Central Pacific Coast, Costa Rica
Kolbi (ICE), Claro, and Movistar are main providers. Purchase prepaid SIM cards at SJO Airport or local stores in Jacó.
Wi-Fi is widely available and reliable in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and many public areas. Most accommodations have free Wi-Fi.
Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist businesses in Jacó.
Learn basic Spanish phrases for better interactions.
WhatsApp is widely used in Costa Rica for communication with businesses and locals.
Shops open 9/10 AM to 6/7 PM, Mon-Sat. Supermarkets generally open 7 AM to 9 PM daily.
Lunch service 11 AM to 3 PM. Dinner starts 6 PM until 10 PM. Tourist restaurants may stay open later.
Banks open Mon-Fri, 9 AM to 4 PM. Tour operators 8 AM to 5 PM, but tours vary.
ATMs are available in Jacó on the main street and at banks. Most accept international cards.
Costa Rica observes national holidays. Banks, government offices, and some businesses may close or have reduced hours.
Plan shopping and banking during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and ensure businesses are open. Check specific holiday schedules.
Adhering to local customs enriches your experience and shows respect.
Handshakes common for men. Kiss on the cheek common for women or mixed-gender greetings (one kiss on right cheek).
Swimwear is for beach/pool. Casual attire fine for town. Cover swimwear when walking around.
A service charge (10%) is often included in restaurant bills. Refer to Section 2.3 for detailed tipping guidelines.
Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially children. Do not take photos without consent.
Pura Vida is a common phrase reflecting the relaxed and positive Costa Rican lifestyle. Embrace it!
Travelers with mobility needs face challenges in Jacó, as infrastructure remains limited. Planning ahead is very important.
Costa Rica, including Jacó, generally lacks widespread accessible infrastructure. Sidewalks are uneven or non-existent.
Carara National Park has an Universal Access Trail, one of few with good wheelchair accessibility. Jacó Beach is challenging due to sand.
Limited specialized services. Guide dogs may be permitted in some public spaces, but rules vary.
Contact the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) or specialized accessible travel agencies for up-to-date information.
Priority Pass for independent airport lounge access globally.
Compensair for flight delay, cancellation, or denied boarding compensation.
These services help manage common travel disruptions and comfort needs.
