nhs travel advice costa rica

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Costa Rica Traveler View

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

• Packing List

After Your Trip

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

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in the Americas April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.), Uruguay

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

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

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

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

Immunization schedules

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

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

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

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

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

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

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

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

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

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

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

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

Malaria information for Costa Rica.

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

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

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

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

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

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

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

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

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

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

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

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

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

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

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

Airborne & droplet

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

Tuberculosis (TB)

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

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

Eat and drink safely

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

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

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

Prevent bug bites

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

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

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

What type of insect repellent should I use?

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

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

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

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

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

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

Stay safe outdoors

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

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

Stay safe around water

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

Keep away from animals

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

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

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

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

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

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

Reduce your exposure to germs

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

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

Avoid sharing body fluids

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

Protect yourself:

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

Know how to get medical care while traveling

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

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

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

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

Select safe transportation

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

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

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

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

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

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

Think about the driver.

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

Follow basic safety tips.

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

Medical Evacuation Insurance

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

Helpful Resources

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

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

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

Maintain personal security

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

Before you leave

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

While at your destination(s)

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

Healthy Travel Packing List

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

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

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

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

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

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

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

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Travel vaccination advice

If you're planning to travel outside the UK, you may need to be vaccinated against some of the serious diseases found in other parts of the world.

Vaccinations are available to protect you against infections such as yellow fever , typhoid and hepatitis A .

In the UK, the  NHS routine immunisation (vaccination) schedule protects you against a number of diseases, but does not cover all of the infectious diseases found overseas.

When should I start thinking about the vaccines I need?

If possible, see the GP or a private travel clinic at least 6 to 8 weeks before you're due to travel.

Some vaccines need to be given well in advance to allow your body to develop immunity.

And some vaccines involve a number of doses spread over several weeks or months.

You may be more at risk of some diseases, for example, if you're:

• travelling in rural areas
• backpacking
• staying in hostels or camping
• on a long trip rather than a package holiday

If you have a pre-existing health problem, this may make you more at risk of infection or complications from a travel-related illness.

Which travel vaccines do I need?

You can find out which vaccinations are necessary or recommended for the areas you'll be visiting on these websites:

• Travel Health Pro
• NHS Fit for Travel

Some countries require proof of vaccination (for example, for polio or yellow fever vaccination), which must be documented on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) before you enter or when you leave a country.

Saudi Arabia requires proof of vaccination against certain types of meningitis for visitors arriving for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

Even if an ICVP is not required, it's still a good idea to take a record of the vaccinations you have had with you.

Find out more about the vaccines available for travellers abroad

Where do I get my travel vaccines?

First, phone or visit the GP practice or practice nurse to find out whether your existing UK vaccinations are up-to-date.

If you have any records of your vaccinations, let the GP know what you have had previously.

The GP or practice nurse may be able to give you general advice about travel vaccinations and travel health, such as protecting yourself from malaria.

They can give you any missing doses of your UK vaccines if you need them.

Not all travel vaccinations are available free on the NHS, even if they're recommended for travel to a certain area.

If the GP practice can give you the travel vaccines you need but they are not available on the NHS, ask for:

• written information on what vaccines are needed
• the cost of each dose or course
• any other charges you may have to pay, such as for some certificates of vaccination

You can also get travel vaccines from:

• private travel vaccination clinics
• pharmacies offering travel healthcare services

Which travel vaccines are free?

The following travel vaccines are available free on the NHS from your GP surgery:

• polio (given as a combined diphtheria/tetanus/polio jab )
• hepatitis A

These vaccines are free because they protect against diseases thought to represent the greatest risk to public health if they were brought into the country.

Which travel vaccines will I have to pay for?

You'll have to pay for travel vaccinations against:

• hepatitis B
• Japanese encephalitis
• tick-borne encephalitis
• tuberculosis (TB)
• yellow fever

Yellow fever vaccines are only available from designated centres .

The cost of travel vaccines that are not available on the NHS will vary, depending on the vaccine and number of doses you need.

It's worth considering this when budgeting for your trip.

Other things to consider

There are other things to consider when planning your travel vaccinations, including:

• your age and health – you may be more vulnerable to infection than others; some vaccines cannot be given to people with certain medical conditions
• working as an aid worker – you may come into contact with more diseases in a refugee camp or helping after a natural disaster
• working in a medical setting – a doctor, nurse or another healthcare worker may require additional vaccinations
• contact with animals – you may be more at risk of getting diseases spread by animals, such as rabies

If you're only travelling to countries in northern and central Europe, North America or Australia, you're unlikely to need any vaccinations.

But it's important to check that you're up-to-date with routine vaccinations available on the NHS.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Speak to a GP before having any vaccinations if:

• you're pregnant
• you think you might be pregnant
• you're breastfeeding

In many cases, it's unlikely a vaccine given while you're pregnant or breastfeeding will cause problems for the baby.

But the GP will be able to give you further advice about this.

People with immune deficiencies

For some people travelling overseas, vaccination against certain diseases may not be advised.

This may be the case if:

• you have a condition that affects your body's immune system, such as HIV or AIDS
• you're receiving treatment that affects your immune system, such as chemotherapy
• you have recently had a bone marrow or organ transplant

A GP can give you further advice about this.

Non-travel vaccines

As well as getting any travel vaccinations you need, it's also a good opportunity to make sure your other vaccinations are up-to-date and have booster vaccines if necessary.

Although many routine NHS vaccinations are given during childhood, you can have some of them (such as the MMR vaccine ) as an adult if you missed getting vaccinated as a child.

There are also some extra NHS vaccinations for people at higher risk of certain illnesses, such as the flu vaccine , the hepatitis B vaccine and the BCG vaccine for tuberculosis (TB) .

Your GP can advise you about any NHS vaccinations you might need.

