Coronavirus – COVID-19. The virus that was declared a global pandemic on March 11, 2020 by the World Health Organization rapidly reached all corners of the world, including Costa Rica.
On March 6, 2020, Costa Rica confirmed their first case of COVID-19. Here is what you need to know about the Costa Rica coronavirus situation.
Costa Rica COVID-19 Confirmed Cases
As of September 23, 2021, Costa Rica has 518,632 cases of COVID-19 (95,471 of those are Por Nexo). Por Nexo is cases without a test if a person living in the same household of someone else who has tested positive starts experiencing symptoms.
- 2701 new cases today, 504 of those are Por Nexo
- 6168 fatalities
- 3777 fatalities were men and 2391 were woman, ages 0 – 103
- 1372 people hospitalized, 454 of those in ICU ages 0-92
- 94,119 active cases
- 418,345 recovered
- 60,103 foreigners and 458,529 Costa Ricans
- Costa Rica has a population of roughly 5.09 million people
- The first fatality was on March 18, 2020
Costa Rica Vaccinations
Costa Rica is currently vaccinating their citizens and residents with Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca. Please check the Costa Rican Seguro Social to see their vaccination statistics.
Border Opening and Closing
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. On November 1, 2020, Costa Rica opened to all countries in the world via air.
On April 5, 2021, Costa Rica opened the land borders to Nicaragua and Panama.
Please read our Costa Rica COVID-19 Travel to read Samantha’s personal experience flying into Costa Rica and other important information.
Costa Rica Coronavirus Requirements to Enter the Country for Tourists
Costa Rica requires every unvaccinated and partially vaccinated COVID-19 tourist over the age of 18 to complete a health survey and purchase a travel insurance for the duration of their trip that covers a minimum of $50,000 USD for medical expenses in cases of COVID-19 and a minimum of $2,000 USD for extended lodging expenses for COVID-19.
Fully COVID-19 vaccinated tourists over the age of 18 and minors under the age of 18 only have to complete the health survey. They do NOT need to purchase the travel insurance.
Additionally, all tourists must follow all sanitary measures for the airport and in the country including mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing. Tourists do not need to quarantine after arriving in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica DOES NOT require a negative COVID-19 test.
If You Are Fully COVID-19 Vaccinated
As of August 1, 2021, fully vaccinated COVID-19 people do NOT need to purchase the travel insurance. Minors under 18 years of age do not need to purchase the travel insurance either.
For the fully vaccinated, vaccines accepted are Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca and Johnson and Johnson. The last dose must have been administered at least 14 days before entering Costa Rica (including Johnson and Johnson). Mixed doses are accepted as long as both doses are one of the four accepted vaccines
For United States, the COVID-19 vaccination card fulfills this requirement. For other types of documentation proof, full name, date of each dose and vaccine type is required.
Insurance for Partially and Unvaccinated COVID-19 Tourists
Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated COVID-19 tourists over the age of 18 have to purchase the travel insurance.
Travel 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 for COVID-19.
There are two options for insurance.
1. Purchase a Costa Rican travel insurance policy from Blue Cross Blue Shield Costa Rica, INS or Sagicor. These are pre-approved insurance guaranteed to be accepted and will cover hospitalizations in a hospital for required time and a minimum of 14 days of lodging. The minimum for medical via Costa Rican policies is $20,000 USD.
2. Purchase an international travel insurance policy that fulfills the requirements for medical and lodging. Minimum for medical via international policies is $50,000 USD.
International Travel Insurance Recommendations
The Costa Rican policies are quite expensive so for a cheaper international policy option, I personally used Trawick when I flew into Costa Rica in December 2020. They provide a policy called “Safe Travels Voyager” that specifically covers the Costa Rican entry requirements.
Click here to get a Safe Voyagers Plan quote. (Click on “Insurance Plans” and then “Trip Insurance.” Then select Safe Travels Voyager). For US citizens and residents only.
Health Pass Survey
The health pass survey is required for all tourists. It has to be filled out 72 hours before flight and you will be given a QR code which you will scan at immigration.
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.
If you had to reschedule your trip but not sure for when, the following posts will help you decide.
