costa rica tourism safety

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

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

Assistance for u.s. citizens, costa rica map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Central America » Travel Safety

Is Costa Rica SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Feeling up for a Costa Rican adventure?

Solid choice! Prepare for the captivating beauty of the Pacific coast, lush beaches, to explore national parks, and encounter an array of fascinating wildlife. Costa Rica truly delivers the goods when it comes to both relaxation and heart-pumping adventure.

Now, let’s talk safety. Yeah, you might have come across some scary stories about violent crime and high murder rates, and it can be hard to hear such tales. It’s like there’s a whole other side to Costa Rica that’s not so picture-perfect, and it can be a bit of a hard truth, right?  

So, you’re probably wondering,

” Is Costa Rica SAFE to Visit?   “  

Fear not, my broke backpacker friend, for I’ve got your back! I’ve put together a comprehensive guide packed with invaluable tips and tricks to ensure your trip is as safe as can be.

Let’s dive in!

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Costa Rica Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Costa Rica.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Is Costa Rica Safe Right Now?

Safest places to visit in costa rica, 19 top safety tips for travelling to costa rica, is costa rica safe to travel alone, is costa rica safe for solo female travelers, where to start your travels in costa rica, is costa rica safe to travel for families, getting around costa rica safely, crime in costa rica, what to pack for your costa rica trip, costa rica travel insurance, faqs on staying safe in costa rica, so, is costa rica safe.

While the country is home to certain issues, yes , traveling to Costa Rica is generally safe . Costa Rica had a total of 2,443,531 tourist arrivals last 2023 as stated by Instituto Costarricense de Turismo . Majority of travellers had no reported issue of their visit.

You may be surprised to know that Costa Rica is actually one of the most stable Latin American countries. Murder rates are significantly lower than most of its neighbors, and no army (abolished in 1949!) means funding goes to better things – like amazing healthcare.

With tourism contributing majorly to the country’s GDP, tourist dollars go some way to eliminate poverty (albeit slowly). The government is focused on making the country accessible and comfortable for tourists.

Sadly, robberies are reasonably common against tourists, and there is some level of gang-related violence, especially in larger cities.

On the whole, visiting costa rica can be trouble-free, and most tourists have a great (if not awesome) time. Costa Rica is an exceptional destination and one of the safest countries in Central America .

Like a variety of tropical Island nations, Costa Rica is subject to its fair share of natural disasters, especially hurricanes. Knowing what to do in these situations could be essential for making sure your visit is safe.

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Costa Rica so you can start your trip right!

Costa Rica is a massive tourist destination and overall pretty safe. However, there are some areas that are sketchier than others. We’ve listed Costa Rica’s best places to stay below.

• Tamarindo : Tamarindo is an incredible Pacific coast beach town that is packed with everything you wanted from Costa Rica! It has beautiful beaches, a wild nightlife, and is actually a huge hub for surfers. While Tamarindo is definitely a popular destination to visit, it doesn’t attract as many tourists as other cities, so the safety level is still quite high. There are still some great beach houses though.
• Drake Bay : Drake Bay, also called Bahía Drake, sits on the coast in the southwest of Costa Rica. This city is a top choice for families! It is a remote village, not a crazy tourist hub, and is, therefore, one of the safest areas in Costa Rica. That means that you and your family won’t be fighting for a place to put your beach towel down! The main beach of Drake Bay is called Playa Colorada, which has a handful of restaurants and warm, peaceful water!
• Puerto Viejo : Puerto Viejo de Talamanca sits in the southeast of Costa Rica. It’s right on the gorgeous Caribbean coast and is renowned for the black sand beach and epic surf break! With awesome mangroves and close proximity to some of Costa Rica’s most epic national parks , this is a hard place to beat.

Places to Avoid in Costa Rica

As we’ve mentioned before, not everywhere in Costa Rica is a paradise. While it’s always smart to keep your eyes open and stay aware of your surroundings, the following areas are better avoided than explored.

• Areas in San José : While San José is Costa Rica’s most popular tourist city, there are areas that you should avoid. These include any sort of parks at night. Stay away from Los Guido, Desamparados, Pavas, La Carpio, Leon XIII, the El Carmen neighborhood in Cartago, and the “El Infiernillo,” (little hell) sector of Alajuela.
• Quepos (gateway) : Quite a few robberies have been happening in Quepos, a small town that acts as the gateway to the Manuel Antonio National Park. If possible try to stay away or just keep your eyes open.
• Limon City : This port city is generally kept away from tourists and ex-pats. With one of the highest rates of organized crime and drug trafficking in the country, it’s better to give this city a miss. Especially La Cieneguita.
• Santa Rosa de Pocosol, San Carlos : Boasting a high concentration of Nicaraguans, even humanitarian workers have been threatened at knife point. Try and avoid this area.

There is a large rift between local Costa Rican society and the tourism industry. While tourism is great for some, it has been cited as a driver of high inflation and higher costs of living . Locals have been priced out of certain areas.

There is consequently a mixed view of tourists, and it is generally safer to stay within well-known tourist zones than to explore local districts.

Keeping your money safe in Costa Rica

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Whilst Costa Rica is generally safe, there is always more you can do to make sure you’re staying safe. Here are a few top tips for staying safe in Costa Rica.

• Inquire with the staff at the hostel/hotel you’re staying at – they’ll know best about the area.
• Make friends – exploring urban areas with a group of travelers deters would-be robbers.
• Don’t walk alone at night – avoid streets that look sketchy…
• Take a taxi instead of walking at night . – remember that licensed taxis are red (or orange). Anything else is illegal and risky
• Avoid people that want to ‘help’ with your bags – this is a scam.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Split up your cash strategically – don’t put one huge wad of bills in your luggage!
• Carry a small amount of cash when you go out – if something happens it’s a small loss. Using a money belt is an excellent way to hide cash.
• Don’t wear expensive accessories – seeming rich makes you a target for thieves.
• You HAVE to carry your passport – but avoid losing it by copying it (ID page + Costa Rica visa) instead.
• Don’t hang your bag or purse on the back of your chair – this is easy picking for a thief.
• Don’t leave your bags unattended at the beach – this is a rookie-level mistake.
• Look busy at bus stations – looking lost is gold dust for scammers wanting a ‘tip’ for helping you.
• Don’t use the overhead lockers on buses – get a ticket for the luggage compartment under the bus.
• Use a flashlight or backpacking headlamp when walking at night in rural areas – you don’t want to step on something bitey!
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Speaking of which, don’t forget mosquito repellent! Costa Rican mozzies are relentless
• Stay away from drugs – it’s really not worth getting yourself mixed up in the gangs related to them. You’re not making the country any better by buying them.
• Know what to pack for Costa Rica – burning sun, annoying mosquitos… you have to be prepared!

Traveling smart is always the key to making sure your trips run smoothly, and there is no excuse for not doing the same in Costa Rica. That said, there is no point in ruining your trip by constantly worrying.

Keeping a balance between staying safe and having fun is the key to any top adventure!

Traveling in Costa Rica by yourself is totally doable and is one of the best ways to experience the amazing country!

Sure, it may be easy but that doesn’t mean it’s a breeze. Here are a few things you can bear in mind to make sure you optimize the safety-fun trade-off.

• Learn some Spanish . You’re in a Spanish-speaking country after all and it makes traversing the bus network much easier. Bus drivers aren’t famed for their English either. You can actually enroll in Spanish classes for a couple of days too.
• You’ll most likely want to meet other people on your travels, right? So unless you’re totally into your own company, then head to destinations where other travelers congregate. Some of the better places for solo travelers in Costa Rica are Santa Teresa , Nosara , Puerto Viejo, and Tamarindo.
• And a top tip for beating the solo traveling blues is just to get out and about – new experiences and people will never be too far away.
• Stay at one of Costa Rica’s hostels – it’s probably one of the best ways to get to know like-minded travelers and exchange stories and travel tips. Even if you want to continue traveling alone, it might benefit your safety!
• Go Scuba Diving with a reputable company and with proper training. It’s not to be missed so make sure you feel confident in your skills and companions when you hit the reefs.

Is it safe to vacation in Costa Rica for women? Unfortunately travelling solo female can often mean you have to be extra careful.

Here are some crucial things to keep in mind when you’re out in Costa Rica!

• Be confident, even if you don’t feel like it. Looking confused and lost is a good way to attract unwanted attention – anywhere in the world. If you’re really lost, walk confidently (even if you have no clue where you are) to somewhere that looks safe – a shop, a library, etc. – and find a member of staff to ask for help.
• That’s another thing: don’t be afraid to be direct and ask for help or directions. This will most likely be better than accepting help from someone who initiates the conservation with you.
• Avoid walking alone at night. Get a licensed taxi home or walk with a big group of friends from your hostel, but don’t walk home alone, even if the distance is short.
• Once you arrive in Costa Rica, make friends – women more than men are often targeted by criminals, and having a good crew with you helps to scare away attackers.
• Look at what the local women your age are doing  – what they’re dressed like, how they’re behaving.
• Cat calls do happen. If you don’t want that kind of attention, ignore them and move on.
• Know the emergency numbers! Seems simple but it’s easily neglected. Keep them on your phone at the top of the list.
• Let someone know where you’re going – Even if it’s just the staff at the hostel or a friend at home – it’s necessary.

You can do it!!! My first solo travel was to Costa Rica, and as a female solo traveler, I felt safe and on top of the world. Solo traveling is empowering and teaches you so much about the world around you.

Tamarindo is known for its stunning beaches and crazy nightlife. It’s also a paradise for surfers.

Costa Rica is a fun-packed place and a total playground for any adventure-loving family out there.

national parks and family-friendly beaches are great fun for you and your kids. Ask locals about where is safest to swim: riptides can be deadly. Go with a guide on hikes. They’ll spot dangerous wildlife way before you do.

Like anywhere, traveling with kids necessarily demands more of a safety-conscious approach. You can’t galavant around as you can as a solo adult. Remember that it is wayyy less stressful to book in advance, and to plan your trip carefully.

With your attention on the kids, you are more likely to be a target for petty crime, and as a family on holiday, your perceived financial status is usually quite high. Take care of your stuff!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Costa Rica has a strong bus system, where the destinations are posted in the front window. Hiring cars is possible too, and quite a strong idea considering some roads and destinations can be relatively remote.

If you’re going to catch a bus from San José to anywhere else during holiday time you’re going to have to book ahead of time at a bus station. Again, basic Spanish would be helpful.

Theft from overhead racks on buses is actually a little rampant, so if you are traveling by public transport, either keep your stuff within reach or use the under-bus storage.

Are taxis safe in Costa Rica? My take is yes. You can pick up taxis pretty easily from major cities, and there is usually a taxi stand to be found. Taxis are a mix of regulated taxis, and piratas (pirate taxis). Despite the ominous name, these are relatively safe, although you may be asked to pretend to know the driver if pulled over.

Costa Rica is currently a level 2 rated country , according to the U.S. travel authorities. Robberies are a particularly common and nasty form of violent crime that is prevalent in the country, and Costa Rica has a murder rate of 11.19 per 100 000 (2020). This is comparable to the rate of Grenada, Namibia, and Suriname.

Costa Rican petty crime is worth watching out for as a tourist. Easy opportunities to steal possessions are taken, so just be smart about where you leave certain high-value items. There have been numerous break-ins to tourist vehicles, so be sure valuables are hidden if leaving them inside a vehicle.

Using your common sense will help you avoid a large quantity of trouble in Costa Rica, especially when going out, and walking at night.

Laws in Costa Rica

Costa Rican laws are generally pretty standard, but you should avoid removing architectural objects, and local fauna. If you are discovered on exit you could be subject to some serious payback.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Costa Rica without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

True Tale – While embarking on my epic solo adventure in Costa Rica, fate had a surprise in store for me. Picture this: me, cruising on my trusty moped, when suddenly disaster struck, and I found myself tangled up in a crash. I was whisked away to a foreign hospital. But here’s the twist: thanks to the genius decision of securing travel insurance, I was spared the agonizing headache of medical bills in a land far from home. Talk about a lifesaver!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

For a travel destination like Costa Rica, there are lots of different things you have to consider when it comes to safety. We’ve listed the most common question, answers, and facts to make your trip as easy as possible.

Is Costa Rica LGBTQ+ friendly?

We’d say as long as you stay respectful, you won’t have any problems with discrimination. Avoid public displays of affection in more rural areas to be on the safe side. Like a lot of Latin countries, catholicism is common, so liberal views can be harder to come by outside city areas.

Is there Crime in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has a level of crime that you should be aware of. As a visitor, you might experience petty theft or robbery, but both of these are statistically unlikely. Costa Rica is considered much safer than many of its Central American neighbors and has a lower crime rate.

Is Costa Rica safer than Mexico?

Yes, Costa Rica is statistically safer than Mexico. The US State Department considers Costa Rica among the safest countries for US nationals. As per its safety ranking, Costa Rica is Level One whereas Mexico is Level Two.

Are Costa Ricans Friendly?

Costa Ricans are generally very friendly. Most of the time this can be very genuine, but you should use your wits to discern whether you are about to be used as a cash cow or not. Hawkers can be very persistent, so don’t feel bad about walking away.

Is it safe to live in Costa Rica?

Living in Costa Rica is usually quite safe, but is often not super straightforward. Work visas can be tricky to apply for: you have to prove that you’re filling a position that a Costa Rican can’t. In rural areas, there can be power outages, and wildlife might get a little too close for comfort. Earthquakes and volcanoes can pose a risk wherever you’re situated, so knowing what to do when disaster strikes is very sensible!

Yes, traveling to Costa Rica is safe. Very safe if you’re using your common sense. A wealth of history, crazy good food, and literally amazing nature make it perfect for many different people. And that’s not even mentioning its stunning beaches , which are as popular for sunbathers as they are for surfers.

There are things to bear in mind, of course – taxis can be fraudulent, female travelers should exercise caution, and pickpockets are common.

Hopefully, this guide will have given you some great tips for staying safe in Costa Rica, so go on, enjoy it! (and don’t forget travel insurance)

Looking for more info on traveling to Costa Rica?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Costa Rica
• Explore with the ultimate peace of mind with top-notch medical evacuation insurance
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Costa Rica travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

22 Comments

It is not safe. My boyfriend and I went to Quepos/ (near Manuel Antonio) for Christmas- new years this past year. We went out one day to hike and zipline and we were robbed day after christmas. The guy had a gun and he took 10k worth of stuff. Do not go to costa rica right now. IT IS NOT SAFE!! Pay attention, there are barbed wire fences everywhere you look. they don’t even park on the street the crime is so bad there. Everything is barred up everywhere you go. It’s not worth the risk!!

Great article, paints a pretty picture. I know all places have their issues. If I go anywhere I want to feel safe. I am looking to relocate from the US. I want to hear of everyone’s experience. I want to make an informed decision. Not one based on my fantasy or one person’s opinion. Based on some comments here and speaking with actual people that have been, I’m skeptical of CR

Looking to move to CR in the near future. Purchase some property and lay back. I have a friend doing that now he’s pretty happy

Male senior traveling solo. Being safe and limited money but would like to see the city by a trust worthy travel tour group of person. Mid Oct for about a week.

