Costa Rica, renowned for its breathtaking rainforests, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife, is a dream destination for many. However, a common question for prospective visitors, particularly those from English-speaking countries, is: “Is It Safe To Travel To Costa Rica?”. Like any country, Costa Rica has its share of safety concerns, but with awareness and sensible precautions, you can have a safe and unforgettable trip.
While the official travel advisory level suggests exercising a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to crime, understanding the specifics can empower you to travel confidently. This guide provides a detailed overview of safety in Costa Rica, focusing on practical advice to help you minimize risks and enjoy your Pura Vida adventure to the fullest.
Understanding Crime and Staying Safe in Costa Rica
Like many popular tourist destinations, petty crime is the most common concern in Costa Rica. Tourists are often seen as easy targets due to perceived wealth.
Petty Theft: Be Vigilant, Not Paranoid
Petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching are frequent, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Property crime, including house burglaries, car theft, and theft from vehicles, also occurs. Passport theft is a significant issue, especially during peak tourist seasons (November to May and July to August). Thieves often operate in teams, using distraction techniques to steal belongings.
High-Risk Areas for Petty Theft:
- Popular Tourist Areas: Viewpoints, beaches, and attractions bustling with visitors.
- Public Transportation: Buses, trains, bus and train stations, and airport terminals.
- Hotel Lobbies and Restaurants: Especially patios located near streets.
- Specific Areas:
- San José: Coca-Cola bus terminal area, inner downtown (between San Juan de Dios Hospital, National Museum, Avenida 1 & 14), Mercado Central, and public parks.
- Pacific Coast (Puntarenas Province): Dominical, Jacó (including the crocodile viewing area at Tárcoles River), Manuel Antonio National Park, Quepos, Cóbano area (Mal País, Montezuma, Santa Teresa), and the port of Puntarenas.
- Caribbean Coast: Cahuita, Puerto Limón, and Puerto Viejo.
Safety Tips to Minimize Petty Theft Risk:
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your passport and travel documents secure at all times, ideally in a concealed money belt or pouch.
- Carry Your Passport: It’s advisable to carry your passport (including the Costa Rican entry stamp) as proof of legal entry.
- Avoid Displaying Wealth: Refrain from wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large amounts of cash.
- Limit Cash and Valuables: Only carry the cash you need for the day and leave unnecessary valuables in secure accommodation.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Especially in crowded tourist areas and public transport.
- Avoid Isolated Areas and Walking Alone at Night: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, particularly after dark.
- Exercise Caution at ATMs: Be extra vigilant when withdrawing cash from ATMs, especially in public places.
Violent Crime: Lower Risk, But Still Present
While less common than petty crime, violent crime, including armed robberies and even murders, does occur in Costa Rica. Drug trafficking is a contributing factor, with many violent incidents being drug-related. Provinces most affected by violent crime include Alajuela, Limón, Puntarenas, and San José.
Although less frequent, violent assaults against travelers have been reported on the Caribbean coast, specifically in Puerto Limón and Puerto Viejo.
Safety Advice for Violent Crime Situations:
- Cooperate if Threatened: If confronted by robbers, hand over valuables without resistance. Your safety is paramount.
Residential Break-ins and Car Theft: Protect Your Accommodation and Vehicle
Residential break-ins can occur, targeting rental properties and homes owned by foreigners. Car break-ins and theft are also prevalent throughout the country, with rental and luxury vehicles being prime targets.
Common Locations for Car Theft:
- Hotel Parking Lots
- Supermarkets
- Restaurants
- Store Parking Areas
- National Parks
- Beaches
Securing Your Accommodation:
- Choose Well-Secured Accommodation: Opt for reputable hotels or rentals with good security measures.
- Lock Doors and Windows: Always ensure doors and windows are locked at night and when you are away from your accommodation.
Car Safety Tips:
- Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with your driving route before you set off.
- Keep Doors and Windows Locked: Always drive with doors locked and windows closed.