Costa Rica Coronavirus Restrictions
Nationwide Driving Restrictions
In September, we only have nationwide driving restrictions Monday through Friday. From September 18 – 310, driving is permitted from 5 AM to 9 PM everyday.
Monday: Vehicles with license plates ending in 1 and 2 cannot drive.
Tuesday: Vehicles with license plates ending in 3 and 4 cannot drive.
Wednesday: Vehicles with license plates ending in 5 and 6 cannot drive.
Thursday: Vehicles with license plates ending in 7 and 8 cannot drive.
Friday: Vehicles with license plates ending in 9 and 0 cannot drive.
On September 18 and 26, license plates ending in an odd number cannot drive.
On September 19 and 25, license plates ending in an even number cannot drive.
Rental cars are exempt from these driving restrictions as well as those driving to/from airports and hotels with reservations and to/from work. There are some other exemptions for locals who own a car.
Other Restrictions
Bars at 25% maximum capacity
No foot passengers on public buses
Hotels with more than 100 rooms can only operate to a maximum of 75%
Trains can have a maximum of 26 foot passengers
Businesses may open until 9 PM.
Delivery is allowed 24 hours.
Costa Rica Coronavirus Timeline
- The first confirmed COVID-19 case in Costa Rica was on March 6, 2020.
- Costa Rica declared a state of emergency on March 16, 2020.
- The first COVID-19 fatality was on March 18th, 2020.
- On March 18, 2020, Costa Rica closed their borders to all foreigners, applying to land, sea and air.
- August 2, 2020: Costa Rica opened their international borders via air to certain authorized countries.
- On November 1, 2020, Costa Rica opened their international borders via to all countries in the world.
Where to Get Information About Coronavirus in Costa Rica
Please check the Ministerio de Salud’s (ministry of health) website for the latest up to date information about coronavirus in Costa Rica. 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.
Face masks are required for everyone in Costa Rica, regardless of vaccination status.
What It’s Been Like Where We Live (Tamarindo area)
Tamarindo is pretty much like normal now. Lots of tourists, everything open, beach full, surf lessons all day. Weekends are particularly crowded as lots of locals come to this area.
As for us, we surf at Tamarindo and sometimes walk our dogs on the beach but that’s about it. That’s pretty much what we did before the pandemic anyways.
We also have started doing more camping and doggie trips since we have two pups. It’s been a lot of fun taking them around Costa Rica!
If you’d like to follow along our adventures, follow our Facebook and Instagram to see photos and videos of our travels in Costa Rica! We also started publishing weekly Youtube videos so subscribe to our channel to get new videos.
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.
There are affiliate links in this post.
Horacio Peralta says
Hi Sammi,
I got your Guide to Tamarindo and it was super-helpful in planning our trip. Do you know a reliable lab in Tamarindo where we can get a COVID 19 test before we fly back to the US?
Thank you!
Horacio
Sammi says
Hello, you can check our Costa Rica COVID travel post and scroll down to the COVID test section for more information.
MW says
I plan to be there between September 23 – 27th. Is the rain in Tamarindo during this time bad enough to have washed out days and cancelled outdoor activities, such as white water rafting and water rappelling?
Sammi says
Normally no but it depends as we have many tropical waves in the rainy season so it depends. If unfortunately the day of your tour is the hardest rainy day of the wave they may need to postpone or cancel if it is raining too hard.
RK says
I intend to fly to costa rica on July 27th and leave on August 7th. I am fully vaccinated.
Has there been any indication of how Costa Rica intends to handle that situation with regard to insurance?
Sammi says
Anyone entering Costa Rica before August 1, 2021 has to purchase insurance for the entire length of their stay regardless of their vaccination status (They are going by the date you are entering Costa Rica). After August 1, 2021, fully vaccinated do not have to purchase insurance.
Jason says
Hi there, I was wondering if you knew what the driving restrictions will be after July 11th? I will be arriving to Costa Rica on July 12th but I cannot find any information for restrictions after the 11th.
Sammi says
The government hasn’t announced anything for after July 11 yet.
LUCIE SAMARKOVA says
Hi Sammi,
I will be landing in Costa Rica on Tue (after 15 years!). A couple of question re: bus travel:
I will have to travel on Saturday from Orosi to S. Pedro de Sarapiqui (via Cartago and SJ). wondering how busy those routes get on the weekends. Currently, are less locals taking the bus since the covid numbers got higher?