Find out about NHS vaccinations and when to have them

Page last reviewed: 16 March 2023 Next review due: 16 March 2026

13 essential things to know before visiting Costa Rica

Sep 1, 2023 • 7 min read

From weather-proof essentials to pura vida, here's our list of things to know before visiting Costa Rica © Matteo Colombo

On a recent trip to Costa Rica , on a hike in the remote forests of Volcán Tenorio National Park , the sky unexpectedly opened up, dumping buckets of rain on my 12-year-old twins and me. We were completely soaked, despite our rain gear. 

“So much for the dry season,” I complained.

My kid looked at me with incredulity. 

“Mom, we’re in the rainforest!”

Good point, kid.

In Costa Rica, every adventure comes with a potential misadventure. That’s the lesson I have learned (and learned to love), from 25 years of traveling in this wild wonderland. 

From driving through rivers due to washed-out bridges, to getting stung by scorpions, to getting lost in the country’s largest national park…I have had my fair share of travel “disasters.”

But I have also learned how good planning (and a healthy dose of reframing) can turn almost any disaster into an extraordinary experience. Here are 13 tips to make sure your trip to Costa Rica is memorable in all the right ways.

1. Your essential packing item: waterproof hiking sandals

Waterproof sandals are ideal for river crossings, rocky beaches, waterfall swimming and other essential Costa Rica activities. Close-toed sandals are recommended (and sometimes required) for many activities.

2. It’s hot in the lowlands, but cool in the mountains 

Costa Rica is in the tropics and yes, it gets hot on the coast and in the humid lowlands. But the temperature drops significantly as you climb into the mountains. If you’re planning to go to the cloud forest – Monteverde or San Gerardo de Dota or Rivas – you’re going to want a jacket (at least).

3. It rains a lot in the rainforest – even in the dry season

The rainforest and cloud forest are wet climates at any time of year. So it’s best to pack for rain, even if you are traveling in the so-called dry season. Bring sturdy, waterproof boots for hiking on muddy trails. 

Be prepared for showers (or downpours) with a quick-drying, moisture-wicking base layer and a waterproof rain jacket.

4. Costa Rican liability insurance is mandatory for all vehicle rentals

Everybody who rents a vehicle in Costa Rica is legally required to purchase liability insurance from the rental agency. This can be frustrating and confusing for travelers, especially since the extra cost of this insurance is (often) not included in the original price quoted at the time of reservation.

It seems like a scam, but it’s an official scam and there’s no way around it. You can usually avoid this confusion (but not the charge) by reserving your vehicle directly with a rental car agency and not through a third-party consolidator.

Note that most rental agencies also require drivers to have comprehensive insurance, in addition to liability insurance. You may be able to avoid purchasing a comprehensive insurance package if you use a credit card that provides this benefit.

5. Do you need a 4WD vehicle in Costa Rica? 

Do you want to swim at secret beaches, discover hidden waterfalls and hike untrodden trails? You’re probably going to need a 4WD to get there.

There are plenty of wonderful places in Costa Rica that do not require a 4WD; but there are plenty that do, and it’s hard to know which is which until you are sliding slowly but surely backward down a steep hill. Or staring at a road that continues on the other side of a river. Or stuck solid in a muddy rut. 

So, yes - if you’re going to rent a vehicle, you should probably rent a 4WD.

6. Pura Vida is a state of mind 

It’s easy to travel in Costa Rica without knowing much Spanish, but there is one phrase you need to know: Pura vida! It’s a salutation and a valediction, a statement of affirmation or appreciation. It means that life is good, or literally, “pure.” Pura vida! You will hear this a lot, and hopefully you will feel it too.

7. Costa Rica is eco-conscious 

Many Costa Rican residents are passionate about protecting the country’s incredible natural resources. You’ll notice this earth-positive attitude when you tour organic farms, hike at private nature reserves, learn about local wildlife and stay at eco-lodges. Ecotourism is a huge part of the Costa Rican economy (accounting for up to 10% of GDP). 

That said, there is an appreciation of country’s biological and geological diversity for its inherent value, not just its economic value. This means that the country prioritizes things like reducing its carbon emissions and preserving its habitats, even when it’s not immediately economically beneficial.

8. Set your watch to Tico time

Efficiency is not a high priority in Costa Rica. Be prepared for a slow start to almost any scheduled event, including tours, meetings, etc. This does not mean you should arrive late, but it does mean that you will spend some quality time… waiting around. Remember, this is a country that has embraced the sloth as a national symbol.

Not unrelated, things in Costa Rica often take longer than you expect. This applies especially when you're to driving to your destination (traffic, road hazards, poor driving conditions, beautiful scenery, etc.) and eating in restaurants (unhurried service, food cooked from scratch). So, take your time and enjoy!

9. Your tip means something 

Tipping in Costa Rica is optional. Really! A tip is not expected, but it is much appreciated by hard-working guides and servers. If your service was ho-hum, you are not obliged. But if you receive excellent service on a tour or in a restaurant, don’t hesitate to give a tip to show your gratitude.

10. Staying safe on the trail and in the surf 

The biggest danger to travelers in Costa Rica? Rip tides. To stay safe, look for warning flags on beaches: yellow means you should swim with caution and red means swimming is prohibited. 

Always be cautious about swimming and surfing alone. Remember: don’t struggle against a current pulling you out to sea; instead, swim parallel to the shore until you are free from the current.

When hiking, be sure to inform a park ranger or reserve attendant before setting out, and always stay on marked trails. Watch out for snakes on the trail and never approach wild animals. (It’s illegal to feed or take a selfie with a wild animal!)

11. Driving conditions can be challenging 

Driving is one of the most stressful aspects of traveling in Costa Rica. Be prepared for heavy traffic in cities and poor road conditions everywhere else.

Recent years have seen many new roads and vast improvements to Hwy 1 (aka the Interamericana), which makes for safer, more pleasant driving.