I have planned my trip to Costa Rica, staying at Marriott-Los Suenos. I reached out to a close friend who I knew had been going there for years. He stopped going 3 years ago (2019), as he was got badly mugged for his iphone and some cash on hand. He told me he would never go back, as it has deteriorated over the years and is not safe. Well, I’m a single female – he told me females are especially targeted and advised me not to go. I am heartbroken to hear all this. I visited back in 1999 with an eco tour group and had a fabulous time. Apparently, times have changed Costa Rica.

I’ve been researching on living in CR. From what I’ve read, it’s not to bad of a country. I have been all over Mexico and lived there for a bit. Loved all of it. The Caribbean and Europe plus Mexico, All have crime. Even here in the states. Where I am located, near Corpus Christi, there’s drugs, homelessness and places I do not want to be night or day. I suggest living there for a year without buying a house. Renting instead will give you an idea on everything. Michael

A girlfriend and I are planning a trip to one of Costa Rica’s all inclusive resorts. The Azura Resort. Is the resort itself safe? Is traveling from the airport to the resort safe? What airport do you recommend? Is there dangerous spots between the airport and the resort?

Hi there, my family and I have had a trip planned to Costa for some time now. I keep sticking it out, but every once in a while I start to worry about the advisories. If you were me, would you take your family to Costa Rica now? We are a family of 5, older kids 18, 17 and 16, traveling in July 2021. I want to have a great time, but overall safety is number one. Your feedback is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Funny how I listened to all the advice on the Internet and chose Costa Rica for my solo vacation based on those glorious reviews. Sounds like a lot of this Pura Vida stuff is sponsored by Costa Rican ministry of tourism. I did not feel safe in this country, neither I saw any happiness these promotional articles talk about. Costa Ricans are very poor, not just in material things – I haven’t seen a lot of playgrounds for kids, most people walk alongside the roads that don’t even have shoulders, forget about sidewalks, there is no music or dancing, no art scene, and in my two weeks traveling across the country I haven’t seen a single bookstore, or something like a yoga studio. I did feel tension and resentment towards me from the locals when I was simply purchasing things like water at gas stations or asking national parks clerks about their trails. About their healthcare system that’s better that the US – only someone delusional could suggest such an idea – I saw only one major medical center and it didn’t look very big or modern, and a few clinics housed in something the size of a garage. God forbid you have a medical emergency there- I didn’t feel based on what I saw that the help would be coming quickly or that it would be anything like the level of US healthcare with its helicopters and quick response. Police stations are located off unpaved roads and some of them don’t even have computers. I dealt with police there, their response time can be 4 hours (no wonder, it would take them 40 minutes just to drive to your location). Also police presence is very small, even in major tourist areas. Outside of a 3 star hotel in La Fortuna, which had a 24/7 guard and a gate (it annoyed me at the time) and plenty of staff, I didn’t feel safe anywhere. Other than my cell phone being stolen in broad daylight from a peaceful almost empty beach (they call it petty theft – not so petty if you have all your credit card apps, email, personal photos and memories, not to mention this being your only means of contacting help such as 911 and in my case figuring out where I was using maps) and being conned by a guy who sold me a pre-paid phone plan, — the desolate roads where I found myself driving alone for long stretches of time, the unpaved roads leading to world famous destinations and hotels that somehow got 9 points on Booking.com, where it was easy to damage your vehicle, and no services or gas stations for miles, the way locals stared at me getting out of my car, at my wallet when I stood in line at stores, when I walked alone in national parks, the near absence of developed areas, locals who sit around their shacks and shack like stores and watch you, people, both locals and tourists, refusing help when you are running around distressed without a phone asking somebody to let you use their phone to make a phone call- all of these things gave me a an unsafe uneasy vibe that ruined my vacation. When you have to constantly watch your back and your bag, you don’t enjoy nature so much. I don’t recommend Costa Rica for solo female travelers. I felt safer in Mexico and Peru. Read about all the crimes committed in Costa Rica, including armed robberies. P.S I’m posting this on other similar websites, as I feel I should warn solo female travelers.

You’re clearly an idiot, based purely on this – “there is no music or dancing, no art scene, and in my two weeks traveling across the country I haven’t seen a single bookstore, or something like a yoga studio” – How can you claim there is no music, no dancing, no art scene? You were obviously well out of your comfort zone and whilst I feel bad for you on that front it’s really immature to let your discomfort warp your impression of a country to such a degree.

This city is very dangerous- my daughter was threatened with her life – don’t go don’t go …..ps She thankfully had insurance….

Hi Andrew, which city do you mean? Was she robbed there?

Sadly the idea of Pura Vida is at odds with the petty theft and dishonesty that I witnessed. Doors and windows all have grills over them and are landlocked shut from the early evening because no one can be trusted. Taxi drivers scam regularly telling you your hostel is overbooked and taking you elsewhere at great cost.

After reading this article I am very motivated to have a focus on the area… My wife and I don’t mind about the weariness and would love to open a little shop welcoming people that can enjoy seafood. Lionfish tacos are what we would specialise with a local beer.

Go live your dream! Let me know when we can swing around for a beer! 🙂

Thank you so much for providing relevant and meaningful facts about traveling to CR. My son is interested in learning Spanish, helping out in the community and also likes the opportunity to live with a family and get to know the culture. There are so many language schools. He’s a highschool graduate and wants to be there Sept thru Dec. only if possible, would you be able to recommend two or three best Spanish schools with home-stay options. Thank you

Hi! I did a Spanish school with homestays in Peru that has a branch in Costa Rica as well. You can check out Máximo Nivel . They have volunteer programs too, but I recommend doing the courses and organizing a volunteer experience on his own once he’s on the ground. Viva las aventuras!

Costa Rica has gotten way too big for its britches. Super expensive and there is some sort of road closing strike every week. It’s not what you think it is. It’s not the brochure or flashy add you’re looking at. It’s not Pura Vida. It’s not even “Green” as they use more Round Up then anywhere I’ve ever been. 26 countries. I guess if you are filthy rich, arrive in your own jet and can afford $600+ a night you’re OK. But for the average guy it’s way past over cooked.

This is the most comprehensive information about who, what, and where. I specifically appreciate the breakdown for solo travelers, women, and families. Thank you.

FINALLY A WELL WRITTEN ARTICLE. COVERING MOST POINTS OF VIEW.

Are the mosquitoes particularly bad? In all areas?

Mosquitoes will abound. Arm yourself!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit?

Last Updated : 8/25/2023 | August 25th, 2023

Tropical jungles bursting with wildlife, mountainous landscapes extending into the horizon, picture-perfect beaches on both sides of the country, and a never-ending supply of fun activities no matter your budget.

Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise — and it’s one of my favorite countries in the world. It was the first country I ever traveled to and was the country that sparked my wanderlust.

The beaches feel like paradise, there’s great surfing, excellent diving, and plenty of places to get away from the hordes of retired Americans that live here. No matter what your interest, there are tons of things to do in Costa Rica without breaking the bank.

But is Costa Rica safe to visit?

The country was fortunate to escape the Cold War conflicts and brutal gang violence that impacted other countries in Central America. However, in recent years, Costa Rica has become more involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.

Fortunately, the country is still pretty safe for tourists. In fact, it ranks as the safest in Latin America according to the Global Peace Index (Costa Rica ranks 38th, while the USA is 129th, for comparison) .

But while Costa Rica is one of the safest countries for travel and backpacking in Central America , that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down. Petty theft is the main issue travelers face , so you’ll want to be are of your belongings and surroundings at all times. In this post, I’ll share some tips and advice to ensure a safe and stress-free visit.

Table of Contents

9 Safety Tips for Costa Rica

Scams to avoid in costa rica.

• Zika Risk in Costa Rica

Is Street Food in Costa Rica Safe?

Is the tap water safe to drink in costa rica, are taxis in costa rica safe, is costa rica safe for solo travelers, is costa rica safe for solo female travelers.

1. Avoid isolated areas – If you’re somewhere isolated, you’ll be at a greater risk of getting robbed, especially at night and in big cities. Try to stay where the people are. That’s the best way to avoid being singled out by potential muggers.

2. Don’t wear flashy items – Petty theft is common here, so remove any jewelry or watches before you go out and don’t wave your phone or camera around. Do your best to blend in, so you don’t become a target for pickpockets. If you happen to find yourself a victim of a robbery, follow the instructions of the robber and give up your valuables; these material items can be replaced but your life cannot.

3. Don’t leave your items unattended – If you are spending the day on the beaches in Puerto Viejo , Santa Teresa , or Manuel Antonio , do not leave your belongings unattended while swimming or walking along the sand; locals or tourists alike can easily take your valuables if you leave them around. Just take what you need with you and nothing more.

If you can, hit the beach with fellow travelers so you can each keep an eye on everyone’s things.

4. Be alert when using public transportation – Petty theft (including bag snatching or pickpocketing) is the most common type of crime you’ll face in Costa Rica. Most of the theft in Costa Rica occurs while taking the bus. Keep your bag containing valuables and identification on your lap and stay vigilant. When in restaurants, keep your purse or bag on your lap instead of hanging it on the back of a chair.

5. Always take an authorized taxi – Crimes against cab riders are infrequent here but it’s best you use a licensed taxi. Also, pay close attention to the meter and make sure it’s running properly. Cab drivers can turn the meter off and claim it’s broken (a common scam, see below).

6. Stick to the path – When out hiking, don’t stray off the marked trails. Not only do you risk getting lost, but there are lots of dangerous animals here (including tons of snakes) that can cut short your visit. Whenever possible, hire a guide (recommended not just for safety reasons, as they’ll point out birds and animals in the lush canopy that you otherwise would likely have missed).

7. Don’t bring valuables out with you – In general, it’s a good idea to lock up valuables at the hostel or in a hotel safe instead of carrying items like your credit cards or passports on your person while you’re out and about. It’s also smart to make copies of your documents and not carry all of your money on you in one place. When you head out for the day, bring one credit card and the cash you need for the day and that’s it. That way, if something were to happen you won’t lose everything.

8. Be careful in certain areas – San Jose is mostly used as a stop-over point as people travel the country. While it’s generally safe during the day, be careful at night. Specifically, avoid the areas of Desamparados, La Carpio, Los Guido, Pavas, El Carmen, and Leon XIII.

Puerto Viejo is a fun beach destination but crime and theft is on the uptick here so be aware and never walk around alone at night or leave things unattended on the beach.

Puerto Limon is where most drug activity occurs. While the area is generally safe as long as you’re not involved in anything illegal, it’s good to be extra cautious here.

9. Buy travel insurance – Travel insurance is especially important if you plan to join in on any of the adventure activities that make Costa Rica famous, including ziplining, white water rafting, or surfing. Travel insurance protects you against unexpected costs that could arise due to illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it. You shouldn’t either.

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

There are really only two common scams found in Costa Rica:

1. The Taxi Scam You hop into a taxi and realize the meter isn’t running. You mention this to the driver and their response is that the meter is “broken,” and quotes you a price that is outrageously high. Or you might notice that the meter is working but the fare is increasing incredibly fast.

Before hailing a taxi, get an idea of how much a ride should cost from your hostel or hotel staff. In my experience, if the cabbie tries to negotiate the rate, I use the rate quoted to me and if they refuse, I get out and find someone who will turn the meter on. If the meter looks as though it’s rising unusually fast, ask the driver to pull over and get out immediately.

2. The “Cheap Tour” Scam You’re exploring the sites and sounds of the city and a well-mannered, nicely dressed person approaches you and asks if you’re looking to go on a tour. They do a fantastic job describing the most unforgettable trip you’ll ever take in your life, and at a fraction of the cost of other tour companies. You’re sold and hand them a deposit. You wait the next day for them to pick you up, but no one shows up. You realize there was no amazing tour at 50% off. You’ve been tricked.

To avoid this scam, only use authorized companies when booking tours. Your hostel/hotel can always help you, and if you plan to book through a tour company check their online reviews ahead of time. Never trust someone trying to sell you a tour on the street who does not have an official office or storefront.

These scams are the most common ones you’ll face while in Costa Rica. If you’re worried about scams, read this post on travel scams to avoid . Avoiding travel scams requires a lot of common sense and a healthy dose of suspicion.  

Is there a Zika Risk in Costa Rica?

While there are no current reports of a Zika outbreak in the country , Costa Rica has had reported cases of the Zika virus. While risks are low, travelers are advised to take the following precautions:

• Use mosquito repellent on your body to prevent bites and sleep under a mosquito net to avoid getting bit while when you’re asleep
• Wear breathable garments that cover your arms and legs
• Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible to prevent mosquitoes from entering your room
• Pregnant women or couples considering pregnancy should consult a healthcare practitioner prior to travel

In Costa Rica, street food is safe to eat and not to be missed! I’ve had my fair share of empanadas, fresh fruits from open markets, and other local foods and have been perfectly fine.

That being said, if something doesn’t look cooked through (such as chicken) or has been out in the sun for too long, then trust your gut and don’t eat it. But I would encourage you to try the street food as it’s the best way to experience the cuisine and support local businesses (plus, it’s cheap!)  

The tap water in Costa Rica is safe to drink, however, it’s recommended that you avoid drinking the tap water in most beach destinations. The best way to make sure your drinking water is safe is to bring a LifeStraw reusable water bottle. They have built-in filters so you can purify your water so you don’t get sick.  

The taxis in Costa Rica are safe and reliable, though you’ll always want to make sure you’re getting in an authorized taxi. During the day, you can hail a taxi from the street safely, but make sure you pay attention that the meter is turned on and running properly.

If you’re taking a taxi at night it’s best to have your accommodation call it for you. That will ensure you get a reputable company. Never hail a random taxi at night.

As mentioned earlier, taxi drivers will occasionally try to take advantage of travelers by overcharging them. Always remain alert and if anything feels suspicious ask the driver to stop the cab and get out. Don’t take any chances with your safety.  

Costa Rica is a safe country to visit for solo travelers. As long as you stay away from isolated areas, don’t wave your valuables around, and don’t travel alone at night you will be able to avoid the most common dangerous situations.

Additionally, be sure to download offline maps and an offline language app (like Google Translate) so you can look up directions if you get lost or communicate with the locals in an emergency. If you can, try to learn some Spanish before you go too. Even a few key phrases goes a long way!  

Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America so if you’re new to solo female travel , Costa Rica is a great country to start with. However, you’ll still need to take some precautions of course. Always avoid isolated locations and don’t travel alone after dark. If you happen to experience catcalling or harassment from strangers on the street, be confident, avoid eye contact, and walk away.

Solo female travelers should remain extra vigilant at bus terminals, bars, and taxi stands where harassment is more common. If out at a bar, as with many places, it’s a good idea to watch your drink and never leave it unattended or accept drinks from strangers. When traveling around the city, ask your hotel what the safest route is and also which areas you should avoid.

By taking some precautions and planning accordingly, solo female travelers can have a memorable time in Costa Rica. Just make sure to follow the advice and tips above!

