Tourists should check with forest rangers for current park conditions. Many doctors in both the national health system and private clinics have been trained abroad and are fluent in English. Specialists are available in almost all branches of medicine. Although seriously overcrowded, Hospital Mexico and the San Juan de Dios Hospital are the best-equipped in Central America. Doctors and hospitals may expect immediate payment in cash for health services.
Private clinics accept major credit cards.
As in any tropical climate country, insects thrive. Although the mosquitoes in San Jose do not carry malaria the dengue mosquito has been found in Costa Rica. Numerous eradication programs are presently in operation throughout Costa Rica. A visit to your doctor, who should also be able to advise you on vaccinations, is recommended prior to travelling. The two distinct seasons are rainy, from May to November, and dry, from December to April.