Uvita Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication Options

Costa Rica has three main mobile service providers: Kolbi, Claro, and Movistar. Kolbi typically has the best coverage, especially in rural areas near Uvita. Purchase a local SIM card ("chip" or "prepago") upon arrival at international airports or at local stores in Uvita. Your passport is needed for registration. SIM cards are inexpensive ($2-5), with affordable data packages. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes.

Staying Connected

Local SIM cards are easy to obtain for calls and data. Consider Airalo for an eSIM prior to arrival.
Wi-Fi access is common in tourist areas. For consistent connectivity, check out Solis Wi-Fi.
Postal services (Correos de Costa Rica) are slow for international mail; private couriers are faster.

Language Barriers & Translation

Spanish is the official language. English is common in tourist establishments, but less so in local eateries or smaller shops. Making an effort to speak Spanish is appreciated.

Essential Phrases

Use a Translation app on your Smartphone. Google Translate (offline pack) is highly recommended. For more immersive learning, consider Rosetta Stone.
"Hola" (OH-lah) - Hello; "Gracias" (GRAH-see-ahs) - Thank you; "Por favor" (por fah-VOR) - Please; "Pura Vida!" (POO-rah VEE-dah!) - Pure Life!
"Cuánto cuesta?" (KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah?) - How much does it cost?; "Dónde está...?" (DOHN-deh es-TAH...?) - Where is...?

Business Hours & Schedules

Banks typically open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Supermarkets operate daily, 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Restaurants: lunch 11:00 AM-2:00 PM, dinner 5:00 PM-10:00 PM. Shops: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Marino Ballena National Park and most other national parks generally operate 8:00 AM-4:00 PM daily.

Banking & Holidays

ATMs are available in Uvita, often near larger supermarkets or banks, dispensing Colones.
Major Public Holidays include New Year's Day, Easter (Holy Week), Labor Day, Guanacaste Annexation, Mother's Day, Independence Day, Culture Day, and Christmas.
During public holidays, banks and government offices close. Some private businesses, including restaurants and shops, may close or have reduced hours, specifically during Holy Week and the Christmas/New Year period.

Seasonal & Accessibility Notes

During the peak of the rainy season (September-October), some smaller businesses or tour operators in Uvita may close for a few weeks or operate on reduced schedules. It is wise to confirm availability for specific tours or restaurants if traveling during this period.

Accessibility Information

Uvita has limited infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges; sidewalks are uneven, narrow, or non-existent.
For airport lounge access, consider Priority Pass. For flight compensation, Compensair assists with delays/cancellations.
Specialized services like Braille signage or audio guides are not widely provided. Consult specialized travel agencies for accessible itineraries.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greetings and Attire

A handshake is a common greeting. Women often greet each other, and men, with a light kiss on the cheek. "Pura Vida" is a common greeting or farewell.
Wear swimwear only at beaches and pools. In banks, grocery stores, or more formal restaurants, a cover-up, shorts, or a t-shirt is respectful.
Dining: A 10% service charge is typically included in restaurant bills. An additional small tip for exceptional service is customary. Be patient; service can be slower, reflecting the relaxed "Pura Vida" pace.
Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially children. Be discreet and respectful.

Cultural Sensitivities

Taboos: Avoid discussing politics or overly criticizing Costa Rica or its people. Costa Ricans are proud of their country.
Respect their strong environmental conservation efforts. Avoid public displays of excessive wealth.
Religious Sites: If visiting a local church, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and maintain a quiet demeanor.
Gender/LGBTQ+: Costa Rica is generally progressive. Same-sex marriage is legal. While Uvita is accepting, discretion may be advised in very rural or traditional areas.

Local Insights

Embracing the "Pura Vida" philosophy of patience and appreciation for life will enhance your experience. A few Spanish phrases go a long way.

Airport Services & Information

Essential information for your arrival and departure, including airport amenities and assistance.

Lounge Access

Frequent travelers consider Priority Pass for independent airport lounge access globally, offering comfort during layovers.

