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Costa Rica Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 17, 2023, costa rica - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to  crime .

Country Summary:  While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica. The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources in areas frequented by tourists.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Costa Rica.

If you decide to travel to Costa Rica:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook,   Twitter, and Instagram .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Costa Rica.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 

Travel Advisory Levels

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Costa Rica travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: April 8, 2024 11:24 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, costa rica - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to crime.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. Tourists are common targets for theft because they are perceived as being wealthy.

Crime against property, such as house burglary, theft from cars, and vehicle theft, is frequent. Passport theft is also extremely common and increases in frequency during the peak tourist seasons, from November to May and from July to August.

Thieves often work in teams, in which one thief diverts the victims’ attention while the other snatches their possessions. Thefts commonly occur: 

• in popular tourist areas, including viewpoints
• on buses, on trains, in bus and train stations as well as in airports terminals
• in hotel lobbies
• at restaurants, including on patios located near streets

While you’re in Costa Rica:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• carry your passport, including the Costa Rican entry stamp received at the immigration entry point
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid isolated or deserted areas
• avoid walking alone at night
• be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• San José

In San José, high-risk areas for theft include:

• the Coca-Cola bus terminal area, located between El Paso de la Vaca, Calle 12 and the Coca-Cola market
• the inner downtown area, located between the San Juan de Dios Hospital, the National Museum, Avenida 1 and Avenida 14
• the Mercado central areas
• public parks

Pacific Coast

In Puntarenas province, the following areas are of particular concern for theft:

• Jacó, including the crocodile viewing area along the Tárcoles River
• Manuel Antonio national park
• Cóbano area, including the small seaside towns of Mal País, Montezuma and Santa Teresa, as well as the port of Puntarenas

Caribbean Coast

On the Caribbean coast, the following areas are of particular concern for theft:

• Puerto Limón 
• Puerto Viejo

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur. Burglars may target rental accommodations or houses and apartments owned by foreigners.

• Choose well-secured accommodation
• Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Car break-ins and theft are very common throughout the country. Rental and luxury vehicles are a target of choice. Theft commonly occurs: 

• supermarkets
• restaurants
• national parks

If driving in Costa Rica:

• familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
• keep your windows and doors locked at all times
• keep your belongings out of reach
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even locked or out of sight in the trunk
• don’t stop to change a flat tire in an isolated area, and beware of strangers offering their help
• ensure emergency assistance and car insurance are offered by the rental agency when renting a car

Violent crime

Violent crime, including murders and armed robberies, occurs. Drug trafficking is common, and most incidents are drug-related.  The most affected provinces are:

• Limón

Although not frequent, violent assaults against travellers have occurred on the Caribbean coast in:

• Puerto Limón

If you are threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately without resistance.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with irregular or unusual features
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Unregulated alcohol

Some people died after consuming adulterated alcohol in Costa Rica during the summer of 2019. Further incidents occurred in October 2020.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Be wary of lesser-known or illegal brands
• Avoid buying alcohol from individuals
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault against foreigners at beach resorts and by taxi drivers in San José have occurred.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time, particularly in San José. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Costa Rican law prohibits political activity by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or activities may result in you being detained and/or deported.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Very few beaches are supervised by lifeguards.  There are no warning signs of dangerous conditions.

• Exercise caution when swimming
• Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Monitor weather warnings

Useful links

• Tips for travellers - Costa Rica Tourist Board
• Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as white-water rafting, scuba diving, bungee jumping, canopy touring and other adventure sports can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are rarely marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

Safety features on small boats used in river and lake excursions are not always reliable.

Life-threatening fauna such as jaguars, pumas, wild pigs and poisonous snakes are common in the densely wooded areas.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• don’t camp or sleep overnight on beaches
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed of weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety

National parks

You must obtain a permit to access national parks.

Nation Parks – Costa Rica Tourist Board

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are generally poor throughout the country. Costa Rica has one of the highest traffic accident rates in the world.

Road conditions

Most roads are not paved and those paved are generally in poor condition. Driving conditions may be hazardous, especially during the rainy season, due to:

• sharp curves
• lack of traffic signs
• narrow or unpaved roads

Driving habits

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. Motorists often drive without lights at night.

While driving:

• remain vigilant when stopped at lights or stop signs
• keep doors locked and windows closed at all times
• keep your valuables out of plain sight
• avoid travel at night

Public transportation

Public bus transportation is unreliable. Schedules and routes may not be accurate. Vehicles are often late due to traffic and road conditions. Itineraries may also vary from the ones originally announced.

Pickpockets often target tourists in public buses.

If travelling by public bus:

• keep your ID and valuables with you
• avoid placing your bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
• avoid sleeping

Police checks of passengers on public transportation also occur. Officers often use those checks to determine if foreigners have overstayed the 90-day visa exemption period.

Always carry your proof of legal stay on your person.

Official taxis are safe. They are orange at the airport and red with a yellow triangle on the side elsewhere in the country.

• Use official taxis only booked ahead of time
• Never board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis in the street
• Note the driver’s name and plate number
• Make sure the driver uses the meter
• Never use shared taxis

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Costa Rican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 180 days Business visa: required Student visa: required

Length of stay

The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of your stay when you enter Costa Rica. As a tourist, you may be granted a stay up to 180 days.

If you intend to stay for more than 180 days, you must obtain a residency status from the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería.

You may face deportation if you overstay the authorized 180-day period. Persons deported from Costa Rica will not be allowed to re-enter the country for 5 to 10 years.

• Immigration department – Costa Rica government (in Spanish)

Other entry requirements

Customs officials will ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Minors with dual citizenship

Costa Rica strictly enforces requirements for the departure of minors with dual citizenship.

The Canadian passport of a dual citizen child must have a Costa Rican departure approval delivered by the immigration authorities. The granted permission may be temporary or permanent and will be recorded in the Costa Rican immigration electronic system.

The approval must be requested jointly by both parents, prior to departure, to either of the following authorities:

• Costa Rica’s immigration department
• the Embassy of Costa Rica in Canada

Several cases of departure denials have occurred due to the lack of proper documentation.

Minors with dual citizenship who are travelling unaccompanied must also have legally certified written consent from both parents.

Useful Links

Children and travel.

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country. 
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs , excluding Argentina and Panama, or if you are coming from Tanzania or Zambia.
• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care provider.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Mpox (monkeypox)   is a risk in this country. It is a viral disease that can cause serious illness in some circumstances. Risk is generally low for most travellers.

Mpox spreads in 3 ways:

• from animals to humans through direct contact or by eating or preparing undercooked meat of infected animals or coming into contact with an infected animal's body fluids
• from person to person through close contact, including direct contact with the skin lesions, blood, body fluids, or mucosal surfaces (such as eyes, mouth, throat, genitalia, anus, or rectum) of an infected person
• through direct contact with contaminated objects such as bedding and towels, or by sharing personal objects used by an infected person

Follow recommended public health measures   and avoid contact with animals such as rodents and primates to help prevent getting or spreading the infection.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is very good.

Public hospitals offer very good services throughout the country but waiting times may be long. Doctors rarely speak English or French.

Private clinics and hospitals provide excellent health care. They are mainly located in San José. Services may be expensive. Doctors and hospitals typically require upfront payment.

Emergency services may be limited in rural areas.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and may be necessary in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medications

Some prescription medication may not be available in Costa Rica.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel:

• make sure you’ve done your research
• use reputable health-care providers only

Receiving medical care outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Costa Rica are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Costa Rica to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Costa Rican authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

If you violate Costa Rica’s laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.

Overview of the criminal law system in Costa Rica

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Child sex tourism

It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Costa Rica.

Conviction may result in a lengthy prison sentence.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

Identification

Authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry valid identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Photography

It is illegal to photograph official buildings.

Check with local authorities before taking photos.

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Costa Rica:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Costa Rica before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Costa Rica.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Costa Rica, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Costa Rica.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Costa Rica, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Costa Rican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Costa Rica to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You can drive with your valid Canadian driver’s licence in Costa Rica for up to 90 days from your arrival. Even if you have been granted a longer stay, you will not be able to drive legally after the first 90 days.

You must also carry your passport when driving in the country. Photocopies are not acceptable. You may face a fine if you fail to provide proper documentation when stopped by a traffic officer.

The Costa Rican government may prevent you from leaving the country until all injury claims have been settled if you are involved in a road accident, regardless of which party is at fault or insurance coverage.  Local judicial resolution process may take several months.

In the event of a car accident:

• don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive
• remain at the scene
• call 911 to report the accident

There are camera monitoring systems in various locations. You may receive a speeding ticket by mail if you exceed the speed limit.

Traffic fines don’t have to be paid on the spot. You can pay a fine:

• at COSEVI (Costa Rican Road Safety Council)

If a police officer asks you for money, you may make a complaint to the Costa Rican Tourism Bureau.

• Costa Rican Tourism Bureau
• COSEVI - Costa Rican Road Safety Council  (in Spanish)
• International Driving Permit

The currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).

Credit cards are generally accepted.

It’s extremely difficult to exchange Canadian dollars in Costa Rica. U.S. dollars are more easily exchanged.

Cash withdrawals are possible with a 4-digit PIN only.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

The rainy season extends from May to November, which sometimes extends into January.

Torrential rains and landslides occur frequently in the lowlands and mountainous areas along the Caribbean and in the Central Valley.

Seasonal flooding often causes power outages.  It can also hamper overland travel and reduce the delivery of other essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Costa Rica is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tremors occur regularly. Tsunamis are possible.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

There are several active and potentially active volcanoes in the country, including:

• Poás
• Rincón de la Vieja

Eruptions may occur at any time. They sometimes lead to evacuations of surrounding areas on short notice.

