Which vaccines do you need for Costa Rica?
Information checked against: TravelHealthPro · CDC Travelers’ Health · WHO where relevant. Last checked: 7 October 2026. Entry requirements can change at short notice. Always verify current rules before departure.
1. Routine vaccinations
Everyone should be up to date with routine vaccines for their age — including measles (MMR) and diphtheria-tetanus-polio. Bring your records so missing doses can be caught up.
2. Recommended for most travellers
- Hepatitis ASpread through contaminated food and water; advised for previously unvaccinated travellers.
- TetanusCheck your course is complete; a booster may be advised if your last dose was over 10 years ago and care may be limited.
3. Recommended for some travellers, based on risk
- ChikungunyaVaccine may be considered for some travellers during outbreaks or long stays; bite avoidance is key.
- DengueVaccine suitability depends on previous dengue infection and other factors; bite avoidance is key.
- RabiesFor likely animal contact, remote travel, longer stays or limited access to urgent rabies treatment.
- TyphoidLinked to food and water hygiene; particularly relevant for longer stays, visiting family or rural travel.
Entry requirements and certificates
No yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry under the International Health Regulations.
Entry rules can change at short notice; confirm them close to departure.
Yellow fever in Costa Rica
Transmission risk
No yellow fever transmission risk is listed for Costa Rica.
Vaccine recommendation
Yellow fever vaccine is not generally recommended for Costa Rica itself.
Certificate
No yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry under the International Health Regulations.
Malaria in Costa Rica
- Low risk
Low risk of malaria in Limon Province (but not in the city of Limon (Puerto Limon).
Awareness of risk and mosquito bite avoidance; tablets usually not needed. - Very low risk
Very low risk in the rest of the country, including the city of Limon (Puerto Limon).
Awareness of risk and mosquito bite avoidance; tablets usually not needed.
This is not a prescription. Discuss malaria prevention with a travel-health clinician. If you develop a fever during or up to a year after visiting a risk area, seek medical help urgently and mention your travel.
Other travel health risks
- Altitude
- Biting insects or ticks
- Influenza
- Outdoor air quality
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Zika virus
What travellers to Costa Rica should consider
Rainforest walking, wildlife visits and coastal activities make outdoor preparation important. The risk profile of a short resort holiday can differ from extended stays in rural provinces. Mosquito protection and safe water remain useful regardless of whether medication is advised.
Malaria risk in Costa Rica is limited and uneven, so the exact places you visit matter more than the country name.
Rabies vaccination is usually discussed for travellers with likely animal contact, adventurous or remote trips, or limited access to urgent care.
Day-biting mosquitoes can spread infections such as dengue, so bite avoidance is worthwhile throughout the trip.
- Check mosquito precautions for rainforest and coastal stays.
- Avoid approaching wildlife.
- Include rafting, camping and hiking in your consultation.
Tell us about your trip
Book travel-health consultationTravelling to Costa Rica?
Your exact vaccination needs depend on your previous vaccines, itinerary, trip length and individual health circumstances. Book a travel-health consultation at Spinola Clinic in Malta. Vaccine availability and prices should be confirmed with the clinic.
Book travel-health consultationSources and review
Information checked against official sources on 7 October 2026. Next scheduled check: 7 October 2027.
Travel Vaccine Malta is independent and not affiliated with these organisations. Guidance is summarised in our own words.