Here are helpful posts on safety written by our solo female travel experts:

• How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler
• 8 Myths About Solo Female Travel Debunked
• 10 Common Questions About Solo Female Travel
• Women Shouldn’t Be Afraid To Travel Alone

With any tourist destination, you’ll run into people trying to pull fast ones on visitors. By using caution, common sense, and following the tips above, you’ll be able to stay safe and healthy during your visit to Costa Rica . Pura vida!

Book Your Trip to Costa Rica: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Arenal Backpackers Resort (La Fortuna)
• Rocking J’s (Puerto Viejo)
• Pura Natura Lodge (Manuel Antonio)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Costa Rica? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Costa Rica for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

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.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Costa Rica travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 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.

Back to top

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.

Is Costa Rica Safe to Travel? Demystifying Safety in the Land of Pura Vida

We use affiliate links, and receive a small commission if you make purchases through them. Find out more here .

Unlock the Ultimate Guide to Airline Luggage Allowances

Don’t get caught off guard by unexpected baggage fees! With this comprehensive eBook, you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Have you been dreaming of lush rainforests, vibrant wildlife, and pristine beaches, but find yourself hesitating due to safety concerns? Costa Rica , the jewel of Central America, often finds itself at the center of such discussions.

TL;DR: Quick Glance at Costa Rica’s Safety

• Costa Rica ranks 32nd on the Global Peace Index 2021.
• The country boasts a long-standing commitment to peace, reflected in its absence of a military.
• Using common sense and staying alert are key, as with any travel destination.

Setting the Benchmark: Global Rankings

According to the Global Peace Index 2021 , Costa Rica proudly stands at the 32nd position out of 163 countries, marking it as one of the safest countries globally.

The Legacy of Peace: A Land Without a Military

In a world where military prowess is often equated with power, Costa Rica tells a different tale. With no military forces since 1948, the country’s commitment to conflict resolution and peace shines through, adding another layer to its allure.

Expert Voices Weigh In

“ Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America. As with any destination, however, I recommend using common sense and keeping an eye on your belongings ,” advises Matthew Karsten, a recognized figure in the travel community.

The True Essence of Travel Safety

But safety isn’t just about statistics or the absence of an army. It’s about the friendly Tico greeting you with a smile, the local vendor advising you on the best beaches, or the shared stories over a cup of Costa Rican coffee. Yet, Flora Goodwin recalls a couple of incidents where tourists fell prey to petty theft. Such instances, while not defining the nation, do remind travelers to remain alert.

Top Tips for a Safe Costa Rican Adventure

• Stay Alert in Crowded Areas: Places bustling with tourists can be hotspots for pickpockets.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Listen to that inner voice!
• Engage with Locals: They’re your best source of information, offering insights that no travel guide can.

Embracing the Pura Vida Lifestyle

Costa Rica’s motto, “Pura Vida”, meaning “pure life”, isn’t just a saying—it’s a lifestyle. The Ticos (locals) live life at a relaxed pace, embracing nature, family, and happiness. This serene approach to life translates into a welcoming environment for travelers. While the country’s natural beauty , from its volcanoes to its cloud forests, captivates tourists, it’s the people and their warmth that leave a lasting impression.

The Double-edged Sword of Tourism

With over 3 million visitors annually, tourism is a significant contributor to Costa Rica’s economy. The influx of tourists has led to improved infrastructure, accommodations, and experiences. However, the same popularity makes certain areas vulnerable to opportunistic crimes. It’s a balance, and as a visitor, understanding this dynamic helps in navigating the country safely.

Engaging in Safe and Responsible Eco-tourism

Costa Rica is a hub for eco-tourism. The government and various private entities have made commendable efforts in preserving the nation’s biodiversity. When venturing on eco-tours, it’s essential to choose responsible tour operators. Not only does this ensure your safety, but it also guarantees that your visit doesn’t harm the delicate ecosystem.

Language and Communication: Navigating Cultural Nuances

While Spanish is the official language, many Ticos in tourist areas speak English. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience. It’s not just about communication; it’s a gesture that showcases respect and effort to immerse oneself in the local culture.

Concluding Thoughts

Costa Rica, with its warm-hearted people and commitment to peace, is a traveler’s dream . However, like any dream, it’s essential to tread with awareness and respect for the land and its inhabitants. So, pack those bags , but remember to pack some common sense too!

Is it safe to rent a car and drive in Costa Rica?

While most tourist routes are well-maintained, it’s wise to check current road conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Are there any areas in Costa Rica to avoid?

It’s best to avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and always stay informed about current local situations.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Costa Rica?

In most regions, yes, but always check with locals or opt for bottled water to be sure.

Are wildlife encounters in Costa Rica safe?

Absolutely! However, always maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding or provoking them.

What are the common scams faced by tourists?

Overpriced taxi fares and souvenir scams can occur. Always agree on taxi prices beforehand and buy souvenirs from reputable shops.

This post is also available in: English

You Might Also Enjoy

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Featured in

GET CONNECTED

Follow Clever Journey on social media for travel tips, packing hacks, and latest updates!

SUB TO NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest travel tips, packing hacks, gear reviews, and bargain deals straight to your inbox. We hate spam, so we’ll send only the most important stuff.

How to Live Abroad

• The World's Best Places to Retire
• Travel—How, When, and Where to Go
• Real Estate Overseas
• Earn, Bank, Diversify, Invest
• Retirement Planning
• How to Move Out of the U.S.
• All Destinations
• Editor's Choice
• Daily e-Letter
• Our Experts
• Testimonials

Is Costa Rica Safe - Complete Travel Safety Guide 2022

One of the most important things to research when choosing to vacation or live overseas is safety. Costa Rica is ranked 38th in the 2022 Global Peace Index, out of 163 countries, and takes the top stop in Latin America. This ranking is based on factors like terrorism, threat to the ecology, access to guns, mass shootings, human rights, relations with neighboring countries, a well-functioning government, etc. Although Costa Rica is considered a very peaceful place, there are still some things you should be aware of.

Is It Safe to Live Costa Rica - Expat Safety

International Living writes about places that are considered safe for living or visiting. Many towns and regions we cover have large expat communities. Expats and locals work vigilantly to keep their neighborhoods safe. There are a number of Facebook and Whatsapp crime watch groups and even community apps that alert members to any criminal activity in the area. Chances are you are not going to hear about violent crime in the idyllic beach towns dotting the coasts or the quiet villages and farms perched in the mountains of the Central Valley . But crime does happen in Costa Rica, like nearly every country in the world.

Petty Crime in Costa Rica

Petty crime has long been an issue—especially in popular beach town areas and larger cities. For example, purse snatching off the back of a restaurant chair has been known to happen. A cell phone left on your table when you pop into the bathroom is also at risk of disappearing. Always keep an eye on your belongings. Keep your purse on your lap or use a fanny pack and gentlemen, place your phone/wallet in your front pocket. Always have someone looking after your items at the beach or waterfalls while swimming. And, of course, never flash large amounts of money or wear expensive jewelry. It just makes you a potential target.

Sometimes we drop our guard when on vacation in a place that feels so comfortable and friendly. But when common sense is used, occurrences like this are easily avoided.

Home Invasions in Costa Rica

Since COVID-19, Costa Rica has experienced a greater wealth disparity and increasing unemployment. Due to these circumstances, some higher-end and middle-class neighborhoods have experienced an occasional home invasion. The security experts recommend electronic security systems, cameras, bars on the first-floor windows, and/or guard dogs. Gated communities also offer a layer of security. This is not to say it is commonplace, but you do need to consider safety when purchasing or renting a home, especially if it is somewhat isolated.

Keeping your Money Safe in Costa Rica

Carrying a passport, credit/debit cards, and money are part of international travel. Keeping them safe takes diligence. Be sure that wherever you are staying a lockable safe box is provided. They are typical in Costa Rican accommodations, but be sure to ask. Keep extra cash and your passport there—not with you. It is good to have a copy of your passport in your wallet or purse and photos of it and your tourist visa (the 90-day stamp you receive from immigration at the airport) on your phone.

It is also good to have the phone number of your bank or credit card company in a safe place in case your card is lost or stolen.

Don’t withdraw money at an ATM at night if you can help it. During the opening hours of the bank, there is usually a guard on site for security. Don’t carry large amounts of money with you at any given time. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.

Also watch out for investment scams. Although uncommon, if someone invites you to invest in something—a business, real estate, etc. and it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always consult a vetted local lawyer or accountant before committing to making any large purchases.

Get Your Free Costa Rica Report Here

Learn more about Costa Rica and other countries in our daily postcard e-letter. Simply enter your email address below and we’ll send you a FREE REPORT - Explore the Old World in Laidback Costa Rica .

By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to IL Postcards and special offers from International Living and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy .

Transportation in Costa Rica

Traveling around Costa Rica is considered safe—whether in a car, bus, taxi, or even on foot. Although, it is not recommended to travel after dark by car (unless it is a short distance and you are familiar with the route).

Regarding taxis, be sure you are in a licensed taxi with a meter. Some of the smaller towns do not have metered cabs, so be sure to negotiate the price upfront. If the driver makes you uncomfortable in any way, take a different cab. Uber is becoming a viable alternative. They have been operating in San Jose for many years, but are now expanding to many other towns. This mode of transport is always considered safe, dependable, and affordable.

Buses run all day and into the night covering nearly every town in Costa Rica. They are safe and cheap. Just be aware of your surroundings and your items on board. If you are in a car and will be parked for sightseeing, etc., be sure all items within the car are hidden. It is recommended not to have any valuables in your parked car, if it can be avoided. A parked rental car with a suitcase is a huge signal to thieves who think they will hit the electronics jackpot and maybe a few passports too.

Automobile smash and grabs do happen in popular tourist areas or on city streets. We have a small Costa Rican flag (available at souvenir stores) hanging from our rear-view mirror and a Spanish newspaper on our dashboard. This signals to people we are “locals.”

Nightlife Safety in Costa Rica

My Costa Rican attorney always tells me, “Nothing good happens on the streets after midnight.” This is good advice for the late-night party crowd. The same rules you would use going out clubbing or partying in your hometown would apply to Costa Rica. Ladies (and men), never leave your drink unattended. You don’t know when someone might slip something into it.

If you order a mixed drink, ask for an international brand of liquor. A few years ago, there were some instances of alcohol poisoning with local brands of Costa Rican liquor called guaro. The name brands cost more, but it is worth it for your safety.

Solo Female Travel in Costa Rica

Lately, there has been an increase in female travelers and female digital nomads to Costa Rica. Of course, women should take heed of all of the points covered above, but there are also some things specific to women that need to be addressed. Besides being aware of your surroundings, avoiding places not well-lit at night, and keeping an eye on your drink.

Costa Rican men are very charming and friendly. But, don’t get swept away with the allure of a stranger while under the influence of alcohol until you get to know them better. Never let a stranger know where you live or are staying, and do not let them know initially that you are traveling alone.

Have a phone that works in Costa Rica; whether you have an international plan or a local sim card. Be sure to have a phone number of a trusted local person—your hotel manager, a local Airbnb host, your neighbor, your realtor—someone you can call if you need help in an emergency. If you are walking from a club late at night, be sure you are accompanied by someone you know and trust.

Expat communities in Costa Rica host numerous events, from music to art classes, sports, volunteer opportunities, etc. Therefore, you can find many opportunities to meet other solo travelers. The best way to research events is to join a local Facebook group. You don’t have to dine alone either. Look for cooking classes to take or foodie tours to enjoy a dining community.

Be sure to route your map before you embark on an adventure by foot, bike, or in a rental car. People who look confused can be an easy target for someone unsavory.

Recreational Drugs in Costa Rica

The laws surrounding marijuana in Costa Rica are complicated, contested, and ever-changing.

Regarding recreational use, a court determined in 2018 that if a person grows cannabis in their homes, without it being used for trafficking or sales, it is permitted and is not a danger to public health. It needs to be grown and consumed in your home or on your private property. If you take it onto the streets you could find yourself in trouble with the law (although this is extremely rare). That being said, you will find marijuana sold almost everywhere in the country. If you want to partake, it is best to check in with a trusted local first, not some random seller on the beach, to make sure you are getting a good quality product. There is no refund policy!

You can also find hard drugs such as cocaine, heroin, molly, etc. We recommend it is best to stay away from purchasing any illegal drugs. Not only for the health aspect but, trust me, one does not want to spend time in a Costa Rican jail and pay hefty fines, or be deported and prohibited to return to Costa Rica for any length of time.

Prostitution in Costa Rica

Prostitution is the world’s oldest profession and is legal in Costa Rica. However, many of the activities surrounding it are illegal. The law forbids promoting or facilitating the prostitution of another. Therefore pimping, brothels, or prostitution rings are illegal. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country, particularly in popular tourism destinations like Jacó , Playas del Coco , Tamarindo , and San José.

The government has enacted a voluntary registration for prostitutes. Those who register with the CCSS (healthcare system) carry an ID card and are entitled to a free health check every 15 days. Registration also allows them to receive support and assistance—making the profession safer for both workers and clients.

As mentioned with drugs, if you are going to partake, it is best to check in with a local or regular client for references or be sure the worker has a health ID card.

Swimming in Costa Rica

With nearly 800 miles of coastline, Costa Rica boasts over 300 beaches . Some are good for surfing; others have smaller waves and are family friendly, and even some are good for snorkeling. However, it is good to exercise caution if you are not familiar with the waters. Very few beaches in Costa Rica have lifeguards. It is beneficial to you to check with locals or others at the beach to understand the water conditions. Costa Rican waters are known for rip tides and can be a challenge for even the strongest swimmers.

It is best to try to keep your feet on the surface as much as possible if swimming in rough water. The experts share these tips if you do encounter a riptide:

Don’t Panic (easier said than done).

Do not try to swim back to shore if you get caught in a riptide.

Try to regain your footing, if possible, but don’t struggle with it, if you can’t.

Lie on your back and float, pushing your hips and face out of the water.

Expect to be pulled away from shore as much as 200 yards. A riptide will not drag you under water, but away from the shore.

When the current weakens you will be able to swim parallel to the shoreline and then into shore once outside of the riptide.

It can happen anywhere, but the particular beaches most commonly known for riptides include:

Playa Espadilla at Manuel Antonio

Dominical Beach

Playa Hermosa near Jacó

Playa Herradura on the Pacific Coast

Swimming in rivers also requires a bit of caution due to the possibility of freshwater crocodiles, and venomous snakes (although rare). Be sure to check with the locals or a guide before jumping in.

Remember, most swimming accidents occur due to unfamiliar territory or intoxication.

Areas to Avoid in Costa Rica

In the neighborhoods like los Cuadros de Goicochea near San José, El Infiernillo in Alajuela, or la Cieneguita in Limón province , there are some quasi gangs. Their activities are mostly centered around territorial disputes within their own neighborhoods, and the sale of drugs. You would most likely never consider visiting or living in these places, anyway.

But even in other towns that are considered “safe,” it is best to avoid certain places after dark—especially when alone. That would include dark alleyways, any of the beaches or parks late at night, and places where you see drugs exchanging hands.

Drinking Tap Water in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the few Latin American countries with tap water that is considered safe to drink from the tap without a filter. However, many expats use some sort of filtration system or purchase large refillable water dispensers. It is recommended for anyone who has a delicate digestive system or after a recent storm/area flooding to err on the side of caution. Bottled water is readily available all over the country.

