Costa Rica

Where is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica, meaning “Rich Coast”, is located in Central America, bordered by the country of Nicaragua to the north, the country of Panama to the south, the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Is Costa Rica Safe?

The Republic of Costa Rica is the oldest and most stable democracy in Central America. Although Costa Rica has no military force it employs a very large police force, traffic force and Coast Guard all of which work together to make the country a safe and fun place to visit.

More than 25% of its land is a national park or protected area; Costa Rica is a global leader in sustainable conservation. It has more than 161 parks and refuges and is known for its beaches, volcanoes and biodiversity.

What is there to do in Costa Rica?

The Stem Cells Transplant Institute is located in San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica and home to more than 15 museums and theatres, shopping malls, nightclubs, restaurants and parks.

The most visited national parks in Costa Rica include Poas Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero National Park, Cahuita and Arenal.  There are so many amazing things to do in Costa Rica it is hard to pick just a few; there is surfing, hiking, fishing, river rafting, bird watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing at sunset, horseback riding, ATV tours, and ziplining to name just a few. No matter what you choose to do, you will have an unforgettable time.

Popular beaches include Conchal, Coco, Dominical, Hermosa, Mal Pais, Manuel Antonio, Montezuma, Nosara, Ocotal, Panama, Papagayo, Potrero, Flamingo, Grande, Samara, Santa Teresa, Tamarindo, or Tambor.

Popular inland locations include La Fortuna or Arenal volcano, Monteverde, and Poas,

How do I get to Costa Rica?

Juan Santamaria (SJO) airport in Alajuela, is the largest international airport in Costa Rica and is located less than 30 minutes from downtown San Jose or downtown Escazu. SJO is the most conveniently located airport for those flying into Costa Rica to receive stem cell therapy.

The second international airport is the Daniel Oduber (LIR) airport in Liberia. It is located in the Guanacaste region, which is centrally located to some of the most popular tourist destinations including, the beaches on the Pacific Coast, Arenal Volcano, hot springs and beautiful national parks.

If after receiving your stem cell treatment, you choose to relax and rest on one of the beautiful beaches on the Northern Pacific Coast, it might be more convenient to fly out of LIR. 

International airlines serving Costa Rica include Aeromexico, Air Canada, Air Panama, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Avianca, British Airways, Condor, Copa Airlines, Delta Airlines, Iberia, Spirit Airlines, Southwest, United Airlines and Volaris.

Do I need a Passport?

If you live outside of Costa Rica and want to receive stem cell therapy at the Stem Cells Transplant Institute, you will need a valid passport. Below you will find some useful links for U.S. and Canadian Citizens applying for a new passport.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/hurry.html

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/how-to-apply.html

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/new-adult-passport/apply.html