Currency and Converter - Costa Rica Guide

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (₡)

Currency code: CRC

Exchange rate (approx):
$1 USD ≈ ₡530-560
$1 CAD ≈ ₡340-370
€1 EUR ≈ ₡580-620
£1 GBP ≈ ₡680-720

Common Banknotes:

Front side of 1000 CRC banknote

Back side of 1000 CRC banknote

₡1,000

Front side of 2000 CRC banknote

Back side of 2000 CRC banknote

₡2,000

Front side of 5000 CRC banknote

Back side of 5000 CRC banknote

₡5,000

Front side of 10000 CRC banknote

Back side of 10000 CRC banknote

₡10,000

Front side of 20000 CRC banknote

Back side of 20000 CRC banknote

₡20,000

Front side of 50000 CRC banknote

Back side of 50000 CRC banknote

₡50,000

Money Tips

US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but you'll usually receive change in colones
Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in most establishments
ATMs ("cajeros automáticos") are widely available
Smaller denominations are helpful for taxis and small purchases
Always check exchange rates and count your change carefully

Payment Method	Where Accepted	Notes
Cash (Colones)	Everywhere	Essential for small purchases, markets, rural areas
US Dollars	Tourist areas, hotels, some shops	Often given poor exchange rates
Credit Cards	Hotels, restaurants, larger stores	Visa/Mastercard most widely accepted
Traveler's Checks	Banks, some hotels	Becoming less commonly accepted

Currency Exchange Tips

Tip	Description
Best Exchange Rates	Banks typically offer better rates than hotels or airport exchanges
ATM Withdrawals	Using ATMs often gives good rates, but check your bank's foreign transaction fees
Credit Cards	Widely accepted in tourist areas, but inform your bank of travel plans