The Costa Rica Colon is preferred, but US dollars are widely accepted. We recommend traveling with small denominations of US dollars for tipping purposes. Generally, bills larger than $20 are not accepted. Even if you use the USD, you will likely receive your change in colones.
Credit card payment is widely accepted, most commonly MasterCard, Visa, and American Express, but the further off-grid you get, the less likely. You’ll want to tell your credit card company that you’ll be in Costa Rica before your trip to ensure your cards work without issue.
If you plan on driving, you will want to have a variety of Costa Rica colones (bills and coins) with you as there may be toll roads along your route. Your wallet may feel a bit stuffed with all the cards and currencies you’re keeping track of, but having a few different methods of payment on hand is going to save you time and stress.
