Money, Currency and Cards in Costa Rica
Local Currency
Costa Rican Colon (CRC)
General Advice
The Costa Rican Colón is the official currency of Costa Rica (CRC, symbol ₡) and is divided into 100 céntimos.
Notes are in denominations of ₡10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of ₡100, 50, 25, 20, 10 and 5.
US Dollars are also widely accepted, particularly in the larger hotels and restaurants.
Money Exchange
US Dollars and travellers cheques can be exchanged in banks and many hotels.
It is considered risky to use black market exchange options, as counterfeit bills have been reported.
Banks are generally open from 10am and closing times vary between 3pm and 6pm.
Note that US Dollars are widely exchanged, but other currencies are more difficult.
ATM Availability
There are ATMs throughout all of the larger towns in Costa Rica.
Many smaller communities do not yet have ATMs, however, so it's advisable to keep some cash handy.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout Costa Rica, but note that American Express and Diners Club card use can be limited.
Travellers Cheques
Banks charge a service fee for cashing travellers cheques.
Note that currencies other than US Dollars can be more difficult to exchange.
Other Information
Whilst it is reletively easy to pay for things by plastic, it is recommended that you carry some cash with you for smaller purchases.
Similarly, although US Dollars are widely accepted, it is worth having some local currency available.