By implementing a few practical precautions, your time in Costa Rica should be safe, peaceful, and carefree.

Related Articles

Costa Rica Facts to Tell Your Friends

Maps of Costa Rica: Best Beachside and Mountain Towns

Best Places to Live in Costa Rica: Five Top Expat Havens

• Last Updated On
• August 20, 2023

Is Costa Rica Safe? A Friendly Guide for Travelers

Is Costa Rica safe for your upcoming family adventure?

It’s a hotspot filled with golden beaches, abundant wildlife, and exhilarating escapades, making safety concerns a natural companion for first-time explorers.

The encouraging news?

A dab of preparation and awareness can pave the way for an anxiety-free sojourn in this mesmerizing locale.

Though generally welcoming for tourists, Costa Rica, like any other territory, carries its slice of risks.

Gaining insights into potential stumbling blocks, such as crime and Mother Nature’s whims, is the key to an unforgettable journey.

Having experienced the beauty of this country multiple times with my tribe, allow me to pass on the baton of top-notch safety tips to help you enjoy your Costa Rican escapade.

So, is this Central American country safe?

With knowledge and awareness in your backpack, it most certainly can be.

Key Takeaways

• Costa Rica is generally a safe destination, but being informed makes all the difference.
• Follow proven safety tips to protect yourself and loved ones from potential risks.
• Stay updated on health recommendations and current events for a worry-free vacation.

Is Costa Rica Safe: An Overview

When considering general safety in Costa Rica, it is crucial to examine the country’s crime rates.

Understanding the prevalence and nature of criminal activities provides valuable insights for visitors and residents alike.

Crime Rates

When it comes to safety, Costa Rica is generally considered a safe destination for tourists.

Its crime rates are relatively low, with most incidents involving petty theft and pickpocketing.

Violent crime, such as sexual assault, is less common but not unheard of.

It’s important to stay alert, especially in popular tourist areas like San José, Tamarindo, and along the Pacific coast.

Here’s a comparison of crime rates in Costa Rica and some other Central American countries:

Other Considerations

When traveling to Costa Rica, it’s a good idea to keep your valuables secure and avoid flaunting expensive items.

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing or purse-snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas or on public transportation.

To minimize your risk, consider using a money belt or neck pouch to keep your cash, passport, and other essentials close.

Driving in Costa Rica can be a challenge due to the country’s sometimes precarious road conditions and unpredictable drivers.

When renting a car, make sure to have a valid international driver’s license, and do your research on the best routes to take.

As for media coverage, Costa Rica is often portrayed as a tropical paradise, and while that may be true, it’s still essential to remain cautious and informed.

To stay up-to-date on safety alerts and travel advisories, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website and embrace a responsible attitude throughout your trip.

Safety Tips for Tourists

When visiting Costa Rica, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and follow safety precautions, just like you would in any other destination.

Costa Rica offers incredible experiences for tourists, including families with kids, but it’s always good to be informed and prepared.

Let’s look at different scenarios and advice tailored to your travel needs.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, embrace the mantra “knowledge is power.”

Keep your travel plans updated and share them with someone back home.

Research your venues, hotels, and transportation options.

San José, Alajuela, Cartago, and Limon are known to have higher crime rates than more rural areas, so it’s good to be aware if you’re heading there.

You should also consider getting travel insurance as a layer of protection and obtain the necessary vaccinations for your trip.

Always keep your valuables in a secure place, either locked in your hotel room or carried close to you during the day.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

Costa Rica is generally safe for solo female travelers, but there are a few extra precautions to take.

Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas.

Stick to well-traveled locations like Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean Coast and Quepos, which offer fantastic tourism experiences without putting you at risk.

Sometimes, it’s best to trust your gut and befriend locals who can provide you with useful tips on navigating Costa Rica.

If you ever need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the U.S. Embassy or local authorities.

Safety Tips for Families

Planning a trip to Costa Rica with kids ?

To make your family vacation safe and enjoyable, keep a few key pointers in mind:

• Choose family-friendly accommodations with good reputations and reviews.
• Don’t leave your belongings unattended in public spaces or store valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.
• Consider renting a car seat for young children if your rental vehicle doesn’t provide one.
• Keep emergency contact information handy, including the address and phone number of your accommodations and the local U.S. Embassy.
• Stick to well-established tourist areas and routes.

Ultimately, my firsthand experiences in Costa Rica taught me that safety doesn’t mean sacrificing the thrill of exploration.

By being well-informed, prepared, and aware of my surroundings, I was able to fully embrace the wonders of this incredible country while ensuring the well-being of myself and my loved ones.

Health and Medical Safety

Costa Rica is renowned for its commitment to health and medical safety, offering a robust healthcare system that attracts international visitors seeking top-notch medical services.

With comprehensive healthcare facilities and a focus on preventive measures, Costa Rica ensures a safe and healthy experience for residents and travelers alike.

Healthcare in Costa Rica

Costa Rica boasts a high-quality healthcare system, with both public and private facilities available.

In case of an emergency, simply dial 911 for assistance.

Although healthcare in the country is generally affordable, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses during your trip.

Vaccination Recommendations

When it comes to vaccinations, you’ll want to consult with your doctor before traveling.

Ideally, get vaccinated 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Here are some common vaccination recommendations for Costa Rica:

• Routine vaccines: Stay up to date on your routine vaccinations like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), polio, and the flu shot.
• Hepatitis A: A vaccine for Hepatitis A is recommended since you can contract it through contaminated food or water.
• Typhoid: Also transmitted through contaminated food or water, a typhoid vaccine can help keep you and your family healthy.
• Yellow fever: A yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Fortunately, there is no risk of yellow fever in Costa Rica itself.

Natural Dangers

As you plan your family vacation to Costa Rica, it’s essential to be aware of the natural hazards present in this beautiful country.

Don’t worry; most of these can be easily avoided with some precautions.

Wildlife Perils

Before you explore the best things to do in Costa Rica , you should know that its rich biodiversity also means encounters with some of its more dangerous inhabitants.

For example, crocodiles in estuaries and venomous snakes in rainforests are common wildlife perils.

To keep your family safe, always follow these simple rules:

• Stick to well-trodden paths in rainforests and avoid touching plants or trees.
• Keep a safe distance from any wild animals you may encounter.
• Pay attention to warning signs and follow the advice of local experts.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long pants, sturdy footwear, and insect repellent to prevent bites.

Natural Disasters

Costa Rica is home to several active volcanoes, which have been relatively quiet and stable in recent years.

However, it’s always wise to stay informed and avoid areas with increased volcanic activity.

Remember, you’re there to take advantage of the top things to do in Costa Rica, not to take unnecessary risks.

Another common threat in Costa Rica is earthquakes.

While it’s impossible to predict when the next one will strike, you can be prepared by familiarizing yourself with earthquake safety guidelines.

Here are some tips:

• Know the location of emergency exits and evacuation routes at your accommodations
• During an earthquake, stay away from windows and unsecured furniture, and drop, cover, and hold on
• Pack a small emergency kit, including a flashlight, extra batteries, a whistle, and a first aid kit in case of an emergency.

Government and Stability

Costa Rica’s government and stability have played a pivotal role in its economic growth and political stability.

With a long-standing democratic tradition and a commitment to social progress, Costa Rica has managed to maintain a resilient economy and a peaceful political environment.

Costa Rica’s economy is quite an interesting topic.

You’re probably asking yourself, “What’s going on with their economy?”

Despite having a high standard of living and a well-developed social benefits system, Costa Rica is currently facing an ‘explosive’ debt crisis.

However, the government continues to invest almost 20% of GDP annually in social spending, striving to provide universal access to education and other services for its citizens.

This sets Costa Rica apart from its Central American neighbors in some respects.

Political Stability

This beautiful country has a long history of democratic stability, supported by a multiparty political system and credible elections.

Not only does Costa Rica have political stability, but it’s also an oasis of peace in a region that’s no stranger to political crises.

Can you believe that they haven’t had an army since 1949 ?

Talk about setting a peaceful example.

How does this all impact you and your family’s trip?

It’s essential to be aware of any travel advisories.

The good news is that, as of now, Costa Rica is placed under a level 2 travel advisory by the U.S. government .

This indicates that U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution when traveling to this picturesque country.

Of course, no place is entirely safe from criminal activity, and the same goes for Costa Rica, as some gangs are known to operate in its capital city.

Parting Words

After gathering insights and facts, the big question remains: is Costa Rica safe for your family vacation?

Absolutely.

While some concerns exist in every travel destination, Costa Rica is ranked the number one most peaceful country within Central America and the Caribbean.

But remember, there’s always room for smart, cautious decisions.

Staying vigilant and using common sense will help lessen any risks, ensuring you and your loved ones can fully enjoy Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes, lovely beaches, and unforgettable adventures.

As you prepare for this incredible journey, feel free to research more, ask questions, and share your experiences.

After all, a well-informed traveler is a happy, safe, and confident explorer.

Go ahead, pack your bags, and let Costa Rica’s beauty, warmth, and charm embrace your family on this fabulous trip.

Related: Which Part of Costa Rica is Best for Families

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe for solo female travelers in costa rica.

Costa Rica is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it’s essential to take precautions like not walking alone at night and staying in well-lit areas. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

What Areas Should Be Avoided In Costa Rica For Safety?

While most tourist areas in Costa Rica are safe, some neighborhoods in San José and Limón have higher crime rates. Make sure to research the specific locations you plan to visit and consult local guides or hotel staff for advice.

Is Costa Rica A Family-Friendly Destination In Terms Of Safety?

Yes, Costa Rica is a family-friendly destination, with many activities and attractions suitable for all ages. As with any travel destination, use caution and keep a close watch on children, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas.

What Safety Measures Should Be Taken While Traveling In Costa Rica?

To ensure a safe trip in Costa Rica, follow these general guidelines: avoid driving at night, stay in well-reviewed accommodations, use reputable transportation options, don’t leave valuables unattended, and be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, ensure you have the appropriate travel insurance and emergency contact information on hand.

• EN - English
• PT - Portuguese
• ES - Spanish
• How it works
• Become a Host
• Download the app

Top Destinations

• United States
• United Kingdom

What type of experience are you looking for?

• Non-Profit School
• Permaculture project
• Eco Village
• Holistic Center
• Guest House
• How Worldpackers works

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

• Using Worldpackers
• Work exchange
• Social impact

Plan your trip

• Women traveling
• Budget travel
• Solo travel
• Language learning
• Travel tips
• Get inspired
• Digital nomads
• Travel jobs
• Personal development
• Responsible travel
• Connect with nature

Top destinations

• South America
• Central America
• North America
• More destinations
• WP Life WP Life
• Exclusive discounts Discounts
• Latin America

Unlock the secrets of Costa Rica: is it safe to travel there?

Find out if Costa Rica is safe and learn about safety tips, female solo travel, adventure tourism, public transport and street food in this beautiful country.

Raquel www.solanomundo.com.br

Feb 19, 2024

Are you considering traveling to Costa Rica ? Here you are going to discover if is it safe to travel there and what should you know before going. From adventure tourism, volunteering with Worldpackers and local culture - we will cover all the tips that can help make your trip a safe one. 

We'll also talk about how is costa rica safe when it comes to crimes like scams o r solo female travel as well as public transportation safety and how to make good choices when it comes to street food. So let's dive right into finding out if costa rica is really as safe of a destination as they say.

Costa Rica: a paradise on earth

Situated near two oceans, Costa Rica is home to a variety of aquatic creatures such as dolphins, whales, turtles, rays and manatees. One way visitors can get up close with this beautiful wildlife is by taking boat tours which operate from most coastal towns across both sides. 

But if you prefer more independent experiences, then renting kayaks or stand up paddle boards will allow you access into coves where boats cannot go, giving you a chance to observe even more species in their natural habitat.

Outdoor activities in Costa Rica offer a wide range of exciting experiences for travelers, from exploring lush rainforests to enjoying the many beaches and water sports. But the country is also rich in tradicional culture and great people to connect with. 

For those looking for an unforgettable nature and cultural experience, Costa Rica is the perfect destination . With its stunning national parks, picturesque beaches, great communities and local arts and food - there’s something for every taste. For those who want to enjoy the natural world or get a journey of self-awareness, Costa Rica has it all.

Safety tips for travelers in Costa Rica

When it comes to security, Costa Rica is generally a safe place for travelers . Still, visitors should be aware of potential dangers before starting their journey. It is important to take the necessary precautions, as in any urban city, to stay safe while traveling in this beautiful country.

Crimes in Costa Rica

Crimes against tourists are relatively uncommon in Costa Rica , but petty theft does occur occasionally. Pickpockets and purse snatchers may target crowded areas such as bus stations and tourist attractions so it’s best to keep your valuables close at all times. When sightseeing, it's best to keep your valuables concealed and not display expensive jewelry or carry large sums of money.

Scams in Costa Rica

Unfortunately, there have been reports of scams targeting tourists in Costa Rica so it’s important to be vigilant and know what signs to look out for. Common scams include people asking for donations from unsuspecting victims who don’t realize they are being taken advantage of until it's too late. 

Be wary if someone approaches you offering goods or services at an unusually low price – these could be counterfeit items or fake tours which won't deliver what was promised. But it’s important not to confuse being carefull with being rude to people . Not everyone will be trying to take advantage of you, and this attitude can hinder your attempt to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet wonderful people.

Solo female travel in Costa Rica

Solo female travelers in Costa Rica should always remain alert and trust their instincts when traveling alone in Costa Rica, particularly after dark when street crime can increase significantly in certain areas of the country. 

If you are volunteering with Worldpackers in Costa Rica, you can let your host and other volunteers know whenever you are going to go on adventures and, if you are planning to go out at night, you can invite other volunteers to go with you.     

Before embarking on a journey to Costa Rica, it is essential to be mindful of potential risks and take the necessary precautions, yes. But despite the potential risks, Costa Rica still offers numerous chances for thrilling activities and life experiences. 

Adventure tourism in Costa Rica

For the thrill-seekers, Costa Rica offers a lot of exciting activities and experiences. Getting around Costa Rica is possible without worry, with a lot of options for transportation and food. Costa Rica offers an efficient network of buses that can move travelers around the country at affordable costs. 

Outdoor activities to enjoy

For those seeking adventure, Costa Rica offers a variety of outdoor activities to explore . From hiking trails and national parks to surfing spots, snorkeling sites, diving locations, and wildlife watching opportunities - you’ll find something for everyone, as Costa Rica is one of the leading nations when it comes to ecotourism .

Hiking trails and National Parks

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
• Corcovado National Park
• Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park
• Arenal Volcano National Park 
• Manuel Antonio National Park 

So be sure to wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water while exploring these areas.

Surfing, Snorkeling & Diving Spots

If you’re feeling adventurous why not try your hand at surfing? With its warm waters and stunning beaches , Costa Rica is an ideal spot for catching some waves. The Pacific Coast offers some excellent breaks with Tamarindo Beach being one of the most popular surf spots in the country. 

Other activities such as snorkeling or scuba diving can also be enjoyed in various parts along both coasts, including Playa Hermosa on the Nicoya Peninsula or Cahuita National Park  on Caribbean side.

