Coronavirus – COVID-19. The virus that was declared a global pandemic on March 11, 2020 by the World Health Organization has rapidly reached all corners of the world, including Costa Rica.
On March 6, 2020, Costa Rica confirmed their first case of COVID-19. It was an imported case by an American woman who had previously visited Italy and Tunisia before entering Costa Rica on February 29th, 2020. On March 7, 2020, Costa Rica had a total of 5 confirmed cases.
Here is what you need to know about the Costa Rica coronavirus situation.
Costa Rica COVID-19 Confirmed Cases
As of October 20, 2020, Costa Rica has 97,922 cases of COVID-19 (14,025 of those are Por Nexo). Por Nexo is Costa Rica’s new method of counting cases. They count people as confirmed cases if a person living in the same household of someone else who has tested positive starts experiencing symptoms. Por Nexo is without a test.
- 847 new cases today, 315 of those are Por Nexo
- 1222 fatalities
- 757 fatalities were men and 465 were woman, ages 9 – 100
- 542 people hospitalized, 215 of those in ICU
- 36,591 active cases
- 60,109 recovered
- 16,127 foreigners and 81,795 Costa Ricans
- Age range of a newborn baby to 100 years of total cases
- The first fatality was on March 18, 2020
When Will Costa Rica Open Their Borders and Costa Rica Travel Restrictions
Costa Rica closed their borders on March 18, 2020. The Costa Rican border opened on August 1, 2020 at 11:59 PM via air only.
Costa Rica’s border is open to the following countries before November 1st. On November 1st, Costa Rica will welcome all countries in the world via air.
- Austria
- Australia
- Belgium
- Belize
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- China
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- El Salvador
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Guatemala
- Greece
- Honduras
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Spain
- Nicaragua (Air only)
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Panama (air only)
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Thailand
- United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Uruguay
- Vatican State
USA
US citizens who are residents of New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC and Connecticut have been authorized to enter Costa Rica as of September 1st. On September 15, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Washington state, Oregon, Wyoming, Arizona, Rhode Island, Michigan, New Mexico and Massachusetts may enter Costa Rica and on October 1st, California and Ohio are authorized to enter Costa Rica.
On October 15, Florida, Georgia and Texas are authorized and on November 1, all of the United States are authorized to enter Costa Rica.
All passengers must show they are residents of one of those states with their drivers license or equivalent state issued ID and fulfill all other requirements to enter.
Private flights and yachts from the US may resume September 1st with all passengers subject to the above requirements on a case by case basis.
Costa Rica Coronavirus Requirements to Enter the Country for Tourists
Please read our Costa Rica COVID-19 Travel so you know what the situation is like for tourists. Find out what’s open, what’s closed, restrictions, etc. There are more details in that post regarding Costa Rica COVID-19 entry requirements as well.
Costa Rica requires every visitor to complete an epidemiological survey, bring proof of a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result within 72 hours prior to the trip and it will be mandatory to purchase a travel insurance that will cover medical care for acute illness and accommodation in case of quarantine. Additionally, all tourists must follow all sanitary measures for the airport and in the country including mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing.
For tourists flying in from the US, they must present their drivers license or equivalent of a state issued ID proving they are a resident of one of the authorized states. Minors are exempt from this requirement if traveling with a parent.
Tourists do not need to do a 14 day quarantine after arriving in Costa Rica and fulfilling all requirements.
You have to upload your driver’s license/state ID, COVID-19 test and the travel insurance online 48 hours before your trip via the health pass website.
Health Pass Survey
The health pass survey is required for all tourists.
Negative COVID-19 test
A negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result is required within 72 hours (max) of the trip.
Insurance
Requirements: The travel insurance must cover a minimum of $50,000 USD for medical expenses in cases of COVID-19 in Costa Rica and a minimum of $2,000 USD for extended lodging expenses due to the pandemic.
Tourists have two options for international travel insurance.
- They may purchase a travel insurance policy from INS or Sagicor, two insurances approved by the General Superintendence of Insurance (SUGESE) that covers hospitalizations in a hospital for required time and a minimum of 14 days of lodging.
- They may use their own international travel insurance as long as it covers the requirements.
For Those Who Plan to Visit…
If you plan to travel to Costa Rica when the border is open again, please check the recommendations for international travel of your home country. Be respectful of all laws, regulations and rules Costa Rica has put in place whether you agree with it or not as you are a guest in the country. It is a privilege to travel during the pandemic, not a right and you have to be a responsible traveler to protect yourself and others.
Commercial Flights
Starting September 13, United Airlines will have daily flights from Houston, Texas to San Jose International Airport and three times a week to Liberia International Airport. They also plan to have daily flights from Newark to San Jose and Saturday to Liberia. United also hopes to start flights from Denver, Colorado around end of October.
Delta plans to resume commercial flights between SJO and Atlanta and LIR and Atlanta on October 1st. American Airlines will resume flights from Dallas to SJO Airport. They plan to have daily flights from Dallas to SJO, Miami to SJO and Miami to LIR (Starting October). Jetblue will resume flights October 17th between SJO and Fort Lauderdale and at the end of the month, SJO and New York and SJO and Orlando. They will also begin Boston to LIR in October and in November, LIR to New York. **Make sure to check airline websites for schedules, prices and changes**
AeroMexico has resumed flights mid-October and KLM palns to do the same. There are about 5 flights a week from Madrid, Spain and Frankfurt Germany to SJO Airport.
Additionally, tourists can now enter Costa Rica via a flight laying over in a non-authorized state. For example, a Maine resident can fly to Houston, layover, then fly from Houston to Costa Rica as long as they do not leave the airport. The longest they can layover is 18 hours.
Citizens
Citizens only need to complete the epidemiological form and quarantine for 14 days. They don’t need to purchase the health insurance or bring proof of the negative test but they must quarantine. However, this quarantine can be waived if the citizen flies in from one of the authorized countries, has stayed in the authorized country for at least 14 days, shows proof of a negative coronavirus RT-PCR test within 72 hours of the flight and completes the health form.
Entry for Costa Rican Residents
Costa Rica has changed their entry requirements to now allow Costa Rican residents who left the country after March 25, 2020 to return.
