Costa Rica Travel & Emergency Guide
Essential emergency numbers, speed limits, etiquette & travel tips
Open in WooGu (100% Offline)Emergency Numbers in Costa Rica
911
General Emergency
911
Police
911
Ambulance / Medical
911
Fire Department
Key Travel Facts
Capital
San José
Currency
CRC (₡)
Official Language
Spanish
Country Code
+506
Driving Rules & Speed Limits in Costa Rica
Urban / City
40 km/h
Rural
60 km/h
Highway
80–90 km/h
Alcohol Limit
0.5 ‰
Toll & Vignette: Tolls on major highways – keep cash Colones or USD handy. 4WD (4x4) highly recommended for unpaved rural areas.
Tipping & Etiquette
Recommendation: 10% service fee is already included in restaurant bills. An additional 5–10% cash tip is appreciated for great service, but not required.
- DO Use the iconic greeting '¡Pura Vida!'.
- DO Follow strict 'Leave No Trace' environmental principles in nature reserves.
- DO Drive patiently on narrow and unpaved mountain roads.
- DON'T Never feed, handle, or take selfies touching wild animals (sloths, monkeys).
- DON'T Never leave bags or electronics visible in parked cars.
- DON'T Do not wander off designated marked trails in national parks.
Power Sockets & Tap Water
Plug Type & Electricity: Type A & B (120V, 60Hz – adapter required).
Tap Water: Safe to drink from the tap in most regions and hotels across the country.
Insider Tip: 'Pura Vida' is the universal expression meaning hello, thank you, and life is great. 10% service and 13% tax are usually included in restaurant bills. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for rural roads and national parks!
