Currency and Money Management in Costa Rica
Money management is a key aspect to consider when traveling to Costa Rica, a destination that attracts visitors from around the world for its natural wonders and rich culture. Here is some useful information and advice on money, exchange and payments in the country.
The official currency of Costa Rica is the Colón (symbol ₡), divided into 100 céntimos. The coins in circulation vary from 10, 25, 50 cents to 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50 and 100 Colones, offering a wide range for everyday transactions.
Use of the Euro and the US Dollar: Although the Colón is the local currency, US Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country, making transactions convenient for tourists. The Euro, however, is not commonly used for direct transactions and there is no advantageous official exchange rate between the Euro and Colón. It is therefore advisable to change Euros into American Dollars before leaving for Costa Rica, to obtain a more favorable exchange rate and facilitate expenses during your stay.
Credit and debit cards, especially those belonging to the Visa and Mastercard circuits, are accepted in most shops, bars, restaurants, pubs, sodas (small local restaurants), hotels and resorts. This makes it convenient to pay for everyday expenses without having to carry around large amounts of cash.
Properly preparing yourself when it comes to money management is an important step in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in Costa Rica, allowing you to focus on the countless beauties and adventures this country has to offer.