Costa Rica

Costa Rica, a Central American country, has made efforts to improve accessibility but challenges remain. The country passed Law 7600 on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities in 1996, but implementation varies. Urban areas tend to be more accessible than rural regions. Travelers with disabilities may encounter difficulties due to uneven terrain and limited infrastructure in some areas.

Law 7600 mandates accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and buildings. However, enforcement is inconsistent. New constructions are more likely to comply with accessibility standards. Many older buildings and public spaces may lack ramps, elevators, or accessible restrooms. Some national parks have implemented accessible trails, but availability varies widely.

Public transportation accessibility in Costa Rica is limited. Some buses in San José have wheelchair lifts, but rural areas often lack accessible options. Taxis are generally not wheelchair accessible. Several car rental companies offer hand-controlled vehicles, but advance booking is essential. For inter-city travel, domestic airlines typically assist passengers with disabilities, but smaller airports may have limited facilities.

Some popular attractions have improved accessibility. Manuel Antonio National Park offers an accessible trail and beach wheelchair rentals. Poás Volcano National Park has a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform. Many eco-lodges and tour operators now offer adaptive equipment for activities like zip-lining and white-water rafting, but availability should be confirmed in advance.

Major hotel chains in Costa Rica generally offer accessible rooms, particularly in tourist areas. However, smaller hotels and rural accommodations may have limited or no accessibility features. It's advisable to contact hotels directly to confirm specific accessibility needs. Some eco-lodges have begun offering accessible cabins, but these are not widespread.

Plan ahead and communicate specific needs to accommodations and tour operators. Consider hiring a specialized tour operator familiar with accessibility in Costa Rica. Bring any essential adaptive equipment, as availability may be limited. Be prepared for uneven sidewalks and limited curb cuts in many areas. Learn basic Spanish phrases related to accessibility to facilitate communication.