Costa Rica InsideUnderstand the place you’re visiting.
Local Culture

Local Culture

Etiquette, language and everyday life.

Updated: November 2, 2026. Schedules, prices and conditions change; always confirm on the booking page.

Central Valley hillsides near Heredia
Central Valley hillsides near Heredia · Photo: WildPhotography.com
Disclosure: Some links go to GetYourGuide, Viator or Agoda, and we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. Booking and payment happen on the partner’s site. Details.

Researched advice · compiled from official sources and operator information, not first-hand reporting. Edited by Joshua ten Brink. About our labels

Greetings and language

A friendly “buenos días” goes a long way. “Pura vida” is used as hello, goodbye, thanks and “all good”. Costa Ricans often use “usted” even with friends and family.

Tipping

Restaurant bills usually include a 10% service charge by law, shown on the bill. Extra tips for guides and drivers are appreciated but optional.

Food

Try a casado (rice, beans, salad, plantain and a protein) at a soda, a small local restaurant, and gallo pinto at breakfast.

San JoséViator

San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour including Markets

Food walking tour in San José with markets.

See tour details
La FortunaGetYourGuide

La Fortuna: Historic Farmhouse, Traditional Meal & Dance

Traditional meal and dance at a historic farmhouse near La Fortuna.

See tour details

Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices, inclusions and availability are set by the provider and change often.

Respectful travel

  • Do not feed wildlife
  • Stay on marked trails
  • Ask before photographing people
  • Dress modestly in towns and churches