However, you are likely to find yourself driving on some roads that are narrow, winding, unpaved and/or poorly maintained. To stay safe while driving, take your time! Don’t be in a rush to reach your destination. Plan to travel during daylight hours (that is, before 6pm), as the lack of road lighting makes driving in the dark even more precarious.

12. Tap water is a-OK to drink

There may be exceptions in remote villages or off-the-grid locales. For the most part, however, the tap water in Costa Rica is safe to drink. So, there’s no need to purchase single-use plastic bottles. Bring your own water bottle to save money and save the planet!

13. High-quality healthcare is available

The healthcare system in Costa Rica is ranked among the best in the world (according to the World Health Organization and the United Nations), so in case of minor mishaps or unfortunate emergencies on your trip, you will be well taken care of.

Although the country’s public healthcare system (Caja) provides free universal coverage for citizens and permanent residents, travelers and ex-pats need to cover their own costs. 

There’s also a private healthcare system, which may be covered by US or European health insurance. Medical consultations, procedures and medications are relatively affordable in Costa Rica, but travelers’ insurance with medical coverage is always recommended. 

In case of emergency, call 911.

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Malaria in costa rica (zona norte) - update 1, 25 feb 2022.

Public health officials in Costa Rica (via media in Spanish)  report continuing transmission of malaria in the Zona Norte region of the country

Since September 2021, increased malaria case numbers have been reported from Medio Queso, San Gerardo, Cuatro Esquinas, Isla Chica, La Trocha, Las Delicias, Coquita, Santa Cecilia and San Francisco.

Advice for Travellers

Malaria is a potentially serious infection that is transmitted to humans by mosquito bites.

If you travelling to this area you should:

• understand your  risk of malaria , given the current increase in cases
• know how to  protect yourself against mosquito bites  during your trip
• children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with certain medical conditions are at an increased risk of becoming severely unwell if they develop malaria and may be recommended to take  tablets to prevent malaria (antimalarials)  during your trip. You should talk to a travel health professional to find out if you should take antimalarial tablets.

If you develop a high temperature (fever) during your trip, or for up to a month on return, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and tell the doctor about your recent travel history.

See the fitfortravel  Malaria section  for further information.

Related News

• 08 Dec 2021 - Malaria in Costa Rica (Zona Norte)

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Requirements

• Planning Your Trip
• Entry Requirements

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Requirements to enter the country.

Entry to Costa Rica has been opened to tourists from all countries.

All tourists must comply with the immigration processes established in the General Immigration and Aliens Act (Ley General de Migración y Extrangería).

During your visit in Costa Rica, you are required to comply with the health protocols put in place by private companies when participating in any tourism activities in the country.

In accordance with Article 42 of the General Law on Immigration and Aliens (No. 8764) and Article 30 of the Immigration Control Regulation (Executive Decree No. 36769-G), foreign nationals intending to enter Costa Rica must provide:

• A valid passport or travel document. Passports and travel documents will only be accepted if they can be read electronically in line with the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must be valid for the period set forth in these guidelines.
• Visa, if required under these guidelines.
• Proof of economic means, with a minimum of US$100.00 (one hundred US dollars) per month or partial month of legal stay in the country.
• Return ticket to the country of origin or plan of onward travel that includes the next destination.
• No impediment to entering Costa Rican territory.

MAXIMUM STAY:

The maximum legal stay for foreign nationals will be determined by the immigration agent upon their entry into the country.

Countries in the first group: UP TO 180 CALENDAR DAYS, NON-EXTENDABLE 

Countries in the second group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS

Countries in the third group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS, EXTENDABLE

Countries in the fourth group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS, EXTENDABLE

Please remember:

• In order to enter Costa Rica, you will need a ticket for a return flight, which the immigration official will ask to see when you arrive. It is recommended that you make a photocopy of your passport with the entry stamp, which you should carry with you at all times during your stay.
• The number of days you are permitted to stay in Costa Rica will depend on the group your country of origin belongs to.
• The immigration official may ask you to demonstrate that you have the funds needed for your stay in the country.
• The immigration official may indicate in your passport that your permitted stay will be for a different amount of time.
• Visitors to Costa Rica must have a valid passport and proof that they will be leaving the country before their visa or entry stamp expires.

All travelers must therefore have a ticket for return or onward travel.

Non-residents must have a ticket for return or onward travel if they:

Are arriving on a one-way ticket.

Are entering the country with a return ticket that is more than 90 days after their date of arrival.

Are flying to Costa Rica and flying out of a different country.

By law, a return or onward travel ticket may be on one of the following means of approved commercial transportation:

• A pre-purchased bus ticket out of the country.
• A pre-purchased flight out of the country.
• Proof of passage on a cruise ship.

Obligatory declarations when entering or leaving Costa Rica:

When entering or leaving a port of entry to Costa Rica, if you are carrying an amount equal to or greater than US$10,000 in cash or securities, or its equivalent in other currencies, you must request and complete the form designated for this purpose in the immigration checkpoint and present it to the Customs Authority for verification. The declaration must be made before finalizing the corresponding immigration procedures.

Failure to follow the provisions of Costa Rican law (No. 8204, Article 35) will result in the immediate forfeiture of the money.

What kind of vaccines do visitors to Costa Rica need?

As of July 30, 2007, Costa Rican authorities require all travelers from the following countries to have a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador, as well as the Republic of Guyana.

If you need more information, please click here

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Costa Rica Malaria Map

The Central American country of Costa Rica has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Costa Rica is known for its stunning natural highlights, including volcanoes, beaches and protected jungle areas, forming a diverse and fascinating landscape.

Travel Health Information

Highly recommended vaccinations for travelling here, advisory vaccinations for travelling here.

Yellow fever certification is required if arriving from a country with high risk of yellow fever.