Street Food in Costa Rica

When exploring Costa Rica, remember that "the early bird catches the worm" - get up early so you don't miss the street markets. With its stunning landscapes, diverse products, friendly locals and vibrant culture, this Central American gem will surely not disappoint your taste. Street food in Costa Rica is abundant and delicious. You have to try:

• Tacos al pastor (marinated pork) 
• Empanadas (stuffed pastries) 
• Gallo pinto (rice and beans)
• Fresh fruits (pineapples, papayas and bananas)

Be sure to check out local markets or roadside stands for some truly authentic eats. Just be mindfull to go to street markets frequented by locals - there is where the best food is.

Volunteering with Worldpackers in Costa Rica

Volunteering with Worldpackers in Costa Rica is a great way to have an immersive and meaningful experience while traveling. From eco lodges to holistic centers, there are plenty of opportunities available for volunteers who want to make a positive impact on the world.

Eco Lodge in Platanillo

Nestled in the mountains of Platanillo, this eco lodge offers volunteers the chance to meet people from all over the world  and help protect their environment. Volunteers can help build trails, plant trees, create composting systems, and more. For those looking to make a difference, this is the perfect opportunity for an immersive experience.

Holistic Center in Bijagua

Located near Tenorio Volcano National Park, this holistic center provides volunteers with unique experiences such as yoga classes and meditation sessions led by local experts. Volunteers can also learn about traditional healing methods from native healers or take part in workshops focused on sustainable living practices like permaculture gardening and natural building techniques.

Ecovillage in Drake Bay

This ecovillage in Drake Bay gives travelers the chance to explore one of Costa Rica's most beautiful regions while helping out at various projects throughout the area. Volunteers can participate in reforestation efforts or assist with research related growing organic food. They may also get involved with educational programs aimed at teaching locals about sustainability initiatives they can implement within their own communities.

No matter what kind of volunteer project you choose, volunteering with Worldpackers allows you to gain invaluable knowledge while giving back at the same time . If you want to experience something more than the usual tourist attractions and shoreline trips, then why not try out volunteering while traveling?

Volunteering with Worldpackers in Costa Rica is an incredible opportunity to gain invaluable insights and make a difference globally. Next, we'll explore local communities and their culture to help you understand language barriers, communication tips, cultural norms, and etiquette that should be followed while traveling there.

Local communities and their culture

Before visiting Costa Rica , it is beneficial to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs. Language barriers can make communication difficult, but with a few tips, you can easily overcome them. 

Before traveling to Costa Rica, brush up on some basic Spanish phrases in order to facilitate communication with locals. Many people in Costa Rica also speak English, so don’t hesitate to ask if they understand what you are saying in English or need help translating something into Spanish.

It is also essential for travelers to familiarize themselves with cultural norms and etiquette guidelines before visiting Costa Rica. Women should take note of a more conservative dress code when out in public areas, such as churches and museums; wearing shorts or tank tops is usually considered inappropriate. 

It is also considered rude not to greet someone when entering their home, always take off your shoes at the door and say hello. Lastly, always show respect for local traditions and ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites like churches or temples.

Costa Ricans are renowned for their hospitality to international travelers, granting them the opportunity to get a firsthand look at their culture . By following these guidelines and exhibiting politeness towards the traditions of Costa Rica while journeying through, you can guarantee a hassle-free experience that will leave all whom you encounter with an optimistic impression.

Accommodation options for travelers in Costa Rica

When it comes to obtaining lodgings in Costa Rica , visitors have a broad selection of possibilities. From volunteering to Worldpackers, hostels and hotels, Airbnbs and home stays, there’s something for everyone.

Volunteer with Worldpackers

Volunteering are an increasingly popular choice among travelers looking for an authentic experience in Costa Rica. Worldpackers opportunities allow visitors to live like locals by staying in ecovillages , NGO's, and holistic projects. 

There are often included meals and other benefits. This type of accommodation is perfect if you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture and make meaningful connections along the way.

Hostels and Hotels

Hostels and Hotels are the most popular choices among budget-minded travelers. Accommodations from economical two-star lodgings to lavish five-star resorts can be found in both hostels and hotels, with the former providing shared bathroom dormitory rooms for as low as $10 a night. If you’re looking for a bit more privacy, many hostels also offer private rooms with en suite bathrooms at slightly higher rates.

For those seeking affordability and the comforts of home, Airbnb is a great option. Plenty of rental options can be found in Costa Rica, spanning a variety of prices to fit any budget. Many Airbnb hosts will even provide breakfast or other meals during your stay.

Before booking any type of homestay, always do your due diligence by researching reviews online and asking around for recommendations. Read reviews online, check out photos on social media platforms such as Instagram or Facebook, and ask around locally (or virtually) about what people recommend . Doing research beforehand can help guarantee that your stay is just as expected, avoiding any unpleasant surprises when you leave.

Tips for staying healthy while traveling in Costa Rica

Before venturing to Costa Rica, it is essential to make sure you have received the recommended vaccinations from your physician or a travel clinic. It is also important to consider the availability of medical services and facilities . 

Be sure to research local hospitals and clinics that offer medical services, as well as pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications if needed. It’s also a good idea to have contact information for any medical assistance available in case of an emergency during your stay in Costa Rica.

Finally, eating safely at restaurants is key when trying to avoid getting sick while traveling abroad. Ensure edibles are fully cooked and served steaming - avoid consume uncooked dishes and always wash fruits and vegetables before ingestion . By taking heed of these straightforward strategies, you can savor scrumptious dishes without fretting over contracting an illness from tainted food.

Costa Rica is safe for volunteering with Worldpackers

Costa Rica is a safe destination for travelers of all ages and backgrounds . By utilizing the safety measures discussed in this article, travelers can have peace of mind while exploring Costa Rica's many attractions and offerings. 

From thrilling outdoor activities to luxurious beach resorts, Costa Rica offers an abundance of options for travelers looking for the perfect vacation experience .

Volunteering with Worldpackers allows you to experience local communities while making an impactful contribution - giving back has never been so easy. Don't let fear hold you back from discovering the splendour of Costa Rica, as it's possible to make your trip there both thrilling and safe if done correctly. 

I'm Raquel, travel writer from the blog  @solanomundo . I’m super excited to know how was your amazing journey through Costa Rica , and I'll wait for your news in DM's. Experience the world, have fun and make a positive impact with Worldpackers.

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Raquel Pryzant

www.solanomundo.com.br

Travel journalist, author of the @solanomundo project and collaborator in different media such as Viajes National Geographic, Folha de S. Paulo and Qual Viagem Magazine. Read more: www.solanomundo.com.br

Be part of the Worldpackers Community

Already have an account, are you a host, leave your comment here.

Write here your questions and greetings to the author

Mar 12, 2023

Hey tudo bem? Porque nao estou sendo contactado pelos anfitriões?

More about this topic

Must do in Puerto Rico: the top 22 best things to do and places to visit

Traveling to Central America: a guide to money-saving, safety and more

What to do in nicaragua.

How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

Terrorism  .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . 

Terrorism in Costa Rica 

Although there’s no history of terrorism in Costa Rica, attacks cannot be ruled out.  

Attacks involving an explosive device occurred in front of a parliamentary office building and a TV station in San José in June and July 2019 respectively. 

Protecting your belongings 

Muggings and theft are significant problems, particularly on the Atlantic coast. You should: 

be aware of who is around you when using ATMs 

• be vigilant on buses and keep your luggage in view if possible – thieves are likely to try and distract you 
• watch wallets and valuables when on the beach 
• avoid leaving luggage in a parked car, either in view or in the boot 

There have been incidents where thieves slash a tyre and then offer to help change it, while an accomplice steals from the car.  

Violent crime  

Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or remote areas at night. Gangs occasionally carry out muggings and armed robberies. A number of foreign nationals including one British national have gone missing in recent years, with some incidents related to criminal activity. 

If you’re using a hire car, do not stop your car for strangers signalling for help – they could be carjackers.  

Criminals sometimes cause deliberate collisions to stop vehicles and commit robberies or other crimes. If you think a collision was a deliberate act by another driver to make you stop, drive on until you reach a safe place like a police station or garage. You will need to be able to explain your actions to the traffic police.

Spiked drinks and sexual assault 

Rapes and sexual assaults have increased, some of which appear targeted toward tourists. Avoid leaving drinks unattended in bars as there have been reports of ‘spiked’ drinks resulting in assault and theft. 

Women travelling alone have reported having to pay extra attention to their personal safety. 

See advice for women travelling abroad .

Methanol poisoning 

There have been a number of deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol. Criminal gangs have apparently used methanol in the manufacture of cheap brands of local spirits, including vodka and ‘guaro’ (cane liquor). You should take care when buying spirit-based drinks. 

The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) says that methanol can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, and can seriously damage the optic nerve. Chronic exposure may cause respiratory or cardiac failure. If you, or someone you are travelling with, shows signs of methanol poisoning, seek immediate medical attention.

Laws and cultural differences  

Personal id .

As a foreigner, you must carry ID such as a passport. The police will usually accept a photocopy. Make sure you have the original available somewhere safe in case they ask to see it. 

Illegal drugs and prison sentences 

Do not get involved with drugs of any kind. The Costa Rican authorities treat the possession of drugs and drug trafficking severely. The minimum sentence is 8 years imprisonment. 

LGBT+ travellers 

Costa Rica is generally welcoming of LGBT+ travellers. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism  

Swimming safety .

While swimming on any beach in Costa Rica, bear in mind that rip currents are very common and there are often no lifeguards. Seek reliable local advice. Drownings are the second most common cause of accidental death and in recent years have averaged 50 to 60 per year, a third of whom were tourists. 

Take extra care if participating in tours involving snorkelling or similar activities. There have been recent fatalities. 

There are regular sightings of crocodiles along the Pacific coast near beaches popular with surfers, from Playa Azul down to Playa Esterillos, and there have been attacks in recent years.

Water sports 

Safety standards for adventure activities and on small boats are variable. There have been several incidents involving small boats in the Tortuguero area, including a fatality due to a falling tree. If you plan to take part any of these activities, use an established company with experienced staff.

Rainforest tours 

If you are visiting jungle areas, go with an experienced local guide.

Transport risks  

Road travel  .

If you’re planning to drive in Costa Rica, see information on driving abroad . 

Private cars are only allowed to enter the capital of San José on certain weekdays, allocated using the last digit of the licence plate number. Your hire car company can give you more details. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Costa Rica for up to 3 months. Even if you have been granted a longer stay, of up to 180 days, you cannot use your UK licence for longer than three months from your date of entry. An amendment to the law is in process but has not been ratified.

If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to  update it to a photocard licence  or get an   international driving permit . Border authorities may refuse entry to right-hand drive vehicles as they’re illegal and do not qualify for local insurance.

The standard of driving is lower than in the UK. Drivers cause accidents by speeding, overtaking irresponsibly or ignoring traffic lights. Take care when approaching bridges over the road as these often narrow the road to a single lane. 

Road conditions are generally good on main routes. However, in the rainy season, heavy rains can cause potholes and landslides that block the roads.  

If you have an accident where somebody has been injured or where the other driver does not accept blame, you must not move your vehicle until the traffic police have arrived. Contact the traffic police (‘transito’ – telephone: 2222 9330 or 2222 9245) and the insurance investigator (INS – telephone: 800 800 8000) immediately.

Avoid using unofficial taxis (‘taxi piratas’). Official taxis are red (or orange at the airport) with a triangular sticker and plastic box on the roof with the name and number of the taxi company. It’s best to use radio-dispatched taxis. Make sure the driver’s ID is clearly visible on the dashboard and that the driver uses the meter.

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

See extreme weather and natural hazards for information about how to prepare, and how to react if there is a warning. 

Hurricanes  

The hurricane season usually runs from June to November – the same as the hurricane season in the Caribbean. Monitor the National Hurricane Center forecasts and the World Meteorological Organization warnings . Follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders. Keep up to date with FCDO travel advice and social media. Plan any local travel carefully.

The June-November period is also the peak rainy season. Flooding and landslides may occur, resulting in road closures and driving hazards.

Earthquakes 

There is a risk of earthquakes: movements greater than magnitude 6 occur periodically. Local infrastructure is well-prepared, and earthquakes seldom have widespread effects. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about  what to do before, during and after an earthquake  or a  tsunami . 

Volcanic eruptions 

Costa Rica has 16 volcanoes, several of which are considered active. The risk of eruptions is always present. The most recent significant eruption was at Volcan Rincon de la Vieja on 21 April 2023. 

Check news reports and follow local advice before travelling to any areas around volcanoes. Avoid volcanic areas during and immediately after heavy rainfall when there’s increased risk of lava flows.

Ash plumes can affect air quality and have an impact on health . If you have any pre-existing respiratory conditions, you might be at increased risk of triggering or worsening your symptoms. A properly fitted face mask may provide some protection.  

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Home » Travel Planning and Inspiration » Is Costa Rica Safe? Travel Scams, Safety Advice & More

Is Costa Rica Safe? Travel Scams, Safety Advice & More

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Published: July 20, 2022  - Last updated: March 17, 2024

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

 Costa Rica is a small but gorgeous country full of lush rainforests, mountains, and pristine beaches, all of which attract visitors from around the world each year. Over the past decade, it has become one of the most popular destinations in Latin America due to its fantastic climate, friendly locals, and wildlife encounters. 

If you’ve never experienced traveling in Latin America, a trip to Costa Rica might seem intimidating and might leave you wondering if Costa Rica is a safe place to visit.

While it’s important to exercise common sense and good judgment during any trip abroad, travelers from around the world agree that Costa Rica is one of the safest countries to visit in all of Latin America. 

The economy of Costa Rica is highly dependent upon tourism, and many of the locals make their livelihoods from working in tourism and hospitality-related fields. The result is an extremely friendly attitude towards foreigners and increased safety measures in tourist hotspots around the country. If you’re still wondering how safe Costa Rica is, read on to learn about our own experiences in Costa Rica including safety tips to make your adventure worry-free!

Safety in Costa Rica Overview

Costa Rica is still growing and developing, especially economically. Like many places in Latin America, there is often a big wealth gap between tourists and locals. For these reasons, there is a chance that you might experience some crime like petty theft or getting scammed in some of the larger cities, but violent crime is rare. Overall, Costa Rica is extremely safe. It’s one of the safest countries in Latin America and is especially friendly for tourists. 

Even though Costa Rica is safe, it doesn’t mean you should totally let your guard down. It’s important to use common sense and keep your wits about you anytime you travel abroad, and Costa Rica is no exception. Keep a good eye on personal belongings, especially electronics – if you leave your IPad on the beach, there is a good chance it will get swiped. 

Another important thing to keep in mind when it comes to safety in Costa Rica is that not all danger comes from people. Costa Rica is a wild country with tons of species of animals that call the country home. The most dangerous things you will face in Costa Rica have nothing to do with crime. Many dangerous species are nocturnal – and if you’re in certain parts of the country or within the national parks, it’s a good idea to keep a flashlight with you at night to watch for snakes!

Don’t feed wild animals or try to pet them – they may seem super cute, and like they’re used to people, but they are wild animals, and if they feel scared or threatened, they will bite you, which can lead to nasty infections. 

