×

Settings

24-hour
Quiet mode
View only
Send feedback

UTC time

Loading
Loading

Loading

Loading
13 Sep 2024
URL copied to clipboard!
Copied embed code to clipboard!
🌒
Country Flag - Costa Rica Five horizontal bands of blue, white, red, white, and blue with the Costa Rican coat of arms in the center left.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
12:13:48 AM
19 Dec 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current local time?
Costa Rica follows Central Standard Time (CST), which is UTC -6:00. The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST).
Does Costa Rica observe Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
No, Costa Rica does not observe DST. The country remains on CST, which is UTC -6:00, year-round.
How does the local time compare to neighboring countries?
Costa Rica shares its zone (CST) with countries like Nicaragua and Honduras. However, neighboring countries such as Panama and the United States observe different time zones and may follow DST.
What is the time difference with the United States?
Costa Rica is 1 hour behind EST and 2 hours behind CST in the United States. It does not observe DST, so during U.S. DST, the difference may change by 1 hour.
What are some major industries?
There is a diverse economy with several key industries:

Agriculture: The country is a major exporter of agricultural products like coffee, bananas, pineapples, and sugar.

Tourism: The nation is known for its rich biodiversity, including rainforests, beaches, and national parks, making tourism a major economic driver.

Technology: The technology sector has grown in recent years, with Costa Rica becoming a regional hub for companies in the electronics, medical devices, and software industries.
What is some local trivia or geography?
The nation is known for its natural beauty and geographical features:

Biodiversity: The country is home to over 5% of the world's biodiversity despite its small size, with numerous national parks and protected areas.

Volcanoes: There are several active volcanoes, including Arenal and Poás, attracting tourists and scientists alike.

Pacific and Caribbean Coasts: The country has both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, with some of the most beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life in the world.
What are some cultural insights?
There is a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean traditions:

Language: The official language is Spanish, but many people also speak English, particularly in tourist areas.

Religion: The country is predominantly Roman Catholic, but there are also Protestant communities and a small Jewish population.

Pura Vida: The phrase 'Pura Vida' is a hallmark of Costa Rican culture, meaning 'pure life' or 'simple life,' and reflects the relaxed and positive attitude of the people.
What are the national holidays?
The country observes several important national holidays:

New Year's Day: Celebrated on January 1st, marking the start of the year.

Labor Day: Observed on May 1st to celebrate workers and their contributions.

Independence Day: Celebrated on September 15th, marking it independence from Spain in 1821.

Juan Santamaría Day: Celebrated on April 11th to honor the national hero who fought against invading forces in the 1856 Battle of Rivas.

Christmas Day: Celebrated on December 25th, with religious services and family gatherings.