How Does ATMs & Cash Work in Costa Rica?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
ATMs from BAC, Banco Nacional, and Scotiabank reliably accept foreign cards; USD is widely accepted in tourist areas but colones are needed for rural destinations.
2What You Need to Know
Costa Rica's currency is the colón (CRC) but US dollars are accepted at nearly all tourist businesses, hotels, tour operators, and many restaurants at posted exchange rates. BAC Credomatic ATMs are the most foreigner-friendly and can dispense both colones and USD. Banco Nacional and Scotiabank are also reliable for international card withdrawals. SINPE Móvil is a growing digital payment system used by locals but not yet practical for tourists. Always carry some cash in colones for rural areas, national park entrance fees (which must be paid in CRC or by card at the park), sodas, and local markets.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Withdraw from BAC ATMs inside their banking halls for the best reliability and safety versus street-facing ATMs.
- 2Keep a mix of USD and colones — USD for big tourist purchases, colones for buses, sodas, and local markets.
- 3Notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks; foreign transaction fees can be high — consider a Wise or similar fee-free card.
Important Warning
ATM skimming occurs in tourist areas — cover your PIN, use ATMs inside bank lobbies, and check your statement regularly.
How does this compare?
ATMs & Cash rules in nearby and similar countries:
Use ATMs inside bank branches to avoid skimming; always decline DCC and choose to be charged in pesos.
Use ATMs inside shopping malls or banks during daylight hours — Bradesco, Banco do Brasil, and Caixa are most reliable for foreign cards, and Pix digital payments are now ubiquitous.
ATMs are widely available and cards are accepted almost everywhere — Interac debit is the dominant payment method and foreign cards work at all major bank ATMs.
Traveling to Costa Rica?
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SafetyWing Travel Insurance
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Airalo eSIM
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Costa Rica is generally law-relaxed with a 'pura vida' attitude, but wildlife protection, environmental laws, and anti-drug laws are strictly enforced.
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Dial 911 for all emergencies; tourists can also call 1800-TURISMO (1800-887476) for dedicated tourist assistance.
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Costa Rica is extremely casual with no strict dress requirements — light clothing is ideal for the coast and layers are needed for cooler highland areas.
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