In the event of an earthquake or volcanic eruption:

• pay careful attention to all warnings issued for national parks
• monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders 
• Earthquakes  - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response  (in Spanish)
• Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Consular assistance

Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Costa Rica, in San José, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

English Version – Periódico Digital Centroamericano y del Caribe

U.S. Issues New Travel Advisory for Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular getaway given its close proximity to the U.S., with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and welcoming locals.

These are just a few of the highlights of this Central American paradise.

What is normally considered to be a safe destination for travelers, Costa Rica has had an uptick in violent crime recently. As has been the landscape of world events over the past few years, what seems to be normal can change quickly.

U.S. Embassy Issues Warning

Some would say Rule #1 of traveling to a foreign country is to always be aware of your surroundings. Bad things can happen anywhere at any time, whether it’s petty pickpockets or more dangerous situations. So, it’s important to heed caution at all times. Getting too comfortable in an unfamiliar place can be a big mistake.

The U.S. government has a 4-level system to determine the outlook on safety for each country:

    Level 1 – U.S. citizens should exercise normal precautions

    Level 2 – U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution

    Level 3 – U.S. citizens should reconsider travel plans

    Level 4 – U.S. citizens should not travel

Earlier this week, the U.S. issued a Level 2 alert for Costa Rica, advising Americans to take extra precautions due to an increase in violent crime. There were no specific examples given as to what they have insider information on, but an alert like this should be taken seriously.

It was noted that most of the recent criminal activity has been taking place in the capital city of San Jose, which is home to the country’s biggest airport. San Jose is the main hub where most visitors begin their Costa Rica adventures. A recent report showed American tourists flocked to Costa Rica in droves, with more than 1.2 million visitors arriving by plane.

These are the guidelines provided by the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica:

• Be watchful when in a public area, specifically when exiting a store or venue.
• Be aware of your surroundings and immediately leave any area that does not feel safe.
• Do your best not to stand out in a crowd, and it is always best not to be alone.
• Do not be flashy – keep valuables such as electronic, jewelry, and money hidden from public view.
• It is best to walk around at night within a group on well-lit streets. Do not walk alone at night.
• Provide someone you trust with your contact information and let them know of your whereabouts, such as when and where you will be going.
• When leaving your home, hotel, or vacation rental, it is advised to always keep doors and windows locked. Turn on the security system (if applicable).
• When driving, it is advised to keep doors locked at all times. Even when doors are locked, do not keep valuables in sight, such as phones or jewelry.

The embassy always recommends its citizens enroll in STEP, a government program to inform travelers of the latest security alerts. If someone is in immediate danger, the Costa Rica emergency phone line is 911, just like the U.S.

Pushback from Costa Rica

Costa Rica relies heavily on tourism as there is so much to do for travelers to enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle! When safety comes into question, this can damage their reputation and severely hurt their economy.

The Minister of Public Security, Jorge Torres, questions how the U.S. came to this conclusion of issuing a travel advisory. Seemingly caught in the middle of his own “irresponsible” government and his opinion of the embassy’s unjust travel advisory, he did admit there truly is an increase in violent crime. While the U.S. did not provide specifics, Mr. Torres believes drug wars between gangs are mostly to blame.

At present time, there is no update on what the plan is to alleviate this problem. Costa Rica has acknowledged the surge in violence but may be in the damage control stage until a better strategy is formed. Step one might be to start tapping into the hefty funds the U.S. donated just last month to assist in keeping people safe. (https://www.traveloffpath.com/u-s-issues-new-travel-advisory-for-costa-rica/)

Join the Conversation

Costa Rica may very well be seeing some uptick in petty crime — purse snatching and car break ins. That I’m not sure of but may be. But rest assured, Costa Rica is FAR more safe for Americans that their own country in most of it places. Guns are not rampant and Costa Ricans live a comfortable if not lavish life style. It’s a great place to live and to visit. Whatever the travel advisory is about is far from daily life for most people.

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We now advise:

Exercise a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to the threat of violent crime.

Costa Rica (PDF 710.16 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services.

Call 911 or 118.

Medical emergencies

Call 911 or 128.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Costa Rica.

• Violent crime, including carjackings and 'express kidnappings', is increasingly common in Costa Rica. Criminals often target tourist areas, resorts, transport hubs and public transport. Drink spiking with methanol is common and has killed people. Be aware of your surroundings. Plan to arrive or leave the airport during daylight hours. Don't leave your drinks unattended, especially in stores or bars.
• Petty crime is common. Avoid carrying valuables where possible. Use established tour operators and officially registered taxis.
• Credit card fraud is a risk. Street money changers often pass fake currency. Only change money at banks or official exchanges.
• Nationwide strikes and roadblocks have occurred. Public gatherings sometimes turn violent. Don't attempt to cross roadblocks or protests. Make alternative transport plans in case of disruptions.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Malaria is a serious risk in Limon and Puntarenas, including near the border with Panama. Consider taking anti-malarial medication if you're travelling to these areas.
• There's been cases of Zika virus reported. If you're pregnant, talk to your doctor about your travel plans.
• The risk of mosquito-borne illnesses increases during the wet season from April to November. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Common waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases include tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis and rabies. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Get your vaccinations up to date before you travel.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long sentences in local jails.
• It's illegal to photograph public buildings in Costa Rica. Ask an official before you take photos if you're unsure about a site.
• Get permission before photographing anyone, especially women and children.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact your nearest Embassy of Costa Rica for the latest details.
• If you travel via the  US , ensure you meet US entry or transit requirements.
• Check travel requirements for children. You may need extra documents if only one parent or guardian is travelling with a child. Children with dual Australian and Costa Rican nationality need notarised written consent from both parents to leave the country.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help when you're overseas.
• Australia has a consulate in San José, headed by an honorary consul. This consulate provides limited assistance to Australians in Costa Rica. 
• You can get full consular help from the  Australian Embassy in Mexico City .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime.

Violent crime is common in Costa Rica, including:

• armed robberies
• carjackings
• home invasions
• gang muggings

' Express kidnappings ' also happen, where criminals force you to withdraw funds from ATMs.

Travellers have been the target of armed robberies or drug-related crimes.

Criminals often target:

• tourist attractions
• bus stations and public transport
• harbours, especially Limon and Puntarenas ports

If you use an unofficial taxi, there's a risk of  robbery  and  assault .

Women are at risk of  sexual harassment and assault , particularly when alone on a beach or in a taxi.

Be alert to drink spiking with any drink bought in a store or bar. Don't leave drinks unattended. Make sure the brand is known, and watch your drinks being made. Drink spiking with methanol is common and has killed people. 

Take care in San José, particularly after dark. High-risk areas for theft include:

• the Coca-Cola bus station
• inner downtown areas
• public parks
• roads leading to the San José International Airport

Take care in other areas of Costa Rica, including:

• Manuel Antonio
• Tarcoles River
• Puerto Viejo, Puerto Limónand Cahuita

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• plan to arrive or depart San José airport during daylight hours
• don't camp on beaches
• only use officially-registered taxi

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, particularly pickpocketing and bag snatching. Thieves often target overhead compartments on buses.

Unattended vehicles are targeted:

• in downtown San José
• near beaches
• in national parks
• around tourist areas

To keep your belongings safe:

• use established tour operators and registered taxis
• be aware of your surroundings and personal security

Other crimes

Road-based crime is common. Criminals who target vehicles may:

• stage accidents and rob you when your car stops
• slash your car tyres and offer to help with repairs while a partner steals from the car

Carjackings happen, often at gunpoint. Criminals target stationary cars and rental vehicles for robberies.

In tourist areas, you can get help from the tourist police. See  Local contacts

Scams and fraud

Credit card fraud is a risk.

Street money changers often pass counterfeit Costa Rican and US currency.

To protect your money:

• keep your card in view when conducting transactions
• check your accounts for unauthorised purchases
• only change money at banks or official exchanges

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests

Nationwide strikes and roadblocks have occurred.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Civil disturbances may happen, including strikes. This can disrupt local public services, which may stop work.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• don't attempt to cross roadblocks or other protest actions
• be prepared for delays or disruptions to your travel plans
• have an alternative transport plan in case of public service disruption

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Swimming safety

Strong coastal currents and rip tides occur on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. These can make swimming dangerous.

You may not find lifeguards on public beaches. You also may not see warning signs for dangerous conditions.

Crocodile attacks have been reported on the Pacific Coast.

Get local advice before swimming.

Climate and natural disasters

Costa Rica can experience  natural disasters  and  severe weather , such as:

• hurricanes  and severe storms
• landslides  and mudslides
• earthquakes
• volcanic activity

To protect yourself in case of a natural disaster:

• know your hotel or cruise ship's evacuation plans
• identify your local shelter
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• contact your tour operator or airline
• keep in contact with family and friends
• National Hurricane Center
• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency

Hurricanes and severe weather

The hurricane season is from June to November, although tropical storms and hurricanes can happen in other months. The direction and strength of hurricanes can change suddenly.

Landslides, mudslides and flooding can also occur, especially during heavy rainfall in the rainy season from May to November. The rainy season can sometimes extend to January.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available in some areas

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as water and electricity

Monitor weather reports if you're travelling to Costa Rica during hurricane season or after a natural disaster.

If you choose to stay when a hurricane approaches, adequate shelter may not be available.

Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes

Costa Rica is in an active earthquake zone.  Earthquakes  and tsunamis can happen.

Costa Rica has several active volcanoes. Eruptions may occur at any time and can cause ash fall and vapours. Air travel may be disrupted.

• US Geological Survey
• Tsunami Warning System

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation: the Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Costa Rica. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Malaria is a serious risk in Limon and Puntarenas, including near the border with Panama.