Flight Compensation

Compensair is a service that helps customers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

General Information

Juan Santamaría (SJO) and Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR) are Costa Rica's main international airports. Uvita is approximately 3-4 hours drive from SJO.

Arrival Procedures

Upon arrival at the airport, follow signs for immigration, baggage claim, and customs. Have your passport, return ticket, and accommodation details ready. Visa requirements vary by nationality; confirm yours before travel.

Immigration & Customs

Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your intended departure date.
Fill out the immigration form accurately. Declare any goods as required by customs regulations.
Baggage claim carousels are clearly marked by flight number.

Departure Information

Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights. Check your flight status and gate information. Most airlines offer online check-in for convenience.

Airport Security & Amenities

Follow all security screening procedures. Remove liquids and electronics as instructed.
Airports have duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Ground transportation options from Uvita to the airport include shared shuttles, private transfers, and public buses.

Airport Transfers from Uvita

Shared Shuttles

Several companies (e.g., Interbus, Easy Ride) offer direct shared shuttle services from Uvita to SJO or LIR.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season.
Shared shuttles are a cost-effective and relatively comfortable transfer option.

Private Transfers

For maximum flexibility and privacy, arrange a private car transfer.
These transfers adjust to your schedule and can be booked through your hotel or local tour operators.
Private transfers are the most expensive option but offer convenience.

Airport Connections

Plan your airport transfer well in advance to ensure a smooth journey to or from Uvita.

Money & Banking

Information on currency, payment methods, and financial services in Uvita.

Currency and Exchange

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Colón (CRC). U.S. Dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas like Uvita, especially for larger purchases and at higher-end establishments. However, transactions in Colones often result in a better exchange rate. It is good to have a mix of both currencies.

Exchange Locations

Exchange money at banks or official currency exchange offices. Avoid exchanging money with unofficial vendors.
Many ATMs dispense both Colones and U.S. Dollars; check before withdrawing.
Monitor the current exchange rate to understand the value of your currency.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and supermarkets. Smaller shops, sodas, and street vendors may only accept cash. Always carry some cash (Colones) for smaller purchases and in more rural areas.

Card Usage

Inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent card suspension due to unusual activity.
Check for foreign transaction fees with your bank. Some cards have lower or no fees.
ATMs are available for cash withdrawals. Note any withdrawal limits or fees.

Budgeting Tips

Uvita offers options for various spending levels. Eating at local "sodas" is a budget-friendly way to enjoy authentic cuisine. Shopping at local markets for groceries can reduce food costs. Transportation by public bus is the most economical.

Saving Money

Consider visiting during the shoulder season (May-June, November) for lower prices on flights and accommodations.
Look for happy hour specials at bars and restaurants.
Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and save on bottled water purchases.

Tipping Practices

In restaurants, a 10% service charge is typically included in your bill. This is mandated by law. An additional small tip for exceptional service is customary, specifically if the service exceeded expectations.

Other Tipping Scenarios

Hotel porters: A small tip (e.g., $1-2 per bag) is appropriate.
Housekeeping: A small daily tip (e.g., $1-2) shows appreciation.
Tour guides and drivers: Tipping is appreciated for good service, typically 10-15% of the tour cost or a set amount per person.

Security Considerations

Protecting Valuables

Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and other valuables.
Carry only necessary cash for the day. Avoid displaying large amounts of money.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

ATM Safety

Use ATMs located inside banks or busy, well-lit areas.
Be cautious of anyone offering "help" at an ATM.
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency Numbers

911: General emergency (police, ambulance, fire).
128: Red Cross (Cruz Roja) - Ambulance.
118: Firefighters (Bomberos).

Other Important Contacts

Local Police: Check with your accommodation for the direct local police number in Uvita.
Your Embassy/Consulate: Keep your country's embassy or consulate contact information readily available.
Your Accommodation: Have your hotel or rental property's contact number for emergencies.

Financial Planning

Carry a mix of U.S. Dollars and Colones. Inform your bank of your travel dates and carry emergency contact numbers.

Uvita Travel Tips