Also, make sure you shake out clothes and shoes before you put them on so that you don’t get stung by a scorpion.

Wear shoes when swimming on rocky beaches so that you don’t get cut on sharp coral rocks. The tropics are ripe with bacteria, so cuts can become easily infected. Make sure you clean even small open wounds. 

Also, be sure to practice sun safety! Always wear sunscreen, look for shade, and keep hydrated.

Saftey in Costa Rica FAQs

Yes, public transportation in Costa Rica is safe and reliable. It is used by locals and tourists from all over the world and is one of the safest ways to get around. It is still a good idea to keep valuable items on your person and keep bags below your seat as opposed to the overhead bin. This is especially true if you think you might take a nap during the ride. 

Ubers in Costa Rica are safe and reliable, although they are usually only available in the bigger towns and cities like San Jose . When ordering an Uber, make sure you check the vehicle model and make as well as the auto plate number to verify that it is the driver you’re matched with. 

Yes, taxis are safe in Costa Rica. Make sure that you are using a legitimate registered taxi. In Costa Rica, these are red, and the safest place to get them is at a taxi stand. With that said, I recommend using Uber when you can. 

Costa Rica is extremely safe for locals and foreigners who call the country home. Many people from around the world choose to live in Costa Rica. 

Yes, Airbnb is safe in Costa Rica. There are occasionally scam listings so check reviews and messages with your host before committing. If things feel off – choose a different place to stay. 

Costa Rica is extremely safe for adventurous families – just make sure to keep a close eye on kids while they’re in the ocean or exploring the rainforest. 

Costa Rica is one of the safest destinations for female travelers in Central America. 

The roads in Costa Rica can get a little crazy. Overall, it’s a very safe place to drive. Just make sure to stay alert and go the speed limit. You should also avoid driving when it is dark.

15 Safety Tips for Costa Rica 

• Don’t leave your belongings unattended 
• Avoid walking around alone at night 
• Keep bags close on public transportation and at all times 
• Know some basic Spanish 
• Don’t wear overly flashy clothing or jewelry 
• Avoid carrying your passport 
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash 
• Lock up valuables at your hotel or vacation rental 
• Wear bug repellent to avoid insect-borne diseases 
• Walk with a flashlight after dark in the jungle 
• Lock vehicles when unattended and don’t leave any valuables in them
• Avoid illegal purchases 
• Check the license plate of your Uber or take an authorized taxi 
• Check in with friends and family, especially if you’re traveling solo 
• Stay in well-lit areas in larger towns and cities 
• Avoid becoming overly intoxicated 
• Travel with a cellphone that works in Costa rica (or buy a Costa Rica sim card to use during your travels)

Food and Drink Safety in Costa Rica 

The food safety standards in Costa Rica are in line with the rest of the world, and the street food is some of the safest in Latin America.

As a traveler, your body might not be used to some of the bacteria that can be found in the produce, so it is a good idea to peel fruits and veggies before eating them so that you don’t get an upset stomach on your trip. 

The water in Costa Rica is also widely accepted as being safe to drink. Most travelers never have any issues with the water. That being said, it is still a good idea to ask a staff member at your hotel, hostel, or vacation rental whether or not the water is deemed drinkable. 

I myself drink the water in every town in Costa Rica, including San Jose. To this day, I have not had any problems. In fact, I prefer the water in Costa Rica more than in Australia and Canada.

Safest Places to Visit in Costa Rica 

The safest places to visit in Costa Rica all have one thing in common – they’re tourist hot spots. Many of these communities thrive on tourism, and the locals make their living through working in eco-tourism and hospitality. They’re friendly places for travelers to visit and safe for everyone to enjoy. 

Nosara 

Nosara is known as an extremely safe place to visit and a great destination for families. The beautiful beaches and soft sand attract tons of travelers and expats who winter in Costa Rica or call it home year-round. There are also tons of beautiful hotels and holidays home to choose from in Nosara as well as plenty of trendy restaurants !

Samara is a safe place and a popular destination for solo travelers and solo female travelers. There are beautiful beaches and tons of fun activities and yoga classes. It’s also a family-friendly spot with very little drug activity, lots of hotels to choose from , and delicious local restaurants . 

Located in the Guanacaste Province , Tamarindo is a mid to large-sized town by Costa Rican standards. It has some great beaches and exciting nightlife without being quite as busy as other cities of comparable sizes. You’ll also find a huge selection of restaurants in Tamarindo to choose from! It is a lively place that is still super safe.  

Hot Tip: Read our blog about where to stay in Tamarindo before you go to stay in the best area!

Santa Teresa 

If you’re looking for a good balance of nightlife and beach vibes without sacrificing safety, Santa Teresa is a great option. This town features awesome surfing, and the crowd is younger, with a lot of European travelers on their gap year visiting for extended periods of time. It’s a small town, but it’s super lively with lots of bars and restaurants. You might experience pety theft, but generally, it’s all good vibes and surf culture.  

Related Read: There are some really amazing hotels in Santa Teresa that you should consider!

Montezuma is a laid-back bohemian beach town located in the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica . It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a blend of jungle and beach. It’s harder to get to, which means it is not as busy as some other spots making it even safer for visitors. 

Related Read: Check out the best hotels in Montezuma as well as our favorite restaurants !

Drake Bay is an extremely remote part of Costa Rica and is one of the safest places in the country due to the lack of people. On top of being an amazing place to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural side of Costa Rica, there is hardly any crime in this area.  Stay at one of the hotels near the beach for the best experience!

Puerto Jimenez 

Puerto Jimenez is a small town located on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica . It used to be a gold mining town and now offers a quiet retreat in one of the wildest places in Costa Rica. It’s small, and there isn’t much nightlife, which makes it super safe and a great option for families who are really looking to get up close and personal with nature. 

Hot Tip: Some of the best hotels in Puerto Jimenez are located outside of town in nature!

Uvita  

Uvita is a little town that is home to the famous Whale’s Tail landmark and beautiful beaches. The beach is regularly patrolled, which keeps crime to a minimum. It’s very relaxed and easygoing, with a good mix of locals, expats, and tourists. You’ll also find a good selection of hotels and restaurants in Uvita that are safe.

La Fortuna 

La Fortuna is one of the safest urban parts of Costa Rica. It’s a major hub for tourism and a jumping-off place for a lot of amazing tours. There is a decent nightlife scene, and most visitors feel very safe, even walking at night. You can wander around checking out the different bars and restaurants in La Fortuna without having to worry too much.

With that said, there is a drug economy in La Fortuna, so it’s best to avoid bars late at night. 

Related Read: Check out the best hot springs in La Fortuna while you’re there.

Monteverde is also known as the Monteverde Cloud Forest and offers a stunning natural retreat for hiking through the protected habitat. Monteverde itself is super tiny and is geared towards travelers with a sprinkle of small cafes and restaurants as well as hostels and lodges. It’s a quiet place without crazy nightlife and is mostly frequented by eco-tourism-minded visitors which makes it a safe spot to visit. 

Places to use more Caution in Costa Rica  

Although Costa Rica as a whole is incredibly safe for tourists, there are a few areas where it is appropriate to use a bit more caution. This is by no means an attempt to discourage you from visiting these areas – all of Costa Rica is incredibly beautiful, but these areas are often bigger and more traveled and have higher rates of crime than some of the smaller tourist hubs around the country. 

It’s good to use a bit more caution when visiting any of these spots during your trip to Costa Rica. In general, the Caribbean Coast is thought to be a bit more dangerous than the Pacific side of Costa Rica due to the larger towns and ports that focus on shipping and commerce. Again, don’t overlook it all together – the Caribbean side is home to some of the country’s best cuisine and music, so it’s well worth a visit. 

When visiting these areas, pay attention to your surroundings. Don’t leave personal items unattended, and consider leaving important items locked up in a safe at your accommodations. Pick-pocketing and petty theft are the main things you’ll run into, but there is also an increase in drug trafficking in women in these places, which can get seedy. Be aware, and take care! 

Puerto Limon 

Puerto Limon is the most violent province in Costa Rica. It is the center of the drug trafficking that happens throughout Costa Rica, which leads to huge upticks in violent crime. If you aren’t buying drugs – you should be okay, but there is also all of the other crime that sort of commerce brings into an area. In Limon, theft is common. Use extra caution to keep your personal belongings safe. 

San Jose is the largest city in Costa Rica and the nation’s capital. It’s a sprawling city within the Central Valley region and is home to more than a third of the country’s population. Most people just use San Jose as a stop-over point on their way in or way out, but it’s still worth visiting. There are cool museums and an emerging foodie scene that make it worthwhile.

Generally speaking, it is still a safe city to visit, but it’s important to know which neighborhoods to avoid. The areas to stay away from include Los Guido, Desamparados, Pavas, La Carpio, Leon XIII, El Carmen, and the El Infiernillo area of Alajuela . 

The crime rate has increased over the past few years, but most of it is petty theft. Keep your personal belongings safely strapped to your body to avoid becoming a victim of theft in San Jose. Avoid walking alone at night or down unlit streets. The city has many beautiful parks, but it is best to avoid all of them at night. 

Puerto Viejo

Crime is more of a problem in Puerto Viejo than in other similar beach towns in Costa Rica . Most of the crime is still limited to petty theft, but there have been increases in violent crime over the past several years, especially in regard to drug trafficking. 

Be extremely watchful of your belongings, and don’t walk alone after dark. Be cautious and careful if you visit this part of Costa Rica. 

I want to leave a special mention to female travelers. As a female myself, it is very important to be careful in Puerto Viejo. There have been rare crimes involving groups of men, and it is very important to travel in large groups if you can late at night. 

Although I still love Puerto Viejo, and it is one of my favorite towns in Costa Rica, I am extremely disappointed at the local authorities who have let crimes like this go unpunished. 

You can read more about a recent incident in Puerto Viejo here .

Hot Tip: If you do visit, check out our blog on the best areas to stay in Puerto Viejo for the safest and most touristic areas!

Jaco is a popular tourist destination on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, located just a few hours from San Jose by car. There is a pretty active nightlife in Jaco combined with the beachy vibes. It attracts throngs of tourists looking to party. While Jaco can be a lot of fun, it’s a busier city, and the party/drug culture means there is more crime. 

With that said, we both really enjoy Jaco. There are tons of activities to enjoy as well as top-rated restaurants , bars, as well as hotels and resorts !

Is Solo Travel in Costa Rica Safe? 

Solo travel in Costa Rica is extremely safe, as long as you use common sense. Most travelers and locals speak some amount of English, so even if you aren’t a Spanish speaker, you’ll still be able to get around relatively easier and find people to help you navigate during your travels. There’s a great infrastructure and a safe and reliable public transportation system throughout the country. 

Solo female travelers feel particularly safe traveling in Costa Rica. It’s one of the best countries for solo female travelers and even first-time solo female travelers. For one thing, it’s easy to get around and has a thriving hostel culture which makes it easy to make friends and find groups to go out with at night.

The whole country is set up to be tourist friendly and there are a variety of tours and experiences geared towards solo travelers available for solo females to book during their stay. Out of anywhere in Latin America, we would vote Costa Rica as the perfect destination for solo female travelers and especially first-timers.

Travel Scams to Watch Out for in Costa Rica

Like any tourist destination, you may run into some scams that are geared toward travelers during your trip to Costa Rica. It’s nothing to worry about, just be aware. Remember, if something feels off – it probably is. Trust your gut and watch out for some of these common travel scams. 

• Broken taxi meters
• Short changing or incorrect currency exchange 
• Car rentals that seem cheap but have huge fees for insurance 
• Fake vacation rentals online 

To avoid these scams, make sure that you have a good idea of the currency and what things cost, and do some research before booking rental cars and vacation rentals. 

Diseases in Costa Rica

Like many tropical destinations, certain diseases and illnesses are more common in Costa Rica . It’s a good idea to make sure you’re up to date on your routine vaccinations before you go as well as getting your Hepatitis shots if you haven’t already. 

Mosquito-borne illnesses like Malaria, Dengue, and Yellow Fever are more common in Costa Rica. It’s a good idea to wear a high-quality insect repellent, and if you are traveling to certain areas, you may want to consider taking a Malaria medication during your trip. Check with your doctor for suggestions.

Rabies is more common as well. If you’re bitten or scratched by a dog or another wild animal, it’s important to get a rabies vaccination right away.

To avoid pesky parasites, it’s a good idea to be cautious of contaminated water. When swimming in fresh water, make sure not to get any in your mouth. Agricultural runoff, including animal urine, often ends up in freshwater swimming holes, which can lead to parasites. If you do develop symptoms of a parasite, visit a doctor for treatment. 

Costa Rica Travel Insurance 

Always get travel insurance before you travel. This is especially true in Costa Rica because things are not very cheap here. Medical bills add up very quickly if you end up in hospital, not to mention, if you are a victim of theft, travel insurance will replace your items. Travel insurance isn’t just a piece of mind, but to us, it’s essential!

When we are going on a trip, the insurance provider we always use is SafetyWing . Their travel medical insurance is very affordable at only $45 USD per every 4-weeks. The only thing to note is that the insurance must be purchased once you’ve left your home country – we typically buy it as soon as we land at the airport.  

We’ve both personally used both SafetyWing for different trips, and we’ve been reimbursed for countless expenses when we’ve fallen ill. SafetyWing even covered our flights back to Canada when the pandemic first happened (when last-minute flights before the borders closed were super expensive.)

It’s safe to say that travel insurance has saved us thousands over the years!

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

The BEST Things to do in Costa Rica

While there are so many fun things to do in Costa Rica , a couple of specific attractions and activities stand out amongst the rest. They are:

Explore Volcanoes

There are some impressive (and beautiful!) volcanoes that you’ll want to check out while you’re here.

Poas Volcano is known for its bright blue crater lake. Poas Volcano is most commonly visited on a day trip from San Jose. This Poas Volcano tour from San Jose is one of the best you can do since it also includes a visit to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens as well as a coffee farm.

Arenal Volcano is also one of Costa Rica’s top attractions. Arenal Volcano is located closest to the town of La Fortuna. You can book this full-day tour from La Fortuna that takes you to the volcano to hike, the famous La Fortuna Waterfall and even a hanging bridge – it’s a full day of adventure!

Chase Waterfalls

La Fortuna Waterfall is one of our favorite waterfalls in all of Costa Rica. You can easily visit it on this full-day tour in La Fortuna that also visits hot springs.

Rio Celeste is another beautiful waterfall that is famous for its bright blue water. Rio Celeste is a popular attraction to visit from Guanacaste Province and this particular tour includes transport from there. Alternatively, you can book this tour from La Fortuna or this tour from San Jose .

See the wildlife

Costa Rica is the place for wildlife lovers! One of the best places to see lots of animals in their wild habitat is at Manuel Antonio National Park . With the help of a guide you will see plenty of birds, monkeys, and even sloths! This particular tour is super popular and also has amazing reviews, so you really can;t go wrong.

There are also lots of wildlife rescue centers around the country that are worth visiting. The Jaguar Rescue Center in Puerto Viejo is one of our favorites as well as Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in San Jose where you can book this private tour.