That means Costa Rican residents can enter from any country via air now and they will be required to quarantine 14 days. If the residents enters from an authorized country, the quarantine requirement is waived as long as they have a negative PCR coronavirus test within 72 hours of the flight and have been in the departing country for at least 14 days without showing symptoms. They also must fulfill the following requirements:
- A valid original passport
- DIMEX card
- Completed health form
- Proof of current CAJA payments OR a travel insurance covering COVID-19 for at least a minimum of 22 days. During these 22 days, the resident must complete any missing payments.
If the resident arrives from a non-authorized country or state, they must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.
Rescheduling Your Trip
If you had to reschedule your trip but not sure for when, the following posts will help you decide.
Orange Alert areas
Currently, Costa Rica is classifying areas as Orange or Yellow Alert areas according to the number of confirmed cases. Orange Alert are areas with a high number of confirmed cases.
Orange Alert Areas are:
- San José: Alajuelita, Desamparados (except districts of Frailes and San Cristóbal), San José, Santa Ana
- Puntarenas: Garabito, Montes de Oro, Puntarenas (districts of Barranca, Chacarita, El Roble and Puntarenas)
- Heredia: Belen, the districts of Heredia (Heredia, Mercedes, San Francisco, Ulloa), San Isidro, San Pablo and Santa Barbara
- Alajuela: Alajuela (except Sarapiqui district), San Carlos
- Cartago: La Union and Oreamuno
- Limón Limón, Matina, Talamanca
- Guanacaste: La Cruz
Everywhere else is under Yellow Alert.
October Restrictions
The same restrictions in September will continue through October. Weekend driving hours are 5 AM to 9 PM. Weekday driving hours are 5 AM to 10 PM. The driving hours are for the whole country.
Most commercial establishments with permits may open in the Orange Alert areas with maximum capacity and seating limitations. Events such as weddings and baby showers up to 30 people maximum are allowed during the open phase. Event halls can host up to 75 people with distancing.
All beaches open 5 AM to 10 PM Monday through Friday and 5 AM to 8 PM Saturday and Sunday regardless of location starting October 15th. However, individual municipalities may open/close as they see fit.
National Parks continue to open throughout the country regardless of zones. All outside, open air activities are allowed. Rental cars are exempt from driving restrictions. Hotels can operate at 100% but only 50% in common areas.
Mass gathering events are still not allowed in October. Casinos inside hotels and bars are allowed to open starting October 9th with regulations and following protocols.
Costa Rica Coronavirus Driving Restrictions
Costa Rica has instated driving restrictions since end of March. Essential workers with a letter from their employer are exempt from driving restrictions. Those driving to/from health services, hotels/Airbnbs and airports are exempt.
Rental cars are exempt from Costa Rica’s driving restrictions.
If caught driving on restricted days, they will issue a fine.
Driving Restrictions (all October)
Driving is permitted 5 AM to 10 PM Monday through Friday and 5 AM to 9 PM on Saturday and Sunday with the following restrictions:
- Monday – Vehicles with last license plate digit ending in 1 and 2 can’t drive.
- Tuesday: Vehicles with last license plate digit ending in 3 and 4 can’t drive.
- Wednesday: Vehicles with last license plate digit ending in 5 and 6 can’t drive.
- Thursday: Vehicles with last license plate digit ending in 7 and 8 can’t drive.
- Friday: Vehicles with last license plate digit ending in 9 and 0 can’t drive.
There are no more license plate restrictions for Saturday and Sunday as of October 15th so any license plate can drive.
Costa Rica Coronavirus Cases Locations
There are confirmed coronavirus cases in all seven provinces in Costa Rica, the most being in the San Jose province.
Costa Rica has a population of roughly 5.09 million.
Costa Rica Coronavirus Timeline
- The first confirmed coronavirus case in Costa Rica was on March 6.
- Costa Rica declared a state of emergency on March 16, 2020.
- The first coronavirus fatality was on March 18th.
- On March 18, 2020, Costa Rica closed their borders to all foreigners, applying to land, sea and air. Only citizens and residents were allowed to enter.
- On August 2, 2020, Costa Rica opened their international borders via air to certain authorized countries.
- Costa Rica implemented a 24/7 coronavirus hot line.
- Costa Rica created a hospital called CEACO specifically for COVID-19 patients a couple weeks after the first confirmed case.
Is There a Lockdown or Mandatory Quarantine in Costa Rica?
No. Since the beginning, there has never been a country wide lock down in Costa Rica. Costa Rica can’t put something like that in place so the government implements driving restrictions, closures and sanitary measures instead. They also stressed the importance of staying at home and social distancing in the beginning.
Police will give tickets for breaking any sanitary restriction.
Where to Get Information About Coronavirus in Costa Rica
The government gives a press conferences everyday except Sundays with the Minister of Health reporting new number of cases and giving new information about COVID-19.
Please check the Ministerio de Salud’s (ministry of health) website for the latest up to date information about coronavirus in Costa Rica. For news, check Teletica, the main local news channel in Costa Rica. Both in Spanish, so if you need to, you can use Google Translate. They have also created a website specifically for COVID-19 in Costa Rica (covid19.go.cr). For news updates and reports in English, check Tico TImes.
We also update this post frequently to reflect new major changes and statistics.
Do You Need to Wear a Mask in Costa Rica?
Yes. Costa Rica requires masks for the general public when inside closed spaces (except at home or in hotel room), in supermarkets, convenience stores, stores, airports, public buses, shuttles, trains, theaters, movie theaters, churches, banks, offices and for all public and commercial workers. You also need to wear a mask inside public buses, taxis and at the bus stop.
Likewise, establishments may prohibit anyone from entering if not wearing a masks. You don’t have to wear a mask when walking outside on the street as long as you are 1.8 meters (6 feet) apart from other people but if you are waiting at a bus stop, you do need to wear a mask.
This applies to everyone in Costa Rica, tourist or local.
Face shields are no longer accepted as the only form for indoor protection. If a face shield is worn, a mask must also be worn.
Is Costa Rica Flattening the Curve?
Costa Rica has focused on prevention since the very beginning. Costa Rica has flattened the curve for the most part for the first wave, preventing the overwhelming of the health care system in the country since the virus entered the country.