Preventative anti-malaria medication can help protect you.

The risk of contracting other insect-borne illnesses increases in the wet season from April to November. These include:

• chikungunya
• Chagas disease
• leishmaniasis  

To protect yourself from insect-borne diseases:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

Zika virus  is widespread in Costa Rica.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Public medical facilities are reasonable in San José but limited in smaller towns and rural areas.

Private medical facilities are available and well-equipped but expensive.

You'll usually need to pay cash upfront before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency. Doctors rarely agree to work with your travel insurer, meaning you may need to ask for reimbursement after paying cash for your treatment.

Decompression chambers are available in Liberia and Samara.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with suitable facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include lengthy prison sentences in local jails.

• Carrying or using drugs

It's illegal to photograph official buildings in Costa Rica.

Strict laws protect native animals and plants.

To avoid inadvertently breaking the law:

• check with local authorities before taking photos
• speak with your tour guide to understand local laws

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

• Advice for dual nationals

Local customs

Locals may be suspicious if you photograph children and women or talk to children.

To avoid giving offence:

• ask the child's parents for permission before you photograph children or talk to them
• ask women for permission before you take their photograph

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free travel for short stays

On an Australian passport, you don't need a visa for a tourist visit of less than 90 days.

You might be refused entry if you can't show that you'll return home or travel onwards.

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the  Embassy of Costa Rica  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Travel via the  United States

If you're  travelling through the US , ensure you meet all US entry or transit requirements, even if you're only transiting through Hawaii. Passengers arriving in or transiting through the US will need to show onward flight tickets from the US and any country that borders the US (i.e. Mexico and Canada). 

• Travel advice for the US

Travel via  Canada

If you're travelling via Canada, you'll need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for Canada. 

• Travel advice for Canada

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile , ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

• Travel advice for Chile

Travel with children

You may require extra documents if only one parent or guardian is travelling with a child.

Dual-national Australian and Costa Rican children need notarised written consent from both parents to leave the country. Contact the  Embassy of Costa Rica  to confirm this.

• Advice for people travelling with children

Border Measures

Yellow fever vaccination

Depending on which countries you have visited, you may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Costa Rica. Airlines may require you to show this certificate before departure.

• C ountries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 151KB)
• Returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

Other requirements

You must pay a departure tax to leave Costa Rica. This might be included in your airline ticket. 

At airports, you can pay with US dollars or Costa Rican Colones (CRC), in cash or by credit card.

At other border crossings, you can pay at Bancredito kiosks.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Costa Rican Colon (CRC).

You can't exchange Australian money in Costa Rica but you can exchange US dollars.

Credit cards are widely accepted.

Local travel

Tours and adventure activities.

Take care if you're taking part in  adventure activities , such as:

• whitewater rafting
• bungee jumping
• scuba diving
• jungle canopy tours

Adventure tour operators may not maintain safety gear or follow recommended safety standards.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Driving permit

You can drive for up to 3 months with your Australian driver's licence. If your Australian licence allows, you can drive a car and motorcycle.

Road travel

Driving in Costa Rica can be dangerous. Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• local driving practices
• poor street lighting
• poor signage
• potholes and landslides
• serious traffic accidents

Serious traffic accidents are common.

If you plan to drive in Costa Rica:

• check you have adequate travel and car theft insurance
• avoid driving at night
• keep doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight
• be aware of your surroundings when your car stops
• park in secured car parks where possible
• don't leave valuables in the vehicle

If you're in an accident, you must stay with the vehicle. Don't move it until the traffic police allow you to. You may be unable to leave Costa Rica until you settle any injury or insurance claims, even if you weren't at fault and have insurance. 

• Driving or riding

Official taxis are red and have a yellow triangle on their side panels.

Official airport taxis are orange. You can buy prepaid vouchers for airport taxis in front of the San José airport terminal.

If you use an unofficial taxi, there's a risk of  robbery  and assault.

To protect yourself and your money when taking a taxi:

• use official taxis
• don't ride in the front seat of a taxi

If you're female, don't travel alone in a taxi.

• Advice for women

Public transport

Travelling via public transport puts you at risk of theft. Don't put your passport and other valuables in luggage racks or under your seat.

• Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Costa Rica's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Tourist police operate in many tourist areas. You can contact them by calling 911.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in  San José , headed by an Honorary Consul. The consulate provides limited consular assistance to Australians in Costa Rica. The Consulate can conduct passport interviews and provide provisional travel documents for emergency travel to the nearest Australian embassy.  The Consulate can’t issue Australian passports. You can get full consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Mexico City.

Australian Consulate, San José

Grupo Nueva, 1st floor

Avenida 5, General Cañas,

San José, Costa Rica

Phone: (+506) 40818008

Email:  [email protected]

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Ruben Dario No 55 (Polanco) Col Bosque de Chapultepec., C.P.  11580 Mexico D.F. Mexico Phone: +52 55 1101 2200 Email:  [email protected] Website:  mexico.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australian Embassy Mexico

Twitter: AusEmbMex

See the Embassy website for details of opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Costa Rica Travel Safety Guide for 2024

Costa Rica is a beautiful vacation destination – but not without its fair share of troubles. While there is some crime in the country, as long as you stay informed and exercise increased caution, you’ll be safe during your visit to Costa Rica.

Is Costa Rica Safe?

We’ll reiterate – as long as you exercise increased caution Costa Rica will be safe for you.

Here is some safety information that you should know about Costa Rica:

• Crime rate: Moderate and on a steady incline
• Danger zones: A number of neighborhoods, listed below, should be avoided
• Police presence: Costa Rica has no army, but multiple police forces
• Natural disasters: There’s a moderate risk of hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions
• Weather patterns: Tropical climate with clear-cut wet and dry season
• Carbon monoxide: Four incidents reported, bring a CO detector
• Traveling solo or with family: Possible, as long as you’re careful
• Public transport: It’s risky and unsafe
• Medical care quality: One of the best in Latin America

Travel Advisory for Costa Rica

The matter of safety in Costa Rica is complex and layered. There are many factors to consider, including crime, health risks, and natural disasters.

The US State Department categorizes countries into four levels:

• Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions — Minimal risk, requires normal precautions
• Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution — Heightened risks to safety and security, requires increased caution
• Level 3: Reconsider Travel — Serious risks to safety and security, reconsider traveling
• Level 4: Do Not Travel — Life-threatening risks to safety and security; visitors are advised not to travel to that country or leave as soon as possible

The US , Canadian , Australian , and New Zealand travel advisories put Costa Rica into the second safety category and advise potential travelers to exercise a higher degree of caution. The reason for this is Costa Rica’s high frequency of crime.

The travel advisories emphasize the high risks of petty crimes, scams, spiked drinks, fraud, and gang-related violence, especially in the larger cities, and particularly in some isolated, crime-riddled areas.

The Australian travel advisory additionally points out that Costa Rica presents serious health risks, mainly from malaria and the Zika virus, both mosquito-borne illnesses. “Common waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases include tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis, and rabies” are additional health concerns in Costa Rica.

Finally, the UK travel advisory warns travelers about the extreme weather conditions and potential natural hazards and disasters in the country. This refers to the risk of hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions in almost all parts of Costa Rica.

A Comprehensive Look at Costa Rica Crime Rates

According to Numbeo, Costa Rica has a crime rating of 59.58, which puts the country into the “moderate” risk category. San Jose , on the other hand, the capital of Costa Rica, has a slightly higher crime rating of 64.57, which puts it in the “high” risk category.

According to Numbeo, the most common crimes are drug use, property theft, and systemic corruption and bribery. The most concerning piece of data is that the last three years have seen a noticeable rise in crime.

The table below presents the comprehensive crime ratings in relation to individual categories, compiled by Numbeo contributors. The data is based on the ratings of 245 people, which is a relatively high and reliable number for this website.

Dangerous Areas

Probably the best way to make sure you don’t face any trouble is to avoid going to dangerous and problematic neighborhoods.

We highly recommend that you stay away from:

• Desamparados
• The port city of Limon
• Puerto Viejo
• The wider Cóbano area, especially the small coastal towns like Mal País, Montezuma, and Santa Teresa
• Jacó, particularly the Tárcoles River and its crocodile viewing area
• Public parks in San Jose
• The Coca-Cola bus terminal between El Paso de la VacaThe inner downtown area, between San Juan de Dios Hospital, but also the National Museum, Avenida 1, and Avenida 14The Mercedes central area

Police Presence in Costa Rica

Officially, Costa Rica is protected by the Public Force of Costa Rica (Fuerza Pública de Costa Rica), but the situation is much more complicated.

There are a few basic and very important things you should know about the police in Costa Rica:

• Costa Rica is a country without an army.
• They have a force of around 14,500 officers.
• There are different kinds of police forces in the country.

The Public Force of Costa Rica should not be your first choice if you want to report a crime. Namely, the US State Department advises their home citizens to “report the crime to the OIJ police”, shortened from Organismo de Investigación Judicial (Judicial Investigation Department).

The main job of the OIJ police is crime investigations. While the Public Force (La Fuerza Pública) officers deal with crime prevention and wear uniforms, the OIJ officers investigate crime and wear plain clothes.

As it’s always better to be safe than sorry, your best choice is to remember both of their phone numbers:

• Public Force of Costa Rica : +506 2586 4000
• Judicial Investigation Department : +506 800-800-0645

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Costa Rica?

