Town in Alajuela, Costa Rica
Healthcare in La Fortuna: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in La Fortuna
Basic clinics in town; serious cases go to Ciudad Quesada or San José, about 3 hours away. Call 911 or arrange a taxi to the nearest hospital.
Hospitals for foreigners in La Fortuna
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital San Carlos (CCSS) | Public hospital in Ciudad Quesada, about 45 minutes away |
| Clínica Bíblica / CIMA (San José) | Serious cases go to private hospitals in San José |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ₡35,000–70,000 ($77–153) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Costa Rica: High-quality care; private hospitals in San José such as CIMA and Clínica Bíblica are good value. Public hospitals stabilise visitors in emergencies, then charge.
- Pharmacies: Fischel, Sucre and FarmaValue are everywhere; pharmacists give advice and many medicines need no prescription.
- Health spending: US$1,163 per person a year (2023); 2.7 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Costa Rica, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in La Fortuna for foreigners?
Hospital San Carlos (CCSS): Public hospital in Ciudad Quesada, about 45 minutes away
How much does a doctor's visit cost in La Fortuna?
About ₡35,000–70,000 ($77–153) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Costa Rica?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Costa Rica expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about La Fortuna
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Costa Rica
- Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT)
- SINAC national parks
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.