Costa Rica Travel Essentials
Everything practical you need before you go — power plugs, voltage, a quick adapter check, tap-water safety, emergency numbers and tipping for Costa Rica.
⚡ Do you need a plug adapter?
Power plugsType A & B
Voltage / frequency120V · 60Hz
Tap waterTap water is safe to drink in La Fortuna, Monteverde and the Central Valley
Emergency911
TippingA 10% service charge and 13% tax are already added to the bill by law — an extra $5–10 USD per person per day for your guide is the norm
Good to know
- Costa Rica uses Type A & B sockets — the same flat two-pin plugs used across North America — at 120V / 60Hz.
- Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage (100–240V) — you usually only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter. Type A and Type B plugs are standard here; European two-round-pin and UK plugs do not fit — check the label and shape of your charger.
- Emergency services: dial 911 anywhere in Costa Rica.
- Need to pack for it? See our packing list generator.