Mountain town in Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Healthcare in Monteverde: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Monteverde
Basic care in Santa Elena; serious cases go to Puntarenas or San José, with long mountain drives. Insurance with evacuation cover is wise.
Hospitals for foreigners in Monteverde
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Clínica de Monteverde (CCSS) | Public clinic in Santa Elena for basic care |
| Hospital Monseñor Sanabria (Puntarenas) | Public hospital about 1.5 hours away |
| CIMA Hospital (San José) | Private, for serious cases |
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 Monteverde for foreigners?
Clínica de Monteverde (CCSS): Public clinic in Santa Elena for basic care
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Monteverde?
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 Monteverde
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Costa Rica
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT)
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 Spotted something out of date?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.