Last Updated: October 7, 2020
When Christopher Columbus sailed to the eastern shores of Costa Rica during his final voyage in 1502, he was welcomed by vast quantities of gold jewelry worn by the natives. And on some accounts, he somehow named it La Costa Rica or ‘Rich Coast’ in English.
Costa Rica is what many people consider paradise. From prosperous forests to impressive waterfalls and immaculate beaches, the rich coast’s mural is so diverse and packed with adventures.
Well, Pura Vida! Because Costa Rica has reopened its borders for tourism on August 1, 2020, allowing tourists from select low-risk countries.
Who Can Travel To Costa Rica?
Only those visitors (regardless of their Nationality) from the European Union, Canada, and United Kingdom will be allowed to travel to Costa Rica. And in order for them to enter, they must have remained at least 14 consecutive days in one of the these countries.
September 3 UPDATE:
Firstly, starting September 1, 2020, travelers from the following US states will be allowed to enter Costa Rica:
- Connecticut
- Maine
- New Hampshire
- Maryland
- New Jersey
- Vermont
- New York
- Virginia
- District of Columbia
Secondly, on September 15, the following US states will be permitted to enter Costa Rica:
- Colorado
- Massachusetts
- Pennsylvania
All travelers coming from the US must provide a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
October 2, 2020 update: Residents of the US state of California can now enter Costa Rica as tourists. To be allowed entry, they must provide a driver’s license or a state I.D. as proof that they live in California. They also need to submit a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
October 7 update: Starting November 1, Costa Rica will allow the entry of tourists coming from all states in the US. Currently, Costa Rica is only allowing travelers from a few US states. All travelers will be required to have tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of departure and complete a health form beforehand. Travelers must also have insurance to cover up to $50,000 in medical costs should a traveler become sick while on their trip.
Entry Requirements For Costa Rica
- COVID-19 negative test results. The test’s sample must be taken within 48 hours prior to the traveling date to Costa Rica.
- All travelers must fill out this form called ‘Pasa de Salud’ or health pass.
- Travel insurance that covers medical care or an unexpected extended hotel stay.
- Wearing of masks is strictly mandatory.
Scheduled Flights To Costa Rica
Costa Rica will open two of its international airports on August 1, 2020:
- Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose
- Daniel Oduber Airport in the northeast Costa Rica
If coming from Canada, WestJet will resume flights to Costa Rica on August 8, 2020. While Air Canada will start flying to and from Costa Rica on September 1, 2020.
For EU countries, Lufthansa will resume flights same time with the reopening on August 1, 2020 from Frankfurt. And Iberia from Madrid will start flying on August 3, 2020 and Edelweiss Air from Zurich will fly on August 6, 2020.
What Is Open in Costa Rica?
The government of Costa Rica will allow businesses and restaurants to reopen during the first nine days of August, but will then pause the effort for the following 12 days and resume restrictions.
This means that shops, cinemas, national parks, restaurants, and cafes are open but at 50% capacity. The government’s reopening plan still bans large gatherings, bars, and nightclubs.
Bottomline
Costa Rica might have only opened its air borders to selected countries.
So whether you’re thinking of the Pacific coast or the Caribbean coast. From surfing to yoga retreats to learning about the coffee’s journey, and to exploring the rich rain forest… Costa Rica certainly has got it all for you.
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