy Imperial without sounding like a lost backpacker, we’ve got you covered.
How do I exchange money in Costa Rica without getting ripped off?
Use ATMs attached to major banks to get the best exchange rate and avoid outrageous fees.
Costa Rica may be paradise, but the airport exchange booths are anything but angelic. You’ll lose a chunk of your budget if you change money there.
- Stick to ATMs connected to banks like Banco Nacional, BAC, or BCR—safe, secure, and with fair rates.
- Say no to dynamic currency conversion—always choose to be charged in colones, not your home currency.
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but have some cash on hand for roadside fruit stands, beach parking, and toll booths.
Example: A pineapple from a roadside stand costs ₡1,000 ($2). If you only have dollars, they might charge you $3 and round up “for change”. With colones? You’re golden.
How do I order a beer like a local?
Say the brand by name and add “bien fría” to make it clear you want it ice cold—just like the locals.
Costa Ricans don’t just drink beer—they worship the ritual of the perfectly chilled one.
- “Una Imperial bien fría, porfa” will earn you respect and a frosty glass of Costa Rica’s most beloved beer.
- Fancy something stronger? Ask for “una michelada” (beer with lime and salt) or a “birra con chilera” (beer with local spicy pickled vegetables, yes really).
- Not a beer drinker? Swap in a “Guaro Sour” (made with Costa Rica’s sugarcane spirit) and sip it slowly like you belong here.
Example: Order a “Pilsen” without specifying “bien fría” and you might get a lukewarm bottle. Rookie move. Ask like a tico, get the icy prize.
What should I know about tipping in Costa Rica?
A 10% service fee is already added in restaurants, but it’s polite to leave a little extra for great service.
Tipping isn’t a requirement, but it’s a classy touch that earns smiles—and sometimes stronger cocktails.
- Round up the bill or leave ₡1000 for good service in cafés or sodas.
- For tour guides, ₡5,000 per person is appreciated. They’ll often go the extra mile (literally) if they know you tip.
- Taxi drivers aren’t expecting tips, but if they help with bags or drive like your mum’s behind the wheel, a few coins won’t hurt.
Example: That guide who spotted a hidden sloth in a tree, shared their mum’s recipe for gallo pinto, and drove you back to your hotel? Slip them ₡3,000 and thank them with a “muchas gracias”.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
In most of Costa Rica, yes—but always ask, especially in remote areas.
You’re usually fine to refill your bottle, but there are exceptions, particularly in small beach towns or jungle lodges.
- When in doubt, bottled water is cheap and widely available.
- Hotels and hostels will often tell you straight out: drink up, or buy bottled.
- Eco-lodges may offer filtered water stations—bring a reusable bottle to keep things sustainable.
Example: In San José or Monteverde? Tap water’s fine. On the Osa Peninsula? Bring a bottle and play it safe—your stomach will thank you.
How do I greet people in Costa Rica?
Start with “Hola” or “Buenos días” and throw in “pura vida” when you’re feeling confident.
Costa Ricans are famously friendly but also polite. Greet people like a human, not a tourist with an agenda.
- “Pura vida” can mean hello, goodbye, you’re welcome, everything’s cool, or “yes, your surfboard is tied to the roof… probably.”
- Handshakes for strangers, one cheek kiss for friends (not two, you’re not in France).
- If someone says “¿Todo bien?”, reply with “pura vida” and a smile—it’s practically law.
Example: Walk into a shop and say nothing? You’ll get a blank stare. Say “¡buenas!” and the vibe changes instantly.
Once you’ve got the basics down, something magical happens: Costa Rica stops feeling foreign and starts feeling like freedom. You’ll be asking for gallo pinto like a pro, catching colectivos like a local, and saying “mañana” with a new appreciation for flexible timing. You’ll realise Tico life isn’t about rushing—it’s about savouring. That bus that’s running 40 minutes late? Great time for another coconut water and a chat with the guy selling hammocks. That’s pura vida.
What’s the best way to get around Costa Rica?
Rent a 4×4 for full freedom, but buses and shuttles are cheap and surprisingly reliable.
Transport here is as varied as the wildlife—pick what suits your style and your budget.
- Public buses are affordable and go just about everywhere, though not always on time.
- Shared shuttles are pricier but comfy and can be booked online.
- Renting a car? Choose a 4×4 if you plan on hitting beaches or mountain roads—some routes are more riverbed than road.
Example: Heading to Santa Teresa? That final dirt road could swallow a sedan. Go 4×4 or go home.
How do I avoid tourist traps in Costa Rica?
Follow the locals—literally. If a soda is packed with Ticos, you’ve found a winner.
Crowded beach bar with loud music and triple-priced mojitos? Tourist trap. Quiet roadside café with plastic chairs and a grandma stirring soup? Jackpot.
- Check Google Maps reviews, but read the ones in Spanish—they often tell the real story.
- Skip the tours offered on the beach and book directly with rated companies or guides.
- Ask your taxi driver, host, or bartender where they go—not where they think you want to go.
Example: In La Fortuna, avoid the restaurants facing the park. Walk two blocks north and eat where the taxi drivers do—for half the price and double the flavour.
Are there any Costa Rican slang words I should know?
Yes—and using them makes you less of a gringo and more of a legend.
A few well-timed local words go a long way and often earn you a laugh.
- “Mae” – like “mate” or “dude” Works for everyone, everywhere.
- “Tuanis” – cool, chill, awesome.
- “¡Qué chiva!” – how awesome or wow!
- “Upe” – a friendly call-out at someone’s door (like “knock knock” but cooler)
Example: You tell your surfing instructor the wave you just caught was “¡tuanis!” They laugh, nod, and high five you. You’ve made it.
You don’t need to learn every road, rule, or phrase to survive Costa Rica—you just need to tune into the rhythm. It’s a country that rewards curiosity, patience, and a good sense of humour. Whether you’re sipping cold beer in a hammock or figuring out the mystery of the bus schedule, each little hack you pick up is a step closer to feeling like a local. And trust us—when someone calls you “mae” and means it, you’ve officially made it.
FAQs
Can I use US dollars in Costa Rica?
Yes, but it’s best to use colones for small purchases to avoid awkward conversion rates or being overcharged.
Is Costa Rica safe for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Just stay alert, stick to well-lit areas at night, and use common sense like anywhere else.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Not fluently, but basic phrases help loads. Most folks in tourist areas speak at least some English.
Is it okay to flush toilet paper?
Usually no—most places have bins for toilet paper due to plumbing systems.Can I drink the tap water?
In most areas yes, but always ask to be sure—especially in rural spots.
