The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Costa Rica in 2025

A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard updated on June 26, 2025
Table of Contents
  • The best travel insurance plans for Costa Rica
  • Is It Safe to Travel to Costa Rica?
  • Is travel insurance required by law to enter Costa Rica?
  • Why take out travel insurance for Costa Rica?
  • What should travel insurance for Costa Rica cover?
  • The Cost of Travel Insurance for Costa Rica
  • How to pay less for travel insurance to Costa Rica
  • Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Costa Rica?
  • FAQ
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Travel insurance for Costa Rica: key takeaways

1. Definition: Travel insurance for Costa Rica covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage abroad.

2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended for medical emergencies and adventure activity risks.

3. Healthcare cost: Private hospital stays can be expensive, costing over $1,000 CAD per night for tourists.

4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Costa Rica typically costs between $30 and $60 CAD.

5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers theft, as petty crime and car break-ins are common.

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Why trust HelloSafe?

HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Costa Rica.

The best travel insurance plans for Costa Rica

Contract we recommendMedical reimbursement limitOur view
HelloTravel Premium1.5M $CAOur top pick for Costa Rica, with excellent protection for medical and evacuation costs.
- high limit
- repatriation
- adventure sports included
Cap Assistance 24/241.5M $CAIdeal for Canadian travellers needing full support.
- 24/7 assistance
- no deductible
- covers medical repatriation
Tourist Card0.75M $CAGood value for general tourism in Costa Rica.
- solid core health cover
- affordable
- quick access to emergency services
Travel Pass Monde1.1M $CABalanced coverage for all regions.
- high medical limit
- evacuation covered
- reliable for longer stays
Globe Partner0.45M $CARecommended for shorter stays.
- covers medical needs
- emergency evacuation
- simple claim process
Globe Traveller0.75M $CAPractical for mainstream tourism.
- emergency protection
- quick reimbursement
- suitable for mid-length trips
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts
HelloTravel Premium
Medical reimbursement limit
1.5M $CA
Our view
Our top pick for Costa Rica, with excellent protection for medical and evacuation costs.
- high limit
- repatriation
- adventure sports included
Cap Assistance 24/24
Medical reimbursement limit
1.5M $CA
Our view
Ideal for Canadian travellers needing full support.
- 24/7 assistance
- no deductible
- covers medical repatriation
Tourist Card
Medical reimbursement limit
0.75M $CA
Our view
Good value for general tourism in Costa Rica.
- solid core health cover
- affordable
- quick access to emergency services
Travel Pass Monde
Medical reimbursement limit
1.1M $CA
Our view
Balanced coverage for all regions.
- high medical limit
- evacuation covered
- reliable for longer stays
Globe Partner
Medical reimbursement limit
0.45M $CA
Our view
Recommended for shorter stays.
- covers medical needs
- emergency evacuation
- simple claim process
Globe Traveller
Medical reimbursement limit
0.75M $CA
Our view
Practical for mainstream tourism.
- emergency protection
- quick reimbursement
- suitable for mid-length trips
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

Is It Safe to Travel to Costa Rica?

As of June 2025, the Government of Canada’s Global Affairs Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Costa Rica. While there is no official warning against travel for most of the country, heightened vigilance is required due to security and health risks.

Here are their four main recommendations.

  • Security risks: levels of petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing remain high, especially in urban centres like San José, the Coca-Cola bus terminal, and popular Pacific Coast destinations like Jacó and Quepos. Incidents of vehicle break-ins are frequent, and valuables should never be left unattended.
  • Health risks: dengue fever is widespread year-round, while malaria, chikungunya and Zika virus also pose threats in some areas. Access to advanced medical care can be limited outside San José, and evacuation may be necessary for serious illness or injury.
  • Entry formalities: Canadians do not need a visa for stays up to 180 days but must show proof of onward travel and carry a valid passport at all times. Entry stamps are mandatory and passport copies are not accepted.
  • Legal obligations: travellers are required to show proof of sufficient funds, at least US$100 per month of stay, and follow all customs rules. Lack of compliance may result in denied entry.

Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Costa Rica.

Is travel insurance required by law to enter Costa Rica?

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travellers from Canada to enter Costa Rica.

It is still strongly recommended to have travel insurance for Costa Rica, as medical care can be costly, emergency evacuation is often required for serious injuries, and adventure sports or natural disasters are frequent risks.

According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Costa Rica, largely due to the high cost of private healthcare, the risk of theft, and the country’s popularity for adventure activities.

Why take out travel insurance for Costa Rica?

It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Costa Rica.
In Costa Rica, private hospitals such as Clínica Bíblica in San José and Hospital CIMA in Escazú are commonly used by travellers but can charge high fees for care. Public hospitals may have long wait times and limited capacity, particularly outside the capital or tourist areas.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and repatriation to Canada if needed in case of a serious situation.

Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Costa Rica.

Example of medical treatmentCost at Clínica BíblicaCovered by travel insurance
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection2,100,000 CRC (approx. 5,300 $CA)up to 150,000 $CA
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)950,000 CRC (approx. 2,400 $CA)up to 150,000 $CA
I need to be repatriated8,000,000 CRC (approx. 20,000 $CA)up to 150,000 $CA or 100% of costs
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)3,500,000 CRC (approx. 8,900 $CA)up to 150,000 $CA
Examples of medical treatment costs and travel insurance coverage.
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection
Cost at Clínica Bíblica
2,100,000 CRC (approx. 5,300 $CA)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 150,000 $CA
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)
Cost at Clínica Bíblica
950,000 CRC (approx. 2,400 $CA)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 150,000 $CA
I need to be repatriated
Cost at Clínica Bíblica
8,000,000 CRC (approx. 20,000 $CA)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 150,000 $CA or 100% of costs
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)
Cost at Clínica Bíblica
3,500,000 CRC (approx. 8,900 $CA)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 150,000 $CA
Examples of medical treatment costs and travel insurance coverage.

These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions. It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.

What should travel insurance for Costa Rica cover?

Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Costa Rica.

Main coveragesExplanations and recommendations
🏥 Medical expensesCovers doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, and prescribed medication in Costa Rica due to illness or accident.
A reimbursement limit of minimum $150,000 CA is recommended.
🚑 Medical evacuationPays for emergency transport to another country or back to Canada if advanced care is needed.
Look for coverage up to $100,000 CA or 100% of actual evacuation costs.
✈️ RepatriationArranges and covers the costs to return you to Canada in case of severe illness, injury, or death.
Limits of at least $150,000 CA are advised.
💊 Prescription drugsReimburses costs for medicine if you are treated during your stay.
Consider a plan offering at least $1,000 CA for medication reimbursement.
🧳 Baggage insuranceCovers loss, theft, or delays of your luggage or personal belongings.
A limit of at least $2,000 CA per trip is a good standard.
💼 Personal liabilityPays damages if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.
Minimum $1,000,000 CA of coverage is strongly advised.
🚗 24/7 assistanceProvides access to help lines and local support in emergencies.
Should be included for all services, with no minimum limit.
❌ Trip cancellationReimburses unused, non-refundable travel costs if you have to cancel for a valid reason.
We recommend at least $5,000 CA in cancellation/interruption benefits.
🏥 Medical expenses
Explanations and recommendations
Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, and prescribed medication in Costa Rica due to illness or accident.
A reimbursement limit of minimum $150,000 CA is recommended.
🚑 Medical evacuation
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for emergency transport to another country or back to Canada if advanced care is needed.
Look for coverage up to $100,000 CA or 100% of actual evacuation costs.
✈️ Repatriation
Explanations and recommendations
Arranges and covers the costs to return you to Canada in case of severe illness, injury, or death.
Limits of at least $150,000 CA are advised.
💊 Prescription drugs
Explanations and recommendations
Reimburses costs for medicine if you are treated during your stay.
Consider a plan offering at least $1,000 CA for medication reimbursement.
🧳 Baggage insurance
Explanations and recommendations
Covers loss, theft, or delays of your luggage or personal belongings.
A limit of at least $2,000 CA per trip is a good standard.
💼 Personal liability
Explanations and recommendations
Pays damages if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.
Minimum $1,000,000 CA of coverage is strongly advised.
🚗 24/7 assistance
Explanations and recommendations
Provides access to help lines and local support in emergencies.
Should be included for all services, with no minimum limit.
❌ Trip cancellation
Explanations and recommendations
Reimburses unused, non-refundable travel costs if you have to cancel for a valid reason.
We recommend at least $5,000 CA in cancellation/interruption benefits.

Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers only basic coverage, with low reimbursement limits and exclusions. To ensure better protection for your trip, it is safest to select a trusted insurer with high limits and full coverage. Compare the best options and get instant certification with HelloSafe.

The Cost of Travel Insurance for Costa Rica

Trip durationTraveler’s ageIndicative price per person
1 week25 years old$28 CA
2 weeks45 years old$43 CA
1 month35 years old$69 CA
1 month70 years old$138 CA
1 week
Traveler’s age
25 years old
Indicative price per person
$28 CA
2 weeks
Traveler’s age
45 years old
Indicative price per person
$43 CA
1 month
Traveler’s age
35 years old
Indicative price per person
$69 CA
1 month
Traveler’s age
70 years old
Indicative price per person
$138 CA

These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.

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Good to know

The cost of travel insurance for your trip to Costa Rica depends on several elements: your age, the duration of your stay, your destination, the desired coverage level, and optional add-ons like trip cancellation or adventure sports coverage. Considering these factors is key to finding a policy that fits your needs and budget.

💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.

👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

How to pay less for travel insurance to Costa Rica

Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Costa Rica while keeping good coverage:

CriteriaWhy it mattersExpert tip
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Traveller's ageAge is a primary factor for premiums, with prices typically rising past age 60 for adventure travel.Compare rates since some insurers, like Heymondo, do not increase prices for people over 62. Look for age-neutral plans.
⏳ Trip durationLonger stays or slow travel will increase overall premium costs, especially with health coverage.Set coverage only for your full stay, but avoid extra days. Short-single trip insurance is usually most cost-efficient.
🩺 Level of coverageMedical and evacuation costs in Costa Rica are high, especially for adventure travel or emergencies.Choose limits appropriate to your risk. $200k CA often suffices for a typical trip, unless doing high-risk activities.
🧳 Add-on optionsExtras like baggage or device cover add cost and may not be needed if your risk or value is low.Remove optional covers not essential for Costa Rica—focus on medical and emergency, skip valuables and cancellation add-ons.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group or family plansMulti-person policies may be offered at a lower per-person rate than individual policies.Seek a group quote if traveling with family or companions. Discounts can be substantial compared to buying singles.
🛫 DeductibleHigher deductible means lower up-front cost, but more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.Raise your deductible if you can absorb minor costs, as this can noticeably shrink your annual premium.
🏄 Activity coverageMany activities popular in Costa Rica, like surfing or zip-lining, may not be included as standard.Only pay for activity coverage if you really need it—be honest about your plans when picking your policy level.
A table outlining the criteria, their importance, and expert tips for choosing travel insurance.
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Traveller's age
Why it matters
Age is a primary factor for premiums, with prices typically rising past age 60 for adventure travel.
Expert tip
Compare rates since some insurers, like Heymondo, do not increase prices for people over 62. Look for age-neutral plans.
⏳ Trip duration
Why it matters
Longer stays or slow travel will increase overall premium costs, especially with health coverage.
Expert tip
Set coverage only for your full stay, but avoid extra days. Short-single trip insurance is usually most cost-efficient.
🩺 Level of coverage
Why it matters
Medical and evacuation costs in Costa Rica are high, especially for adventure travel or emergencies.
Expert tip
Choose limits appropriate to your risk. $200k CA often suffices for a typical trip, unless doing high-risk activities.
🧳 Add-on options
Why it matters
Extras like baggage or device cover add cost and may not be needed if your risk or value is low.
Expert tip
Remove optional covers not essential for Costa Rica—focus on medical and emergency, skip valuables and cancellation add-ons.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group or family plans
Why it matters
Multi-person policies may be offered at a lower per-person rate than individual policies.
Expert tip
Seek a group quote if traveling with family or companions. Discounts can be substantial compared to buying singles.
🛫 Deductible
Why it matters
Higher deductible means lower up-front cost, but more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.
Expert tip
Raise your deductible if you can absorb minor costs, as this can noticeably shrink your annual premium.
🏄 Activity coverage
Why it matters
Many activities popular in Costa Rica, like surfing or zip-lining, may not be included as standard.
Expert tip
Only pay for activity coverage if you really need it—be honest about your plans when picking your policy level.
A table outlining the criteria, their importance, and expert tips for choosing travel insurance.

Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Costa Rica?

It is completely legitimate to consider whether your public health insurance or credit card coverage can cover you for a trip to Costa Rica. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or not enough, especially for medical emergencies or evacuation. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.

Type of InsuranceValid in Costa Rica?What it coversWhy Travel Insurance is better
Public Health Insurance (Canada Health, RAMQ, MSP, AHCIP)NeverNo coverage abroad. Emergency care and hospitalisation in Costa Rica are not reimbursed.Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 CA for medical, evacuation, and repatriation support.
Private Health Insurance (Sun Life, Manulife, Blue Cross)Limited coverageMay reimburse a small share of overseas hospital bills, but often excludes medical evacuation.Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 CA plus 24/7 helpline, direct payment, and return travel for family.
Classic Credit Card (TD Classic, CIBC Classic, Scotiabank)Limited coverageMedical below $15,000 CA for short trips, little or no baggage/trip cancellation protection.Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 CA with baggage, trip cancellation, and assistance during accident.
Premium Credit Card (RBC Avion, Amex Gold, BMO World Elite)Limited coverageMedical usually under $100,000 CA, valid only if travel booked with the card.Travel insurance provides up to $1,000,000 CA for medical, plus full trip, delay, and baggage compensation.
Insurance Coverage Comparison for Costa Rica
Public Health Insurance (Canada Health, RAMQ, MSP, AHCIP)
Valid in Costa Rica?
Never
What it covers
No coverage abroad. Emergency care and hospitalisation in Costa Rica are not reimbursed.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 CA for medical, evacuation, and repatriation support.
Private Health Insurance (Sun Life, Manulife, Blue Cross)
Valid in Costa Rica?
Limited coverage
What it covers
May reimburse a small share of overseas hospital bills, but often excludes medical evacuation.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 CA plus 24/7 helpline, direct payment, and return travel for family.
Classic Credit Card (TD Classic, CIBC Classic, Scotiabank)
Valid in Costa Rica?
Limited coverage
What it covers
Medical below $15,000 CA for short trips, little or no baggage/trip cancellation protection.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 CA with baggage, trip cancellation, and assistance during accident.
Premium Credit Card (RBC Avion, Amex Gold, BMO World Elite)
Valid in Costa Rica?
Limited coverage
What it covers
Medical usually under $100,000 CA, valid only if travel booked with the card.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance provides up to $1,000,000 CA for medical, plus full trip, delay, and baggage compensation.
Insurance Coverage Comparison for Costa Rica
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Example

While surfing in Costa Rica, David contracted severe dengue fever, requiring intensive care. The private hospital bill reached $25,000 CAD. His TD Aeroplan card's travel insurance had a low limit, and his provincial plan covered almost nothing, leaving him to pay over $20,000 out-of-pocket for his unexpected medical emergency.

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Expert advice

Essential coverage, like trip interruption for a family emergency, is often excluded from credit card benefits and provincial health plans. Review your policies carefully to avoid surprises. In all cases, purchasing dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip is safer and more reassuring.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?

