Getting to Costa Rica from the United States and Canada is simple. AA, Continental, Delta, United, US Air, America West, Martinair, Air Canada and LACSA (the Costa Rican airline) all have regularly-scheduled flights to San José and Liberia, Costa Rica’s second International Airport.

Entry Requirements

With a valid passport and a round-trip or continuing ticket, citizens of the United States, Canada and Europe can travel to Costa Rica for a 90-day stay without a visa. Visitors who might want to extend their visits to Costa Rica beyond these limits should go to the Immigration Office when they arrive here. There are also several classes of permanent residency available. Your local Costa Rican embassy/consulate can inform you of the terms and requirements.

The Journey

Costa Rica is no more than a day’s journey from anywhere in continental North America. San José, Costa Rica is only two and a half hours from Miami. More than 20 direct flights come in daily to San José and to Liberia in the north of the country from U.S. and Canadian cities, including Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, New York and Toronto. The time in Costa Rica varies by no more than two hours from any U.S. or Canadian location.

What to wear / what to bring

Cotton shorts and T-shirts, a light foldable raincoat, hiking or tennis shoes and swimsuits are recommended during the day. Formal wear with light dresses or pants for women and slacks and short sleeve shirts for men are the dress code for evenings at restaurants or parties. Do not forget a sweater if you are planning to visit the mountain regions. Also San José can be a little cool at night.

You should never forget your camera and extra film, a small first aid kit, binoculars, walking shoes, sunscreen, travelers checks, cash or/and credit cards, swim suits, casual clothes for nightlife and fine dining, insect repellent, copies of your favorite Costa RicaX travel guide, sandals, sunglasses & fresh hat, necessary medications, passport, & driver's license.