Planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering if you should bring U.S. dollars, local colones, or just your credit card? You’re not alone, it’s one of the most common questions from first-time visitors.
The good news? It’s a lot easier than you think.
Let’s break it down:
💵 Can I Use U.S. Dollars in Costa Rica?
Yes! USD is widely accepted, especially in tourist areas like La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Monteverde.
That said, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Use smaller bills ($20s and under). Large bills can be rejected or cause change issues.
- Expect change in colones, even if you pay in dollars.
- Exchange rates vary, and they’re usually not in your favor, especially at shops, small restaurants, or tours.
⚠️ Pro Tip:
If you’re paying in USD, double-check your change. Some vendors use rough conversion rates and you may get shorted, not always on purpose, but it happens.
Should I Use Colones?
You’ll usually get a better deal when paying in Costa Rican colones, especially at local spots like:
- Sodas (small traditional restaurants)
- Farmers markets
- Local buses
- Roadside stands
If you want to avoid mental math or rate guessing, use CRC for anything outside major hotels or chain restaurants.
💳 What About Credit Cards?
Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including:
- Restaurants
- Supermarkets
- Hotels
- Tour companies
- Even many small shops and cafés
Just a few tips:
- Let your bank know you’re traveling to Costa Rica
- Use a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees
- Choose to pay in colones at the terminal if given the option, you’ll get a better rate
- Check your statements frequently (as you would when traveling anywhere)
🏧 How to Get Cash
Need colones? No problem:
- ATMs are widely available
- Most cards work at Banco Nacional, BAC, or BCR
- Fees vary by bank, expect around $3–5 per withdrawal
💡 Pro tip: Take out a larger amount at once to minimize fees, and try to avoid sketchy standalone ATMs.
💬 Do I Need Canadian Dollars?
Nope. Canadian currency isn’t accepted anywhere, including banks.
Stick to USD or withdraw colones once you land.
Final Tips:
- Bring a small amount of USD in cash for tips or emergencies
- Use a low-fee credit card as your main form of payment
- Don’t stress, Costa Rica is very tourist-friendly when it comes to money
- And yes, you’ll probably end up with a pile of colorful colones in your pocket by day two 😄
Related Posts:
- How to Avoid Tourist Scams in Costa Rica
- Is It Safe to Drive in Costa Rica?
- Renting a Car with Ventu: Step-by-Step Guide
Legal Disclaimer:
This blog post is for informational purposes only and is based on general travel experiences in Costa Rica. Always check with your bank or card provider for current fees, exchange rates, and travel policies.
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