Traveling to Costa Rica
We understand that coming to a foreign country for surgery can be stressful. We've put together everything you need to know to make your journey smooth, safe, and comfortable.
Your complete travel guide
Weather & Climate
- Average annual temperature: 21–27°C (70–81°F)
- No real winter — sunshine throughout the year
- Coolest months: November, December, January
- Rainy season: May to November
- Driest & most comfortable: December through April
The dry season (Dec–Apr) is ideal for surgery travel — comfortable temperatures and minimal rain.
Passports, Visas & Immunizations
- U.S., Canadian & EU passport holders: no advance visa required
- Present valid passport + onward ticket upon arrival
- Tourist visa stamped on arrival — valid for 90 days
- Passport must be valid for 6+ months beyond travel dates
- Immunizations only required from certain South American or African countries
Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity remaining before booking your travel.
Safety in Costa Rica
- ~2 million international visitors per year
- Politically stable, peaceful, and democratic
- Well-developed medical tourism infrastructure
- Above-average healthcare system by regional standards
- Popular long-term destination for U.S. and European expatriates
Exercise standard travel awareness — keep personal items close and avoid being out alone at night.
Long-Haul Flights & Safety
- Flights over 5 hours can increase blood clot risk fourfold
- Dr. Urzola will NOT perform surgery the day after arrival
- Plan for at least one full rest day before your procedure
- Avoid long layovers on your return flight
- Check layover times carefully when booking
General measures: drink plenty of water, stretch frequently, breathe deeply, avoid leg rests that compress the calf.
General measures for all travelers
Drink plenty of water throughout the flight
Stretch your legs and change position frequently
Breathe deeply and frequently
Avoid leg rests that compress the calf or behind the knee
Heal in one of the world's most beautiful countries.
Around 2 million people visit Costa Rica each year, drawn by vibrant towns, pristine beaches, and unspoiled forests rich with tropical wildlife. Costa Rica is politically stable, peaceful, and democratic — with a well-developed tourist industry and an above-average healthcare system.
Your recovery can be a genuine retreat. Many of our patients combine their surgery with a few extra days exploring the country's natural wonders — from cloud forests to Pacific beaches — once cleared by Dr. Urzola.