Is it Safe to Travel to Costa Rica Right Now? A Comprehensive Safety Guide for 2024

Planning a trip to the beautiful landscapes of Costa Rica? One of the first questions on any traveler’s mind, especially when considering international destinations, is: “Is It Safe To Travel To Costa Rica Right Now?” Costa Rica, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and “pura vida” lifestyle, generally holds a reputation as a safe and welcoming country for tourists in Central America. However, like any travel destination, it’s essential to be informed about the current safety landscape to ensure a secure and enjoyable trip. This guide provides a detailed overview of safety in Costa Rica, addressing key concerns and offering practical advice for travelers in 2024.

Understanding the General Risk Level in Costa Rica

Currently, travel advisories often suggest exercising a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to crime. This doesn’t mean Costa Rica is inherently dangerous, but rather that travelers should be aware and take sensible precautions. The primary safety concern in Costa Rica is crime, particularly petty theft, but it’s crucial to understand the nuances of these risks to travel confidently.

Safety and Security: A Detailed Breakdown

Crime: The Predominant Concern

Costa Rica, while generally stable, experiences various levels of criminal activity. Understanding the types of crime and where they are most prevalent is key to staying safe.

Petty Crime: A Common Issue for Tourists

Petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, is frequent, especially in tourist hotspots. Tourists are often targeted due to the perception of wealth. Property crime, such as burglaries, car theft, and theft from vehicles, is also common. Passport theft is a significant issue, particularly during peak tourist seasons (November to May and July to August).

Thieves often operate in teams, using distraction techniques to steal belongings. Common locations for petty theft include:

Popular Tourist Areas: Viewpoints, beaches, and crowded streets bustling with tourists.
Public Transportation Hubs: Buses, trains, bus and train stations, and airport terminals are prime locations.
Hospitality and Dining Venues: Hotel lobbies and restaurants, especially outdoor patios near streets, can be risky.

Safety Tips to Mitigate Petty Crime:

Secure Belongings: Keep passports and travel documents secure at all times, preferably in a hidden money belt or pouch.
Carry Essential Documents: Carry your passport, including the Costa Rican entry stamp, as proof of legal entry.
Avoid Displays of Wealth: Refrain from wearing expensive jewelry or showing signs of affluence.
Limit Cash and Valuables: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or unnecessary valuables.
Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas and public transportation.
Exercise Caution at ATMs: Be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs, using well-lit, public locations if possible.

Specific Areas of Concern for Theft

Certain areas in Costa Rica are known to have higher rates of theft. Being aware of these locations allows for increased vigilance.

San José: High-risk areas include:

Coca-Cola Bus Terminal Area: Known for high levels of petty crime.
Inner Downtown Area: Particularly areas around the San Juan de Dios Hospital, National Museum, Avenida 1, and Avenida 14.
Mercado Central Areas: Crowded market areas are hotspots for pickpockets.
Public Parks: Parks, especially in urban areas, can be targeted by thieves.

Pacific Coast (Puntarenas Province): Areas of concern include:

Dominical: Popular surf town known for petty theft.
Jacó: Including the crocodile viewing area along the Tárcoles River, a tourist magnet.
Manuel Antonio National Park: Despite its natural beauty, theft is a concern within and around the park.
Quepos: Town near Manuel Antonio, experiencing similar safety issues.
Cóbano Area: Including Mal País, Montezuma, Santa Teresa, and the port of Puntarenas, popular with tourists but prone to theft.

Caribbean Coast: Areas of concern include:

Cahuita: Coastal town known for petty crime.
Puerto Limón: Port city with higher crime rates.
Puerto Viejo: Popular tourist destination on the Caribbean coast also experiencing theft.

Residential Break-ins and Car Theft

Residential break-ins, targeting rental accommodations and properties owned by foreigners, do occur. Car break-ins and theft are also very common nationwide, with rental and luxury vehicles being prime targets.

Safety Tips for Accommodation and Vehicles:

Secure Accommodation: Choose well-secured accommodations and ensure doors and windows are locked at night and when away.
Route Familiarity: When driving, familiarize yourself with routes before trips.
Vehicle Security: Keep windows and doors locked while driving.
Out of Sight Belongings: Keep belongings out of sight inside the vehicle.
Secure Parking: Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight.
Never Leave Valuables Unattended: Even locked in the trunk, never leave belongings unattended in vehicles.
Flat Tire Caution: Don’t stop to change tires in isolated areas and be wary of strangers offering help.
Rental Car Insurance: Ensure rental agencies offer emergency assistance and car insurance.

