This week in Costa Rica, lawmakers approved a new agreement for U.S. Coast Guard patrols in local waters, a detailed snake safety guide made the rounds among homeowners, and tourism numbers sent mixed signals even as 2026 flight deals to Costa Rica improved. Here’s what actually matters if you live in, invest in, or travel to Costa Rica.
Top Costa Rica News Story
Costa Rica approves U.S. Coast Guard Boat Operations
Costa Rica’s Legislative Assembly voted to authorize up to 195 U.S. Coast Guard vessels to operate in Costa Rican waters and use local ports for joint anti-drug missions during 2026. The agreement covers patrols on both coasts and cooperation with Costa Rica’s Coast Guard and other security forces against maritime trafficking routes.
More News From This Week
Costa Rica snake prevention tips for homes and gardens
Costa Rica hosts 141 snake species, and sooner or later many residents find one a bit too close for comfort. This feature lays out clear steps to make your property less attractive to snakes: how to manage tall grass, wood piles and clutter, what to do with construction debris, and how pets, chickens and compost fit into the picture..
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MOPT Announces Route 27 Traffic Changes for January to Ease Returns
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) has set reversible lanes on Route 27 for every Sunday in January 2026. This step aims to handle the surge of vehicles returning to the Central Valley after holiday breaks. Drivers heading back from Pacific beaches will find smoother flows toward San José, while those going the other way face temporary halts.
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Costa Rica President Chaves retains immunity in electoral probe vote
Lawmakers in the Legislative Assembly rejected a request from the Supreme Electoral Tribunal to lift President Rodrigo Chaves’s immunity in a case tied to alleged election interference. The decision keeps him shielded from prosecution for now and sets up a highly charged run-up to the 2026 vote, with Chaves accusing his critics of political persecution and opponents warning that checks and balances are under strain.
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Costa Rica welcomes more tourists in November
Tourist arrivals climbed in November, with international visitors up more than 12 percent compared to the same month last year. Data from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute show strong demand from North and South America, even as some European markets soften. For hotels, tour operators and airlines, the figures hint at a solid peak season after an uneven year.
Costa Rica ranks among cheapest 2026 flight destinations from the U.S.
A report from Dollar Flight Club places Costa Rica among the least expensive international destinations to reach from U.S. airports in 2026. Both San José and Liberia show up as good value compared with other long-haul spots, thanks to competitive fares from major and low-cost carriers. For travelers, it’s one more reason to plan trips early and keep an eye on fare drops over the coming months.
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Also this week
Spotlight
Canada Updates Travel Advisory for Costa Rica, Urging Heightened Caution
The Government of Canada has updated its travel advisory for Costa Rica, placing our country under a call to exercise a high degree of caution. This change, effective as of December 15th, comes as part of a broader review of 17 popular winter destinations for Canadian travelers.
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Holiday gift idea for Costa Rica fans
Looking for something more original than another mug or gift card? Surprise the Costa Rica lover in your life with Pura Vida–inspired T-shirts, from playful sloths to bold sunset designs. These make easy, lightweight gifts that still feel personal and connected to their favorite place.
Protect your trip to Costa Rica
Before you book your next flight to or from Costa Rica, it’s worth seeing what travel insurance actually costs. A quick quote can tell you if medical coverage, trip delay protection, or lost-bag coverage is a smart add for your next trip.