Solo travelers can visit Costa Rica, but they need to exercise a higher level of caution and be much more vigilant than usual. Tips include:

• Avoid strolling alone in dark and poorly lit areas, especially at night
• Avoid going out and drinking alone
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers or leave your beverage unattended
• Never practice adventure tourism on your own
• Avoid swimming alone
• Carry your backpack in front of you
• Don’t accept help from strangers

Safety Tips for Solo Women Travelers

Essential Costa Rica provides some additional useful safety tips for solo women travelers:

• Only use official transportation
• Don’t jog or do your workouts alone
• Don’t share your personal information or social media info with strangers
• Always keep in touch with your family and friends
• Always keep the battery on your phone charged
• Trust the police and ask for their help

Is It Safe to Travel to Costa Rica as a Family?

You can visit Costa Rica with your family as long as you’re careful and follow the advice we’ve shared so far, avoid going out at night, keep an eye on your kids and your belongings, and get travel insurance for the whole family. It’s also recommended to rent a car rather than use public transport and book your stay and activities ahead of time.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is at moderate risk from hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions.

Let’s find out more about their frequency and magnitude, followed by some useful tips on what to do if you find yourself in the middle of a natural hazard of some kind.

Hurricane Information and Precautions

The official hurricane season in Costa Rica lasts between June and November, much like in the rest of the Caribbean.

Luckily, Costa Rica is outside the central hurricane belt in the Caribbean Sea or the Gulf of Mexico and rarely gets hit by a strong hurricane. Instead, hurricane season in Costa Rica is characterized by strong winds and powerful storms that are neither especially dangerous nor life-threatening.

The consequences of those storms are not human casualties or extreme structural damage, but flooding and landslides, which are quite common.

When hurricanes do occur, frequently affected areas are Guanacaste, Alajuela, Limón, and other places along the Caribbean coastline. The Pacific coast, on the other hand, is mostly safe.

According to the UK travel advisory, the first thing you should do while visiting Costa Rica is keep up-to-date on the National Hurricane Center forecasts and follow the warnings of the World Meteorological Organization . It’s also a good idea to follow the local government’s updates.

Earthquake Information and Precautions

Earthquakes happen along cracks in the Earth’s crust, where tectonic plates meet. Costa Rica is close to some of those “fault lines,” like the Caribbean Plate, the South American Plate, the Cocos Plate, and the Nazca Plate. The most active one is the Cocos Plate.

Luckily, most of the earthquakes in Costa Rica are very weak and practically imperceptible. The last deadly earthquake occurred in 2009 in the village of Cinchona and claimed 34 lives. All tourists were safely evacuated and suffered only minor injuries.

The largest earthquake in recent history, with a magnitude of 7.6, happened in April of 1991 along the Caribbean coast. It resulted in 47 fatalities and caused structural damage to the nearby infrastructure and buildings.

Costa Rica is more than prepared for the seismic shocks that usually hit its territory. Most of the buildings are earthquake-proof.

Tsunamis, which are usually caused by stronger earthquakes, are a rare thing in Costa Rica. Since 1950, only three fatal incidents have been reported in the country.

Volcanic Eruptions Information and Precautions

There are around 16 volcanoes on the territory of Costa Rica, of which only a few are active.

The last significant eruption occurred in September 2023 , when Volcan Rincon de la Vieja released a big volcanic cloud. Most of the volcanic eruptions in Costa Rica are like that—they seem scary and unusual but do not pose significant danger to human life.

There are a few exceptions, but they’re long ago. Two worth mentioning are:

• In 2000, Arenal erupted and caused two fatalities. Everyone from the nearby Tabacón Resort evacuated.
• In 1968m Arenal erupted and destroyed the village of Tabacón, resulting in a total of 78 fatalities.

The UK travel advisory cautions potential travelers to “follow local advice before traveling to any areas around volcanoes” and to “avoid volcanic areas during and immediately after heavy rainfall when there’s increased risk of lava flows.”

People with respiratory conditions may experience a worsening of symptoms after being exposed to ash plumes. That can be evaded by using a well-fitted face mask.

Costa Rica Weather Patterns: What to Expect

Costa Rica has a typical tropical climate with a dry season and a wet season cutting the year nearly in half. The dry season typically lasts from late December to April, while the wet season is between May and November. Although the wet season as a rule has more rain, the weather in Costa Rica is great year-round.

Here are some quick facts about the weather in the country:

• The average temperature throughout the year is 75°-85°F (24° – 29°C). During the dry season, the temperature can go up to 90°F, while during the wet season, it falls in the 75°-80°F (23 – 26°C) range.
• The average rainfall amounts to around 100 inches (250 centimeters) on a yearly level. Although it rains throughout the whole year, the rainiest months are August, September, and October.
• The average humidity is 70% to 80%. It’s higher in the country’s lowlands.
• The average daily number of hours of bright sunlight is between 10 and 12 hours.

The summer in Costa Rica is very lush and green. The mornings are usually sunny and clear, while the afternoons bring short and strong outbursts of rain. Random downpours in the evenings are also common.

June starts off slow tourist-wise, but the second half of the month and the beginning of July bring families with children to Costa Rica. This is because flights are quite affordable in early summer. Other than that, July is great for surfing and other water-based activities.

As August creeps in, the wet season begins. Some days, it rains constantly. Tourists leave and it becomes less crowded and noisy. It’s the perfect time for eco activities like watching marine animals, particularly turtles.

September and October are the wet season at its highest. They are the wettest months of the year in terms of rainfall. Some of the hotels, resorts, and lodges close off completely during this period. Others offer huge discounts to visitors. Again, the country is quiet, calm, and a lot less crowded with tourists.

The hurricane season is also at its peak, with a considerable chance of a tropical storm hitting Costa Rica, causing floods and landslides. In any case, if you plan to visit Costa Rica in September and October, bring a raincoat with you.

November, much like May, is a transitional month. The rain starts to slow down, but nature is still lush, green, and breezy. It’s still not the high season, but November is slowly becoming a really popular month for visitors.

December 20th marks the official beginning of the dry season. The beginning of the month is still quiet and the prices of hotels and resorts stay low. But as the Christmas holidays draw near, Costa Rica once again becomes a really popular place. But, there’s still rainfall and strong winds, so surfers and kayakers should be really careful.

January and February, on the other hand, have perfect weather and start the peak of the high tourist season. The rain is minimal—especially in February, the driest month of the year—perfect beach weather, but limited hotel availability, so book in advance.

The end of the winter is the most popular period for tourists, weather-wise. The streets and the beaches are once again crowded, and there’s a general sense of merriment in Costa Rica–probably because there’s no rain.

The weather in March is like that of January and February. Almost no rain, lots of sun, a bit higher temperatures, and less humidity. Spring breakers are all over Costa Rica.

April is the hottest month of the year, and still very crowded and fun, with almost no available hotels whatsoever. Easter week is also a huge thing in Costa Rica, with plenty of crowds, festivals, and celebrations. Beaches are crowded, too

May, much like November, is a transitional month, when the dry season starts to dwindle, and the rains start to fall more frequently. After Easter, the crowds start thinning, and it’s once again a great opportunity for budget travelers to visit Costa Rica, as the prices of the hotel start dropping.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Costa Rica

You’re in no particular danger of poisoning from carbon monoxide while traveling to Costa Rica.

That being said, there were a couple of cases which are worth mentioning, both of them caused by unfortunate circumstances.

In 2015 two nursing professionals were found unresponsive in their car, parked in Playa Uvita, in the southern Pacific area of Costa Rica. The engine was working and the air conditioning was on when they were found. Poisoning with carbon monoxide was estimated as the most likely cause of this incident.

A few years before that , two individuals were found dead in similar circumstances. The tragic event happened in a love motel between Tres Rios and Cartago. The couple left the engine of the car—which was adjacent to the apartment—running and died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible and odorless gas that is especially dangerous in closed spaces, without any air circulation. Prolonged exposure may lead to brain damage, paralysis, and even loss of life. Most of the time people notice the presence of carbon monoxide after the symptoms, such as vomiting, headache, and stomach ache have manifested.

The best thing you could do is to buy a portable CO detector which costs only around $20. That way, you’ll have one less worry.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

• Always bring your personal ID (such as a passport) with you; the police accept photocopies of the document
• Never buy or use illegal substances; the minimum sentence for possession or trafficking is eight years
• Stay out of dangerous areas
• Never leave your drinks unattended
• Never enter a non-official taxi
• Don’t stop your car for strangers signaling for help
• Be careful when using an ATM
• Never show your affluence and flaunt your valuables
• Don’t leave your valuables unattended at the beach or while using public transport
• Be cautious when using credit or debit cards, since fraud is quite common

Public Transportation Safety in Costa Rica

Public transportation in Costa Rica can be risky and unsafe.

According to the Canadian travel advisory , public bus transportation in the country is very unreliable. They point out that “schedules and routes may not be accurate. Vehicles are often late due to traffic and road conditions. Itineraries may also vary from the ones originally announced.”

The Australian travel advisory also suggests that using public transportation may put you in unnecessarily risky situations, especially concerning theft, as pickpockets usually target public buses.

You should avoid placing your valuables in the underhead compartment or under your seat. Even sleeping while riding the bus is considered unsafe.

Police checks on public buses are common. Keep your ID, your passport, and your travel permit with you at all times, since the police may check whether visitors have overstayed their 90-day visa exemption period.

Taxis, on the other hand, are significantly safer, as long as you avoid unofficial taxis, also known as “taxi pirates”.

The official taxis are easy to spot. They are orange-colored at the airport and red-colored with a yellow triangle sticker and a box on top with the number of the company in the other parts of the country.

According to the UK travel advisory , your best and safest option is always to use radio-dispatched taxis. Also, sharing taxis with unknown people is considered especially dangerous in Costa Rica.

Medical Care Quality in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has one of the best and most developed healthcare systems in Latin America.