Even though we’ve been in the peak of the second wave for some time, the healthcare system has not yet had to turn away any patients an ICU or hospital bed.
What It’s Been Like Where We Live (Tamarindo area)
We live in Guanacaste in the Tamarindo area. Since this area depends pretty much purely on tourism for its livelihood and has a huge mix of foreigners and locals, Tamarindo is nothing like it would look like in normal times. However, we are very lucky that this area hasn’t had an outbreak or many cases. Our canton, Santa Cruz, has never been in Orange Alert. We feel very fortunate to live somewhere with plenty of open spaces and no crowds.
Due to the border closure, many businesses closed their doors at the end of March. Now with the opening phases, many businesses have reopened. We recently went for lunch at Witch’s Rock beach front restaurant and there were many tables. Stores are open and many of them are offering promos to celebrate their reopening.
I went shopping in town on a Friday afternoon back in August and nearly all stores were open. However, 3 out of the 4 stores we visited required us to wear masks (the owner wasn’t even wearing a mask) and only 1 offered hand sanitizer. (I wore my mask at all stores and used my own hand sanitizer).
Although businesses are allowed to open, some restaurants are open with certain days and hours or are still only doing take out only. Not all hotels are open yet but plan to reopen this month or in November.
Local Tourism
At night, Tamarindo is getting more lively but is still quiet during the week. We have been to Mercadito, the open air food market a couple times and both times, have been the only guests there. Nowadays, there are many more local tourists thanks to the government’s new 3 day weekend law (vacation days for holidays will now be on Monday so that people have 3 day weekends) to promote local tourism. For this reason, the weekends have been especially busy.
That brings in at least a little something for the businesses here which is great. August and September had many holidays and at the beach, it looks like a normal day with many surf lessons and visitors. For the local economy here, it’s sorely needed. The only thing is that I would say maybe half the people are wearing masks (mostly the young people are not) and not all establishments respect the 50% maximum capacity rule, masks or social distancing. Although it does seem that the visiting families are at least trying to stay in their bubble.
Even though the beach is technically closed at 230 PM, we’ll still see people walking on the beach, surfing and playing volleyball. To be honest, the police seems to have stopped trying to kick people off the beach, especially on weekends. On October 15, beaches will be open all day so that won’t be an issue anymore.
Independence day (Sept 15) weekend was very busy and it looked like it was Christmas or Easter on the beach. But on a weekday morning, the beach isn’t crowded. It’s mostly locals surfing or walking their dogs and some surf lessons going on.
I have to say that surfing in Tamarindo has been awesome. Not many people, the beach is finally open all day and even in the rain the surf is good!
Protests in Costa Rica
There have been many more protests in Costa Rica in September and October. However, they aren’t specifically about the pandemic, it’s about the economy and the new taxes, mostly about the $1.75 USD billion loan Costa Rica has requested from the IMF (International Monetary Fund). During the 2 weeks of October, people protested, held strikes and blocked roads in over 20 parts of the country. There are still some blocks going on right now in small areas. On October 12th, there was a large protest in San Jose which unfortunately did result in some violence and arrests.
The Impact on Tourism in Costa Rica
As the border closed for almost 5 months, tourism companies have not fared well during that time.
Now that the government has opened their borders to many countries, the tourism sector is up and running again. They are still focusing strongly on local tourism but with the border completely opening on November 1st, they are eager and ready to receive tourists again. But it will be a long and slow road to recovery for the Costa Rican tourism industry.
What Have We Been Up To?
Since end of March, Yeison and I had a lot of time on our hands since the border was closed for 6 months. It was very quiet on the blog but we have been working hard still on it, updating posts and going through content. Now that the border will open completely on November 1st, it’s definitely got a little bit busier which we’re thankful for. So we want to say a big thank you for those who have kept with us this entire time!
Additionally, we’ve been surfing as much as possible, especially now that beaches are open all day which has been great. We’ve been doing some day trips to explore beaches we haven’t been to yet which has been really fun. And we finally finished equipping our truck for overlanding! Yeison has gone on two overlanding trips, I’ve been on one.
Overlanding is 4×4 driving and camping and it’s the perfect social distancing trip for us since everyone’s in their own car and we all have our own camp area. It’s been so much fun and we’ve gotten to see parts of Costa Rica we’ve never seen before.
I also got my PADI open water scuba diving certification in September which I’m stoked about. Can’t wait to explore the underwater world!
We’ll be writing posts about scuba diving and overlanding and you can follow our Facebook and Instagram to see photos and videos. In November, we’ll start going on more overnight trips to get more content for the blog to help you plan a fun and safe trip to Costa Rica.
Let’s All Do Our Part to Stay Safe and Healthy
Wherever you are in the world, let’s all do our part to stay safe and healthy. We hope to see you in Costa Rica soon though and we greatly appreciate everyone who has rescheduled their trip.
Marc says
First, your blog is excellent and at least 99% of it is perfectly clear.
However, please clarify two issues:
– are rental cars FULLY exempt from ANY kind of driving restrictions, including the ones in San Jose? Do they have distinguishing license plates?
– are ALL beaches in Costa Rica now open all day?
Thank you for your hard and pertinent work!
Sammi says
All rental cars are exempt from driving restrictions.
Beaches are open 5 AM to 10 PM Mon – Fri, 5 AM to 8 PM Sat and Sunday.
Letitia Watson says
Hello thank you for all the great information! So here is a mail question for Costa Rica. Costa Rica closed mail receiving from the US sometime around mid March. I had a package get caught in this closure. Costa Rica did not return the package which has some Vital contents. How do I go about finding this package that somehow was stopped in Costa Rica? Second question I have is mail from the US allowed into Costa Rica agai thru typical regular USPS mail? Any other info on the subject apprecated
Sammi says
Hi Letitia, I’m sorry but we honestly have no answers to your question since at the beginning of the lockdown in March, literally everything stopped working…I think the best way is to contact the carrier and have your tracking label ready to see if they know anything of where it is. If it’s stuck in the customs in Costa Rica, the only way I have personally known is for people to go to the customs office it got stuck in and get it themselves since they need to sign and pay for the custom tax.
Mail is allowed from US to Costa Rica via certain US states from last I saw about two weeks ago.