It is important before travelling to ensure you are up to date with childhood immunisations such as measles, mumps and rubella.

Consult with your local CityDoc travel expert to tailor your vaccine requirements based on your medical history, previous vaccinations and travels as well as your itinerary.

Find your nearest CityDoc

With over 150 clinics nationwide, there is a CityDoc clinic to suit all of your travel needs

Destination Information for Costa Rica

Many visitors are drawn by the prospect of seeing rare and beautiful wildlife; including the colourful quetzal bird and irresistible spider monkey. Almost a quarter of the country’s land area is national park or part of a protected area, home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna, making Costa Rica a popular destination for ecotourism; an estimated 46% of visitors to the country engage in related activities, including bird watching, trekking and visiting rural communities.

The most popular part of the country for tourists is the Central Pacific region, with its long coastline with the Pacific Ocean. There are many beaches and resorts here, and relatively easy access to the Southern Pacific region, home to beautiful tropical beaches and lush rainforests.

The capital, San Jose, has plenty going on with a variety of museums and cafes, but the real attraction is the great outdoors. Costa Rica really is a fabulous destination for travellers who want to see stunning wildlife, stay active with a range of sporting activities, and have an action-packed adventure in a beautiful part of the world.

Costa Rica is country which boasts beautiful national parks & nature shelters, but it’s also a mountainous country with magnificent volcanoes and mountain ranges. Travellers’ who visit areas of high altitude are advised to be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness, which can be potentially life threatening in some cases.

The current recommended vaccines include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Rabies, typhoid and tetanus, diphtheria and polio. Additionally, there is a malaria & zika virus risk in the country, so book a consultation at one of our travel clinics for more information on vaccines and antimalarials.

Infections and Outbreaks frequently change from country to country and by attending our clinics you will be given the most up to date clinical and safety advice from our team of specialists. Our advice to you often includes aspects such as:

• Food and water hygiene
• Insect and animal bite avoidances
• Personal safety
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Sun protection
• Altitude sickness

Malaria and regions within country:

There is a variable risk of P.Vivax malaria in Limon province, in and around Matina. There is a low to no risk in other areas where anti-malarial medication is not advised.

Travel news

Helpful travel news, tips and advice for travelling around the world

Shingles – Are you at risk?

Brazil launches nationwide dengue fever vaccination campaign amidst soaring cases, the ripple effect of climate change on mosquito-borne diseases, for the latest government travel advice.

For anyone planning to travel abroad we recommend visiting the following government website for all the latest travel guidance and advice.

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Costa Rica Travel Advisory

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

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to  crime .

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

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

If you decide to travel to Costa Rica:

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

Travel Advisory Levels

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

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel. 

Emergency services in Costa Rica  

Telephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer 

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel 

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first. 

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including: 

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider 
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO  

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including: 

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Costa Rica 
• dealing with a  death in Costa Rica  
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Costa Rica  
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime   
• what to do if you’re  in hospital   
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack 

Contacting FCDO  

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency 

If you’re in Costa Rica and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in San José . 

FCDO in London 

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad. 

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours) 

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Travel Advisory – Malaria in Costa Rica

A malaria outbreak has been reported in various regions of Costa Rica. Antimalarials are recommended.

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Costa Rica

Costa Rica has something for everyone. Beaches for a relaxing holiday. Rivers and jungles for adventure travellers. Mountain resorts for those who want something in-between. It is one of the most popular destinations in Central America and a favorite among travellers.

But even popular destinations need a little preparation before you’re ready to go.

Do I Need Vaccines for Costa Rica?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Costa Rica. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Costa Rica: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Vaccine-preventable diseases are not the only threats. Dengue fever and chikungunya, two mosquito-borne diseases, are also present. Take proper precautions to avoid mosquitoes and mosquito bites such as using repellents and netting.

Traveller’s diarrhea is another threat. the PHAC estimates as many as 70 percent of travellers will fall ill to traveller’s diarrhea. Avoid questionable eateries and bring a remedy like DiaResQ or a traveller’s diarrhea kit.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page . Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.

Customer Reviews

Passport health – travel vaccines for costa rica, do i need a visa for costa rica.

Costa Rica allows nationals of certain countries, including Canada, to enter the country and remain there for up to 90 days. Canadian citizens entering for tourism or business purposes do not need a visa for the duration of that time period. If you plan on staying for longer than a 90-day period, you will require either a business, multiple entry, or tourist visa.

Sources: Embassy of Costa Rica and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What Is the Climate Like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a warm and tropical country. The weather is usually consistent throughout the year. Different places in Costa Rica have different climates. For example, the capital city, San José, has a mild climate with temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees. It has a rainy season from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall in September and October.

Arenal is a popular tourist destination known for its volcano and hot springs. It is warm and humid with temperatures between 20 and 30. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall in September and October. Monteverde is a cloud forest region with cooler temperatures due to its high altitude. It has a rainy season from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall in October.

Manuel Antonio is a beach destination with hot and humid temperatures ranging from 25 to 30. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall in September and October. Guanacaste is a popular beach and surf destination with a dry climate. It has temperatures between 25 to 35. It has a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November.

How Safe Is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a particularly safe country, often referred to as the safest country in the Latin America.

Despite the lack of crime, it is still wise to practice caution in crowded places, keep all the valuables in a safe place and avoid going out after dark.

The roads in Costa Rica are in a bad condition, so it is necessary to the particularly careful when driving.

The biggest threats in Costa Rica are active volcanoes and venomous snakes and frogs. Make sure to find the most recent safety information before going near the volcanoes and be extremely cautious with the wild animals.

What Should I Take to Costa Rica?