There are plenty of public and private hospitals in the country, staffed with experienced and highly educated medical professionals. But, there are some particularities that you should be aware of.

According to the Canadian travel advisory , the public hospitals in Costa Rica provide excellent services throughout the whole country, “but waiting times may be long.” Doctors in those facilities rarely speak English or French.

The public hospitals in rural areas and smaller towns may have fewer capabilities and may have limited emergency services.

Private hospitals and facilities, on the other hand, are almost exclusively top-notch. But, all of them are located in the capital of San Jose, and they are usually very expensive. The medical personnel and the doctors in the private hospitals almost exclusively require payment upfront.

Evacuation procedures are extremely expensive. Also, doctors in private hospitals almost never work with health insurers, which means that you should be ready to ask for reimbursement after paying the bills with your own cash or credit card.

The best thing you could do, before visiting Costa Rica, is to get to know the best hospitals in San Jose and in the other popular tourist destinations in the country. Here’s a list of the best private and public hospitals in the country.

Private Hospitals

• Hospital CIMA San José (+506 2208 1000)
• Hospital Clínica Bíblica (+506 2522 1000/+506 8529 2100)
• Hospital La Católica (+506 2246 3000/+506 8830 6765)

Public Hospitals

• Hospital Tony Facio Castro (+506 2758 2222)
• Hospital Guápiles (+506 2710 6801)
• Hospital de Ciudad Neily (+506 2785 9600)
• Golfito Hospital Manuel Mora Valverde (+506 2775 7800)
• Hospital Monseñor Víctor Manuel Sanabria Martínez (+506 2630 8000)
• San Rafael Hospital (+506 2436 1001)
• Hospital San Carlos (+506 2401 1200)
• Hospital Carlos Luis Valverde Vega (+506 2456 9700)
• Hospital Max Peralta Jiménez (+506 2550 1999)
• William Allen Taylor Hospital (+506 2558 1300)
• Hospital La Anexión de Nicoya (+506 2685 5066)
• Hospital Enrique Baltodano Briceño – Liberia (+506 2690 9700)
• San Vicente de Paúl Hospital (Hospital de Heredia) (+506 2562 8100)

Stay Cautious!

Stay cautious–erring on the side of safety–and you’ll have a great vacation in Costa Rica.

Although the country has some notable problems with crime, they mostly target the local population and the gangs in the problematic parts of the country.

So don’t let fear ruin your holiday! As long as you’re wary and careful, you’ll most likely be safe.

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Costa Rica Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Costa Rica. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in the Americas February 28, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Costa Rica.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Costa Rica. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Costa Rica.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Costa Rica take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Costa Rica.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Costa Rica is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1 Included in this requirement are travelers arriving from Tanzania and Zambia, and designated areas of: Colombia (the entire country, except the cities of Barranquilla, Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena, and Medellín, and the archipelago department, San Andrés and Providencia); Ecuador (the provinces of Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbíos, and Zamora-Chinchipe, and excluding the rest of the country); Paraguay (the entire country, except the city of Asunción); Peru (the entire country, except the cities of Cusco and Lima, the regions of Cajamarca, Lambayeque, Piura, and Tumbes, and the highland tourist areas of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail); Trinidad & Tobago (the entire country, except the urban areas of Port of Spain; travelers with itineraries limited to the island of Tobago, and travelers with airport transits or layovers are also exempt from this requirement). Travelers arriving from Argentina and Panama are exempt from this requirement.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Costa Rica, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Costa Rica. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Costa Rica include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Costa Rica’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Costa Rica may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Costa Rica, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Costa Rica, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Costa Rica .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Costa Rica for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit in 2024? Travel Crime Advice

One of the most common questions we get asked is, “Is Costa Rica safe to visit?” The short answer is, “usually”.

We started this website to give you all the most genuine information about Costa Rica travel and we take that responsibility very seriously. 

However, one thing I didn’t consider when we started this site is how responsible I would end up feeling for your safety while you are in Costa Rica. I genuinely want you to have the best trip here possible and that means that you should feel secure while traveling.

Crime in Costa Rica is an ever-evolving issue. In general, this is a very safe country. The most common crime is petty theft. Violent crimes targeting tourists such as armed robberies, sexual assault, or homicide are very very unusual. In general, you will likely meet wonderful people and have the vacation of a lifetime. 

However, because we feel responsible, here are all our tips about safety in Costa Rica. Please read through them and please contact us if you have any safety questions.

Our Perspective on Crime in Costa Rica

Thomas and I agree that in general, we feel secure in Costa Rica. 

We, fortunately, have never had any crimes committed against us in our several years of living here. 

That being said, we also use extreme caution and I sometimes feel it is exhausting to maintain our level of security. 

Although nothing has happened to us, that doesn’t mean that we haven’t heard of crimes being committed against friends. This has always been theft in various forms.

We have had friends leave things out visible in their car and their car has been broken into, a friend got robbed walking alone at night, a friend had their house broken into, and another friend was robbed in their driveway. 

Keep in mind that these incidents have been over about 8 years of living here. This is not an everyday occurrence.

But, yes, crime happens and it can be very scary. 

However, even if you are extremely cautious sometimes you just never know. We had a crime committed against us once in Europe in a very safe neighborhood. So, unfortunately, bad things can happen anywhere.

As of now, we still feel 100% secure in recommending that you visit Costa Rica.  It is a beautiful country and in general, the threat against tourists is low. 

If at any point we feel that the security level in this country is too unstable, we will update this to reflect that. 

​How the Costa Rican Government Protects Tourists

Tourism is the biggest industry in Costa Rica. With that in mind, the government works hard to make this the safest destination for tourists as possible. 

In recent years there has been an increase in homicides. This is largely due to drug trafficking and gangs. I have read a lot of articles about it in the news recently. It seems that the government is taking action to alleviate the situation. Although, it is hard to say exactly what is being done. 

Crime rates against tourists have remained somewhat steady. However, the president of Costa Rica along with the Ministry of Public Security (MSP) are making it their mission to lower these rates.

One way they are doing that is by identifying crime hot spots. They are now working to increase police presence in these areas. 

Sometimes I wonder if this is just talk to keep tourists coming here and feeling safe, but I really don’t think it is. 

I have noticed an increase in police presence in some areas and I have even been stopped by a police officer on the beach to tell me that there had been a few robberies there recently and to keep an eye on my stuff. 

How to Protect Yourself in Costa Rica

Here are all the safety tips I suggest doing to protect yourself while traveling in this foreign country. 

Pre-Trip Preparation

Here is what you need to do before you even leave home. 

Register With STEP

If you’re a United States citizen,  enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

This program allows the US government to notify you regarding potential security threats in the area you are visiting, get in contact with you regarding  natural disasters , and give family and friends a way to contact you in the case of emergencies.

If you are from another country. see if your government offers a similar program. 

Check Embassy Warnings:

The US government has a whole  page dedicated to the safety in Costa Rica . 

Make sure to check it our before you travel so you can be aware of any areas to avoid or current crime situations.

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance  has multiple benefits. Not only will it help you out in case you get hurt, but it is also great if one of your belongings is stolen. 

Get your travel insurance quote from Heymondo here .

Give Travel Plan to Trusted Person

Inform a trusted person of your travel plans and keep them updated. I like to write out a document with all hotel info, any preplanned activities, flight info etc. for my mom.

I then update her on my license plate number if I have rented a car once I arrive in a destination.

I usually also try to check in once a day and just send her a quick message of my plans.

That way, if I go missing, somebody has a record of my intended movements. 

Travel Tip : If you are an iPhone user you can turn on “share your location” with a trusted family member or friend. That way, someone always knows exactly where you/ your phone is.

Rent Your Car Directly from a Company

Third party sites often have car rental deals that seem too good to be true…they are. These rates don’t include any added taxes, fees, or mandatory rental insurance. Check out our  guide to rental scams for more info .

We work exclusively with our favorite local rental company, Adobe Rent-a-Car.  You can get a 10% discount plus other great perks here.

Make a Photocopy of Your Passport

I suggest making one or two copies of your passport to bring with you while traveling.

Then, while in Costa Rica you can leave your passport in your hotel safe and only carry the paper copies with you. 

Get an eSIM Card

It is a good idea to always be able to stay connected and have a working cell phone.

We suggest getting an  eSIM card from Airalo  for this.

However, you can  check out our guide to SIM cards in Costa Rica  for all the different ways to stay connected. 

Purchase Security Products

This is not absolutely necessary, but there are a few products I really like for keeping me and my stuff safe while traveling. 

• Doorstop : Put this under your door at a hotel. When someone tries to open the door the alarm will sound.
• Money belt : Helpful for walking around towns so that your money, cards, etc are hidden. This one is also RFID blocking so nobody can scan your cards.
• Safety Alarm :  Carry on your keys. Presd the button to activate the alarm if you are attached.
• Headlamp : It gets dark very early here. If you plan to walk around at night it is a good idea to have a headlamp.

Monetary Theft

Here are some of the ways you can protect yourself from being scammed or robbed while in Costa Rica. 

Pay with Credit Card Instead of Debit Card

Credit cards make it easier to refute fraudulent charges than debit cards. I suggest checking your credit card account after any transactions to make sure that the amount is correct. 

Travel Tip: I t is a good idea to get a credit card that is made for travel so you will not pay a percentage on every transaction.

Keep Money in Several Locations

Don’t put all your money in your pocket or purse. It’s best not to carry much money at all, but if you have to, divide it up.

I put some in my shoe, some in my bra, and some in each of my pockets.

That way if I am robbed they hopefully won’t find all of the money and I can just give them my wallet and move on.

If you need more info on whether you should carry money or use credit cards in Costa Rica, we have a full post on  currency and paying .

