Costa Rica is one of the most visited countries in Central America, renowned for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and “pura vida” lifestyle. Having lived in Costa Rica for eight years, I’ve had the opportunity to experience both the incredible benefits and the challenging aspects of life in this tropical paradise. In this article, we’ll explore the best and the worst Costa Rica has to offer, giving travelers and potential expats a realistic view of what to expect.
The Best of Costa Rica
1. The Weather
One of the biggest advantages of living in Costa Rica is the weather. The country has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:
- Dry Season: Mid-December through April. The sun is abundant, skies are clear, and the landscapes come alive with colorful flowers. This is the peak season for tourism.
- Rainy Season: May through mid-December. Afternoon showers are frequent, but they are usually brief. The rain keeps the rainforests lush and green, replenishes rivers, and maintains fertile soil for agriculture.
This combination of sunny dry seasons and tropical rainy seasons ensures that Costa Rica is always vibrant and full of life. Visitors and residents alike enjoy outdoor activities year-round thanks to this favorable climate.
2. Abundant Clean Water
Costa Rica has plentiful freshwater sources, much of it coming from the mountains and flowing down into valleys. For the most part, the water is clean and safe to drink, especially in the central valley regions. This is a major benefit for travelers and expats, as access to fresh water is essential for daily life.
3. Fertile Soil and Tropical Agriculture
The soil in Costa Rica is incredibly fertile, allowing crops to be grown year-round. This abundance of natural resources ensures that food is available locally, reducing dependence on imports. Tropical fruits like bananas, pineapples, papayas, mangoes, and guavas grow in abundance, often available fresh from roadside stands or local markets. For those interested in farm-to-table dining, Costa Rica offers endless opportunities.
4. Friendly and Warm Locals
Costa Ricans, or Ticos, are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Many Ticos genuinely like North Americans and make foreigners feel welcome. Younger generations often speak English, making communication easier for tourists and expats. The “pura vida” lifestyle—a philosophy of happiness, gratitude, and enjoying life—permeates daily interactions, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment.
5. A Relaxed, Stress-Free Lifestyle
Life in Costa Rica moves at a slower pace. People take their time, enjoy the outdoors, and prioritize relaxation. This slower lifestyle can be a welcome change for those coming from fast-paced cities, allowing for a more mindful and enjoyable daily routine.
However, be warned: Costa Rican drivers can be aggressive, and traffic behavior changes this otherwise relaxed environment.
6. Outdoor Recreation
Costa Rica is an outdoor paradise, offering everything from mountain hikes and volcano tours to surfing on the Pacific coast. You can snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, or zipline through the rainforest. National parks, beaches, and protected reserves make it easy to enjoy adventure sports and nature at every turn.
7. Medical Care
Costa Rica provides high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to the United States. Private hospitals like CIMA in Escazú offer excellent facilities, modern equipment, and English-speaking staff. Costa Rica also has a government-run health care system, known as Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), though some locals report slow service in public facilities. Overall, health care is affordable, accessible, and professional.
8. Education
For families with children, Costa Rica offers good educational opportunities. Private schools in the Central Valley offer quality elementary and high school education. The University of Costa Rica, located in San José, is one of the top institutions in the region. Many expat families find it easy to integrate into the local educational system, especially if their children already speak Spanish.
The Worst of Costa Rica
Despite its many benefits, Costa Rica has its share of challenges. Here are some of the most significant downsides to life in this tropical paradise:
1. Crime
Unfortunately, crime is a serious concern in Costa Rica. Petty theft, pickpocketing, and burglaries are common, especially in tourist areas. Some criminals are becoming more sophisticated and may even carry firearms.
Many expats and locals live in gated communities with security guards to reduce risk. Visitors should remain vigilant, avoid flashing valuables, and always lock homes and vehicles.
2. Bureaucracy and Patience
Costa Rica is known for its slow-moving bureaucracy. Simple tasks, such as getting permits or resolving administrative matters, can take much longer than in North America. Having an attorney can help navigate legal and administrative challenges, but it often adds complexity and cost.
Patience is essential for anyone living or doing business here. Learning to adapt to the slower pace and accepting delays as part of daily life is crucial for a stress-free experience.
3. Expensive Cars and Fuel
Owning a car in Costa Rica is expensive due to high import taxes on vehicles. Fuel prices are also high, and poor road conditions—especially potholes and unpaved roads in rural areas—can increase maintenance costs.
Many roads require 4×4 vehicles, particularly in mountainous or remote regions. For travelers, this means car rentals and transport costs are higher than expected.
4. Poor Road Conditions
While Costa Rica has made improvements to its highway system, roads outside major cities often have potholes, narrow lanes, and steep inclines. Driving requires caution, especially during the rainy season when roads can become slippery.
5. Rainy Season Challenges
While the rainy season brings lush landscapes, it also has downsides. Afternoon rains can disrupt travel plans, hikes, and outdoor activities. In some regions, flooding and landslides can occur, particularly in mountainous areas.
6. Traffic and Aggressive Driving
Costa Rican drivers, particularly men, can become aggressive and impatient on the roads. Traffic jams in and around cities like San José are common, and driving culture differs significantly from North American norms. Visitors and expats must adapt to local driving habits to stay safe.
7. Limited Access to Certain Services
Some services that are taken for granted elsewhere—such as fast internet installation, home delivery, or specialty medical services—may be slower or less accessible. Urban centers offer more amenities, while rural areas may have limited options.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is a country of contrasts. On the positive side, it offers:
- Gorgeous tropical weather and lush landscapes
- Abundant clean water and fertile soil
- Friendly, welcoming locals
- Outdoor recreation and adventure opportunities
- Affordable medical care
- Good education and cultural experiences
On the negative side, challenges include:
- Petty and sometimes violent crime
- Slow bureaucracy and legal complexities
- Expensive cars, fuel, and road maintenance
- Poor road conditions in remote areas
- Rainy season disruptions and occasional aggressive drivers
Ultimately, Costa Rica is a paradise with imperfections. Being aware of both the best and worst aspects allows visitors and potential expats to enjoy the country while navigating its challenges. Patience, preparation, and respect for local customs are key to making the most of your Costa Rican experience.
If you are prepared for the challenges and ready to embrace the pura vida lifestyle, Costa Rica can offer some of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of your life.