Ke Ke Lewis says
I see the list of states that are allowed to travel to Costa Rica and that all US Residents are allowed to enter but, does this mean all states – silly question but want to ask. I live in the state of Indiana and I do not see that state listed. I want to double check before I assume on this one
Sammi says
All of the US is authorized November 1. Before November 1, then only the states listed.
Terri Lerner-Frey says
Hi. I am a little confused regarding the Covid test requirements. Does the actual test need to be within 72 hours or the results? Thanks
Sammi says
You need to have taken your test within 72 hours of your flight and you have to show your negative test result to the airline when you board
Zach says
Thank you for all your helpful information. I heard if you own a home in Costa Rica and can prove it, you don’t have to purchase the 2k lodging insurance. Do you know if that is true and if so, what documents are necessary for proof of ownership? International medical coverage is much cheaper than CR insurance through INS or Sagicor, but none of the international policies offer the 2k in lodging coverage that I have found.
Sammi says
That is what we have heard but it will be best on the logistics to contact an insurance broker so they can help you with that. I have seen a few people use Allinsurancecr.
Igor says
Do driving restrictions apply to tourists with rented cars? It will be impossible to plan your trip without knowing the last digit of your license plate 🙂
Sammi says
Rental cars are exempt from driving restrictions.
Jason D Hutchinson says
Thank you very much for the helpful info. We are hoping to visit in November and I have been trying to find more information on the Covid testing requirements. For example I’ve read on some posts that a certificate with your passport number is required but I can not find any specific information on official Costa or US government sites. I have found that RT-PCR test are required within 72 hours of arrival but that is it.
In the US currently my best bet is a at home kit test that I mail to a lab. I’m concerned this would not be accepted on arrival.
Any info you may have is very much appreciated!
Thank you!
Sammi says
The test has to be a RT-PCR test and you will need to have a hard copy of your test results (can be English or Spanish).
Dana Sue Talkington says
Thank you for the update … you have kept me and my family well-informed! We’re hopeful that this virus will lay low May 2021 so that we can go back to celebrate our son’s wedding anniversary. Well wishes to you both … Godspeed
Sammi says
Hi Dana, we’re glad the blog is helpful and you can visit in May! Stay well
Cyn & Sebi says
Hi Sammi and Yeison,
thanks so much for this detailed information about the current situation!
We are a Belgo-Austrian couple planning on visiting Costa Rica this fall. We have carefully read all the necessary requirements and plan on doing everything as it should be done.
Our PCR-test is scheduled for two days before our flight.
We were supposed to be on a world-trip since April (I took a sabbatical from work) but spent the last months stuck in Europe.
So even if it might be more responsible to wait until next year to travel, my sabbatical will be over in April and I would have missed my only chance of travelling more than just two weeks in one country :-/
So that’s why we decided to take our chances.
I read that Costa Rica never went on a full lockdown. But do you think there’s a chance this might happen in the future?
We are prepared to find ourselves a good base somewhere, in case we do need to self-isolate or the country imposes severe restrictions again.
Thanks for this super useful post!
Cyn & Sebi
Sammi says
Hi guys, the government will announce the October restrictions this week, they never went on a full lockdown since they can’t really do that but we’ll update our post once the regulations are announced. I don’t think they will close borders again (but it’s just my thought, I have no idea what they will do) since the government does know how much the tourism industry has suffered. Hopefully things will get better here and we hope you guys enjoy your trip.
James Maldonado says
I will be arriving in San Jose in a couple of days and will have to do a 14 day quarantine at my hotel. I’ve met all requirements with testing and I’m negative for any COVID-19. The reason for my quarantine is because I’m traveling from a state in the US that is still not allowed. I got a special permit to enter the country for dental surgery and want to know how strict the quarantine is? Will I have to be confined to my hotel room only for 14 day or will I be able to go down to eat breakfast in the hotel or hotel restaurant?
Sammi says
Hi James, I would talk to the US embassy in Costa Rica about your quarantine for specific details. Good luck with your dental surgery!
Pearl Moon says
I have an apartment in Costa Rica and I want to return to pack up my personal things and move back to the U.S. I an a little confused about some of the requirements. I am a retired veteran and I am covered medical while I will be in Costa Rica. I only plan on staying for five days when I am allowed to reenter the country.
Sammi says
If you have Costa Rican residency, you can enter the country (fulfilling the requirements for residents) or if your US state is authorized, you can enter as well fulfilling the requirements regardless of how long you’re staying.
Suzanne Marrano says
Hello and thank you for your blog. I have a family vacation planned for the week after Christmas 2020. We have been planning for two years. What are your thoughts on the likelihood that we can bring this trip to fruition. We will be travelling from Chicago, Illinois, US. Thank you for your consideration.
Sammi says
hi Suzanne, Illinois hasn’t been announced as an authorized state yet but we’ll update our post once the next announcements are made. The government analyzes and updates the list about every two weeks or so, the latest update was this week so another announcement should be by mid October or so.
Anne says
Thank you for your updated blog. I appreciate your comments, especially, when focused on local behavior. I live ( and own) a condo Playa Flamingo and I observe daily from my balacony, visitors from San Jose in the pool, not wearing maks around the common area, mixing with strangers in the pool and pool side , not practicing social distancing. I am appalled at this behavior and I would suggest to all tourists looking to holiday in this area in the next months please stay home. Wait. If you think Guanacaste is a “safer” bet -think again.
The numbers are growing (yes here too!) seems to be NO enforcement of the Ministry of Health protective guildlines and measures from the spread of the COVID in Playa Flamingo, Playa Potrero, Brasilito, Huacas, Villa Real, and, yes, Tamarindo. I encourage all tourists to wait until the virus is stabilzed in Costa RIca and the numbers are in the decline-currently, it is a mess here.
Vic says
Hi Sammi,
I am from Canada. I have desperately been booking flights to visit from Canada to Costa Rica and they just keep cancelling. I am now looking into having a layover, but am I allowed to have a layover in another country? As a Canadian, can I have a layover in the US?
Additionally, With all the cancellations going on, I am scared of being on layover and having my Costa Rica flight cancelled. Is there any way to know which flights are trustworthy in travelling to CR?