Only Change Currency at Banks

The currency exchange places at the airport will give you a very bad exchange rate. Don’t use them!

Also, there are often people exchanging currency on the Nicragua or Panama border. Don’t use them either.

Instead, you will get the best exchange rate directly at a bank. 

Check All Receipts

After any payment, check the receipt to make sure the amount adds up correctly. Often in Costa Rica store employees need to manually enter the total on a credit card machine.

It is so easy to accidentally (or purposely) add an extra “0” and overcharge a customer.

We’ve had it happen to us. Luckily, the employee noticed it when he charged us several hundred dollars instead of about $50 for gas.

He was so embarrassed and pointed out his mistake to us and fixed it.

So, just double-check. 

Personal Safety and Awareness

Here are all the things you should do to protect yourself.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When you are traveling it’s easy to get distracted by all the beautiful new sights, but you need to also be aware of the people around you.

Look around often and avoid standing in large crowds.

If you feel uncomfortable in a situation or place, just leave.

If you take money out of the bank pay attention to who is around and watching you.

Dress Like You Belong

We get it, you are on vacation and probably want to wear all your nice warm weather clothing.

However, in Costa Rica it is best to blend in.

Leave the nice jewelry or flashy items at home and dress in a relaxed way.

Don’t Walk Around Alone at Night

Unfortunately, it  gets dark by 6pm  in Costa Rica year round. 

As I mentioned above, it is a good idea to have a headlamp if you plan to walk around after dark.

Also, it is best to never go out alone.

Trust Your Instincts

If you feel hesitant about a person or a location, trust yourself. Your gut instinct is usually right. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Don’t Leave Your Stuff Unattended

If you plan to go to the beach it is never a good idea to leave your personal belongings unattended while you are in the ocean or taking a walk. 

​Keep Stuff Secure at Restaurants

A lot of restaurants in Costa Rica are open air. This means it is easy for anyone from outside to walk by your table and swipe something.

Don’t leave your cell phone, wallet, keys, etc just sitting on the table.

Also, don’t just put your purse or backpack on the back of your chair. I always put mine on the floor between my legs with one strap under my leg so it can not be taken. 

Know Your Hotel Location

If you get lost, your phone dies etc. it is good to know the place you are staying in your mother tongue and in Spanish.

In Costa Rica this is difficult because there are no addresses. It’s strange but true.

Instead, make sure you know the name of your hotel and any landmarks that are located nearby the place you are staying.

Keep Personal Info Private

People in Costa Rica generally really enjoy talking to tourists and they are usually extremely nice and welcoming.

However, to stay safe in Costa Rica you should still be cautious. Don’t reveal too much.

If you are a  solo traveler , NEVER tell anyone that you are by yourself. I always just say I’m with my husband and he is on his way to meet me.

I also never say which hotel I am staying in.

Lock Everything

When going out make sure you lock your car, hotel room etc.

Also, don’t leave anything of value in your rental car. It is not unheard of for windows to be smashed and things stolen.

When driving, lock your doors and use the AC instead of rolling down your windows.

We have heard stories of people getting robbed while waiting at traffic lights.

Because of this I always keep my purse on the floor between my feet while in the car.

Don’t Leave Your Drink Unattended

If I feel a bit sketched out by a place I always order bottled beer and keep my finger over the opening when I’m not drinking it.

Tell Someone Where You’ll Be 

In order to stay safe in Costa Rica, you should always tell someone where you’ll be when going out.

Even when traveling alone just send someone from home a quick message telling them where you are going that day.

Keep Your Room Secure

Try to get a room  not  on the first floor of a hotel (they are the most likely to be broken into).

I always put the “Do Not Disturb” sign on my door even when I’m not there, so it looks like someone is in the room.

Transportation Safety

Here is how you can protect yourself from transportation-related crimes.

Be Wary of Rental Car Issues

We have heard recently about  a travel scam  in which people are slashing tires at traffic lights and then conveniently pulling up when you pull off to the side of the road.

They will then rob you.

If you can, always drive to a gas station or another populated place before fixing your tire.

Check out our  guide to driving in Costa Rica  for more info.

Only Use Registered Taxis

Make sure to only use official taxis while in Costa Rica so that you do not get scammed out of a lot of money.

You can tell an official taxi because it will be red (or orange if coming from the airport) with a yellow triangle on the drivers and passenger side door (or green triangle from the airport). 

We wrote a complete  guide to using taxis and Uber here in Costa Rica . I suggest reading that to help you stay safe in taxis.

Be Cautious in Public Transportation

If you opt to take a public bus it is best to keep an eye on any belongings you put on the shelf above your seat.

Always make sure you keep your passport and valuables physically on you.

We have heard about people having their bags stolen while they were sleeping on public buses. 

Walk Facing the Traffic

If you walk facing traffic, motorcyclists will not be able to drive up behind you and grab your bag.

Walking facing traffic also means you will see any cars coming and are much less likely to get hit (and people drive like maniacs here sometimes).

Don’t leave Your Rental Car in a Remote Place

Sometimes cars are broken into when left in remote places.

At most public places there will be a guard watching cars. You can (usually) trust them to keep a good eye on your car.

However, we still strongly suggest that you never leave anything of value in your car and definitely don’t leave anything of value visible.

What to Do if a Crime Happens in Costa Rica

If someone robs you, let them. It’s better to have to cancel your credit cards and lose some money than to fight back and get attacked. It’s just not worth it.

If something happens to you and you need to call the local authorities just dial 9-1-1. There should be at least one person at the police station who speaks a little bit of English.

Also, it is best to contact your embassy as soon as possible. They can assist you in whatever you need as a citizen. Contacting the embassy is also important because it can help future travelers. Most embassies will then update their safety pages accordingly.

If you are a United States citizen the US embassy is located in the Pavas / Rohrmoser neighborhood of San José. The phone number is (506) 2519-2000.

Dangerous Areas

Here are some areas that are sometimes considered unsafe. In general, the larger cities such as San Jose, Alajuela, Puntarenas, and Limon tend to have a higher crime rate. 

San Jose  is the capital city of Costa Rica. This is where we live and I feel mostly safe here during the day.

However, you need to stick to exploring the downtown area or reputable neighborhoods.

If you plan to stay downtown I suggest Barrio Escalante or the area near the stadium at La Sabana Park.

Petty theft during the day is very widespread here. It is a good idea to have a secure backpack and hide stuff in a money belt.

In downtown  Alajuela , you should use increased caution.

However, above the city in the beautiful rural areas you should feel very safe.

Tamarindo  is a popular destination for families, surfers, and backpackers. It is a larger town, so mostly due to its size there tends to be more crime.

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa  is one of our favorite places in the country. It is a beautiful remote Pacific Coast surfing town.

However, because it is so remote it seems to be a hot spot for criminals to hide out in.

This doesn’t just mean Costa Rican criminals. I also mean shady people from around the world who have committed crimes tend to hide in this area.

For example, I just watched  this episode of 48 Hours  recently about a woman from the US who murdered another woman and was hiding out in Santa Teresa. 

Anyway, during the day you should be completely fine here, but use more caution at night. This especially applies to walking alone or if you plan to enjoy the nightlife scene. 

Panama Border on Osa Peninsula

This area is mostly safe for tourists. However, this is where a lot of drugs pass through from Panama into Costa Rica. So, use caution if in very remote areas.

Other Safety Concerns

It’s impossible not to fall in love with Costa Rica, but sometimes I feel like this country is slowly trying to kill me in a million ways.

From poisonous animals, earthquakes, erupting volcanoes, weird illnesses, a crazy high UV index, etc.

So, crime is not the only thing you need to think about in regards to safety here. A few other tips to stay secure from just this crazy tropical country as a whole are…

• Always Stay on Marked Trails : This will help keep you away from some potential wildlife threats like snakes. 
• Don’t Swim in Weird Bodies of Water : This should go without saying, but it is easy to get weird rashes and skin issues from unclean water. Check out our  guide to safety from environmental issues  for more info.
• Only Drink Bottled Water : In most towns, it is fine to  drink the tap water  here. However, because you are not used to the water it is best not to risk your vacation. Just buy bottled water so you don’t end up with stomach illnesses. I like to bring my refillable water bottle from home and buy several-gallon jugs while traveling. 
• Avoid Street Food : It is a good idea to be cautious of food safety so that you don’t get sick while visiting. The best way to do that is by only eating at reputable restaurants or cooking your own food. 
• Trust Your Instincts During Activities : If participating in day tour or activities with reputable companies you can generally expect a high standard of safety. However, if something feels unsafe to you, trust yourself. It is best not to risk your security. 
• Be Cautious of Flooding During the Rainy Season:  It is not unusual for there to be flash floods or road flooding.
• Be Aware of Natural Disasters : There are five active volcanoes in Costa Rica. That doesn’t mean that they are all actively erupting, but some are actually active at the moment. Earthquakes occur pretty much every day. Again, that doesn’t mean that you will actually feel them. Usually they are so minor that you won’t even notice. For more info,  check out our natural disaster guide . 
• Wear Bug Spray : The mosquitos here are generally not a problem during the day, but once the sun goes down they come out in full force.  Mosquitos here  can carry dengue, zika, and more. So, always load up on bug spray to avoid mosquito bites.
• Wear SPF 50+ Sunblock : One of your biggest concerns here needs to be the sun. Costa Rica is not THAT far from the equator.  The UV index is really high . Bad sunburns are often the number one medical issue that travelers face when visiting. 
• Be Aware of Entry Requirements : Check out our  guide on entry requirements  to stay up to date on things like Yellow Fever vaccine requirements, how long you can stay in the country, etc.

