- The best travel insurance for Costa Rica
- Is it currently safe to travel to Costa Rica?
- Travel insurance requirements for the visa to Costa Rica
- Why take out travel insurance for Costa Rica?
- Travel Insurance Coverage for Costa Rica
- The cost of travel insurance for Costa Rica
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Costa Rica?
- Will My Current Insurance Cover Me in Costa Rica?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Costa Rica: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Costa Rica covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel issues.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens but protects against high unexpected medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is high quality but expensive, with hospital stays costing over $800 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Costa Rica typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers adventure sports like zip-lining, as these are popular in Costa Rica.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Costa Rica.
The best travel insurance for Costa Rica
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1M | Top recommendation for Costa Rica travel security. - high medical coverage - evacuation included - comprehensive guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1M | Reliable choice for US travelers in Costa Rica. - 24/7 support - no deductible - coverage for medical emergencies |
| Tourist Card | $500k | Good value for leisure and tourism trips. - solid health cover - emergency assistance - straightforward pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $700k | Well-balanced for adventure and family trips to Costa Rica. - hospital and repatriation - prompt claims - flexible duration options |
| Globe Partner | $300k | Suitable for longer or extended stays. - essential medical protection - civil liability included - simple claims |
| Globe Traveller | $500k | Best for short and budget trips to Costa Rica. - necessary medical coverage - fast reimbursement - limited maximum |
- high medical coverage
- evacuation included
- comprehensive guarantees
- 24/7 support
- no deductible
- coverage for medical emergencies
- solid health cover
- emergency assistance
- straightforward pricing
- hospital and repatriation
- prompt claims
- flexible duration options
- essential medical protection
- civil liability included
- simple claims
- necessary medical coverage
- fast reimbursement
- limited maximum
Is it currently safe to travel to Costa Rica?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State continues to advise travelers to exercise increased caution in Costa Rica, mainly due to crime concerns and recent volcanic activity.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime such as theft and robbery is common, especially in San José and at beach destinations like Jacó. Tourists should avoid walking alone at night and never display valuables in public spaces.
- Health risks: mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue and Zika, are present year-round throughout Costa Rica. For example, outbreaks have been reported near the Pacific coast, and travelers should use insect repellent and take preventive measures.
- Environmental hazards: Costa Rica is situated in an active earthquake and volcanic zone. Recent red alerts, such as at Poás Volcano, may lead to sudden park closures and evacuations.
- Legal requirements: a valid passport and proof of onward travel are necessary for entry. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from certain countries in South America or Africa.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Costa Rica.
Travel insurance requirements for the visa to Costa Rica
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens visiting Costa Rica for tourism.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended due to risks such as theft, accidents during adventure activities, mosquito-borne diseases, and natural disasters including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Medical treatment, evacuation, and repatriation can involve substantial costs if you are uninsured.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Costa Rica. This high rate reflects frequent adventure travel, active volcanoes, and the potential expense of medical emergencies.
Why take out travel insurance for Costa Rica?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Costa Rica.
In Costa Rica, private clinics such as Clínica Bíblica in San José offer high-quality care but charge international patients full price upfront. Emergency or specialist care can become expensive, and in remote areas, immediate access to medical services is limited. Public hospitals may have long wait times, and private care is often the only timely option for travelers.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Costa Rica.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Clínica Bíblica | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | CRC 2,000,000 (approx. $3,900) | up to full reimbursement |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | CRC 950,000 (approx. $1,850) | up to full reimbursement |
| I need to be repatriated | CRC 8,000,000 (approx. $15,400) | up to full reimbursement |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | CRC 3,200,000 (approx. $6,200) | up to full reimbursement |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel Insurance Coverage for Costa Rica
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Costa Rica.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, and prescription medications in Costa Rica. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Pays for emergency transport to the US or the nearest medical facility if needed, especially crucial due to volcanic and earthquake risks. A minimum of $150,000 is recommended. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation or interruption | Reimburses non-refundable costs if you must cancel or cut short your trip for emergencies like illness or natural disasters. Your limit should match your trip value, typically $5,000–$10,000. |
| 🧳 Lost, stolen or delayed luggage | Compensates for the loss, theft, or delay of baggage and personal effects during your trip. Recommended coverage is at least $1,500. |
| 💼 Personal liability | Pays costs if you accidentally cause injury or property damage to others. Minimum coverage of $50,000 is advised. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental treatment needed due to an accident or pain during your stay. Suggest at least $500–$1,000. |
| 🏄♂️ Adventure activity coverage | Protects against accidents during activities like surfing, hiking, or ziplining. Recommended limit is $25,000, check policy terms for specific activities. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
A minimum of $150,000 is recommended.
Your limit should match your trip value, typically $5,000–$10,000.
Recommended coverage is at least $1,500.
Minimum coverage of $50,000 is advised.
Suggest at least $500–$1,000.