I have loved ones there. It is gut wrenching that I can’t visit no matter how hard I try.
Sammi says
Now you can layover in another country like the US so you can do Canada – New York – Costa Rica as long as you don’t leave the NY airport and the maximum amount of time you stay at the airport is 18 hours (and fulfill all other requirements).
Unfortunately there is no way of knowing regarding flight statuses as that’s up to the airlines. So far United has been very good as they have been doing repatriation flights for the past 6 months and they have their flights from Houston which you can fly to as well so there are several options for you to enter CR regarding flight locations now.
I have heard that Westjet and Air Canada will resume direct flights in October-ish from other Canadians but whether they cancel those I don’t know.
Jill Shannon says
Hi Sammi, First, I have never thanked you for the wonderful blog you wrote a few years ago about transporting your dog to and from CR. I have referred to it many times. We have a house in CR and are now in California with our dog, so it looks like we can come in October — but not with our dog. I know you love your Tico dog like we love our Tico dog we adopted from CR. We can get back to CR from California, but no airlines that are currently flying from the states to CR are taking pets in cargo. Are you or any readers aware of any? I checked United, American, Delta, and Spirit for their pet policies and all discontinued pets in cargo due to COVID (not sure of their reasoning.) Alaska Air is out only hope in late November, as they still take dogs in cargo (but we don’t see them on any official CR lists of airlines that might be resuming flights there.)
Sammi says
Hi Jill, I’m glad the blog was helpful.
I would contact the airlines directly to see what their policies are but if they aren’t taking dogs in cargo for the time being then that would be their policies. You can also ask around in this particular FB group for dog owners in CR and see if anyone has any recommendations: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=expat%20dog%20lovers%20in%20costa%20rica%20paw-a-vida
Sammi says
I’m not positive about baby babies, I would check with your country’s embassy in Costa Rica to make sure!
Mayra says
Hello,
Awesome page!
I wanted to see if my baby will need to get test to enter Costa Rica. Im from Costa Rica , but we live in California. I don’t see any information regarding babies! Please let me know if you guys know anything.
Thanks !!
Jennifer says
Hello,
Where did you find the information that Arizona is on the list to be able to go? I can’t find this information anywhere else.
Thank you
Sammi says
The government announced it during the nationwide press conference a couple days ago so it is the most recent update, you can now find it on the Visit Costa Rica website (English) and here is the Costa Rican news article (Check Tico Times) for English: https://www.teletica.com/nacional/turistas-de-8-estados-mas-de-eeuu-podran-visitar-costa-rica_268229
Juli Jones says
Hi Sami. Are flights from the US coming in to CR? I saw on another site that even though 8-10 states have the green light to travel there, only 1 flight from the US has actually landed there since Sept 1.
Sammi says
There are flights, United has the most so far from Houston and they also have them from Newark. American and Delta are still (as far as I know of today) in talks as to when they will start flying in.
Sammi says
UK is already authorized so that is no problem for your UK Passports if you come from the UK. You can bring your cat but you will need to contact your airline regarding their pet policies.
Courtney says
Thank you for all the info! Do you know where you can get tested for covid in Costa Rica and how much it is?
Sammi says
You can go to the public clinics or any private clinics. I believe CAJA is doing all the testing.
Tami says
hi! thanks so much for your post it’s SO helpful!
So we are UK citizens living in NY. Do you know if we will need a state-issued ID or if the fact that we have UK passports is enough?
Also, do you know if we can bring our cat? She is a registered emotional support pet.
Thank you!
Morgan says
My partner are I are in NC, which hasn’t been added to the list for travel, what are our options to come and stay for a few months? If not, move completely? Should we wait, not knowing how long it will take for NC to be approved, or travel to a neighboring country and fly through that way? We don’t necessarily want to travel to Canada or Europe to get in. And we would get our travel insurance from where exactly? Thanks.
Sammi says
I would personally wait because unless you HAVE to come now or cannot wait, to fly to an authorized country, stay for 2 weeks, and then get all the necessary paperwork or anything plus insurance is really expensive since you have to pay for extra flights and two extra weeks of accommodation in an authorized country because you have to stay at least 14 days in the authorized country before you can fly into CR.
Tenisha says
Hi! I’m a dual-citizen of Costa Rica and the US and currently living in Pennsylvania. I know as of Sept 15, PA residents can travel to CR but my father-in-law just passed and I’m trying to get there. Since I’m not coming from an authorized country, do you know if I would still be subject to the mandatory 14 day quarantine if I present a negative COVID test?
Sammi says
Hi Tenisha, I’m sorry for your loss. As a Costa Rican citizen you can enter the country before the 15th but you will have to quarantine, you can only bypass it if you come from an authorized country or state which won’t be until after the 15th for Pennsylvania and have the negative test and health survey filled out. I recommend to talk to the CR embassy in the US though and see if they can help you since your father in law just passed.
Juli says
Hi Sami! Would you happen to know which US states are up for review next?
Sammi says
They haven’t said, sorry. I’ll update this post once they do.
Daniel Russ says
Hi Sammi-
My wife and I will be flying to Costa Rica from the USA on Friday 9/4. We have New Jersey Drivers Licences. My question is regarding travel insurance. Do we purchase that at the airport or do we have to have that before?
Thank You
Sammi says
You need to purchase the insurance beforehand and they recommend to get the QR code so it cuts down time when you are going through the checkpoints at the airport in Costa Rica.
Wendell says
Is Costa Rica taking in flights from Mexico?
Sammi says
Not yet!
Wendell says
Okay. Thank you.
Sammi says
Hi Pam, from what I have read the airlines will be the one check your documents and turn you away when you try to board if you don’t have all the required documents including a negative test result. We know some people from the UK that got their test results in time (she got her test from a private gp in UK) and Iberia checked all their documents and test results at the gate. We also had some readers from Germany arrive last week with all documentation, I’m not sure their particular circumstances but he said that the only issue they had was getting an insurance that wasn’t super expensive. Hopefully they will change the timing to 72 hours in the future.
Pam says
Thank you very much for the reply! I do appreciate it. Hopefully we will be enjoying Tamarindo in a few weeks! Pura Vida.
