As the pandemic stretches on and on, you may be wondering if it’s safe to travel Costa Rica in 2022 – or if it’s even possible. After all, some countries still have their borders closed to everyone or just those not vaccinated.
Costa Rica has no such restrictions. You are more than welcome to visit Costa Rica in 2022, and it is perfectly safe to do so- as long as you follow the usual precautions you’d take when going anywhere in the world.
All international visitors are welcome and permitted to enter Costa Rica by air, land, or sea.
Of course, every Costa Rica tourist must meet the typical visa requirements, when applicable, and the requirements established within the pandemic.
The Government of Costa Rica does not require tourists to present a negative COVID-19 test or quarantine upon arrival. You will, however, be required to fill out a health pass – at least until the rule changes on April 1, 2022 (see information below). You must complete the Health Pass within 72 hours before arrival in the country.
Visitors traveling in Costa Rica in 2022 are asked to follow and abide by the sanitary protocols that have been established by the health administration of Costa Rica when participating in tourist activities throughout the country.
Meanwhile, as of January 21, 2022 through March 07, 2022: Commercial establishments and large venues that hold events such as concerts or national football games can voluntarily choose to request the COVID-19 vaccination QR code or vaccination card from their customers 12-years old and older to expand their capacity. You can download a pdf from the ICT (Costa Rican Travel Institute) for more in-depth information about this policy.
So what does that mean exactly?? Not every venue will choose to request a vaccination QR code. You can ask your hotel concierge which venues might be applying this rule – in our experience, most are not.
Here’s a little more information about traveling in Costa Rica that you may find helpful:
- From December 17, 2021- April 1, 2022: those vaccinated outside the country who do not have a QR code will be able to verify their vaccination status using the physical card provided when they were vaccinated. This will allow these individuals to enter commercial establishments that require vaccination proof.
- You will be required to wear a mask when inside or at most public places in Costa Rica, including public transportation. The exception is when you sit at a table and eat in a restaurant.
- There is a daily nationwide nighttime vehicle restriction from 11:00 pm until 5:00 am (including Saturday and Sunday).
- Note:As of March 7, 2022:
Vehicle restrictions are eliminated as well as the health pass for nationals arriving in Costa Rica. Random checks will be done for visitors.
- Note:As of March 7, 2022:
- Taxis, tourists with proof of hotel and flight reservations, and emergency vehicles are still allowed to circulate at all times.
- Most businesses can remain open seven days a week from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm.
- National Parks may operate at 100% capacity.
- Bars and casinos can operate at 50% capacity.
Important Update: As of April 1, 2022:
Tourists coming to Costa Rica, regardless of vaccination status, will no longer be required to fill out the health pass or obtain the insurance requirement and all activities and events will be able to operate at 100% capacity without requiring the use of a QR Code.
Businesses and Activities for the month of March, 2022:
The voluntary use of the QR Code continues for stores, restaurants, bars, cinemas, theaters and social events are maintained.
For sports, cultural, academic and business activities, as well as discotheques, dance halls and nightclubs, the capacity can now be 100% when requesting the QR Code and to 50% without the use of the QR Code.
Beyond COVID – What’s There to do in Costa Rica 2022?
Now that you know the rules around Costa Rica travel safety in the time of COVID, you’ll probably want to know what there is to do while traveling Costa Rica in 2022.
Well, we are happy to report that our beautiful country is as full of fun things to do as it ever was.
With the green season starting just around the corner in April, here are a few ideas for your Costa Rica vacation:
Costa Rica River Rafting
We love river rafting in Costa Rica – especially when the green season gets off to a start. Fast-flowing rapids and lush green forests are your hosts as you ride the thrill of the river waves throughout the countryside of Costa Rica. Costa Rica has 14 river systems that start in the volcanic mountain ranges and flow out towards the Caribbean Sea, the Pacific Ocean, the San Juan River, or Lake Nicaragua — with plenty of waterfalls along the way. These rivers produce world-famous white-water rapids and beautiful scenery along the banks.
Arenal Volcano National Park Costa Rica
One of the most loved attractions in the country, Arenal Volcano National Park is a top contender for the best things to do in Costa Rica. Hot springs, a live volcano, the massive and beautiful Lake Arenal, restaurants, bars, and more, the area of La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano National Park has a lot to offer. There is plenty to keep the entire gang entertained in the area, from hiking to horseback riding, ATV tours, and various hot springs, including those at our own distinctive Hotel Arenal Kioro and Titokú hot springs.
Surfing the Central Pacific Region of Costa Rica 2022
Those who are just learning and experienced surfers alike will love surfing Costa Rica, famous for its excellent surf breaks all along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
From Tamarindo to Nosara, Tango Mar, Jaco Beach, Playa Hermosa, and Esterillos, hundreds of beaches along the Pacific Coast are perfect for surfing on every level. In addition, we have half a dozen beautiful, distinctive hotels to choose from – why not reach out today to talk to one of our experts about your perfect surf vacation package?
Don’t want to lug your board down to Costa Rica? No problem! Surf shops and board rentals abound in every surf town you’ll come upon. Not a surfer yet? Surf lessons are easy to come by as well. Just ask- there are private surf lessons and surf camps aplenty to choose from.
Hiking, Birdwatching, and Nature Adventure- Costa Rica Calling
The lush green rainforests and cloud forests of Costa Rica are abundant with wildlife and adventure for those who love the great outdoors. From the beautiful rainforest meets ocean jungles near Nicuesa Lodge in the Southern Pacific Zone of Costa Rica to the gorgeously fresh cloud forest reserves of Monteverde, Costa Rica is a hiker’s paradise with plenty to discover.
Travel Costa Rica in 2022? You Bet! There’s No Reason Not To!
Whether it’s a family vacation to Costa Rica for Spring Break 2022 or you’re getting an early jump on your summer escape, a romantic getaway, or maybe a work vacation for one, Costa Rica 2022 is the place for you this year.
Sit back and relax, enjoy the surrounding nature, or get out and gather up some discovery and adventure; Costa Rica has something to appeal to every kind of traveler. We’re waiting to welcome you now.
Reach out today to learn more about our small distinctive hotels in Costa Rica and to get some assistance with planning your Costa Rica travel in 2022.
