Vaccination & Health requirement to visit Costa Rica

Vaccination & Health requirement to visit Costa Rica

For most travelers, including those from North America and Europe, there are currently no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Costa Rica. However, there are important exceptions and health recommendations to consider. We strongly advise checking the official Costa Rican immigration website for the most current information before your departure.

Yellow Fever

• A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from or have had a layover in certain countries in South America or Sub-Saharan Africa. This rule is strictly enforced. For an up-to-date list of affected countries, please consult the official guidance from health authorities like the CDC.
• The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before your travel date to Costa Rica.
• This requirement applies to all travelers, including infants.

COVID-19

• As of the latest update, Costa Rica has lifted all COVID-19 related entry requirements.
• Travelers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter the country.
• The mandatory “Health Pass” (Pase de Salud) is no longer required for entry.

As international travel regulations can change with little notice, we advise you to re-confirm this status close to your departure date.

Recommended Vaccinations

To ensure a safe and healthy journey, we strongly recommend you follow the health precautions suggested by leading organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Routine Vaccinations

Before any international travel, it is wise to ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines. These include:

• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP)
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Polio
• Your yearly flu shot

Hepatitis A & Typhoid

These vaccinations are recommended for most travelers to Costa Rica. Both diseases can be contracted through contaminated food or water. Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease, while Typhoid is a serious bacterial infection.

Tetanus

A tetanus booster is recommended if you have not received one in the last 10 years. This is particularly important for travelers planning to engage in outdoor and adventure activities such as hiking, caving, or zip-lining, where minor cuts or scrapes could occur.

Other Health Considerations & Risks

Beyond vaccinations, it is important to be aware of other potential health risks in Costa Rica and how to mitigate them for a worry-free experience.

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

• Dengue Fever is the most common mosquito-borne risk and is present throughout the country, including in urban areas.
• Zika and Chikungunya are also present, though they are less common than Dengue.
• The risk of Malaria is very low and confined to specific, remote regions not typically on tourist itineraries. Prophylactic medication is not generally recommended. However, if your itinerary includes visits to remote jungle areas, we advise you to consult your doctor for personalized advice.

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing an effective active ingredient such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, particularly during the peak mosquito hours of dawn and dusk.
• Choose accommodations that have air conditioning or well-maintained screens on windows and doors.

Traveler’s Diarrhea

• The risk is moderate. While tap water in major cities and tourist areas is generally potable, choosing bottled water is always the safest option.
• Be cautious with ice in drinks if you are unsure of the water source used to make it.
• Prioritize food that is well-cooked and served hot. Exercise caution when purchasing food from street vendors.

Pre-Travel Health Checklist

Consult a Travel Medicine Specialist or Your Doctor

• Schedule an appointment 4-6 weeks before your departure. This allows ample time for any necessary vaccinations to become fully effective.
• Discuss your specific itinerary, planned activities, and personal health history with your healthcare provider.
• Obtain any necessary vaccinations and prescriptions for travel-related medications, such as anti-diarrhea medicine or any personal prescriptions you may need.

Travel Health Insurance

• As per our booking terms and conditions, having comprehensive travel health insurance is mandatory for your trip.
• Ensure your policy provides adequate coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and, critically, medical evacuation.
• Keep a digital and physical copy of your policy details and emergency contact numbers with you at all times during your travels.

Pack a Basic Health Kit

• All personal prescription medications, kept in their original, clearly labeled containers.
• Pain and fever relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen).
• Antihistamines for potential allergic reactions.
• Anti-diarrhea medication.
• A small supply of antiseptic wipes, bandages, and blister treatment.
• A reliable insect repellent and a high-SPF sunscreen.