Do I need any jabs for Costa Rica?

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Costa Rica: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza. Recommended for travelers to most regions.



For most travelers coming from the U.S. or Europe, there are no legally required vaccinations to enter Costa Rica, but several are strongly recommended for your health. The CDC and WHO generally suggest being up to date on routine "jabs" like Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) and Tetanus. For travel-specific protection, Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended due to potential exposure through food or water, even in developed tourist areas. A specific requirement exists for Yellow Fever: if you are arriving from a high-risk country (such as certain nations in South America or Sub-Saharan Africa), you must show an International Certificate of Vaccination. While Costa Rica is largely safe, 2026 advisories also highlight the importance of mosquito prevention due to risks of Dengue and Zika, so while there isn't a widely required jab for these yet, carrying high-quality repellent is just as essential as your medical preparations.

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CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Costa Rica take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip.

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Malaria risk is low throughout the year in the province of Limon, in the canton of Matina and in all other areas. Malaria precautions are essential.

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Although yellow fever does not occur in Costa Rica, an official yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required depending on your itinerary.

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Your luggage will be scanned and in some cases hand searched. Please be aware you may not bring plants, seeds, vegetables, or fruits into Costa Rica. 4. Exit the building and you will see your driver with a sign with your name and our Logo.

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The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November.

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Costa Rica - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Country Summary: While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica.

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Event. Health officials in Costa Rica reported elevated malaria activity in Limon Province during 2023, with 115 cases reported April 2-15, compared to 13 cases reported in the province in 2006. Pococi Canton reports the highest number of cases (60 cases), followed by Limon (51 cases).

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You can drink the tap water in Costa Rica safely in most every part of the country. In some rural areas, including the Caribbean and in non-touristy places, you may want to stick with bottled water.

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