It’s Not All Bad

I know this post is a lot of doom and gloom. But, in reality, Costa Rica is an amazing travel destination filled with friendly people. In general, Costa Ricans are welcoming, kind, and peaceful. 

When we first moved here after living in Europe for four years we were so caught off guard. Several people that we had never met before went out of their way to help us find a place to live, help us buy furniture, gave us things, helped us adjust to the lifestyle etc. 

We turned down a lot of help because we felt like we would then owe them something. 

It took us a while to realize that no, people here are just very kind-hearted. The country operates a lot based on helping out your friends, family, and neighbors when you can with the mindset that someday they might need help and you can step in. 

Also, a lot of people work in tourism. They want to make sure that tourists feel welcome here.

Conclusion: Safety in Costa Rica

In conclusion, there are several things that can happen while traveling in Costa Rica, but with common sense and some caution, you should find that Costa Rica is a safe place.

Overall this is a peaceful country filled with beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and kind people. 

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Traveling with Costa Rica Disaster and Emergency Color Coded Alerts

Mother nature seldom wows your vacation in Costa Rica with earthquakes, flooding, wildfires, volcano eruptions, storms or landslides that might lead your adventure to places you were not expecting to be.

Costa Rica ranks # 7 as one of the countries in the world most at risk from natural hazards and the rise of sea level due to climate change (World Risk Report, 2019). 80.1 percent of Costa Rica's GDP and 77.9 percent of its population lives in areas at high risk of disasters (Worldbank, 2019). There are 30 areas prone to landslides, 12 at risk of lake outbursts and seven volcano hazard zones.

During the 20th century there were 22 ground-pounding earthquakes and 11 volcanic eruptions with rising clouds of ash, toxic gases and lava flows. The most colossal volcanic eruptions were the explosions of Irazu Volcano between 1936 and 1965, and the blast of Arenal Volcano in 1968.

September and October are the months most prone to natural disasters due to heavy rainfalls from the rainy season or passing tropical storms causing flooding, mudflows and landslides in some areas of the country.

Costa Rica currently has eight early warning systems, locally known as "Sistema de Alerta Tempranda" or by its Spanish abbreviation SAT, available 24/7 that allows the government to generate and disseminate timely and meaningful warning information empowering at-risk people, communities and organizations to prepare and act appropriately and in sufficient time to protect their lives and reduce harm or loss.

The SAT is a network of government agencies, research and university centers that watches and monitors earthquakes, weather conditions, volcanic activity, disease outbreaks, tides and swells and many more hazards.

Disaster & Emergency General Alerts

Costa Rica's Risk Prevention and Emergency Attention National Commission, best known locally by its Spanish abbreviation CNE ("Comisión Nacional de Prevención de Riesgos y Atención de Emergencias"), leads the risk management system in cooperation with other specialized government agencies responsible for specific phenomena in the country and keeps the public informed about any potential emergency or disaster.

The disaster and emergency risk alert system delivers important information about a hazard or condition that may affect you when you are in a specific area of Costa Rica. The system helps you and the government take action in advance to prepare for, respond to and recover from a threat reducing the vulnerability or impact of disasters.

The CNE will activate predefined alarms, evacuate and secure the affected people, execute emergency plans, supply updated information to the official agencies led by the CNE. The local county emergency committees must continue with their mechanisms, delegated actions, responses, and have the resources necessary to help.

Under the national risk management framework, the CNE uses four color-coded alerts - Green, Yellow, Orange and Red - to estimate the impact of natural, health or anthropic hazard for disasters and emergencies and provide a response by implementing protocols and rules to prevent human harm or loss.

Each alert status represents a level of danger and sets guidelines for the population to keep safe and measures for the appointed emergency government agency to follow ensuring a proper response to lessen the impact of a specific threat that may cause a disaster or emergency.

The guidelines for the population are usually broadcasted in form of advanced warnings or advisories by the media outlets or the CNE in press conferences or their official social media accounts. The measurements that the government takes are operative actions and responses that are already pre-set in the national risk management plan for a specific hazard.

Status Green Alert – Be Aware

Danger Level : Minimal, Score: 0

Travel Recommendation : It is okay to travel, exercise normal precautions

Meaning : a hazard has been identified and may affect a region of the country.

The green alert status is set when government scientists or agencies can forecast the likelihood that a phenomenon might endanger a community, region or country.

The main goal of this alert status is to inform the public about the probability of the occurrence of a disaster in a specific area.

Guidelines for You,

Be aware of your surroundings

Drive cautiously on the roads

Be vigilant of your area's conditions

Follow official instructions broadcasted by the official government agency in its social media account or standard media outlets

Government Intervention

The early warning system's agency in charge of a specific hazard will notify the CNE that its instruments and data can forecast the probability of a hazard to endanger the wellbeing of a community or area.

The CNE communicates its findings to the local county emergency committees, the president, congress, other government institutions and the general public.

CNE will request local county emergency committees to identify districts, neighborhoods or areas at a higher risk for disaster within their county and monitor their conditions.

According to the national disaster and emergency plan, the actions that the government takes at this level are:

Sets in motion how the information about the phenomenon should flow and how it must be communicated to all government agencies and the public.

Follows up and continues monitoring the phenomenon

Gets in touch with units specialized in the phenomenon

Status Yellow Alert – Prepare

Danger Level : Moderate, Score: 1

Travel Recommendation : Travel not recommended. Divert your journey to another location in the country.

Meaning : a rapidly increasing imminent hazard will affect a region, a community or area. Take preventive action!

The yellow alert status is set when government scientists or agencies can confirm that a phenomenon will endanger people or a community.

The main goal of this alert status is to give an advanced warning to the public about the occurrence of a disaster in a specific area so that the at-risk population in the area can prepare for the hazard's impact and be safe.

Guidelines for You – Prepare for an emergency and take preventive measures.

Set or review your emergency plan at home, workplace or businesses

Prepare for potential evacuation by gathering medication and essential products to survive

Follow the updates of the CNE or its designated agencies in social media, their websites or from news outlets.

When the government agency specialized in the hazard can confirm that the phenomenon will occur and impact an area, then CNE issues an advanced warning and preventive measure guidelines to all the people who live, work, travel or do activities in the potentially affected location to prepare for an emergency.

The CNE along with local county emergency committee coordinators of the threaten areas will:

broadcast all preventive safety measures, reinforce monitoring and research of the situation.

allocate and place on standby health, medical and other assets, supplies and resources in the affected area for immediate on-site emergency or disaster assistance.

put in place the guidelines, strategy and operational plans to search, rescue or assist the community in case the situation worsens.

Status Orange Alert – Act Prudently - Move Away or Stay Indoors

Danger Level : High, Score: 2

Travel Recommendation : Do not travel. Divert your journey to another location in the country.

Meaning : An Imminent hazard is developing with high-risk conditions that will impact human lives, ecosystems, utility services, infrastructure, and productive systems; on the verge of danger, the phenomenon is about to impact the area.

The orange alert status, created in 2020 to address tropical storm hazards, is issued when a hazard develops with high-risk conditions and will not only impact human life, but also live ecosystems, other forms of life, utility supply services, infrastructure such as buildings, bridges and roads.

The main purpose of the orange alert is to facilitate the flow of people out of a dangerous area – sometimes into specific facilities - or the isolation of people indoors with outdoor restrictions. Organize people, either confine them indoors to contain an outbreak or protect them from a hazard or start early evacuation by instructing them to leave the area on their own, or getting them out of the danger zone into shelters or hospitals. It all depends on the type of hazard.

Guidelines for You

People who are in the impacted location take action to protect themselves and/or their properties; this could be by moving their families out of the danger zone temporarily

Help contain the hazard by staying indoors or by other specific actions aimed at mitigating the effects of the threat.

Takes measures to contain the threat

Operates early evacuation

Assists relocating people temporarily out of the danger zone

Status Red Alert – Relief Response

Danger Level : Severe, Score: 3

Meaning : Relief government response to the aftermath of a sudden hazard that has occurred, or a gradual hazard that has reached its climax and past.

The red alert status is used to signal the relief government response after the impact of a sudden or gradual hazard that caused emergencies or disasters impacting human lives, roads, utility services, gas stations, productive infrastructure such as businesses, agriculture, cattle; and houses, buildings, churches or other public buildings.

The office of the President of Costa Rica, the CNE and the institution or organization specialized in the threat are in charge of issuing a red alert and assist in the recovery of the impacted area.

The government assists in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, directly engaging with affected communities to efficiently provide relief and alleviate human suffering, evaluating the direct impact on lives and disabilities, losses in infrastructure and supplies and the loss or disruption in the delivery of healthcare, both curative and preventive, and providing financial relief

The government provides a response to the disaster's aftermath and devastation of the infrastructure by managing the relief efforts and actions necessary to restore the area as it was before it was impacted including search-and-rescue or evacuation operations, debris removal, and restoring electricity and water supplies.

The issuance of red level alerts should be a comparatively rare event and implies that the government dispatches all the humanitarian assistance and emergency operation teams to the area and executes a large-scale evacuation of the public to shelters and is followed by an evaluation of damage to infrastructure.

It is in the case of a red alert that we could see serious disruption to public transport, road closures and school closures.

Delivers, manages and operates how the relief will be provided to the area with the county and province local governments

Deploys security teams to the area

Provide immediate help to the people who live in the impacted area

Reinforces the search-and-rescue operations if necessary

About the National Disaster and Emergency Risk Management System

Costa Rica has a National Disaster and Emergency Risk Management System ("Sistema Nacional de Prevención de Riesgos y Atención de Emergencias" abbreviated in Spanish as SNPRAE), funded by a National Emergency Fund taken from the country's GDP, and led by the Risk Prevention and Emergency Attention National Commission, locally known as "Comisión Nacional de Prevención de Riesgos y Atención de Emergencias" or by its Spanish abbreviation CNE.