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Nigeria:

• Hiking Boots -Costa Rica boasts 5% of the world’s species in its lush forests. Make sure to get out of the city and see the incredibly rich wildlife with your own eyes.
• Photo Camera – There is a lot to see in Costa Rica. Enjoy the sights to the fullest by taking a photo camera with you and capturing the sights you encounter. Best travel souvenirs are the photos you take.
• Rain Jacket – Since in some parts of the country it can rain all year long, it is a good idea to bring a light rain jacket with you. With proper clothing, the bursts of rain will pass by before you know it.
• Sunscreen – The sun in Costa Rica is very ruthless and can give you painful sunburns. Make sure to bring a sunscreen with a high factor of SPF to protect your skin from the sun.
• Bug Spray – To avoid mosquito-borne illnesses, it is best to carry your own bug spray. The stores in Costa Rica might not offer a high variety of repellents, leaving you with a limited selection of overpriced bug sprays.

Canadian Embassy in Costa Rica

There is only one Canadian Embassy in Costa Rica and no consulates. The embassy is located at:

Canadian Embassy San José La Sabana Executive Business Centre, Building No. 5, 3rd Floor behind the Contraloría General de la República, San José, Costa Rica Telephone: (506) 2242-4400

If you do have a serious issue, such as a lost passport, contact the Canadian Embassy in San José immediately.

Beach, jungle, adventure, Costa Rica has something for almost every type of traveller. Make sure your journey is protected by visiting your local Passport Health. Our travel health specialists will help you receive everything you need to help you stay healthy as you go. To schedule your appointment today, call or book online now.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Costa Rica? Do I Need a Visa for Costa Rica? What is the Climate Like in Costa Rica? How Safe is Costa Rica? What Should I Take To Costa Rica? Canadian Embassy in Costa Rica

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Natural Wonders of Costa Rica

An exploration by land & sea aboard the National Geographic Quest

• 7 November 2024
• 14 November 2025

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Itinerary highlights.

• Explore the dense forest surrounding Arenal Volcano and relax in nearby hot springs.
• Hike through the mist-shrouded cloud forest reserve in Monteverde and enjoy great bird watching.
• Glide through a mangrove forest to see reddish egrets, spoonbills,white ibis, and crocodiles.
• Kayak, snorkel, swim, hike – actively explore every day.
• Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park, which is alive with active volcanos and gurgling mud pots and replete with howler monkeys, waterfalls, and an optional zipline.
• Spend an afternoon enjoying Isla Tortuga’s palm-shaded beaches before a barbecue dinner.

Useful links & Travel Advice

Please find a selection of  useful websites  to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.  

Costa Rica is a small country, yet its particular topography and position between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans result in it being one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. It has, over recent years, grown in its appeal to the UK traveller. No wonder when you consider its attractions: bountiful rain forests, cloud forests, soaring volcanoes, sugar sand beaches and a remarkably diverse landscape and culture. Added to this is the famous wildlife of the region: spider, howler and capuchin monkeys, coatimundis and over 300 species of birds including brilliant toucans and scarlet macaws. We are therefore delighted to be offering this new, unique journey to Costa Rica which combines a six night escorted tour with a five night voyage aboard the 100-passenger National Geographic Quest, aboard which our associates at Lindblad Expeditions have provided us with an allocation of cabins.

Costa Rica offers some of the best tourism facilities with comfortable hotels, relatively good roads and excellent transportation and as we journey overland, we will discover a wealth of fascinating cultural and natural world marvels. After a night in San Jose, we journey to the Arenal Volcano region where we explore the forest, bathe in the nearby hot springs and hike to take in the volcano’s natural beauty. Next we will explore Monteverde; famous for its lush rainforests and impressive assortment of flora and fauna, the area has a high biodiversity and we hope to spot many species of bird, butterfly, reptile, plant, tree and insect here as we explore with our guides.

Embarking the National Geographic Quest in Puerto Caldera, we set sail on a voyage to discover the treasures of one of Costa Rica’s most intriguing provinces: Guanacaste. The Guanacaste Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there will be opportunities to explore the magnificent underwater world and palm-lined beaches as well as to hike and learn about the hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and mammals that inhabit this thriving ecosystem. Other highlights include the mist-shrouded volcanic peaks in Rincon de la Vieja National Park and Curu Wildlife Refuge where we will explore in search of exotic wildlife, like macaws and white-faced capuchin monkeys moving from tree to tree. Your experience will be made all the more memorable by the onboard team of experts who will accompany you on the Zodiacs, hold daily lectures and briefings and lead guided nature walks ashore.

Purpose-built to explore the North American coast, the National Geographic Quest accommodates just 100 guests in 50 outside cabins. The design and engineering of the National Geographic Quest were informed by nearly 40 years of experience of expedition cruising. Her twin boarding platforms, for example, enable the expedition team to load two Zodiacs at once, meaning guests can disembark the ship quickly to take advantage of wildlife sightings and maximise time spent exploring ashore. The vessel features a shallow draft, allowing the Captain to navigate the inner reaches and the onboard Zodiacs offer opportunities to get even closer to the action and land in remote locations. There are also kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment on board.

Day 1 London to San Jose, Costa Rica.

Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Real Intercontinental Hotel San Jose for our overnight stay. Meet your fellow travellers for dinner this evening.

Day 2 San Jose to Arenal.

This morning after a leisurely breakfast, drive by coach to the lowlands and Arenal Volcano. En route we will visit the Poas Volcano National Park and enjoy a short walk before visting a coffee plantation. On arrival at Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa Hotel, our base for the next three nights, weather permitting we will get our first glimpse of this magnificent and imposing volcano. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure before dinner is served in the hotel this evening.

Day 3 Arenal.

Today there will be a morning tour of a local organic chocolate plantation. The rich volcanic soil of the Arenal area is perfect for growing cocoa. We will learn about the history of chocolate production in Costa Rica, see how it is made and of course try some of the local produce. In the afternoon enjoy a guided walk through the forests in the hope of seeing sloths. Dinner will be at the hotel this evening.

