Is cash still widely used?
Yes. While tourist hotels and restaurants accept cards, cash is essential for local buses, farmers markets, smaller sodas (local restaurants), national park entry, and rural accommodation. USD is also widely accepted alongside colones.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in San José and tourist towns. BAC San José and Banco Nacional machines accept foreign cards reliably.
- Fees are around 2,000 CRC per withdrawal
- Good availability in San José and tourist hubs like La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio
- Withdraw cash before heading to remote beach or mountain areas
Card acceptance
Good at tourist businesses. Visa and Mastercard accepted at hotels, tour operators, and tourist restaurants. Local transport, sodas, and markets require cash.
Tips for travelers
- USD is widely accepted — useful as a backup currency
- Carry colones for local buses and smaller purchases
- National park entry fees increasingly accept cards but cash is a safe backup
- Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants