The official currency in Costa Rica is the Colon, named of course for Cristóbal Colón, known to most Americans as Christopher Columbus. Although the Colon is the legal currency, the U.S. dollar is widely accepted in most tourist places.
Changing Your Money
You will not have a problem converting US dollars to colones. All banks will exchange US dollars. Public banks offer the best rates but have the longest lines; however most of them do have many ATMs (cajeros automaticos). The private banks are generally faster and have better service. To avoid lines at both public and private banks try to avoid going during the before work and lunch rushes. The banks (public or private) will also cash travelers checks. Most banks are open from 9:00am to 4:00pm (some banks close at 3:00pm). Try not to exchange your money at your hotel or travel agency, although it is very convenient they tend to charge large commissions. Remember to always bring your passport with you when you are exchanging money. Another important thing to remember is to not leave the Costa Rica with too many colones. It can be difficult to buy back more than US$50.00 at the border or at the airport. Finally do not change your money with street changers, they do not offer a better rate and may try to scam you.
Credit Cards
In Costa Rica top-end and mid-range hotels will accept credit cards as will most fancy restaurants. All car-rental agencies accept credit cards. Visa is the most widely accepted credit cards, and some places will accept MasterCard. American Express card holders should not plan on finding places to use their cards. Other than that you will need dollars or colons during your Costa Rica travel. Definitely do not rely on a credit card in more remote areas; credit cards are almost never accepted there.
Purchasing
Large ticket items such as Costa Rica hotel rooms, tours, parks, and attractions can usually purchased in US dollars. Meals, bus fares and souvenirs should be purchased with colons. Always carry some small change. Pharmacies and most supermarkets will accept travelers checks, there will usually be a small fee added on for cashing them.
Tipping is slightly different in Costa Rica. It is normal to tip the bellhop and house-keeper US$1.00. Taxi drivers do not normally get tipped but tour guides should get US$1.00-$5.00 and bus drivers about half of that. Up-scale restaurants may at 10% gratuity to the bill. If no tip is added, leaving one is not required but shows appreciation.
