This list provides a quick overview of things you should know to help you plan your trip to San Jose and La Fortuna.
Currency
Costa Rica is on the expensive side, so expect London prices. You can withdraw some Costa Rican Colon from the ATM machine when you arrive. Almost all places accept contactless card payments and you can choose to pay in Colon or US Dollars, so I wouldn’t withdraw more than £50. I paid for things in Colon.
Tipping is not common, but you can tip if you want to. I’d usually tip around 2,000.00 Colon - that’s like £3.
When withdrawing from the bank in Costa Rica, twenty-five thousand Colon should be typed in the machine like so: 25,000.00. That’s about £40 or $50.
Language
Spanish or English is fine as all the tour providers and guides speak English, as well as the restaurant workers. The only time Spanish might be needed is for some taxi / UBER drivers, but for the most part, English is widely spoken and understood.
Transportation
Shuttle Transfers: This is your BEST option for tours and transfers in La Fortuna. There are many companies available on TripAdvisor, Get Your Guide and Viator. My Pink Bus was my favourite. The cost of a transfer from San Jose to La Fortuna is around £55 per person. When booking shuttle transfers, the company will contact you the day before or in some cases, morning of, to confirm your trip. They usually collect you on the dot, so be ready on time.
UBER operates in Costa Rica. The average 10-minute trip will cost about £3-4. When you get into the car, you’ll be asked to provide your pin code which you can see on the app. I took an UBER to the San Jose airport, which cost £12 for a 38-minute drive.
Taxi: If you are going to take a taxi, make sure you use Orange taxis not the red taxi services. As with most taxis, expect to pay via cash. The drivers are very kind and will even stop at an ATM so you can withdraw money.
Car: I don’t think this is necessary at all, especially if you are pre-booking tours. For people visiting from the UK for a short stay, you don’t need to hire a car in Costa Rica. Americans typically do, but that suits their needs. Shuttle buses will be all you need.
Best places to eat in La Fortuna
Breakfast / Brunch: The Open Kitchen (good brunch options)
Lunch: Casado from a local Soda (comfort food)
Dinner: Typica Coffee Bar and Grill (delicious food)
Dessert / Coffee: Chocolate Fusion Chocolateria (good coffee)
Drinking water
The tap water in Costa Rica is fine to drink. I would suggest carrying a reusable water bottle with you so you can top-up when needed. I also made sure to take some Imodium just in case.
Sim Card
Purchase a 7-day sim card from Claro in the airport. It costs $35 for unlimited data. Mine worked perfectly throughout my stay. Remember to show your passport when purchasing. It’s better to purchase your sim at the airport for convenience if you aren’t going to be spending much time in San Jose, or arriving in San Jose at night.
It’s very useful to have WhatsApp downloaded to your phone while in Costa Rica. Most of your tour operators and transfers will contact you this way. You can also join groups like the Selina WhatsApp group, to find out what activities are taking place that day, or even catch a ride with other travellers driving to different parts of the country.
What to wear in Costa Rica (North-west / Midwest)
For La Fortuna: If visiting in November, it will rain everyday. However, the weather will change multiple times throughout the day, from hot and sunny, mildly chilly, to wet and rainy.
I suggest you pack 2-3 different outfits per day. Pack lots of fast-drying clothes, one pair of jeans, a few light long sleeve tops, a cardigan, a light waterproof jacket, two dresses, two skirts and shorts / gym leggings. Of course, don’t forget an umbrella. For shoes, you’ll need: hiking shoes, water shoes, trainers and sandals or flip flops.
For San Jose: The style is a bit more formal here, so ideally dress a bit smarter. I didn’t see any women wearing skirts or dresses though, but jeans, a smart top and shoes will be fine. Leave the bold colours, flashy prints and designer items at home.
How far is San Jose airport from the centre?
With little traffic, about 30-40 minutes. With traffic, about 50 minutes. The only hotel that is close by is the Holiday Inn Express (a shuttle is also provided I believe). All the other hotels aren’t as close as what is listed on Bookings.com. Even the Denny’s restaurant is at least a 20 minute drive.
What’s in San Jose airport?
All shops are located after security. This airport predominantly has souvenir shops, but of course for double the price. Almost everything stocked are the same items you can buy in San Jose or La Fortuna town, so make sure you buy your souvenirs (and snacks) outside the airport.
There is a food court inside where you can get healthy food as well as fast food. You’ll also find a Starbucks inside if you want something familiar. Flights to London Gatwick will most likely be at Gate 2 - where you’ll also find a cafe / bar / souvenir shop. There are also lots of stations where you can charge your devices.
Is Costa Rica safe for solo female travellers?
Costa Rica is totally safe for solo female travellers. The people are very friendly and kind. You also don’t need to be concerned about being treated or looked at differently. Costa Rica is a diverse and accommodating country.
Should I visit La Fortuna?
Yes, if you’re adventurous, an animal lover or even on your honeymoon, La Fortuna is the perfect destination to add to your itinerary. There is something for everyone, of all ages and abilities.
Pura Vida! Happy travels :)