Americas · Country guide
Costa Rica
Currency, language, tipping etiquette, and how to get around Costa Rica — plus every Tripzeeker itinerary covering the country.
Currency
CRC
Language
Spanish
Tipping
Customary
Region
Americas
Currency
Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican Colón (USD widely accepted) (CRC). Use Tripzeeker's currency converter to check live exchange rates before you travel.
Language
The main language is Spanish. A translation app or basic phrasebook goes a long way outside major tourist areas.
Tipping etiquette
A 10% service charge is required by law and already on the bill — no further tip needed.
Use the tip calculator →Getting around
Rental car (4x4 recommended) for national parks; shuttle vans between tourist towns.
Destinations in Costa Rica
Plan your Costa Rica trip in 30 seconds
Enter your dates and Tripzeeker builds a complete day-by-day itinerary with live hotel prices, flight options, and weather forecasts — all in one place.
Start planningCosta Rica travel FAQ
What currency does Costa Rica use?
Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican Colón (USD widely accepted) (CRC). Tripzeeker's currency converter and tip calculator can help you budget in your home currency before you go.
What language is spoken in Costa Rica?
The main language is Spanish. A translation app or basic phrasebook goes a long way outside major tourist areas.
Do I need to tip in Costa Rica?
A 10% service charge is required by law and already on the bill — no further tip needed.
How do you get around Costa Rica?
Rental car (4x4 recommended) for national parks; shuttle vans between tourist towns.