Do the public buses have A/C (incl. Cartago -Orosi)?
thanks so much for the great blog!
Sammi says
Unfortunately the number of locals taking the bus has actually increased due to the nation wide driving restriction. My advice would be to arrive at least 1 hour before your buses because buses cannot take foot passengers anymore and weekends are very busy now with locals going out to travel in the country.
I’m not sure about that particular bus and it also depends on the bus company but most of the short routes do not have air conditioning, usually only the cross country buses.
rick says
Hi I was planning a trip to Tamarindo via Liberia airport for July 10-17. I am traveling solo and want to be able to go places during the day and then also go out at night. Are bars and restaurants still closing at 9pm?
Sammi says
They haven’t yet announced for mid July yet but even with the 9 PM restriction right now, honestly Tamarindo doesn’t really follow it at all. There’s still bars, gatherings, and restaurants and parties going on at night.
Lynda says
Although we are not able to travel, only locally, I still love reading through your adventures and advice. We are experiencing lots of humid weather in Ontario now at 28c.
We were lucky enough to visit the Tamarindo area twice (used as our base), but loved the fact there was so much variety.
Thanks for all your efforts, sounds like you are still enjoying. Stay safe.
Ricky says
I planned a guys trip to Jaco June 2-7 for 4 guys 30-35. Are there any excursions going on and do you see the clubs and bars opening back up after May 31st? We were looking to doing some fishing and enjoying the nightlife but it seems that may not happen with 9pm curfews.
Sammi says
Hi Ricky, so far we only know May restrictions. They haven’t said any June restrictions since it’s still early, if they change restrictions they’ll announce it probably end of May.
Tara says
Hi Sammi, we have a trip planned in July but are watching covid situation closely. Our main concern is if we get injured or sick the ICUs are full. My husband and I are vaccinated but our kids are not. We’re curious about how long we would be waiting in large crowd, inside of airport to get through customs and get luggage in San Jose. After that we are mostly isolated on our own and staying in air bb. Hours? Less?
Sammi says
Depending on how many flights and day/time you’re flying into San Jose, it could take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. We arrived at SJO at the same time as like 4 other flights and it took us almost an hour but if you’re landing at an odd hour, likely you will be the only flight and wont’ take too long.
Kris says
Hi,
My friends and I (all vaccinated) are set to arrive in Tamarindo in two weeks. We have had the trip planned for a long while now, however, have been seeing the increase in cases/closures in the country since the start of May. What is Tamarindo like right now? Are things open? We are keeping an eye on the news – just trying to get all of the info we can beforehand! Thank you.
Sammi says
Hi Kris, right now things are open (like restaurants, hotels, bars, etc.) and rental cars are exempt from the driving restrictions. There are just some few things that may affect tourists and that’s for no foot passengers in public buses, 50% maximum capacity for national parks and hotels with more than 100 rooms must be at 75% maximum capacity and of course the mask mandate but other than that it’s pretty open and Tamarindo is very very COVID lax.
Kris says
Hi Sammi, thanks so much for your quick reply. The information is helpful!
Alexa says
Hi
My husband and I had a trip booked last July to Secrets Papagayo, it was rebooked to this coming July. We are trying to decide if it will be a good time to travel there given the increased cases, therefore increased restrictions. We want a truly relaxing and fun trip (first time going to C.R.), want to be able to explore C.R. outside of the resort. Thinking about canceling and trying again next year, hoping there won’t be restrictions at that point. Your thoughts?? Thank you, Alexa
Sammi says
Hi Alexa, Costa Rica does have a lot of rising cases and full ICU beds right now but unfortunately it’s hard to say how it will be in July. As of May, there aren’t actually many restrictions that affect tourists too much (you can read about May restrictions in this post and you’ll see it doesn’t really affect international tourists much) but we can’t say how it will be in July if things don’t get better.
Carrie says
Hi! My friend and I with her 2 15 yr old daughters have reservations to go to Costa Rica on June 21.
We fly into San Jose and need to find a flight from San Jose to Limon. Then drive to Puerto Viejo. Is Sansa Airlines still in business? Their website seems to be down. Can you please give us advice on what airline to take.
My friend and I are over 50 and are vaccinated. the 15 year olds are not.