So, is Costa Rica safe?

Hopefully, this article leaves you feeling confident about embarking on your adventure in Costa Rica. The tiny country is one of the safest places for tourists to visit in Central America, with reliable infrastructure, tourist-friendly locals, and low crime rates in most places.

 If you’re still left wondering whether or not Costa Rica is safe, remember that crime exists everywhere in the world. It’s important to stay aware and use common sense anytime you venture abroad, but out of all the countries out there, Costa Rica is one of the safest spots for everyone and anyone to enjoy! 

Rio Celeste visitor guide

Where to stay in La Fortuna

Guide to visiting Manuel Antonio National Park

Advertisement

Is Costa Rica Safe? A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

• Share Content on Facebook
• Share Content via Email

When planning our next trip, safety is one of the top concerns that come to mind. It's natural to be cautious and informed about the security situation in a destination before embarking on a journey. In recent years, there have been reports and discussions about the safety of traveling to Costa Rica. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide for travelers, addressing the question: Is Costa Rica safe?

Understanding the Safety Situation in Costa Rica

The safety situation in mexico: a comparison, conclusion: traveling safely in costa rica and beyond.

Costa Rica, known for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity, has long been a popular destination for travelers. However, like any other country, it is essential to be aware of the safety situation and take necessary precautions while exploring this Central American gem.

Global Peace Index Ranking

According to the Global Peace Index, Costa Rica is considered the safest country in Latin America. This ranking reflects the country's low levels of violence and high political stability. It is worth noting that Costa Rica ranks higher in safety than the United States itself, which underscores the country's commitment to maintaining a secure environment for tourists.

Crime in Costa Rica

While Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, it is not entirely free from crime. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur, especially in popular tourist areas. It is crucial to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Safety Tips to Avoid Petty Crime

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and in big cities. Stay where there are people around.
• Do not wear flashy items or display expensive jewelry to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
• Keep your belongings secure at all times and avoid leaving them unattended, particularly on beaches or in public areas.
• Be cautious when using public transportation, as theft is common. Keep your bag containing valuables and identification on your lap.
• Take authorized taxis and pay attention to the meter to avoid scams. Keep your belongings close to you during the ride.
• Stick to marked trails when hiking and avoid venturing off into unknown areas. Hire a guide if possible for safety and to enhance your experience.
• Lock up valuables in your accommodation's safe or lockbox. Avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables.
• Be cautious in certain areas, such as San Jose at night, and avoid known high-risk areas for theft and drug activity.

Violent Crime and Drug Trafficking

While violent crime, including murders and armed robberies, occurs in Costa Rica, most incidents are related to drug trafficking activities. Certain provinces, such as Alajuela, Limon, Puntarenas, and San Jose, are more affected by these crimes. It is essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in these areas.

Fraud and Scams

Credit card and ATM fraud can occur in Costa Rica, so it is crucial to be cautious when using your cards. Pay close attention when others handle your cards, use ATMs in well-lit public areas, and check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements. Beware of scams, such as the taxi scam or "cheap tour" scam, and only use authorized companies when booking tours.

Natural Hazards and Adventure Tourism

Costa Rica is renowned for its adventure tourism, offering activities like white-water rafting, scuba diving, and ziplining. However, it is essential to be well-prepared and follow safety guidelines when participating in these activities. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer, and it is advisable to hire knowledgeable guides and ensure you have suitable travel insurance that covers adventure activities.

Women's Safety

Women traveling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault against foreigners have occurred in certain areas, such as beach resorts and taxis in San Jose. It is important for women travelers to be cautious, avoid walking alone at night, and trust their instincts. Researching safe accommodations and transportation options can also contribute to a smoother travel experience.

Demonstrations and Mass Gatherings

Demonstrations can take place in Costa Rica, particularly in San Jose. While peaceful demonstrations are common, they can escalate into violence unexpectedly. It is advisable to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, follow instructions from local authorities, and stay informed through local media.

Water Activities and Beach Safety

Costa Rica's coastal waters can be dangerous, with the presence of riptides. It is crucial to exercise caution when swimming and only swim in designated areas. Very few beaches have lifeguards, and there may be no warning signs for dangerous conditions. Consult locals and tour operators for information on safe swimming areas and monitor weather warnings.

As concerns about safety in Costa Rica arise, it is also important to consider the safety situation in other popular destinations, such as Mexico. Recent news reports have highlighted incidents of violence and crime in Mexico, causing some travelers to reconsider their travel plans.

Regional Variations in Safety

Mexico is a vast country with regional variations in safety. While certain areas may experience higher levels of violence and crime, popular tourist destinations often maintain a level of safety for visitors. It is essential to research specific regions and follow travel advisories issued by the government.

State Department Warnings and Levels

The U.S. State Department issues travel advisories to inform citizens about the safety situation in different countries. Mexico has varying levels of travel advisories for different states, ranging from level one (exercise normal precautions) to level four (do not travel).

Impact of Recent Incidents

Recent incidents, such as the drug-cartel shoot-out near the U.S. border, have drawn attention to the ongoing violence in certain areas of Mexico. It is crucial to understand that these incidents are often isolated and not representative of the entire country. Travelers should assess the specific regions they plan to visit and take necessary precautions.

Safety Precautions in Mexico

Travelers to Mexico should exercise caution and take certain safety precautions, regardless of the region they are visiting. Some general tips include avoiding being out late at night, staying in well-known tourist areas, and being mindful of personal belongings. It is also advisable to research local customs and etiquette to ensure a respectful and safe travel experience.

Safety is a top concern for travelers, and it is important to be informed and prepared when visiting any destination. While Costa Rica has been recognized as one of the safest countries in Latin America, it is still necessary to take precautions against petty crime and be aware of the local safety situation.

As with any travel destination, it is advisable to research the specific regions you plan to visit, follow travel advisories, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. By staying informed, being vigilant, and practicing common sense, you can minimize risks and focus on the incredible experiences that Costa Rica and other destinations have to offer. Remember, while safety is essential, it should not overshadow the beauty and adventure that await you on your travels.

This article was created using AI technology.

Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article:

• Outdoor Activities
• Destinations
• Book Hotels, Flights & Cars
• Advertise With Us
• Cookie Settings

Copyright © 2024 MapQuest Holdings LLC, a System1 Company

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

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)

Americas (PDF 3.25 MB)

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

Travelling to Costa Rica?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Is Costa Rica Safe To Visit?

Costa Rica is generally considered a safe destination. Learn more about the safety level and tourism offerings of the tropical getaway.

Sarah Rand • Feb 22, 2024

Costa Rica is a quaint country within Central America that borders Nicaragua and Panama. Although many travelers mistake it for one, Costa Rica is technically not an island. On the west side of the country is the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is located on the east. Costa Rica is an ideal location with a tropical climate and incredible natural beauty, alongside thriving biodiversity and vast landscapes that are quite impressive. This mountainous country is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

Travelers visiting the country will not have a dull moment. There is plenty for travelers to do in Costa Rica. Some of the top tourist attractions in the country include the Nicoya Peninsula, Ecotermales Hot Springs, Manuel Antonio National Park and Arenal Volcano. There are countless other natural attractions that travelers enjoy exploring. Although a lot of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions are naturally made, the country has metropolitan areas as well. Safety in metro areas can be somewhat questionable. This is especially true in situations where travelers face unfamiliar environments abroad. To establish whether or not Costa Rica is safe , we compiled all the important information on the country for potential visitors.

Best Travel Advisories

An important factor of traveling abroad safely is having information on the status of a potential travel destination. Travelers that are unsure about the safety level of their upcoming trip location should do their research. Seeking out reputable resources is wise so that travelers stay well informed. These are the top organizations that provide up to date safety information on travel destinations.

Crime Safety

The U.S. Department of State provides a well updated travel advisory. It has important information regarding the general safety of different countries and their regions. Costa Rica, for example, is categorized by the department of state as a level two destination. This means that travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling there. This caution is due to crime in the country. The types of crime are described in the safety and security portion of the travel advisory. Costa Rica’s tourism website is a good place to start for travelers with concerns for their safety. There travelers will find information about tourism and safety. To access the most secure information, online platforms like the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) are appropriate. The World Factbook on the CIA’s website describes the country’s history, U.S. Embassy contact info , local customs and travel safety tips. These pieces of information could offer travelers an opportunity to secure a safer environment while traveling.

Health Safety

Health safety is just one part of a travel destination’s overall safety level. But personal health is incredibly important for all travelers. This is especially true when tourists are traveling to a particular destination for the first time. It is important for travelers to stay informed about their potential travel destination and prepare accordingly. There are different online platforms that provide helpful information concerning the health status of locations abroad.

One of the top resources for travelers is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s traveler’s health page presents travel health notices, available medications, preventable illnesses and specialized travel tips for particular countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) is another reputable resource that will help travelers assess the health safety of their potential travel destination. On Costa Rica’s official country webpage, travelers can find a profile for the destination, location specific travel advice and health statistics. There is even contact information for the WHO offices in Costa Rica.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Tourists and Solo Travelers?

Yes, Costa Rica is a relatively safe destination for travelers. It is pretty well known by the tourism community as a safe country for solo and family travel. The country is considered secure. Technically Costa Rica is among the few countries in the world without an active army. The money that does not go to the military is for public healthcare and education. This serves as a testament to the safety level of Costa Rica. But that does not mean that crime does not occur in the Central American country.

Costa Rica does experience some crime, even though the majority of tourists feel safe there. Tourists are not disproportionately impacted by crimes in the country, but crimes do occur mostly in populated areas. Some of these may include areas frequented by tourists. The most common crimes in Costa Rica impacting tourists are petty. These include pickpocketing and theft. Generally, travelers that exercise basic travel precautions avoid being targeted by criminals.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

Exercising a baseline of travel safety precautions is a wise way for travelers to secure their safety. Some of the basic precautions include staying alert in crowded areas, never leaving valuables unattended, maintaining awareness and avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas. It is also important for travelers to know the contact information of local emergency services. This ensures that they are well informed of precautionary and preventive measures that may impact their overall safety abroad.

Travelers often rely on public transportation while abroad. In Costa Rica, the bus system is the most common way that both locals and visitors get around. So, it is important to know the best ways to stay safe on public transport while in unfamiliar surroundings. Travelers should at the very least be sure to stay alert while in public spaces, secure their personal belongings at their accommodation and avoid flaunting valuables or expensive things. Additional security measures while riding public transportation in Costa Rica include verifying driver’s certifications and confirming fares before entering vehicles.

Where to Stay

Costa Rica is quite vast and overall safe, so travelers have plenty of options for where to stay . But there are some options that stand out as the top selections for travelers. Tamarindo, Drake Bay and Atenas are some of the safest places for travelers to stay in. Tamarindo is located on the Pacific coast and is a popular destination in Costa Rica. Despite its popularity, Tamarindo does not have swarms of tourists in the area. The town is popular for water-sports, nightlife and culinary experiences. Drake Bay is a southwestern coastal area that offers travelers a family friendly environment. The slight privacy and peaceful ambiance of Drake Bay make it one of the safest areas of Costa Rica. Atenas is another option for travelers that stands out due to its tranquility. This small town is considered to be one of the safest areas for families or travelers that prefer to be out of all the hustle and bustle.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Costa Rica is dependent on the preferences of travelers but should be considerate of the weather conditions. The weather varies by region, but travelers can premeditate the weather conditions with forecasts before their trip. The dry season is the most popular season due to the pleasant weather. From around December to April travelers can enjoy the most ideal amount of sunshine. The characteristics of the dry season also mean that travelers should expect crowds and higher prices. If travelers do not mind rain or warmer temperatures, visiting in the rainy season or during summer may be best. The rainy season is between May and November and the highest temperatures occur during June and July.

People Also Ask

Is Costa Rica safe to live in? Yes, Costa Rica is actually one of the safest countries in Central America to live in.

Are tourists safe in Costa Rica? Tourists are perfectly safe while in Costa Rica as long as they exercise some basic travel safety precautions.

Subscribe to travel noire

Get more travel content

Subscribe to Travel Noire, a free daily newsletter that features the best of travel, destinations, and guides to the cities you love from a new point of view — yours.

By subscribing to this newsletter, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Popular posts

Trending stories in world travel

Your Guide to Safety in Costa Rica: Travel with Confidence

Costa Rica is generally considered safe for travelers, but it’s important to take precautions to ensure a safe trip. When visiting this beautiful country, it’s crucial to be aware of certain safety guidelines and guidelines to ensure a memorable and secure vacation.

One of the key aspects to keep in mind is the prevalence of common crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and armed robberies. Though these incidents may occur, travelers can minimize their risk by exercising caution, especially in major cities. Avoiding walking alone at night and being mindful of personal belongings can go a long way in ensuring safety.

Additionally, it’s important to stay informed about the safety of beaches and roads in Costa Rica. While the country is renowned for its stunning coastline and scenic driving routes, it’s essential to assess the current conditions and adhere to any safety advisories. By doing so, travelers can fully enjoy these natural wonders without compromising their well-being.

Costa Rica’s geographical location also exposes it to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. Being prepared and having an emergency plan can help mitigate the risks associated with these events. Staying informed about local guidelines and following any evacuation protocols is crucial for personal safety.

Key Takeaways:

• Exercise caution in major cities and avoid walking alone at night.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings secure.
• Stay informed about the safety of beaches and roads in Costa Rica.
• Prepare for potential natural disasters and have an emergency plan in place.
• Follow local guidelines and evacuation protocols when necessary.

By following these safety precautions and guidelines, travelers can confidently explore the wonders of Costa Rica, knowing that they have taken the necessary steps to ensure a safe and memorable trip.

Costa Rica Safety Tips: Precautions and Best Practices

When traveling to Costa Rica, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. While Costa Rica is generally considered safe for travelers, it’s still important to stay vigilant and follow best safety practices. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during your trip:

Safe Destinations in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a wide range of beautiful destinations, but it’s important to choose safe areas to visit. Stick to popular tourist spots and well-known areas that have a strong security presence. Some of the safest destinations in Costa Rica include Manuel Antonio, Arenal Volcano, and Monteverde Cloud Forest. These areas are known for their natural beauty and have well-established tourism infrastructure, making them ideal for a safe and enjoyable vacation.

General Safety Precautions

• Keep your belongings secure by using a money belt or a locked bag.
• Avoid displaying valuable items and keep your smartphone, camera, and other electronics concealed when not in use.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Be cautious of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, it’s best to remove yourself from it.

Beach and Road Safety

Costa Rica is famous for its stunning beaches, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety when enjoying the coastal areas. Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards present and pay attention to warning signs and flags. Rip currents can be strong, so it’s important to be cautious and follow any safety instructions given by authorities.

When it comes to road safety, be cautious while driving and adhere to local traffic laws. Avoid driving at night, as road conditions can be challenging, and visibility may be poor. It’s also important to be aware of potential potholes, wildlife crossing the roads, and aggressive driving behaviors of other motorists.

By following these safety tips and staying informed, you can make the most of your trip to Costa Rica while minimizing potential risks. Remember, your safety is paramount, so take necessary precautions and enjoy your journey in this beautiful country.

