Can you use American dollars in Costa Rica?

Question

We are traveling to Costa Rica next week and were wondering if you can use the American dollar. I have read that it is best to have colons (Costa Rica's dollar), due to fees that can apply for using a credit card. Can anyone help?

Answer 1

Having been to CR many,many times (i'm in the travel biz), i know that US dollar is taken almost everywhere...BUT...if change is due back to you, they will give it to you in Colones.

I've never exchanged money & always come back with colones.

Take small bills, or small travelers checks...since most places will not be able to break large bills.  

Have a fantastic time...

Answer 2

When you get to the airport , get enough colonies to get you to your hotel .

Hotels and casinos give you better exchange rates .

You can use your credit card in most places .

dollars are not used in a lot of stores and restaurants .

Answer 3

It depends entirely where you are going . . . if you are going to the touristy areas they will invariably accept US dollars, many of the prices will even be in dollars.  If however you plan to get off the beaten track and go to non-touristy places they are less likely to accept US dollars, and you should definitely carry local currency.  And yes they do sometimes give change in colones when you pay in dollars.  When you pay by credit card overseas there will be a currency conversion fee, this is usually 1.25%, but it is often advantageous to pay by credit card because you get a good exchange rate and don't have to pay high overseas atm withdrawal fees.

Answer 4

yeah you can use american dollars but i don't think you can use american coins..

they actually prefer american money.