Costa Rican currency is colón (CRC or ₡), which is divided into 100 céntimos. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and foreign exchange offices. Some hotels can also provide exchanges services. Fees for money exchange vary, but in general state owned banks (Banco Nacional, Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Popular) are preferable, because they don't charge any additional fees. A lot of businesses also accept payments in US dollars, or even prefer US dollars. Recommended currency to bring in is US dollar, since it's the most widely exchangeable.

ATMs are available in all cities and most towns. Some ATMs in larger cities or tourist areas will also dispense cash in US dollars. Most ATMs work on the Visa Plus network, some also on the Cirrus network.

Credit cards, particularly Visa, MasterCard and Diners Club, are accepted in better hotels, some restaurants, some tour agencies and most car rental agencies. Many times there is a transaction fee on all international credit-card purchases.

Travelers checks are not popular and businesses, other than some hotels, will not accept them as payment. Travelers checks can be exchanged for cash in banks.

Current Costa Rican Colon Rates

For other currencies or conversion amounts go to Currency Converter

    

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