Do we need to buy travel insurance?
Will you please provide any travel advice you think we may need? As we don’t know what we don’t know.
regards,
Carrie
Sammi says
Hi Carrie, Sansa is still operating, their site seems to be up and running now (although very slow). If you fly locally, the only airport is in Limon and then you still need to drive an hour to Puerto VIejo from there.
All foreigners must purchase travel insurance to Costa Rica regardless if they have been vaccinated or not.
Emily says
Hi There!
Can you please tell me what public transportation is like right now in Costa Rica? I am planning on visiting in September, and I will need to know how to get around. I am planning on spending time in San Jose, Puerto Viejo, Parismina, La Fortuna, and Monteverde, and maybe Drake Bay. Are the public buses running? Taxi’s or Ubers? Do you need any kind of paperwork to ride? Any information will be helpful.
Thanks so much!
Sammi says
All buses are running, no foot passengers allowed and everyone has to wear a facemask inside the bus terminal, waiting at the bus stop and inside the bus at all times. Ubers and taxis are also available, face masks also required. For all public buses, I recommend to get there at least 30 minutes -1 hour before the bus sdeparts since they don’t always follow schedules and they can change sporadically.
Jackie says
This may be a dumb question but what is a “foot passenger” on a bus? Someone who stands rather than sits in a chair?
Sammi says
No dumb and you are correct, it means a standing passenger. So public buses no longer can carry anyone standing, everyone must be seated.
Andocles Knightly says
Hi Sammi.
I was wondering if I could get some advice please. My 18 year old Son from the UK has just tested positive for Covid in the UK while working in Tamarindo. Where can he go to self-isolate please? Is there a hotel or similar? We’re a bit stuck trying to sort him out 6000 miles away. Thank you.
Sammi says
Hello Andocles, since your son was working, his employer should have all the insurances for him as an employee so your son can go to the CAJA with his employment papers/working permit/etc. and they should provide him what he needs for hospitalization or quarantine. The Costa Rican health system (CAJA) for COVID is actually very good and they’re prioritizing that so they should help him right away.
Jeff Ruggles says
Hi. My family and I (there will be 11 of us) are coming to Tamarindo in June and staying at a house in Hacienda Pinilla. I was wondering about Covid Testing in the area. Are they really $160? Or can we get a “group discount”? Also what kind of test is available? Rapid? Do you know if it’s the test that goes deep in your nose?
Thanks for your help. Any information given is appreciated.
Jeff
Sammi says
Hi Jeff, I would contact your host to see if they work with any labs in the area to provide like a group discount (I do know they offer senior discounts). Unfortunately yes, they are around $100-300 USD per test and the price varies in locations and between labs/clinics.
Sammi says
Hi Lindsey, I know you will be ordered to do a mandatory 10 day quarantine if you test positive for COVID-19 according to the last I checked.
Lindsey says
Hi-
We are looking to travel to Costa Rica in March and wanted to see if you have any information about what the quarantine process is if you get Covid while in Costa Rica? The USA has a new rule that negative tests are required upon re-entry so wanted to see if you know what the process is here should that test somehow come back negative?
Ryan says
We are arriving in Costa Rica in a few days. We are going to be Fortuna for a few days but then we are going to drive south to Limon and Puerto Viejo. Any suggestions or feedback for the south east caribbean side of the country would be appreciated. Specifically I am confused about the driving restrictions. From everything I read it wont apply to us bc it doesn’t apply to rental cars?
Sammi says
Hi Ryan, we have written a lot of posts about Puerto Viejo you can read below and in our destination map, you can look through all the articles: Costa Rica destination map
Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Things to do in Puerto Vijejo
Rental cars are exempt from driving restrictions when you are driving to/from airports, hotels and tourism activities with a reservation.
Shanna says
Hi!
Thank you so much for your amazing blog and all the information. We are planing on coming to Costa Rica next week and renting a car and coming around the Tamarindo/Nosara/Santa Teresa area for a few weeks.
I was just wondering, is the beach restriction still in place at 230pm? and is there a restriction with driving rental car, say if we come from San Jose and maybe even do a National Park area before beach surf areas?
Thanks 🙂
Shan
Sammi says
Hello Shan! Beaches are now open from 5 AM to 6 PM for the month of February.