Violent Crime: A Less Frequent but Serious Risk

Violent crime, including murders and armed robberies, does occur in Costa Rica. Drug trafficking is prevalent, and many violent incidents are drug-related. Provinces most affected by violent crime include Alajuela, Limón, Puntarenas, and San José. While less frequent than petty crime, violent assaults against travelers have occurred on the Caribbean coast, particularly in Puerto Limón and Puerto Viejo.

Safety Advice in Case of Threat:

Do Not Resist: If threatened, immediately hand over cash and valuables without resistance to prioritize personal safety.

Fraud: Be Alert to Scams

Credit card and ATM fraud is a risk in Costa Rica.

Precautions Against Fraud:

Card Handling Vigilance: Pay close attention when others handle your credit or debit cards.
Secure ATMs: Use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks or businesses.
Inspect Card Readers: Avoid using card readers with irregular or unusual features.
PIN Security: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Statement Monitoring: Regularly check account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Spiked Food and Drinks: A Hidden Danger

Be aware that snacks, beverages, gum, and cigarettes can be spiked with drugs, potentially leading to sexual assault or robbery.

Prevention Tips:

Be Wary of New Acquaintances: Be cautious about accepting items from strangers or new acquaintances.
Never Leave Drinks Unattended: Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers.

Unregulated Alcohol: Health Hazard

Reports of casualties due to unregulated and adulterated alcohol containing high levels of methanol exist.

Safe Alcohol Consumption:

Reputable Establishments: Buy alcohol only from reputable establishments.
Seek Medical Help if Sick: Seek immediate medical assistance if you feel unwell after consuming alcohol.

Women’s Safety: Specific Considerations

Women traveling alone may experience harassment or verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault against foreign women have been reported at beach resorts and by taxi drivers in San José. Solo female travelers should be particularly vigilant and take extra precautions.

Other Safety Considerations

Demonstrations: Potential for Disruption

Demonstrations occur periodically, especially in San José. Even peaceful protests can become violent and disrupt traffic and public transportation. Costa Rican law prohibits political activity by foreigners; participation can lead to detention or deportation.

Advice During Demonstrations:

Avoid Demonstration Areas: Stay away from areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
Follow Local Authority Instructions: Comply with instructions from local authorities.
Monitor Local Media: Stay informed about ongoing demonstrations through local news.

Water Activities: Respect the Ocean

Coastal waters in Costa Rica can be dangerous, with strong riptides being common. Drownings occur each year. Lifeguard supervision is limited, and warning signs for dangerous conditions are rare.

Water Safety Precautions:

Exercise Caution Swimming: Swim with caution, even in seemingly calm waters.
Avoid Swimming Alone: Don’t swim alone, after hours, or outside marked safe swimming areas.
Local Advice: Consult residents and tour operators for information on hazards and safe swimming spots.
Monitor Weather: Pay attention to weather warnings.
Follow Local Instructions: Heed instructions from local authorities regarding water safety.

Adventure Tourism: Prepare and Be Informed

Adventure activities like white-water rafting, scuba diving, and canopy tours can be risky if unprepared. Trails are often unmarked, and weather can change rapidly. Safety standards on small boats may be unreliable. Dangerous wildlife, including jaguars and poisonous snakes, are present in wooded areas.

Safety Tips for Adventure Activities:

Never Go Alone: Avoid solo adventures and stay with companions.
Activity Information: Obtain detailed information about activities and environments beforehand.
Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation.
Physical Condition: Ensure you are physically fit for the activity.
Stay on Marked Trails: Avoid venturing off marked trails.
No Beach Camping: Do not camp or sleep overnight on beaches.
Adequate Equipment: Ensure you have sufficient equipment and water.
Weather Awareness: Stay informed of weather conditions and potential hazards.
Altitude Sickness Knowledge: Know the symptoms of altitude sickness if relevant.
Inform Someone of Itinerary: Leave your itinerary with family or friends.
Equipment Safety Check: Refrain from using facilities or equipment if safety is questionable.

Road Safety and Transportation

Road conditions and safety are generally poor in Costa Rica, which has one of the highest traffic accident rates globally.

Road Conditions: Challenges for Drivers

Many roads are unpaved, and paved roads are often in poor condition with potholes, sharp curves, and a lack of traffic signs. Landslides and narrow roads are common, especially during the rainy season, making driving hazardous.

Driving Habits: Disregard for Rules

Drivers often disregard traffic laws, and driving without lights at night is common.

Safe Driving Practices:

Vigilance at Stops: Remain vigilant at lights and stop signs.
Locked Doors and Windows: Keep doors locked and windows closed.
Valuables Out of Sight: Keep valuables out of plain sight.
Avoid Night Travel: Avoid driving at night if possible.