Day 4 Arenal.

After breakfast we will head towards Arenal Volcano for a hike that will take in its natural beauty. We will explore the unique flora and fauna and there will be a stop at a viewpoint to see the ancient lava flows. Along the way our local guide will point out the wildlife that calls the vegetation home. After the hike we will transfer to a natural hot spring where there will be time for a dip in the different temperature pools. Relax in the waters while taking in the sounds of the forests around you. After lunch at a local restaurant the rest of the afternoon will be at leisure to relax at the hotel. Dinner will be in the hotel this evening.

Day 5 Arenal to Monteverde.

Today we will move away from the lowlands and its volcanoes to the beautiful cloud forests of Monteverde. Located over 1,200 metres above sea level, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers a different natural environment to those seen so far on this tour. The dense forest is topped with low lying clouds and fog creating a great amount of moisture, and it is this moisture which helps promote a huge amount of biodiversity. The Monteverde National Reserve is home to over 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds and 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will head out to explore the canopy of the forest. Taking the sky tram we will slowly start to rise through the trees to above the canopy into the forest clouds. From here we will be able to walk along the 2.5 kilometres of skywalk bridges that create a path through the treetops. Enjoy the spectacular views while keeping an eye out for local bird and wildlife. After descending, we head to the El Establo Mountain Hotel for our two night stay. Dinner will be in the hotel this evening.

Day 6 Monteverde.

This morning we will explore the Monteverde National Reserve at ground level with guided walks. Take in the local flora and fauna and spot the wildlife above and at ground level. The afternoon will be at leisure and in the evening there will be the option to take part in a night walk in the National Reserve. Explore the trails with your guide seeing how the cloud forest changes at night.

Day 7 Monteverde to Puerto Caldera.

After a leisurely breakfast we transfer to the coastal town of Puerto Caldera stopping for lunch en-route. Embark the National Geographic Quest this afternoon and enjoy dinner on board this evening.

Day 8 Zapotal Beach & Bahia Huevos.

This morning, anchoring off the remote Zapotal Beach, we have the option to soak up the sun or snorkel in the waters fringed by offshore islets that have created an outstanding habitat and home for a variety of tropical fish. Alternatively join a walk with one of the onboard naturalists through the beautiful forests which are rich with bird and plant varieties. After lunch on board we continue sailing north to the Papagoya Peninsula, anchoring in Bahia Huevos. There will be the opportunity to explore the bay and peninsular by Zodiac as well as the nearby mangroves.

Day 9 Santa Rosa National Park & Guanacaste Conservation Area.

Today, start the day with a snorkel or a hike into the upper reaches of the Guanacaste Conservation Area for spectacular views over the full length of this rarely visited archipelago. Back on board we will sail towards the mainland. Depending on conditions we will explore Santa Elena Bay in Santa Rosa National Park, Junquillal Wildlife Refuge or Cuajiniquil Bay. All are part of the extraordinary biodiversity of the Guanacaste Conservation Area. Whether venturing out by kayak or Zodiac immerse yourself in the tropical environment. Keep an eye on the tree line for yellow and black great kiskadees, orange fronted parakeets and mangrove hawks setting out for a late afternoon hunt.

Day 10 Rincon de la Vieja National Park & Hacienda Guachipelin.

Today we will head inland and explore the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. This mountainous region that encompasses more than 34,000 acres is part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area. With forests carpeting the sides of two active volcanoes, this area is alive with geothermal activity. While in the National Park there will be the chance to hike and experience the transition zone where tropical dry habitat meets temperate cloud forest. Alternatively, there is the option of a shorter hike to the beautiful Las Chorreras waterfall. Afterwards, enjoy a sumptuous lunch served poolside at Hacienda Guacipelin.

Day 11 Curu National Wildlife Refuge & Isla Tortuga.

This morning we will explore the Curu National Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica’s first private national wildlife reserve. While exploring the park’s many trails learn about the hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and mammals that inhabit this thriving ecosystem. Look out for white faced capuchin monkeys, turquoise-browed motmots and with any luck scarlet macaws. As we enjoy lunch on board, we cruise to a cluster of offshore islets, known as Isla Tortuga, where there will be time to relax on the beaches, kayak or paddleboard. As the sun starts to set enjoy a waterside barbeque dinner.

Day 12 Puerto Caldera to London.

After breakfast disembark the National Geographic Quest in Puerto Caldera. Transfer back to San Jose for a city tour and lunch before heading to the airport for the overnight indirect scheduled flight to London.

Day 13 London.

Arrive into London today.

Dates and Prices

Tour Reference Code: SCNGQ071124/SCNGQ141125

PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Six nights hotel accommodation in Costa Rica as described with breakfast • Lunch and dinner daily • Five nights aboard the National Geographic Quest on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks whilst on board • Onboard expedition team • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.

Not Included: Travel insurance, premium drinks, Wi-Fi.

During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.

Dining Room

Category 4 Cabin

Category 5 Cabin

Category 1 & Category 2 Cabin

Category 3 Cabin

Cabins aboard the National Geographic Quest are an inviting place to end your day of activity. There are a total of 50 outside cabins on board and each one features either two portholes, large windows or step-out balcony. In each cabin, beds can be twin or converted to a Queen. Cabins range in size from 12.6 to 17.3 square metres and feature modern bathrooms, climate controls, hairdryer, Wi-Fi connections and USB ports for mobile devices. You will find organic botanical products in the bathroom.

Your Dining

Meals are served in the dining room at a single seating with unassigned tables meaning you can dine with whomever you wish. The expedition team will dine alongside guests allowing for opportunities to discuss the highlights of the day and what is to come. The onboard chefs use fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, including locally grown produce, sustainably caught fish, and other local products. An array of fresh fruits and delicious fresh juices are key components of the breakfast buffet, as are fresh vegetables and fish at lunch and dinner. When conditions allow, lighter options may be served outside on the Observation Deck. A selection of drinks including beer and wine are served with lunch and dinner and there is a 24-hour self service beverage station available for tea, coffee and soft drinks.

