Costa Rican coins come
in denominations of
1, 2, 5, 10, 20,
25 and 100








The currency in Costa
Rica is called 'colon'

Money Matters


CURRENCY: The national currency is the colon. One colon is divided into 10 dimes. Please make sure that you bring NEW U.S. Dollars as banks and other establishments in Costa Rica rarely accept bills that are wrinkled, worn or damaged. US dollars are generally accepted in Costa Rica, and you will lose a substantial percentage for converting traveler's checks outside of San Jose, so plan accordingly. Money can be changed at hotels and banks. Banks are generally open from 9 - 4 PM Monday through Friday, but some have longer hours.

In preparation for your journey, you may want to calculate the exchange rate from the US dollar to local currencies. There are several websites that offer a conversion engine. You can also check the Wall Street Journal for currency rate information.
http://www.oanda.com/convert/classic
http://www.xe.net/ucc
http://www.x-rates.com

CREDIT CARDS AND ATMS: Most major credit cards are widely accepted such as MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club but it is wise to check with the establishment first. It is also advisable to carry some cash or travelers checks in US Dollars for purchases outside urban areas, and tipping. Since you will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel, you will not need any local currency before you reach the hotel, where you can easily obtain it. Exchange of U.S. Dollars can be made at lodges and banks. You should not depend on your ATM card outside of the U.S. unless your bank advises otherwise. Local banks will give you notes in local currency. Keep your traveler's checks on you, along with other valuables, including passport, credit cards, or lock in the safety deposit boxes when provided.

TIPPING: Tips for hotel and lodge personnel are usually included in your tour price, however tips to your driver and naturalist guides are also at your discretion. A suggested detailed tipping chart will be sent to you with your final documents prior to departure.

SHOPPING: Costa Rica is famous for its beautifully painted oxcarts - ranging from toy size to barbecue stands. Replicas of pre-Columbian jewelry and pottery, plus delicate embroidery are sold, along with trays and wall plaques with elaborately painted designs. Beautiful furniture and wooden crafts are hand carved from tropical hardwoods. Leathercrafts, metal and ceramic ware are also handcrafted. Many gift shops carry gift packs of Costa Rican Coffee and supermarkets carry Cafe Rica, a coffee liqueur similar to Kahlua. Ruffled men shirts, called guayaberas, are available. Malls are open daily. A note of warning: If you intend to ship any of your purchases back home to the United States from your journey, it is highly recommended that you negotiate the shipping charges with the local vendor/mailing service on premises ahead of time. Do not be saddly surprised when your shipment arrives in the U.S. with a large cost attached as sometimes shipping charges can cost more than the actual item. Save yourself a headache (and a hit to your wallet) and negotiate these charges when you send off your prized purchases.

DEPARTURE TAXES: Approximately $26 (subject to change) is payable upon departure from Costa Rica. Departure tax is payable in either colones or US dollars and is subject to change based on the value of the colon.