Costa Rica is a popular destination, known for its natural beauty and conservation efforts. While generally considered safe, like any travel destination, it requires awareness and preparation. Visitors should understand that certain precautions are advisable to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Overall Safety Landscape
Costa Rica is a leading ecotourism destination, known for its rainforests, beaches, and wildlife. The country has a long-standing commitment to peace, having abolished its army in 1948, contributing to a stable environment. Despite this, caution is warranted, particularly in urban centers and popular tourist spots.
The safety profile is similar to many developed nations, with petty crime more prevalent than violent crime. While tourist areas are generally safer, situational awareness is important, as theft opportunities can arise. Certain less-traveled regions or specific neighborhoods in larger cities may present higher risks. The government has also implemented measures, such as a specialized tourist police unit, to enhance visitor safety in key areas like national parks and beaches.
Understanding Common Risks
Petty crime is the most common safety concern for tourists, frequently involving pickpocketing and bag snatching. These incidents often occur in crowded areas like bus and train stations, airport terminals, hotel lobbies, and restaurants. Tourists are vulnerable, especially during peak travel seasons from November to May and July to August. Thieves sometimes work in teams, with one person distracting the victim while another takes their belongings.
Theft from cars, including rental vehicles, is also frequent, with items stolen even from locked trunks. Car break-ins can happen in parking areas, and criminals may use signal blockers to prevent key fobs from locking doors. Various scams also target unsuspecting tourists. Common examples include fake taxi drivers who overcharge or do not use meters, and “flat tire” scams where an accomplice slashes a tire and then offers to “help” while another steals valuables. Other deceptive practices involve gas station attendants starting pumps without zeroing them or charging incorrect amounts, and online booking scams for non-existent accommodations or tours.
Staying Safe While Traveling
Maintaining personal awareness is important to mitigate risks. Avoid openly displaying valuables like expensive jewelry or large sums of cash, as this can draw unwanted attention. Secure belongings at all times, keeping bags in front of you, especially in crowded places like public transport. When choosing accommodations, select reputable places with good security features such as safes, gates, or guards.
For transportation, use official, licensed taxis with meters and avoid hitchhiking. If renting a car, never leave personal belongings unattended in the vehicle, even in the trunk, as car break-ins are common. Be cautious of “flat tire” scams; if a tire goes flat, drive to a well-lit, populated area before changing it. When walking, particularly at night, stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated spots. In nightlife settings, be vigilant about unattended drinks and avoid leaving with strangers.
Health and Natural Environment Safety
Travelers should consider several health precautions. Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date, including for Hepatitis A and Typhoid, especially if consuming street food or visiting rural areas. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and Zika are prevalent, particularly during the rainy season, so use insect repellent with DEET and wear long sleeves and pants. Sun protection is also necessary due to strong tropical sun.
Costa Rica is in an active seismic zone, making earthquakes and volcanic activity a possibility. Strong ocean currents, including rip currents, are present at many beaches; not all beaches have lifeguards or warning signs, requiring caution when swimming. Observe wildlife, such as snakes or insects, from a safe distance. For adventure activities like zip-lining or rafting, select reputable tour operators that adhere to safety standards and confirm your travel insurance covers such activities.
What to Do in an Emergency
In an emergency, the national number for police, fire, and ambulance services is 911. Bilingual operators are often available to assist travelers. If a crime occurs, such as theft, contact the local police immediately to report the incident and obtain a police report for insurance claims or passport replacement.
If your passport is stolen, contact your country’s embassy or consulate in San José for emergency travel documents. Have copies of important documents, such as your passport and entry stamp, stored separately from the originals. Travel insurance is important for covering unexpected medical expenses or other emergencies; contact your provider promptly if medical attention is needed.