Marlene says
Sammi – Thanks for such a great and informative blog. I’ve planned 90% of our upcoming trip based on your posts! 🙂 We will be traveling to CR in early April and are making preparations for COVID entry requirements. However, the US just announced a negative COVID test is required within three-days of arrival in the US from international destinations. Another hiccup to traveling in COVID-times!
Do you have any information you could share about the availability of testing in CR? We are finishing our trip in Tamarindo, if that helps.
One more question… any personal surfing recommendations in Tamarindo? We will want to rent boards for several days – and I may want a brush up lesson!
Thanks for any help you can provide!
Sammi says
Hi Marlene, this post has a section for where to get a COVID test in Costa Rica and there is a section for Tamarindo and Liberia.
You can rent boards from any of the surf shops in town, there are a bunch but if you’d like a lesson, we recommend Seafari, Alejandro the owner is really good.
S says
Hi,
My wife and I are coming the last week of January from the States. Of course we want to obey the rules and take precautions to keep Everyone safe and healthy.
However, we also only want to come if we can have fun and experience Costa Rica. Are the beaches open all day? Are activities like Ziplining open? How about Snorkeling or guided tours to waterfalls? National parks? Restaurants? If not, maybe we should reschedule. TIA.
Sammi says
Hello, you can read our Costa Rica COVID travel post to read about what’s open and closed, etc. From January 4-17, we have a bit of restrictions (beach closes at 230 PM and national parks have to be 50% maximum capacity so only some trails open).
S says
Thanks for the info? Beaches close at 230 PM? Sounds like we should reschedule.
Sammi says
Yes, from January 4-17, beaches close at 230 PM (current update as of today).
H says
Thank you so much for this accurate and up-to-date info. I’ll be in Tamarindo with 3 friends over New Years. We all currently have antibodies, but are still quarantining at home for the holidays prior, getting tested again for COVID right before the trip, and will be mindful and respectful while traveling. That being said, we are young (late 20’s) and would still like to have a bit of fun. Wondering if the bars in Tamarindo are open right now, and what time they close? Do you think anything will be going on for New Years? Thank you!
Sammi says
Hi there, pretty much everything is open in Tamarindo right now, I believe the the businesses do need to close at 10 PM on weekdays and 9 PM on weekends for the driving restrictions but to be honest I’m not sure if many of them are following that. I haven’t heard anything specific for New Years yet but if there aren’t any restrictions put in place, there are usually always fireworks on the beach. Have a great time.
Jamie M Hyman says
This is great information. Thank you so much. I’ve been debating taking my daughter on a yoga retreat in Guanacaste in May. But I have so many hesitations due to Covid. Especially living here in the States.
Sammi says
You’re very welcome, and please also check our Costa Rica COVID travel for more information pertaining to tourism during COVID 🙂 We hope you can visit soon!
Chelsea says
Hello! I have a trip planned where I fly to CR on Christmas Eve. I’m curious how locals feel about tourists coming during a pandemic? We’re considering cancelling because we don’t want to upset locals or be disrespectful. Any thoughts?
Sammi says
Hi Chelsea, honestly the locals that work in tourism are desperate for tourists because of the border closure and I would say pretty much all are happy to welcome tourists back. Of course they want to make sure everyone follows the regulations and stay safe but tourism has been open completely since beginning of November here and the tourism industry is happy to be working again.
We just ask that if you do come to respect the rules Costa Rica has in place and treat lightly with locals as they’re doing their best to accommodate everyone and make sure everyone is having a fun and safe time after being out of work for many months.
Mark says
Great website!
Do you know if the events such as the “Tope Nacional de Caballos” or “Carnival Nacional” will still proceed in San Jose at Christmas time with COVID? Or… how I could find out?
Mark
Sammi says
All the festivals have been canceled this year (Fiestas de Zapote, Carnaval y el Tope). All mass events are still canceled and not allowed to run.
The La Nacion has an article about it: https://www.larepublica.net/noticia/fiestas-de-zapote-carnaval-y-el-tope-2020-cancelados-por-covid-19
David Reterband says
Many thanks for the information..many english traveller looking to come to your beautifull country…but we must wait untill our travel ban has been lifted…see you soon
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.
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 🙂