No, Canadian citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 180 days in Costa Rica. You must hold a valid passport for the duration of your visit and present proof of onward travel, such as a return or connecting ticket. Ensure you receive an entry stamp from immigration officials on arrival.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Costa Rica?

First, compare travel insurance plans using the HelloSafe comparison tool to identify offers tailored to Costa Rica. Carefully review included covers and exclusions, especially those relating to adventure sports, theft, and medical evacuation. Purchase your selected policy online, and you will receive your insurance certificate immediately by email.

Are medical treatments expensive in Costa Rica for visitors?

While basic medical care is available at reasonable cost in public establishments, private clinics and hospitals often require payment upfront and can be expensive. Medical evacuation to Canada can cost several tens of thousands of Canadian dollars. Travel insurance helps cover these costs, protecting you from high unexpected bills.

Are there special health concerns for Canadians visiting Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has ongoing dengue transmission, with outbreaks most common during the rainy season. There's also a risk for other illnesses like chikungunya, malaria in some areas, Zika, and rabies. Routine vaccination and insect bite prevention are strongly advised, and it is important that your travel insurance covers tropical diseases and medical emergencies.

Is my provincial health coverage from Canada valid in Costa Rica?

No, Canadian provincial and territorial health insurance plans generally do not reimburse medical expenses incurred abroad. A private travel insurance policy is needed to cover both emergency medical treatment and costly repatriation or evacuation back to Canada in case of a serious accident or illness.

What should I do if my belongings are lost or stolen in Costa Rica?

Report the theft immediately to local police and retain the police report for your records. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to start a claim and provide all documentation requested. Insurance for theft, loss, or damage of baggage and valuables should be included in your travel insurance for the best protection.

Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?

No, Canadian citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 180 days in Costa Rica. You must hold a valid passport for the duration of your visit and present proof of onward travel, such as a return or connecting ticket. Ensure you receive an entry stamp from immigration officials on arrival.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Costa Rica?

First, compare travel insurance plans using the HelloSafe comparison tool to identify offers tailored to Costa Rica. Carefully review included covers and exclusions, especially those relating to adventure sports, theft, and medical evacuation. Purchase your selected policy online, and you will receive your insurance certificate immediately by email.

Are medical treatments expensive in Costa Rica for visitors?

While basic medical care is available at reasonable cost in public establishments, private clinics and hospitals often require payment upfront and can be expensive. Medical evacuation to Canada can cost several tens of thousands of Canadian dollars. Travel insurance helps cover these costs, protecting you from high unexpected bills.

Are there special health concerns for Canadians visiting Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has ongoing dengue transmission, with outbreaks most common during the rainy season. There's also a risk for other illnesses like chikungunya, malaria in some areas, Zika, and rabies. Routine vaccination and insect bite prevention are strongly advised, and it is important that your travel insurance covers tropical diseases and medical emergencies.

Is my provincial health coverage from Canada valid in Costa Rica?

No, Canadian provincial and territorial health insurance plans generally do not reimburse medical expenses incurred abroad. A private travel insurance policy is needed to cover both emergency medical treatment and costly repatriation or evacuation back to Canada in case of a serious accident or illness.

What should I do if my belongings are lost or stolen in Costa Rica?

Report the theft immediately to local police and retain the police report for your records. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to start a claim and provide all documentation requested. Insurance for theft, loss, or damage of baggage and valuables should be included in your travel insurance for the best protection.

A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard
Insurance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and an experienced entrepreneur in the insurance and personal finance sector, Antoine uses his experience and in-depth knowledge of the market to help Internet users make the right choices. With an MBA in economics, he is a committed expert whose mission is to make personal finance and insurance issues simple and understandable. With a rich career marked by the creation of innovative companies, Antoine's ambition has always been to bring transparency to complex issues and to give power back to consumers. With HelloSafe, he continues to translate this vision by providing accurate advice, impartial comparisons and detailed explanations of travel insurance. He has analysed hundreds of contracts to reveal the best options available on the market.

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