Once again, respect is a highly-prized virtue in this culture. As for pricing, this is in some ways a pretty straight-forward aspect of doing business in Costa Rica. A price is a price, and Ticos don't haggle as much as you might find in other cultures. In other ways, it's not what it appears.

In Costa Rica, the appropriateness of negotiation depends entirely on the setting. In formal retail stores, high-end restaurants, and supermarkets, prices are fixed and negotiation is considered impolite. However, in local farmers' markets (ferias) and souvenir stalls, a polite "rebeba" (discount) is often possible, especially if you are buying multiple items. For private transportation (taxis/shuttles) and informal tours, you should always agree on the price before the service begins, and slight negotiation is common. As of 2026, the real estate market in areas like Escazú and Tamarindo has become more "buyer-leaning," making hard negotiation on asking prices a standard practice for property investors. When negotiating in person, always remain "pura vida"—keep the tone light, respectful, and friendly. Aggressive haggling is culturally frowned upon and may result in the seller refusing to deal with you altogether.