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20 Things You Should Not Do in Costa Rica

Steve Jennifer
Updated: Jun 27, 2023

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In this guide, you'll find a comprehensive list of 20 things to avoid when visiting Costa Rica. From respecting the environment and wildlife to understanding cultural customs and prioritizing safety, this summary provides essential tips for a responsible and enjoyable trip to this beautiful country.

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01. Don't Expect Excellent Coffee

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02. Shake Out Your Shoes, Don't Forget!

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03. Avoid Touching the Little Frogs

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When exploring the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica, it's important to remember not to touch the tiny frogs you may encounter. Costa Rica is known for its vibrant and diverse frog species, including the iconic poison dart frogs. While these tiny creatures may be fascinating to observe, it's crucial to avoid touching them. Many of these frogs possess potent toxins that can be harmful or even fatal if they come into contact with your skin or are ingested.

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04. Don't Let Your Snake Defences Slip

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05. Don't Pay an Unauthorised Tax

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06. Don’t Feed the Monkeys

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One important thing to remember when visiting Costa Rica is to avoid feeding the monkeys. While it may be tempting to interact with these adorable creatures, feeding them can have negative consequences for their health and behavior. Feeding monkeys can disrupt their natural diet, encourage dependency on humans, and lead to aggressive behaviors.

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07. Avoid Parking Lot Scams

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When parking your vehicle in Costa Rica, it's crucial to be vigilant and not fall for parking lot scams. These scams often involve unauthorized individuals posing as attendants and trying to extort inflated fees or damage your vehicle. To protect yourself, choose reputable parking facilities recommended by trustworthy sources. Confirm the parking rate before leaving your vehicle and park in well-lit, populated areas.

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08. Stay Away from the Ants

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When in Costa Rica, it's important to exercise caution and avoid going near ants, particularly certain species like army ants or bullet ants. These ants can have aggressive behavior and powerful bites or stings that can cause pain and discomfort. It's best to keep a safe distance and not disturb their nests or foraging trails. Stay on designated paths and be mindful of your surroundings to prevent accidental encounters with ants.

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09. Don't Ignore Volcano Warnings

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It is crucial not to be lax about volcano alerts. The country is home to several active volcanoes, and it's important to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by local authorities and experts. Keep track of volcano activity updates and be aware of any warnings or evacuation notices. Familiarize yourself with the designated safe zones and evacuation routes in case of an eruption.

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10. Don’t Stay at an International Chain Resort

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When planning your stay in Costa Rica, consider avoiding international chain resorts and opt for locally-owned accommodations instead. By staying at smaller, locally-owned hotels, lodges, or eco-lodges, you can support the local economy and have a more authentic experience. These accommodations often provide a more personalized and immersive experience, allowing you to connect with the local culture and community.

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11. Never Neglect Nature

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12. Do tip, but Do not Overtip

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13. Don't Forget to Pick Up Some Basic Spanish

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When planning a trip to Costa Rica, it's highly recommended not to forget to learn some basic Spanish. While many Costa Ricans in tourist areas may speak English, having a grasp of the local language can greatly enhance your experience and interactions with locals. Simple phrases and greetings such as "hello," "thank you," and "goodbye" can go a long way in establishing connections and showing respect for the local culture.

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14. Don't Forget About Beach Safety

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15. Remember the Insect Repellent!

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16. Don’t Expect to See Big Cats in The Jungle

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When exploring the jungles of Costa Rica, it's important to manage your expectations and understand that seeing big cats, such as jaguars or pumas, is extremely rare. These elusive and highly territorial animals are expert at avoiding human contact, making sightings challenging. They typically inhabit remote and less-accessible areas, and their populations are relatively small in Costa Rica.

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17. Don't Rely Solely on Travellers Checks

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When traveling to Costa Rica, it's important not to rely solely on travelers checks. While they used to be a popular and secure method of carrying money, their acceptance has declined over the years. Many businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, no longer accept travelers checks. Instead, it is recommended to carry a combination of cash and debit or credit cards. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas where you can withdraw local currency, colones, directly from your account.

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18. Take Sunscreen, Don't Forget It

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19. Don't Forget to Schedule Time for the Departure Tax

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20. Don't Wait to Purchase Souvenirs at the Airport

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