The CNE empowers local county government committees in all provinces with information, consulting and training to help them map and identify hazards/risks in their local areas and develop appropriate emergency plans. For example, CNE operates field trips to draw hazard and risk maps - specially on those disaster-prone communities whose local administration often appeal for emergency assistance - sharing information on standards to support urban planning, which will be used by local government for town development.

The National Disaster and Emergency Risk Management System (SNPRAE) has an early warning system that consists of a network of civil citizens, organizations (Red Cross), research and university centers, technical, research and other government agencies that are constantly watching, monitoring and controlling Costa Rica's areas that are potentially threatened by hazardous events on a daily basis. Early warning and evacuation plans are in place to reduce human and material losses in the hazardous areas. In addition, there are 300 radio handsets and sirens dispatched.

When a disaster is identified, the government agency in charge of the type of hazard, informs the CNE, and the CNE responds at the request of, and in support of the local governments in the counties of provinces that may be impacted by a disaster. Response actions are organized under the national risk management framework.

The CNE manages the flow of communication between itself, the public and the different government entities involved in an emergency.

The computerized system connects the CNE with all the scientific and technical government institutions specialized in a specific hazard, all the government departments, and some civil organizations like the Red Cross.

Among the government agencies with responsibilities for monitoring and researching specialized hazards are:

National Weather Services, known as "Instituto Meteorológico Nacional" or IMN, for Flooding, Rain & Storms.

Volcanological and Seismological Observatory, known as "Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismológico de Costa Rica" or by its abbreviation in Spanish OVSICORI; and Advanced National Seismic System known as Red Sismológica Nacional or by its Spanish abbreviation RSN for earthquakes.

Volcanological and Seismological Observatory, known as "Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismológico de Costa Rica" or by its abbreviation in Spanish OVSICORI for volcanic eruptions.

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Travel Advice for Costa Rica

Going to Costa Rica and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Costa Rica? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Costa Rica from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Costa Rica

The decision to travel to Costa Rica is your choice and you are accountable for your personal safety and security whilst in Costa Rica.

The material on this page is provided for information only and collected from travel advice and warnings for Costa Rica by authorities all over the world to their citizens.

While we strive to give you most recent travel advice info, it is given on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This operators of this web site does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information given.

Standard Cautions You Need to Keep in Mind When Travelling in Costa Rica

Crime – Petty crimes such as pick pocketing in a jampacked surrounding to sexual assault and robberies do take place in larger cities of Costa Rica. Make sure that all your personal possessions, including passports and other travel documents, are safe at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings when in public locations. Be particularly watchful if attending sporting occasions and throughout religious holidays and other public events, as terrorists often make use of such celebrations to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. It is in your interest of safety to avoid locations where demonstrations and huge events are taking place and follow the guidelines of local authorities. Monitor local media in Costa Rica for details on continuous demonstrations in Costa Rica.

Scams – Exercise care in crowded tourist locations in Costa Rica, where scammers target tourists. If you have actually been scammed in Costa Rica, get to a safe area immediately; take note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; notify the authorities in Costa Rica and acquire a record and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card company to inform the scam; they will likely ask for a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction.

Spiked Food and Beverages – Never ever leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of complete strangers when travelling in Costa Rica or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, drinks, gum or cigarettes from unknown acquaintances. These items might contain drugs that might put you in danger of sexual assault and robbery.

What is the entry/exit requirements for Costa Rica?

Every nation or territory determines who can enter or leave through its borders, in the same manner Costa Rica decides who enter its borders. The Government of your home country cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not fulfill your Costa Rica’s entry or exit requirements.

To learn more regarding the entry/exit requirement for Costa Rica visit visa requirements for Costa Rica or get the current info with the visa office at the Costa Rican consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance policy for Costa Rica

Travel health cover is one of the main reasons travellers obtain travel insurance. It will not prevent you getting ill or hurt, though it can prevent you suffering financially. Medical help overseas can be really expensive.

You have to pay for all medical care you obtain overseas. You can not expect to get free or subsidised treatment through your Costa Rica’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can’t pay, local authorities could detain you. The government from your home country can’t pay you health care expense for you, loan you money or get you out of jail.

You require travel insurance for travelling to Costa Rica . You also need to make certain you select a plan that is right for you.

Check out the fine print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance provider upfront. If you do not, you might void your travel insurance policy.

Tell your travel insurer the activities you plan to do, prior to you go. Many common activities like winter sports are omitted in basic plans. You might need to pay added.

Check if you have complimentary credit card travel insurance policy. Some cards include travel insurance policy cover. Nonetheless, they usually have different conditions than paid plans. Understand the differences.

If you’re going to Costa Rica from a country that has a reciprocal health care arrangement, you still need travel health insurance. Agreements are limited in what they’ll will cover.

If you have an incurable disease, you might not be able to obtain standard travel insurance coverage. Nevertheless you may be able to find a specialised insurance company that covers you for health, mishaps or property troubles unrelated to your health problem. Speak with your insurance firm to learn.

Learn more about getting worldwide travel insurance coverage for Costa Rica before you go.

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Is Costa Rica Safe To Visit Right Now? (Volcano Poas Update)

Travelers can feel reasonably safe in Costa Rica . The Global Peace Index lists it as the safest destination in Latin America.

Even though Costa Rica is among the safest places in Central America to visit, you should still need to exercise caution. The primary issue that faces travelers is petty theft, so you should always be aware of your surroundings and possessions. 

Table of contents

April 9: u.s. embassy in san jose issues travel alert over volcano poas, february 20 – costa rica has identified 36 places in costa rica where tourists are more likely to be at risk, february 19 – experts issued a warning about rising temperatures and increased uv radiation in costa rica, areas to avoid, u.s. travel advisory, canada travel advisory, costa rica crime statistics, safety tips for costa rica, latest news from costa rica:.

On April 5, 2024, the U.S. embassy warned U.S. citizens about increased volcanic activity at Volcano Poas. Local authorities announced the closure of Poas Volcano National Park until April 8.

A Green Alert was issued by The National Emergency Commission (CNE) for 6 areas. These are areas affected by the volcanic ash fall and the presence of gasses:  Alajuela Centro, Poas, Grecia, Sarchi, Zarcero, and Naranjo .

According to the local media source , the park was reopened again but it’s important to verify and stay informed before you decide to visit the Poas Volcano National Park.

The risky areas include the coastal towns and beaches of Jacó, Tamarindo, Quepos, Dominicalito, and Manuel Antonio.

Based on an analysis, Costa Rican security agencies said that tourist destinations like Garabito, Cahuita, Montezuma, Mal País, Santa Teresa, La Fortuna, Samara, and the Osa Peninsula require closer monitoring to prevent crimes.

Enhanced measures are being taken to reduce the high rates of crime that affect the nation’s most visited tourist locations. In recent years, the Costa Rican government has been repeatedly urged by the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) to prioritize visitor security.

Experts from the National Meteorological Institute (IMN) of Costa Rica have raised alarms over the expected rise in temperatures and an increase in ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels in the coming months.

Daniel Poleo, a climatologist at IMN, attributes this forecast to the Zenithal Sun phenomenon, which will cause the sun’s rays to fall more directly on Costa Rica during March and April, leading to higher temperatures and a more intense sensation of heat.

“This situation results in greater solar intensity, making these months even hotter. While Easter is typically associated with heat, it will be even more intense this year,” Daniel Poleo explained.

“We anticipate a higher intensity of UV rays, although it’s important to note that UV intensity is not directly correlated with temperature,” he added.

This period will notably experience a peak in UV radiation, especially between March 15 and April 15, with the most significant risk of exposure occurring from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Quepos, the gateway town immediately outside Manuel Antonio National Park is becoming dangerous. Exercise caution there . The same is true for Tamarindo and Jaco because of criminal activities (mostly robberies) aimed at tourists.

The Desamparados neighborhood in San Rafael, Santa Rosa de Pocosol, San Carlos, a rural area bordering Nicaragua, Matina, a small rural community along the Matina River in Limón province, Limón, Liberia, Pococí, Talamanca, and the district of Barranca, on the Pacific coast in the province of Puntarenas, are additional high-risk regions with violent crime rates considerably greater than the national average.

Official Travel Advisories

The U.S. State Department urges American nationals to exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to crime.

While violent crime, such as armed robberies, homicides, and sexual assaults, is rare in Costa Rica, minor crime is the main threat to tourists visiting the country. In tourist-heavy areas, the Costa Rican government has strengthened security resources.

Pickpocketing and purse snatching are examples of common petty crimes. Because they are thought to be wealthy, tourists are frequently the targets of burglary.

Property-related crimes are also common, including car theft, housebreaking, and vehicle theft. Additionally, passport theft is a very common problem that gets worse from November to May and from July to August, when traveler flow is at its highest.

(Data Source: Numbeo )

Follow these tips to minimize trouble anywhere you go.

• Remain vigilant in crowded settings, particularly when utilizing public transportation across Costa Rica.
• Exercise caution in tourist-heavy areas such as beaches, national parks, and downtown San Jose, as these are prime targets for thieves.
• Refrain from excessive alcohol consumption and drug use. 
• Due to an increase in theft from parked vehicles, opt for well-monitored parking areas, keep doors locked, windows rolled up, and avoid leaving valuables visible.
• Avoid drawing attention to yourself with flashy belongings or attire.
• Limit the amount of cash carried while outside.
• Ensure valuables are securely stored, even within your hotel room.
• When traveling by bus, refrain from stowing luggage in overhead bins to mitigate theft risks.
• In the event of a robbery, prioritize personal safety by surrendering cash and valuables. 

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