Recommended limit is $25,000, check policy terms for specific activities.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has many exclusions and low maximums. For better protection, choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive benefits. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Costa Rica
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $12–$28 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $25–$45 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $40–$75 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $90–$160 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance policy depends on several key factors. Be sure to consider the traveler's age, the duration and destination of your trip, the desired coverage limits, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Keeping these elements in mind is crucial for selecting the most suitable and cost-effective plan for your journey.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Costa Rica?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Costa Rica while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Longer trips mean higher risk exposure, which raises your premium in Costa Rica. | Select coverage that matches your exact itinerary dates to avoid overpaying for unnecessary days. |
| 🎂 Traveler’s age | Insurance cost often rises with age, impacting older travelers visiting Costa Rica. | Heymondo does not raise rates for people over 62, which can help seniors control costs for their trip. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Higher coverage is important for accidents in remote areas or adventure activities but costs more. | Choose sufficient medical and evacuation coverage but avoid over-insuring beyond what is actually needed. |
| 👨👩👧 Family/group size | Insuring everyone together can reduce the cost per person in Costa Rica. | Opt for a family or group policy to benefit from a reduced average rate per covered person. |
| 🧗 Activities included | Adventure sports are popular but extra coverage can be expensive if not needed. | Only include coverage for zipline, surfing, or volcano visits if you actually plan to do these activities. |
| 📲 Purchase channel | Where you buy insurance affects price, with online quotes offering more options. | Get multiple quotes online and purchase direct from the insurer to take advantage of possible digital discounts. |
| 💵 Deductible | Agreeing to a higher deductible lowers the premium but means more out-of-pocket in a claim. | Select the highest deductible you can comfortably pay to decrease your insurance price substantially. |
Will My Current Insurance Cover Me in Costa Rica?
It is completely reasonable to ask whether your public health insurance or credit card insurance will cover your trip to Costa Rica. However, this coverage is usually limited or inadequate for international needs.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Costa Rica? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for costs abroad, including hospitalization, outpatient care, or emergency evacuation. | Travel insurance reimburses $100,000+ for hospital care and medical repatriation abroad. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Emergency treatment reimbursed up to $10,000. No coverage for lost baggage or trip delays. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for emergencies, and protects bags and flight issues. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies <$15,000. No coverage for trip interruptions, lost bags, or evacuation. | Travel insurance includes $100,000+ in health plus trip cancellation and luggage cover. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Premier) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $100,000. Some coverage for trip delay, but evacuation rarely covered. | Travel insurance can offer $250,000+ in health care and $5,000+ trip cancellation cover. |
Example
While surfing in Costa Rica, Mike suffered a severe leg fracture. The emergency evacuation and surgery at a private hospital in San José cost $28,000. His Chase Sapphire card’s travel benefit had a $2,500 limit, and his US health plan didn't cover foreign providers, leaving him with a $25,500 bill.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica for stays up to 180 days for tourism. You must have a valid passport for the length of your stay and a return or onward travel ticket. Entry requirements may change, so check before departure.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Costa Rica?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review the specific coverage and exclusions, making sure they match travel risks for Costa Rica, such as volcanic activity and adventure sports. Buy your plan securely online. You will receive your insurance certificate immediately after purchase.
Does travel insurance cover adventure sports and outdoor activities in Costa Rica?
Many travel insurance plans exclude or limit coverage for activities like ziplining, surfing, or volcano hiking. Look for a policy that includes adventure sports if you plan to participate. Always verify that your chosen plan covers medical emergencies and evacuations related to these activities.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Costa Rica?
If you need medical help, contact your travel insurance provider as soon as possible for advice and approval of costs. Most insurers offer 24/7 assistance and can help locate English-speaking doctors or arrange evacuation if needed. Save receipts and medical reports for your insurance claim.
Are natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes covered?
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include coverage for trip interruptions or evacuations due to natural disasters like volcanic eruptions or earthquakes. Check your policy to ensure these events are not excluded. It is important to stay informed of local alerts and follow authorities' guidance during your stay.
Does travel insurance cover lost or stolen belongings in Costa Rica?
Standard travel insurance often includes reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings, including luggage and electronics. Coverage limits vary but typically range from $500 to $2,500. Report thefts to local police and obtain a report, which your insurer will usually require for any claim.
Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica for stays up to 180 days for tourism. You must have a valid passport for the length of your stay and a return or onward travel ticket. Entry requirements may change, so check before departure.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Costa Rica?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review the specific coverage and exclusions, making sure they match travel risks for Costa Rica, such as volcanic activity and adventure sports. Buy your plan securely online. You will receive your insurance certificate immediately after purchase.
Does travel insurance cover adventure sports and outdoor activities in Costa Rica?
Many travel insurance plans exclude or limit coverage for activities like ziplining, surfing, or volcano hiking. Look for a policy that includes adventure sports if you plan to participate. Always verify that your chosen plan covers medical emergencies and evacuations related to these activities.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Costa Rica?
If you need medical help, contact your travel insurance provider as soon as possible for advice and approval of costs. Most insurers offer 24/7 assistance and can help locate English-speaking doctors or arrange evacuation if needed. Save receipts and medical reports for your insurance claim.
Are natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes covered?
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include coverage for trip interruptions or evacuations due to natural disasters like volcanic eruptions or earthquakes. Check your policy to ensure these events are not excluded. It is important to stay informed of local alerts and follow authorities' guidance during your stay.
Does travel insurance cover lost or stolen belongings in Costa Rica?
Standard travel insurance often includes reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings, including luggage and electronics. Coverage limits vary but typically range from $500 to $2,500. Report thefts to local police and obtain a report, which your insurer will usually require for any claim.
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