The spacious public areas include the main dining room and the comfortable lounge which features wrap-around windows for optimal views, a full-service bar and state-of-the-art presentation facilities. The lounge is where guests gather daily for talks and recaps. There is also a small reference library with board games. The vessel features a specially designed open bow and the outside deck has been designed as the perfect wildlife viewing platform which is in close proximity to the lounge allowing for instant access to spontaneous wildlife sightings. Outside there is also a partially covered and furnished sundeck with tables, chairs and lounge chairs for relaxing. To ease the embarkation and disembarkations for the daily activities, the vessel features a mudroom with lockers to store boots and other expedition gear. Another feature of the ship is the spa and fitness centre staffed by the wellness specialist. There is a shop on board stocked with local artisan products. Internet access, laundry service and a ship’s doctor are available on board and there is a lift which serves all decks.

Life On Board

The atmosphere on board is relaxed and informal and focused on the marvellous scenery and wildlife we will be experiencing. Whilst sailing, you can relax on deck with a good book, spend time with the onboard specialists looking for wildlife, relax with a massage in the spa, take part in some morning stretches on deck with the wellness specialist or scan the horizon from the open Bridge with the binoculars provided on board. The vessel carries expedition equipment including eight Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, paddleboards and an underwater video camera. There is a high ratio of crew to passengers and after a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of an exceedingly comfortable ship.

Ship Directory

We are delighted you have chosen the National Geographic Quest for your upcoming voyage and hope this information answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.

SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS

Passengers: 100 Cabins: 50 Decks: 4 Length: 73 metres Width (Beam): 14 metres Gross Tonnage: 2920 Speed: 10 knots Registered: USA Year Built: 2017

SHIP INFORMATION

AIR-CONDITIONING The ship is air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the temperature level in your cabin.

BRIDGE Passengers are welcome to visit the ship’s bridge to see the business of navigation unfold. Ask the watch officer questions about navigation or help yourself to the ever-ready binoculars to scan the horizon for wildlife. There may occasionally be times when the bridge must be restricted to shipboard personnel only.

CABIN INFORMATION Accommodation on board is arranged over three decks and all cabins are outside facing with either portholes or windows. The cabins and suites are all spacious ranging in size from 12.6 to 17.3 square metres with en-suite bathroom. They feature comfortable twin beds that can be converted to a Queen; the twin beds measure 41 x 74 inches and the Queen beds measure 82 x 74 inches. Category 4 cabins feature sliding glass doors leading onto a private balcony. All cabins and suites feature a writing desk, two nightstands, full length mirror, wardrobe and hairdryer. Bathroom amenities include shampoo, shower gel and lotion as well as an Expedition Essential Kit with SPF15 lip balm.

Category 1 cabins are located on the Main Deck and feature two portholes. These cabins measure 12.6 square metres. Category 2 cabins are located on the Main Deck and feature two portholes. These cabins measure 14.9 square metres. Category 3 cabins are located on the Upper Deck and feature two windows. These cabins measure 14 square metres. Category 4 cabins are located on the Upper Deck and feature a sliding glass door leading on to a small private balcony. These cabins measure 14 square metres. Category 5 suites are located on the Upper Deck and feature two large windows, a convertible sofa bed and a wardrobe with extra space. These cabins measure 17.3 square metres.

CABIN KEYS Keys are not issued and Lindblad Expeditions has always operated with a no-key policy. Experience has shown that keys are not necessary and a much more relaxed atmosphere prevails when cabins do not need to be locked. Cabin doors may be locked from the inside, however.

COMMUNICATIONS The vessel features satellite internet access available through the purchase of an internet plan. Internet plans can be purchased through the onboard internet portal by connecting to the vessel’s Wi-Fi system. Telephone numbers for contacting the vessel are provided in your final documents. Additional information on making phone calls or sending/receiving eFaxes can be found on board in your cabin Guest Directory.

DAILY PROGRAMME Each evening a copy of the following day’s daily programme will be placed in your cabin. Please remember that in remote areas or when weather conditions play an important role, the day’s events and timings may be altered. Flexibility is a must. If plans must be changed, you will be notified via the public address system.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods you require we recommend that you take some with you, although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your requirements.

DINING The onboard chefs prepare local cuisine using fresh ingredients whenever possible, including locally grown produce and sustainably caught seafood. Breakfast and lunch will feature different cold and hot options to choose from daily. Each evening, you will have the opportunity to choose between three dinner entrees – meat, fish, or vegetarian. Dinner choices will change on a nightly basis. Every morning there will be an early riser snack available in the Lounge before breakfast is served. Meals aboard are almost always served in the dining room, located aft of the lounge deck. When weather conditions allow, lighter fare may be served on the observation deck.

DOCTOR There will be a doctor or medically trained professional aboard, and his or her services will be provided free of charge. They will be available at any time in case of an emergency.

DRESS CODE ON BOARD The atmosphere aboard is casual, there is no expectation of any formal dress whatsoever; after all, it is an expedition.

ELECTRICAL CURRENT Each cabin is equipped with 110 volt (standard American-style) outlets. Electric razors, hairdryers and other small appliances may be used in cabin outlets. We recommend that you take an adaptor with you. Please note that the electrical current is sometimes uneven, so we suggest you use a surge protector if you have one for your computer or other sensitive equipment.

GRATUITIES Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.

KAYAKS The ship is equipped with a small fleet of one and two-person kayaks. The onboard naturalists will help novices learn this increasingly popular sport, while experts can explore further afield.