Sammi says
You’re welcome, we hope you will be too 🙂
Pam says
Hi Sammy and Yeison,
We have been reading your blog for a few years. In the last few weeks we have visited daily for updates. Thank you very much for providing such accurate information!
We are Canadians who are traveling to Germany (to visit our son) and then plan to come to Costa Rica from Germany. Both Canada and Germany are on the approved entry list so we are not concerned about that.
The one concern that we do have is the 48 hour Covid Test Results. My friend here in Canada is the supervisor of the Covid unit at the hospital and here in Canada thy do not guarantee to provide results from your test within 48 hours. We have been told that it is the same way in Germany. Both countries guarantee only 72 hours (although both say that you may get the results sooner).
If we take the Covid test and then fly to Costa Rica (with negative results of course) but the results took longer than 48 hours what would the process be? We want to follow all of the guidelines but we are running into a real concern about the timing of this test.
If you have heard from anyone who has travelled or know any information we would be very grateful.
Thanks again for providing an excellent blog!!
Pam
Tanya says
I love your website! I have a question, I have a friend that lives in Atenas. Are citizens allowed to visit the United States during COVID-19? I can’t travel to CR but was wondering if there are any restrictions for travel to the USA. Thank you!
Sammi says
HI Tanya, as far as I know Costa Rican citizens can go to the US as long as they have a visa, I’m not sure everything the US is requiring but I would recommend them to check the US Embassy in Costa Rica to see what other requirements there are since I also know that it differs per state.
scott stone says
Thanks for all the information. Your site is our go-to when we need to know what’s going on in CR. We were supposed to move to Samara in spring but… Hoping for the end of the year. In your best guess, when do you think regular flights from the US will be allowed?
Thanks again!
Sammi says
Hi Scott, I’m glad you enjoy the site!
The government will analyze the authorized country list every two weeks, the last update was last week so they should make another announcement end of August. To be honest no idea when US will be allowed in.
Melissa W says
Hi,
Your website is amazing. You have more accurate info than the US embassy in Costa Rica. Thanks for doing the in-depth work for those of trying to get back to Costa Rica!
I just have a quick question,
Do you know how often Costa Rica will revise the border policy? I am looking at the CR board of tourism site daily, but they have no info when they plan on opening flights. Thanks you!!!!
Sammi says
Hi Melissa, I’m glad you enjoy the blog 🙂
Costa Rica will evaluate the authorized country list every two weeks. They just updated it a few days ago so the next one should be at the end of August/beg of September.
Arne Liebert says
Hi Sammi and Yeison,
Wow, this is great information on the current pandemic situation there. Thanks so much for keeping us updated on this! As with so many globally, it must be hard for the locals there to make a living these days and my heart goes out to them. I hope things improve for everyone soon.
In the meantime, we’ll just keep dreaming of one day returning there. 🙂
Cheers!
Arne Liebert
Toronto
Sammi says
Hi Arne, you’re very welcome and we hope you are healthy and safe. Thanks for reading our blog 🙂
Sammi says
I would check with the Costa Rica immigration lawyers and the Costa Rican embassy in Florida to see what you can do, I believe that spouses of Costa Rican citizens can fly into Costa Rica but I think both spouses have to be present on the flight (not positive).
Just a quick update, foreign nationals of Costa Rican minor children and spouses of Costa Rican citizens can enter the country, here are the details: https://news.outlierlegal.com/blog/2020/08/15/things-are-progressing/
oJJohn paoneJe says
Hi my name is John I live in Florida in the US my wife is Costa Rican she lives in Costa Rica and so do I but I am not a citizen I have not seen my wife and family in 4 months is there any exceptions to fly from Florida to the San Jose Airport I miss my family I will do whatever I have to do I am the man of the household and I pay the bills I need to be back there so I can take care of my family they are starving and they’re going to be living on the streets soon if I’m not back to take care of them please let me know what I can do thank you
Sav says
Hello,
I need (not want) to return to CR to complete a dental procedure started 2019, was scheduled to return in March 2020 then the pandemic started.
Is there any exception for medical procedures?
Sammi says
Hi Sav, currently there is no exceptions for medical tourism.
richard says
Hi Thinking of going costa rica for hoilday but dont like the idea of beaches being closed at 2 30 pm. I would like to do sunset surfs is this allowed for tourists?
Cheers
Richard
Sammi says
Right now beaches are only open until 230 PM, the government hasn’t said when they will extend hours.
Sammi says
They have a Seguro de Viaje section but I would recommend to call them directly.
They do not offer RT-PCR tests on arrival – you must have a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result within 48 hours of your trip and bring proof of that negative test result (can be in English or Spanish)
Dianshan Ee says
Just wondering where to purchase the INS insurance? Tried the website but a lot of broken links.
Do you know if they offer PCR test on arrival at the airport? 48H is quite a short time to get a test done and results out in some countries (usually you get results in 48H, by which time you’re supposed to be in Costa rica already).
Michelle says
Hi I tried to comment earlier but maybe I did not send.
Are Us passport holders are banned for entry *regardless* of what country they fly in from? Ie… if American us passport holder flies in from Canada it is allowed or not allowed?
I don’t understand if us passport holders are not allowed or only us passenger flights from the us are not allowed?
Thanks!
Sammi says
According to the CR consulate, flights from US are not allowed but I did update the post yesterday because if a US passport holder flies to an authorized country like any of the authorized EU, Canada or UK countries, quarantines for 14 days there without presenting symptoms, does the test and collects all necessary documents and then flies directly from that authorized country to CR, they can technically enter (given that they have all the paperwork like the form, insurance and negative test result). Flights from US to CR are strictly repatriation only.
Brian Welte says
You mentioned that a visitor must “bring proof of a negative COVID-19 test at least 48 hours before arrival”. Do you mean the test results must be from no more than 48 hours before entering Costa Rica? Thus, if you get a negative test result back on Monday and try to enter Costa Rica on Thursday you won’t be allowed in because your test wasn’t recent enough?
Sammi says
Correct, tourists must undergo a PCR test and obtain a negative COVID-19 result within 48 hours prior to the trip.
Max says
Are banks open in the Central Valley area?
Sammi says
Yes they are open.
Laura says
Hi there.
