Planning an Elopement in Costa Rica: FAQs and Answers

Elopements

November 9, 2024

Costa Rica is an increasingly popular elopement destination thanks to its natural beauty, warm climate, and the variety of stunning landscapes. You can have the most epic adventure elopement in Costa Rica and fit in all the activities like watching the sunset on the beach, touring through the lush rainforest, hike the base of a volcano, or swimming in the pool of a waterfall! If you’re looking for a romantic and adventurous location that feels far removed from everyday life, Costa Rica offers a multitude of settings that ensures your elopement is entirely different from that of anyone else. In this blog, I’ll be diving into all the things to consider when planning an elopement in Costa Rica so that your experience is as seamless as possible!

Before we dive in, if you aren’t already convinced, here’s 10 solid reasons why you should elope in Costa Rica. Believe me when I say you won’t regret it!

Planning an Elopement in Costa Rica: FAQs and Answers

When is the best time of year to elope in Costa Rica?

The best time for an elopement in Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to April. These months generally have less rain and make more consistent sunny days, making them ideal for outdoor ceremonies and photoshoots. However, the “green season” from May to November can also be beautiful, especially for couples who love lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower travel costs.

What are the legal requirements to elope in Costa Rica?

Most people who choose to elope in Costa Rica but live outside of the county are opting for a symbolic ceremony (meaning that the legal date is what is written on the marriage certificate of their hometown). However, if you want to make your elopement the officially legal date of your wedding, you will need the following:

1. Valid passports: both partners need to present passports

2. Birth certificates: these are not always required for tourists, but can be helpful

3. Sworn statement: couples must provide personal details (such as birthdates, occupations, and parent names) in a sworn statement

4. Witnesses: you need at least two witnesses (your photographer counts as one!) over the age of 18

5. Local lawyer or officiant: a Costa Rican attorney or officiant must perform the ceremony and file the paperwork

The process is fairly simple compared to may other destinations. A local attorney can usually handle all the necessary paperwork, and you’ll receive a marriage certificate that is valid internationally. Upon receiving the certificate a couple months after your elopement, you can then take it to your local government building to be registered and make it official!

Do we need a wedding planner for our elopement in Costa Rica?

While it is possible to plan your elopement on your own, hiring a wedding planner or an elopement photographer who offers planning services in their packages can make the process much smoother for you. Vendors who specialize in planning elopements in Costa Rica can help with finding other vendors, obtaining permits for specific locations, and all the logistics that can be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Elopement photographer plug: I offer elopement photography packages that include full service planning so that you don’t have to worry about all the planning stress! Contact me through my website for more information!

What are some popular locations for eloping in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is full of breathtaking elopement spots, such as:

1. Arenal Volcano: perfect for adventurous couples who want dramatic landscapes

2. Manuel Antonio Beach: known for its gorgeous beach, rainforest backdrop, and sunsets

3. Monteverde Cloud Forest: ideal for a more mystical, secluded setting

4. La Fortuna Waterfall: a stunning backdrop for a private, nature-focused elopement

5. Guanacaste Beaches: known for serene, white-sand beaches and luxury resorts

6. Corcovado National Park: for the couples who want a remote, wild location

Each area offers a distinct experience, so consider what best reflects your style as a couple.

What should we wear while we are eloping in Costa Rica?

The weather in Costa Rica can vary depending on the region and season, so choose attire that suits both the climate and your comfort:

1. For beach elopements: lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton are best, as they keep you cool in the tropical heat

2. In mountainous or rainforest areas (like Monteverde or Arenal): consider layers and something easy to move in for adventurous photos

3. For footwear: if you are planning to hike, bring sturdy shoes, and consider bringing an extra pair for the ceremony (or go barefoot depending on the location!)

5. For wedding gowns or dresses: choose the dress of your dreams! But if you are not buying in Costa Rica, you’ll want to make sure that it will travel easily. Also, don’t be afraid to get it dirty!! If you’re planning an adventurous elopement, getting the dress dirty is party of the magic! Consider Boutique Galatea for local wedding dress and other evening attire options.