LAUNDRY At an additional charge, the ship’s laundry will handle personal laundry and ironing. There are no facilities for dry cleaning on board.

LIFT There is a lift on board that services all decks.

LOST PROPERTY Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and to advise of any associated costs.

LUGGAGE STORAGE Your cabin has been designed so that luggage can be stored under your bed. There is space to hang and store clothing.

MAIL Although the Purser will be happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en-route.

ONBOARD ACCOUNT & CURRENCY The ship is equipped with a point of sales system that will track your daily shipboard expenses. You may be asked to sign for certain items, and you will be presented with an itemised ship’s bill at the end of your voyage. Personal cheques issued by U.S. banks, travellers checks, U.S. Dollars, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa are accepted to settle accounts on board. The official currency on board is the U.S. Dollar. Due to currency regulations, re-exchange to dollars or from one local currency to another is not permitted.

PADDLEBOARDS The ship is equipped with eight stand-up paddleboards, for a fun, active and unique perspective. The paddleboards are made in the USA of ultra-durable, eco-friendly materials by Glide Stand-up Paddleboards – the paradigm of the industry. They are custom built to Lindblad’s specifications for versatility and performance.

PRESENTATIONS The Expedition Leader and naturalists will offer presentations throughout your expedition. Held in the lounge, presentations will cover a variety of topics and reflect what you are learning and experiencing both on land and at sea.

PUBLIC SPACES The ship features a specially designed open bow and observation deck for gathering to watch for wildlife or enjoy an evening cocktail with friends in the open air. A lift accesses all decks, and public restrooms are available on each deck.

Lounge: The lounge is the heart of the vessel and where the cocktail hour and recap will be held each evening. It is also where you will gather for presentations, photography talks, and guest speaker presentations. Seating design takes advantage of the wraparound windows for an optimal view and boasts multiple high-definition screens for slideshows and videos. Forward lounge doors provide direct access to the bow. There is a small reference library with board games and cards. Bar: The bar is typically open from 11.00 am until one hour after lunch begins and from 5.00 pm until closing. Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are included aboard the National Geographic Quest. A selection of premium wines and spirits are also available for purchase.  Bow: The ship features a specially designed bow observation area that accommodates all passengers at once for a shared wildlife viewing experience. Mud room: Located aft on the main deck where you will embark and disembark Zodiacs, the mud room has lockers that provide convenient gear and boot storage. Spa: Massages, body treatments, natural facial treatments, and hand and foot treatments are available in the LEXspa. Fitness Centre: Conveniently located on the lounge deck, the fitness centre is outfitted with two treadmills, exercise bikes, elliptical machines, exercise bands, and sets of small hand weights. Global Gallery: The global market is a collection of items made by local residents. It is conveniently located on the ship’s lounge deck. You may find silver jewellery crafted in Alaska, paintings, and books by your naturalist staff, plus expedition clothing and other essentials. Every item purchased in the global market contributes to the Lindblad Artisan Fund, which supports artisans in communities around the world.

QUESTIONNAIRES Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests.

SMOKING Smoking is allowed only in designated outdoor areas. Smoking is not permitted in guest cabins.

VALUABLES The ship is not equipped with safety deposit boxes. We recommend that you leave jewellery and other valuables at home. Lindblad Expeditions does not accept responsibility or custody for any money or other valuables while on board.

ZODIACS The Zodiacs will enable exploration of otherwise inaccessible places. The National Geographic Quest is outfitted with eight Mark V Zodiacs which are built entirely in the USA. These boats are of a superior, military grade construction with customised features like extra holds for passenger stability and topside treads to improve footing. Guests will embark and disembark via custom designed ladders to improve safety and ease of movement. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given on board.

Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Perspective on Crime in Costa Rica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

​How the Costa Rican Government Protects Tourists

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Protect Yourself in Costa Rica

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

Pre-Trip Preparation

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

Register With STEP

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

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

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

Check Embassy Warnings:

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

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

Get Travel Insurance

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

Get your travel insurance quote from Heymondo here .

Give Travel Plan to Trusted Person

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

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

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

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

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

Rent Your Car Directly from a Company

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

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

Make a Photocopy of Your Passport

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

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

Get an eSIM Card

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

We suggest getting an  eSIM card from Airalo  for this.

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

Purchase Security Products

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

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

Monetary Theft

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

Pay with Credit Card Instead of Debit Card

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

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

Keep Money in Several Locations

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

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

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

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

Only Change Currency at Banks

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

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

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

Check All Receipts

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

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

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

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

So, just double-check. 

Personal Safety and Awareness

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

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

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

Look around often and avoid standing in large crowds.

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

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

Dress Like You Belong

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

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

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

Don’t Walk Around Alone at Night

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

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

Also, it is best to never go out alone.

Trust Your Instincts

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

Don’t Leave Your Stuff Unattended

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

​Keep Stuff Secure at Restaurants

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

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

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

Know Your Hotel Location

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

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

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

Keep Personal Info Private

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

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

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

I also never say which hotel I am staying in.

Lock Everything

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Leave Your Drink Unattended

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

Tell Someone Where You’ll Be 

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

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

Keep Your Room Secure

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

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

Transportation Safety

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

Be Wary of Rental Car Issues

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

They will then rob you.

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

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

Only Use Registered Taxis

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

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

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

Be Cautious in Public Transportation

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

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

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

Walk Facing the Traffic

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

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

Don’t leave Your Rental Car in a Remote Place

Sometimes cars are broken into when left in remote places.

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

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

What to Do if a Crime Happens in Costa Rica

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

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

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

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

Dangerous Areas

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

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

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

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

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

In downtown  Alajuela , you should use increased caution.

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

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

Santa Teresa

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

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

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

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

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

Panama Border on Osa Peninsula

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

Other Safety Concerns

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

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

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

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

It’s Not All Bad

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion: Safety in Costa Rica

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

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