Wow, this website & blog is amazing. Thank you for your informative information.
I’m trying to plan a trip for early December from South Florida….I guess I will wait to book our room and airline until we find out if the US is on the list when the government opens the borders.
Thanks again for all the information both Covid and Non-Covid.
=)
Sabine says
Hola queridos,
estamos planificando vacaciones desde Alemania en Augosto…
algo de noticias? No parece que sea un cambio en CR, las ciffras de Covid son aumentando, verdad :(?
un salud amistoso
Sammi says
Hola Sabine, desafortunadamente los casos son aumentando y hay transmisión comunitaria. No tenemos noticias nuevas para Agosto, solo que Costa Rica va a permitir extrañjeros de paises con bajas tasas de transmisión (si va a abrir las fronterras). No sabemos cuales paises.
Estoy pensando que por el fin del mes, el gobierno anunciara algo sobre las fronterras.
Sabine Goldhorn says
Gracias y SUERTE! para todos
Michael Huxta says
Hola,
I know my question maybe like picking the winning lotto numbers but its worth a shot. Our trip is scheduled for the second wk in October, what is your opinion on us being allowed to fly in from the U.S. ? Or should I just cancel and plan for another time. It was 1st scheduled for April my bday then moved to wife’s now looks like that maybe an issue. I know CoCo is rainy that time of year but been there a few times in the brown would like to see the green season but also can’t wait to cancel and try to rebook someplace that will have open boarders for ppl from the U.S.,
Stay safe and Thank you
Sammi says
Hi Michael, honestly we have no idea. The government said they will start allowing visitors from low COVID-19 transmission countries beginning on August 1 but they have not announced which countries they will be yet. I would wait until they make that announcement and then you can decide, they will probably announce it mid to end of July. We only know what the government announces and they haven’t said anything more.
Pedro says
Hi, it’s July 1st. Are they allowing flights into Liberia or San Jose from the USA? I know you have said the “borders” are closed till August 1 but I think you are referring to traveling by car or bus from neighboring countries..? You don’t mean closed to flights though, right?
Sammi says
Borders are closed via sea, air and land so it does mean car and bus from neighboring countries and all flights except repatriation flights.
Costa Rica plans to open the border on August 1 but only to countries with low COVID-19 transmission rates which they haven’t announced yet…there is a very good chance US is not on that list but we will see what the government decides.
Sherly says
Still no news on when the border will officially open for tourism? Since it has been postponed many times, do you think they will finally open in july? If so, would they require quarantine? Planning a trip for August for 10 days, but if a 2 week quarantine is required for tourists, we couldnt go.
Sammi says
The word on the street is that Costa Rica will only start allowing tourists from countries with low transmission rates but no official word yet the details or anything. I’ll update this post once they do make an announcement.
Sammi says
Grande and Langosta are open 8 AM to 6 PM and the Ostional/Nosara beaches are open for much longer too (not sure the exact hours since they have been posting different updates lately).
Pedro says
We’d like to surf all day. Are any beaches open later than 8:30am for surfing in Guanacaste?
Pedro says
Are any of the surfing beaches in Guanacaste open all day or only open from 5:30-8am? ? Playa Grande, Nosara, etc? How about Witches Rock?
Sammi says
Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas is open everyday 8 AM to 6 PM (Grande, Langosta) according to their FB page. Tamarindo is only 5-8 AM (will be 5-930 AM starting on the 20th). I believe Guiones and Nosara are open everyday as they are part of Ostional. Witch’s Rock is open by boat only, Mon-Fri 6 AM to 3 PM with previous reservations and purchased tickets and a max of 25 people surfing I believe (I think they may open that to weekends too, I am not sure).
Jill Ryan says
Thank you for the updates on your blog. I have a trip to Nosara booked for July 2nd and had planned to rent a car and drive from San Jose. Will that be allowed? Should I just reschedule the trip? Thank you for any insight that you are able to provide.
Sammi says
Right now the border is set to open July 1, 2020, this could be extended. The government hasn’t made any announcements or updates recently but I will update the post once they do.
Mike Pitts says
I’m looking to travel from July 18th thru the 27th from the United States. I was going to rent a car will the driving restrictions still be in place?
Sammi says
I am not positive, I think they are supposed to be lifted August 1st but they haven’t made a definite decision, just a tentative plan. I’ll update this post once the government has made more announcements regarding foreigners and international tourism as they haven’t made any yet.
Lindsey says
We’re planning to go first 2 weeks of July- hoping that a quarantine is not required. We will wait for your update
Jill says
I am also planning to go the first week in July from the US. Crossing my fingers that we will be allowed to!
Nadia Khalid says
Hi, Thank you for the thorough information! My family of 5 would like to visit in August (if the border opens). It would be our 4th trip. Would we have to go through the swab testing at the airport if we showed no symptoms? Also, would tourists need to stay in the country for 14 days per quarantine protocols? I understand these are detailed questions best suited for the government— but any bit helps!
Sammi says
Right now, the government hasn’t made any announcements regarding regulations for foreigners entering the country so we’re not sure if they will require a mandatory 14 day quarantine or what they plan to do. I’m sure once they know for sure regarding the border they will announce the regulations and I’ll update this post.
Julia Grasso says
Thank you so much for this information. I really love your blog and look forward to networking with you when I return to Costa Rica Aug 5. I will be so happy to return . Julie Costa-rica-Dreams.
Kimberly says
Me and my 3 children have a set plans to fly into San Jose on July18-26 from Miami,Fl. This will be our first visit to your country. Should we postpone given the current situation?
Sammi says
Right now the Costa Rican border is set to open July 1, 2020, but this could change. We are hopeful but it is up to the government and nobody knows except them regarding the border closure date as it may be extended (they have extended it 4 times already). I would also check with your airline what are your option if you decide to reschedule.
Lauri Davanzo says
Glad you both are well! We should be in Tamarindo as we speak. We are hoping to brave the rainy season in September because we just can’t wait until next year to visit. What can we expect? I’ve heard five hours of sunshine and several of rain every day?
Sammi says
Hi Lauri, usually it’s cloudy but dry in the mornings and then rains in afternoons and nights in September. Sometimes on and off showers throughout the day towards end of Sept depending on if we have a tropical storm or not and this year is supposed to be more rainy than last. You can read more about Costa Rica weather here.