Don’t be afraid to bring more than one outfit if you’re planning to take pictures in more than one location! Multiple wedding outfits is a really fun way to add to the experience and embrace the adventure of your elopement.

Are we able to book a Costa Rica elopement package?

Yes! Many Costa Rican resorts and photographers offer elopement packages that can simplify the planning process. Packages may include:

1. Venue or location permits

2. Photographer and videographer

3. Officiant or legal services

4. Flowers and decor

5. Hair and makeup services

6. Accommodations or romantic extras like couples’ massages or beach dinners

There are often options to customize packages based on what’s most important to you, as well.

Can we include friends and family in our elopement?

Absolutely! The days of traditional weddings are long gone, and the idea of a traditional elopement (with just the couple, planning only days or weeks before the big day), are also headed out the door. Many couples opt for a micro-wedding when eloping in Costa Rica, inviting a small group of loved ones to join them. Costa Rica’s wide range of boutique hotels, villas, and resorts make it easy to accommodate an intimate group, allowing you to share the experience without the complexity of a traditional wedding.

How do we get around Costa Rica?

Depending on your elopement location, you might use a combination of private shuttles, car rentals, or local flights to get around. Most major destinations are accessible by car, though some areas (like Monteverde) may have rougher roads that require a 4×4 vehicle. Renting a car can give you more freedom to explore, but shuttles or private transfers are also widely available if you prefer not to drive.

Costa Rica photographer recommendation: Adobe Rent-A-Car is a great, local company for 4×4 vehicles to rent in Costa Rica. As a person who travels to Costa Rica frequently, I always rent a 4×4 vehicle so I have the freedom to travel wherever I want and explore all of the beautiful landscapes!

How can we incorporate local culture into our elopement?

Adding a touch of the Costa Rican culture to your day can make your elopement even more special. Some ideas include:

1. Traditional Costa Rican cuisine: gallo pinto, casados, and fresh tropical fruits

2. Local music: hire a mamba band or guitar player for your ceremony or celebration

3. Coffee ceremony: Costa Rica is known for its coffee, so a traditional coffee ceremony can add a unique, local touch to your day

I am personally a HUGE fan of Costa Rican coffee. In fact, my husband and I special order our coffee beans from Costa Rica and have them shipped to our home in Kansas City! While the coffee ceremony in Costa Rica is not as ritualistic in some other countries, it is still a deep part of the culture and a symbol of taking life slowly. Read more about it here.

Final tips for planning an elopement in Costa Rica

1. Hire an experience photographer who knows the best locations and times for lighting so that you get the most beautiful, high-quality photos to document your elopement

2. Consider the weather and plan for both sun and rain, and embrace whatever Mother Nature gives to you

3. Get travel insurance to cover any unexpected changes, especially during rainy season (be sure to read the fine print so that you know what is covered and what is not covered)

4. Embrace the adventure! Costa Rica is a wild, beautiful place, and an elopement here is all about making memories that reflect who you are as a couple.

Planning an Elopement in Costa Rica | Client Testimonials

Sadie LeMunyon

“Sara is the all time sweetest and most talented human ever. Working with her was a DREAM!!! She is the best hype woman, extremely creative, very good with posing, and somehow is able to capture the very essence of your love. She made me feel the most beautiful and like I’d have a lifelong supporter, even just through taking my pictures. I love this girl. She is someone that you can not only trust to take amazing photos, but you can also trust that she will be cheering you on every step of the way. RUN dont walk to book her!!!!”

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Feeling Inspired to Start Planning an Elopement in Costa Rica?

I hope this guide has sparked excitement for your Costa Rica elopement! From choosing the perfect spot to finding ways to make it truly your own, planning an elopement can be simple, fun, and memorable. If you’re looking for a photographer to capture every breathtaking moment, reach out—I’d be thrilled to help make your Costa Rica adventure unforgettable! You can learn all about me here, and discover more Costa Rica elopement planning tips on the journal!