Public Transportation: Buses and Taxis

Public buses are unreliable with inaccurate schedules and routes, often delayed due to traffic and road conditions. Pickpockets target tourists on buses. Police checks on public transportation for visa overstays are common, so always carry proof of legal stay. Official taxis (orange at the airport, red with yellow triangle elsewhere) are safer than unofficial taxis.

Public Transportation Safety:

Secure Belongings on Buses: Keep IDs and valuables with you, not in overhead compartments or under seats.
Stay Awake on Buses: Avoid sleeping on public buses.
Carry ID: Always carry proof of legal stay.
Use Official Taxis: Use only official taxis booked in advance when possible.
Avoid Taxi Stands/Street Hails: Never board taxis at taxi stands or flag them down on the street.
Note Taxi Details: Note driver’s name and plate number when using taxis.
Meter Use: Ensure the driver uses the meter.
Avoid Shared Taxis: Never use shared taxis.

Health and Well-being in Costa Rica

Costa Rica generally has good healthcare, but understanding potential health risks and necessary precautions is important.

Health Risks and Required Vaccinations

Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for travelers. While there’s no yellow fever risk in Costa Rica, and vaccination isn’t generally required, it’s always best to consult with a health professional. Measles, COVID-19, and Influenza vaccinations are also advisable. Malaria risk exists in certain areas; consult a health professional about antimalarial medication and mosquito bite prevention. Rabies is present in wildlife; consider rabies vaccination if at high risk of animal contact.

Food and Water Safety

Practice safe food and water precautions to avoid illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea and typhoid. “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” is a good rule of thumb. Be cautious with tap water and opt for bottled or purified water.

Insect Bite Prevention

Diseases like Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika virus are transmitted by mosquito bites. Use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and use mosquito nets to prevent bites.

Medical Services and Facilities

Healthcare is generally good, with excellent private facilities, primarily in San José. Public hospitals offer good services but may have longer wait times, and English or French-speaking doctors may be less common. Medical evacuation can be expensive; ensure travel insurance includes this coverage.

Medications and Medical Tourism

Bring sufficient quantities of necessary prescription medications in original containers, with copies of prescriptions. Be aware of the regulations regarding medication legality in Costa Rica. Exercise extreme caution with medical tourism, ensuring thorough research and reputable providers.

Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations

Costa Rica is prone to natural disasters, particularly hurricanes, flooding, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity.

Hurricane Season and Flooding

Hurricane season is from mid-May to November. The rainy season, also from May to November (sometimes extending into January), can cause torrential rains, landslides, and flooding, especially in lowlands and mountains along the Caribbean and Central Valley.

Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Volcanoes

Costa Rica is in a seismic zone with regular earthquakes and tremors. Tsunamis are possible after earthquakes. Several active volcanoes exist, including Arenal and Poás, which can erupt at any time, potentially leading to evacuations.

Preparedness for Natural Disasters:

Hurricane Season Awareness: Be prepared to alter travel plans during hurricane season, monitor weather forecasts, and have airline/tour operator contact information.
Flooding Awareness: Be aware of potential flooding during the rainy season, which can disrupt travel and services.
Earthquake/Volcano Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation plans if on the coast and heed warnings in national parks and from local authorities during earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

Laws and Culture: What to Know

Understanding local laws and cultural norms is essential for responsible and safe travel.

Legal System and Drug Laws

Penalties for drug offenses are severe, including lengthy jail sentences for possession, use, or trafficking. Be aware of and abide by all local laws, even unknowingly breaking them can lead to legal consequences.

Child Sex Tourism: A Serious Crime

Sex with minors is a severe criminal offense in Costa Rica, leading to lengthy prison sentences.

Identification and Photography

Carry valid ID at all times, keeping a photocopy and digital copy of your passport and entry stamp separately. It is illegal to photograph official buildings; check with local authorities before taking photos in sensitive areas.

Driving and Money Matters

A Canadian driver’s license is valid for up to 180 days. Carry your passport while driving (photocopies are not accepted). In case of a car accident, do not move the vehicle and remain at the scene until authorities arrive; you may be prevented from leaving the country until claims are settled. The currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted and easier to exchange than Canadian dollars. Credit cards are generally accepted, and ATMs are available, though cash withdrawals may require a 4-digit PIN.

Conclusion: Is Costa Rica Safe for Travel in 2024?

Costa Rica remains a popular and generally safe destination for tourists. While exercising a high degree of caution due to crime, particularly petty theft, is advised, by staying informed, taking sensible precautions, and being aware of your surroundings, you can significantly minimize risks and enjoy a safe and memorable trip. The stunning natural beauty and “pura vida” spirit of Costa Rica await those who travel responsibly and prepared. Remember to stay updated on current travel advisories before and during your trip for the most accurate safety information.