Robin says
thank you for the update. Was supposed to come June 27th and will try again for late November. It will be our first time and we are so excited. Appreciate all your help.
Ronda Hajduk says
thanks so much for the updates. The airline has already cancelled our trip and refunded. We look forward to Costa Rica being able to return to its vacation paradise soon and will return when we can. Thanks so much. Ronda
Dana Sue Talkington says
Thanks for the update … we are keeping our fingers crossed that we will be able to celebrate in Tamarindo in November (rescheduled from May 9) … be safe and keep the updates coming!
Sammi says
You’re welcome 🙂 Stay safe as well!
Dianne Palush says
Thank you for the informative blog! I also was not aware of the license plate restrictions. We visited last year(which was our first time). We were planning on visiting the same time again the first week in December. I hope we are able to visit then. We had such a wonderful time!
Stacy McCrory says
Hi Guys!
Thanks for the update! Glad to hear you and your families are staying safe and healthy.
We had to cancel four retreats this year and look forward to picking up where we left off when it’s safe to do so! Can’t wait to be back! Even if only Mike and I for our first trip back.
Be well,
Stacy and Mike
TwoCan Retreats
@twocanretreats
Sammi says
Hi guys! Hopefully you guys can visit when the border is open. Be safe and healthy!!
Jo Dahlman says
Thanks for this information. Was supposed to have been coming back to Costa Rica in March but as with everything the flights were cancelled so could not make the trip. It would have been my 8th trip in two years, just love the country. Waiting for the borders to open so that I can return.
Dee Shandera says
I DEVOUR this blog, I tune into you whenever I see a new notification. I had no idea about all the restrictions that have been put into place. I commend your government formost of them, but one I don’t understand is the limitations on driving – days of the week, license plate numbers, daily hours the roads are open, etc. what do those restrictions restrict? How, or what, do they have to do with stemming the virus? What if I lived there and was a doctor at the local clinic or hospital, but my shift(s) were on days when the last digit of my license plate made me ineligible to drive on that day of the week? Or if medical personnel get a pass on the rules because they are essential, let’s say I’m a mail deliverer, or the baker who supplies your local grocery store? Or suppose I’m pregnant and my water breaks, or I’m a kid who fell out of a tree and my arm breaks, but it’s a Wednesday, we are a 2-car family, but one plate ends in 5 and the other in 6? Does Mom or Dad take a chance on wasting precious time if a cop pulls them over because they’re driving “illegally”?
Please explain.
Sammi says
Essential workers can drive on restricted times/days and license plates as well as anyone who needs hospital/doctor/emergencies, etc. so for all those scenarios you mentioned you can drive (doctors, medical emergencies, etc.)
I can’t really speak for exactly why the government does this but we assume it’s to prevent a lot of people out at the same time everyday and gathering in groups, especially in the city. In April, it was to prevent the San Jose locals going out to the coasts mostly (Easter is a huge holiday here and a lot of city locals go to the beach for vacation but they didn’t want them to). The driving restriction according to the last digit of the license plate actually is normal in San Jose, that has been going on for years. It’s just now it’s country wide.
Kenneth D Steadman says
Thanks for the info.
Have a dental vacation planned for August 5th-19th in San Jose/Jaco. Hope everything has progressed to the “new normal” by then.
Thanks again!
Ronda says
THank you so much for the info. We had a planned trip for Jun but have cancelled. Will try again for 2021. Stay safe and keep us informed. Very good information.
Sammi says
You’re welcome Ronda, hope to see you here in 2021 🙂
Greg Hall says
Stay safe and keep up the good work! We appreciate it.
Hopefully will be in Hermosa CR. Jan. Feb.
Sammi says
Thank you Greg, stay safe as well 🙂
Jackie says
Thank you, Yeison and Samantha, for offering this very informative website as well as your blog to all those who plan to visit or are visiting beautiful Costa Rica. It is always so interesting! I look forward to your e-mails and reading your posts…and recommend it highly to my friends and family. Pura vida! Stay well!
Sammi says
You’re welcome Jackie and I’m glad you find the blog interesting and helpful! Thank you for sharing it. Stay well 🙂
Brian says
Thank you for a very precise situation report.
Bobbie Spencer says
Hi to you both,
Thanks so much for keeping me in your loop. Your breakdowns on the affected people is more specific and informational than any others I’ve seen.
We’re all looking forward to a safe border opening and, as a liaison between Costa Rica and folks in the US (and around the world,) I am grateful for your newsletter and information. I am always happy to recommend you and your services.
Cheers and here’s to an intelligent resumption of the ability to visit. Costa Rica.
Warmest regards,
Bobbie Spencer
Sammi says
You’re very welcome Bobbie, glad the blog is helpful and thank you for reading 🙂
Stay well!
Doug says
Thanks for the information! My wife and I pray you both stay safe and healthy.
Sammi says
You’re welcome! We hope you and your family stay safe and healthy as well
Steven Bright says
Thanks for all the great info hope to get back to our house in torcoles soon
Sammi says
You’re welcome Steven 🙂
Denise says
I was supposed to leave for my trip to Costa Rica this morning. I am so sad and disappointed. I have been planning this trip for 5 years and can not believe my horrible timing. I used your blog to finalize my plans. I hope to rebook my trip when all of this has calmed down. For now, I will just daydream and continue looking at your pictures and videos.
Sammi says
We hope you can visit as soon as it is possible! Thank you for reading our blog 🙂
Naomi Nation says
Gracias
I am in Costa Rica and only know a few words in Spanish. Your efforts have kept me within the law.
Thank you for the links too.
I am in Playa Hermosa and keep expecting to see you walking into the Chinese market.
This Australian is very grateful for your website and recipes-I am not on social media so you really have been invaluable to me.
With gratitude and admiration
Naomi
Sammi says
Glad it is helpful and thank you for reading our blog Naomi!
Brian Welte says
Thank you for this page. We’re starting to plan a trip to Costa Rica this autumn. Knowing the situation there is very helpful.
Keep up this awesome website and stay healthy! Pura Vida!!
Sammi says
Thank you Brian, you as well 🙂