By following the safety tips and guidelines provided, travelers can confidently explore Costa Rica and enjoy all the natural beauty and adventure it has to offer.

Costa Rica is generally considered safe for travelers, but it’s important to take precautions to ensure a safe trip. Some common crimes in Costa Rica include pickpocketing, bag snatching, and armed robberies. Travelers should be cautious in major cities, avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of their surroundings. Safety on the beaches and on the roads is also essential.

Costa Rica is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes, so it’s important to stay informed and have a plan in case of emergency. Before traveling, it is advisable to research the current weather conditions and any alerts or warnings issued by local authorities. It is also recommended to carry necessary supplies and emergency contact information.

Overall, with the right precautions, travelers can have a safe and memorable trip to Costa Rica. In addition to the safety measures, it is important to respect the local culture and customs. Engaging with local communities and seeking advice from trusted sources are great ways to enhance the travel experience while staying safe. So, pack your bags, follow the guidelines, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica!

-Article by  Glenn Tellier  (Founder of  CRIE   and  Grupo Gap ).

[email protected]

Q: Is Costa Rica safe for travelers?

A: Yes, Costa Rica is generally considered safe for travelers. However, it’s important to take precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Q: What are some common crimes in Costa Rica?

A: Common crimes in Costa Rica include pickpocketing, bag snatching, and armed robberies.

Q: What precautions should I take in major cities?

A: In major cities, it’s important to be cautious, avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings.

Q: How can I ensure safety on the beaches?

A: To ensure safety on the beaches, it’s important to follow beach safety guidelines, such as avoiding swimming in rough waters and keeping an eye on your belongings.

Q: What should I know about road safety in Costa Rica?

A: Road safety is essential in Costa Rica. Be cautious when driving, follow the traffic rules, and avoid driving at night whenever possible.

Q: Is Costa Rica prone to natural disasters?

A: Yes, Costa Rica is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. It’s important to stay informed and have an emergency plan in case of any natural disasters.

Q: Can I travel to Costa Rica with confidence?

A: Absolutely! With the right precautions and awareness, travelers can have a safe and memorable trip to Costa Rica.

Want to invest? –  Click HERE . Looking for Real Estate? –  Click HERE . Looking for a Relocate Tour –  Click HERE . Need Residency status in Costa Rica? –  Click HERE .

Article by Glenn Tellier (Founder of CRIE and Grupo Gap)

See If You Qualify For Residency Today!

Add your comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Is Costa Rica Safe? Guide to safety & security in 2024

Known as tropical paradise, Costa Rica is a beautiful country waiting to be explored. From the vibrant culture to the natural landscapes, you won't want to miss this beautiful country. Is it really safe for tourists? Find out in this guide!

Planning to move or travel to Costa Rica? It's crucial to ensure your safety, no matter what you have in mind! Read this detailed guide on whether Costa Rica is safe enough for travelers…

Costa Rica is a country that boasts history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. It's popular for its incredible coastlines and food scene, which is every foodie's idea of paradise! 

If this makes you want to pack your bags and leave, you might be wondering if this central American country is safe for travelers…

It's nothing new when I say that traveling as a woman means constantly ensuring your safety. Is it a safe place to travel to? Are crimes common? The list goes on and on. Luckily for you, I researched Costa Rica, so you don't have to. 

In this guide, I'll talk about everything Costa Rica has to offer when it comes to safety and security. From safe  places to stay in Costa Rica  to touring with  legitimate groups , read on to know more!

Is Costa Rica Safe?

It's no surprise that Costa Rica is considered a tropical beauty of Central America with incredible beaches and an endless list of things to do. In fact, the country greets approximately 1.7 million travelers every year! That already says a lot about Costa Rica's safety for travelers! 

Want some stats on safety? Worldpackers ranks Costa Rica as the safest country in Central America! 

That being said, even the safest of countries have their fair share of scares. It's always good to have some  solo travel tips in Costa Rica , especially as a woman! 

I can definitely say that it's a safe country for most people, especially if you're aware of your surroundings.

Is Costa Rica Safe To Travel Alone?

Costa Rica is a hotspot where solo travelers head to when they get  tropical fever! You'll find yourself surrounded by warm locals and other tourists in a safe environment. For the most part, it's definitely a safe country for your solo adventures.

Your biggest risks are being scammed by local guides or petty theft, but there's nothing major to worry about!

Is Costa Rica Safe to Live In?

Costa Rica is a safe place to live. If you move here, you'll come across many expats and digital nomads who also live and work here. You'll have an easier time making friends with locals and foreigners alike!

Plus, the longer you live in Costa Rica, the safer you'll feel because of your familiarity with the surroundings.

Tips To Stay Safe In Costa Rica

While Costa Rica is safe in general, there are still some safety issues and concerns that you should be aware of.

These situations are common around the globe, so you might be familiar with them.

No matter how safe you feel, it never hurts to double-check your surroundings. There are many ways to keep yourself safe, and here are my 4 pieces of advice!

Avoid Heading Out Alone at Night

Costa Rica might not be the safest for women when it comes to enjoying the night. You'll notice women and girls traveling in packs or with their partners, especially at night!

When you're out at night exploring the country or  enjoying the nightlife , make sure you stay in a group. It might not come easy for solo travelers, but you can always make friends in your hostel or somewhere that you frequently visit!

Observe Your Surroundings

Costa Rica is best known for its hiking adventures. These paths are often secluded, with limited people around.

You're also surrounded by the country's wildlife and nature, meaning there's probably a wild animal around you!

Stay on track when hiking, keep your eyes and ears open to any unusual events, and always hike in a group.

It's just as easy to get lost in the wilderness or have a run-in with an animal if you're lazy about staying alert! 

Watch Your Belongings

One of the biggest safety issues in Costa Rica is theft and pick-pocketing. Sadly, with these kinds of pick-pocketing, you can only keep a close eye on your belongings.

When you're traveling using public transport, keep your wallet and phone in the front pocket and keep your hand over it. If you have a bag or such, ensure to keep it in front of you or between your legs.

Ultimately, when you're heading to the beach, you can't leave your belongings out in the open. It's best to travel in groups or bring minimal belongings on a day at the beach! 

Trust Your Gut

Despite all these safety tips, nothing can beat your gut feeling. If something feels off, it probably is.

If you find yourself in a situation that you're not feeling right about, it's best to get up and leave. 

You'll find this especially helpful when it comes to avoiding scams!

Scams In Costa Rica

Like any country, there will be  scams in Costa Rica . The only way to stay safe from them is to know what they are.

Luckily, these scams are not too dangerous, but they're still pretty frustrating.

Overpriced Taxis

Costa Rica's cabs come with a meter that'll tell you just how much you owe at the end of your ride. If you're not blending in with the locals, taxi drivers will often try to overcharge you! 

But how? They have quite some sly tricks and a broken meter is probably the most common excuse. 

If your driver is making any such excuses and not running your meter, get out. Leave that cab and find another who'll turn their meter on. It's not fun to be overcharged just because you're a traveler!

Another common scam you'll come across is a "tour guide" selling you an amazing tour for a low price. It might sound too good to be true, but that's because it is.

You'll pay them for the tour and have all arrangements done. But when it's time for the tour to start, the guide is nowhere to be found and neither is your money. 

You can simply avoid them by booking with reputable tour companies and guides. Find ones with an impressive list of reviews from actual tourists and book in advance for a great price point!

Ready to live a simple and pure life? Or, as they say in Costa Rica, Pura Vida. With Pilot, you can plan the ultimate trip to Costa Rica. 

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

Satisfy your wanderlust

Get Pilot. The travel planner that takes fun and convenience to a whole other level. Try it out yourself.

Trending Travel Stories

Discover new places and be inspired by stories from our traveller community.

Related Travel Guides

Costa Rica Nightlife: 8 Best Spots for the Best Parties! [2024]

Costa Rica Itinerary: Plan the best 7-day adventure in 2024

Costa Rica Solo Travel Guide: Essential advice & tips [2024]

Camping in Costa Rica: See the country's natural beauty!

Backpacking in Costa Rica Guide: Key Tips to know! [2024]

Make the most of every trip.

You won’t want to plan trips any other way!

The trip planner that puts everything in one place, making planning your trip easier, quicker, and more fun.

Click here to see more results

FOR YOU, FOR FREE: 17 years' worth of firsthand Costa Rica trip planning and travel advice compiled into hundreds of articles, plus exclusive discounts. Created by a Costa Rican and a four-time published Costa Rica guidebook author. Welcome, amigos, and as we say in Costa Rica, pura vida!

Our 2023 Moon Costa Rica guidebook (third edition)

Our 2022 Moon Best of Costa Rica guidebook (first edition)

Our 2021 Moon Costa Rica guidebook (second edition)

Our 2019 Moon Costa Rica guidebook (first edition)

• Moon Travel Guides
• FREE DIY COSTA RICA ACCESS! Details here.

Our company is inclusive.  Read our Anti-Hate, Anti-Racism, Anti-Xenophobia, Anti-Inequality, Anti-Discrimination Statement here.

NEW! Our awesome Costa Rica Destination Tool filters 66 destinations by nearly 150 criteria to help you quickly and easily decide where to go in Costa Rica according to your unique preferences, wants, and needs. Learn more and access the tool on our sister site, DIY Costa Rica, here.

Safety and Practicalities

Browse our Costa Rica blogs to learn everything you need to know about staying safe in Costa Rica, including Costa Rica safety tips and ways to keep a level head while traveling.

Learn About Moon Costa Rica, Our Costa Rica Guidebook Published By Moon Travel Guides!

Our Costa Rica guidebook, Moon Costa Rica, is full of tips, recommendations, photos, maps, and itineraries. Learn more!

Our Master List Of Costa Rica Do’s And Don’ts

Our list of Costa Rica do’s and don’ts (compiled over 14 years of Costa Rica travel) will maximize your Costa Rica travel experience.

Costa Rica Travel Anxiety: How I Help My Mental Health While Traveling Around Costa Rica

We outline ways to combat Costa Rica travel anxiety related to wildlife, robbery/assault, illness, accidents, orientation, social interaction, and flying.

Costa Rica Safety Guide: Is Costa Rica Safe? Yes, If You Do This.

We answer the question “is Costa Rica safe?” while assessing robbery, assault, water safety, car safety, money safety, and other travel risks.

Travel Brain: How To Maintain A Level Head Throughout Your Costa Rica Trip

Last updated on June 19th, 2019 at 05:22 pm GMT-6 (Costa Rica time)Your vacation time is precious. You probably don’t get it all too often, you work incredibly hard to afford it, and it creates opportunities for you and your loved ones to make once-in-a-lifetime  …

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.

We're Nikki and Ricky, and we're human!

Sadly, ai-generated costa rica blogs and guides are taking over the internet. thank you for choosing our authentic website and resources over others, for trusting our firsthand experience, and for preferring our human-backed recommendations 😀 other ways we are unique:.

✓ We choose not to display ads, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing on our blog. Because we prioritize your privacy, we don't earn money when you visit us, when you sign up for our e-course, or when you click on our links, which means the time and work we put into this blog is entirely voluntary. ✓ Ricky is a born-and-raised Costa Rican and Nikki (married to Ricky) has explored Costa Rica since the mid-2000s . ✓ We've operated our Costa Rica-based business, Pura Vida! eh? Inc. , for 16 years (and counting!) . ✓ Our Costa Rica guidebooks are published by the prestigious Moon Travel Guides brand . ✓ We only ever write about experiences we know firsthand , and we never stuff our blog with general information about Costa Rica that is widely available elsewhere . ✓ We never copy or plagiarize other writers' content . How we wish other writers would show us the same respect! ✓ Unless stated otherwise, every photo displayed on our blog was taken by us, and with our own two hands. (Unlike some other bloggers, who rely on drones to travel and conduct research for them, we actually visit and explore the places we write about .)👍🏽 ✓ We're active in promoting Costa Rica around the world . We've written about Costa Rica for Wanderlust Magazine (UK), presented Costa Rica on Rick Steves' Monday Night Travel Show and podcast/radio show (US), and served as a Costa Rica Destination Editor for Essentialist (Spain). ✓ Our work is backed by hundreds of positive reviews and testimonials ( read some here ) ✓ We are not overly active on social media . Instead of fixating on our own popularity, we spend the majority of our time exploring and researching Costa Rica, updating our various Costa Rica resources, and working with travelers one-on-one. We're focused on the quality of your travel experience , not the quantity of our followers. ❤️ 

We hope you enjoy your visit to our junk-free blog as much as your time in Costa Rica. 😊

• Privacy Policy Overview
• Remember my preference

This website uses cookies to operate and provide you with the best user experience possible. To ensure you're aware of and okay with this and our other privacy-related practices, please review our  Privacy Policy, then click the button below to accept it.

If you do not accept the policy, we respect your choice 100%. Unfortunately, several of our website’s features, including our Questions and Answers Forum, rely on cookies to operate. Most are also run by themes, plugins, and other add-ons to our website that we do not and cannot control, which means the cookies you receive are mainly provided by third parties. Because simple actions like reading our articles, asking a question, and even visiting our website’s homepage require the use of cookies, it is not possible to explore or use our website without them. If you would prefer not to receive cookies, we kindly (and sadly) ask that you do not visit our website. (Alternatively, you can try setting your browser to remove or reject browser cookies before visiting our website, but you may find that our website doesn’t function properly without them.) By visiting or submitting information through our website, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies, and the use of third-party cookies. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy.

Thank you for understanding!

In order for our site to remember that you accept our policy, please enable the Strictly Necessary Cookie.

If you leave the Strictly Necessary Cookie disabled, we will not be able to save your preference. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to accept the policy again.

COSTA RICA   Nicoya Peninsula

Peninsula de Nicoya Travel and Vacation Guide

Security Risks for Tourists in Costa Rica

Compared to its Latin American neighbors, Costa Rica is still a relatively safe travel destination. However, thievery is a serious problem, and violent crimes have also increased in the touristy areas.

Take extreme care and use common sense to avoid any risk.

The most important Rules for Safety:

• Be alert – you might always being watched.
• Never, really NEVER! leave valuables unattended in your vehicle.
• Keep your hotel room’s doors and windows locked and store valuables in a safe box.
• In a restaurant or bar keep contact with your bag. Also take care that nobody has the opportunity to put something into your drink.
• In crowds, buses, or on lively streets wear your backpack on the chest, not on the back.
• Always be suspect if anyone pushes against you.
• On buses most thefts happen inside the bus. Never put your bags in the overhead bins.
• Women in particular should not walk alone on the street or beach at night.
• With a rental car be alert if you have a flat tire and people show up to help you. Your accident might have been manipulated and the helpers just want to rob you.

More advice for travel safety:

• Costa Rica Security Risks by the Government of Canada (click on the tab “Security”
• Costa Rica Reise- und Sicherheitshinweise Auswärtiges Amt der Bundesrepublik Deutschland

Should you have been robbed, there is little recourse. You can file your report with the police, and that’s it. In Costa Rica, petty crime (theft worth less than $1,000) is hardly punished, and there is noe prosecution for minors below the age of 18. Even if you catch the thief and deliver him to the police, he is probably released the next day without any consequences.

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.