The national currency is the Colon; dollars and travelers checks, can be exchanged only at banks and hotels. The exchange rate fluctuates in small increments daily. If you want to change cash, stick to US dollars. The best bet for traveler´s checks is also US dollars, as other currencies will rarely be accepted. Major credit cards are accepted in most larger hotels, stores, restaurants and car rental agencies, but at smaller, and more remote businesses, one should be prepared to pay in local currency. .
For the current exchange rate use the chart above.