- Keep Belongings Out of Sight: Store valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk before you reach your destination.
- Use Secure Parking: Utilize secure parking facilities, especially overnight.
- Never Leave Valuables Unattended in a Vehicle: Even if locked or hidden in the trunk, never leave belongings unattended in your car.
- Be Cautious with Flat Tires: Don’t stop to change a flat tire in isolated areas and be wary of strangers offering help.
- Ensure Rental Car Insurance and Emergency Assistance: Verify that your rental agency provides adequate car insurance and emergency assistance.
Fraud and Scams: Stay Alert
Credit card and ATM fraud is a risk in Costa Rica.
Protecting Yourself from Fraud:
- Be Vigilant with Card Handling: Pay close attention when others are handling your credit or debit cards.
- Use Secure ATMs: Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside banks or businesses.
- Check for Suspicious Card Readers: Avoid using card readers that appear irregular or unusual.
- Cover the Keypad: Shield the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN at ATMs and card readers.
- Monitor Account Statements: Regularly check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.
Spiked Drinks and Unregulated Alcohol: Exercise Caution
Be cautious about accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances as they may contain drugs, putting you at risk of robbery or sexual assault. Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers.
Reports of casualties due to unregulated and adulterated alcohol containing high levels of methanol exist. Purchase alcohol only from reputable establishments. Seek medical attention immediately if you feel unwell after consuming alcohol.
Safety for Women Travelers: Awareness and Common Sense
Women traveling alone may experience harassment or verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault against foreign women at beach resorts and by taxi drivers in San José have been reported.
Safety Tips for Women Travelers:
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Trust your instincts and be mindful of your surroundings.
- Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially after dark.
- Use Reputable Transportation: Opt for official taxis booked through reputable services or ride-sharing apps.
- Share Your Itinerary: Let someone know your travel plans and whereabouts.
- Be Cautious with Alcohol Consumption: Drink responsibly and be aware of your limits.
Demonstrations and Political Activity: Avoid Involvement
Demonstrations occur occasionally, particularly in San José, and can sometimes turn violent, causing disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Foreigners are prohibited from political activity in Costa Rica. Participating in demonstrations may lead to detention and/or deportation.
Advice Regarding Demonstrations:
- Avoid Demonstration Areas: Stay away from areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
- Follow Local Authority Instructions: Comply with the instructions of local authorities.
- Monitor Local Media: Stay informed about any ongoing demonstrations through local news outlets.
Water and Adventure Activities Safety: Know the Risks
Coastal waters in Costa Rica can be dangerous due to strong riptides. Drownings occur each year. Lifeguards are not common on most beaches, and warning signs for hazardous conditions are often absent.
Water Safety Precautions:
- Exercise Extreme Caution When Swimming: Swim only in designated safe areas and during daylight hours.
- Don’t Swim Alone or After Hours: Always swim with a buddy and avoid swimming at night or outside marked areas.
- Consult Locals and Tour Operators: Seek advice from residents and tour operators about potential hazards and safe swimming locations.
- Monitor Weather Warnings: Pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings.
- Follow Local Authority Instructions: Heed any instructions or warnings issued by local authorities.
Adventure tourism activities like white-water rafting, scuba diving, and canopy tours carry inherent risks if not approached with caution. Safety standards can vary, and trails are often unmarked. Weather conditions can change rapidly.
Adventure Tourism Safety Guidelines:
- Never Go Alone: Always participate in adventure activities with a group or reputable tour operator.
- Get Detailed Information: Obtain comprehensive information about the activity and environment beforehand.
- Purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers helicopter rescue and medical evacuation.
- Assess Your Physical Condition: Make sure you are physically fit enough for the chosen activity.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Avoid venturing off marked trails when hiking.
- Don’t Camp on Beaches: Refrain from camping or sleeping overnight on beaches for safety reasons.
- Be Adequately Equipped: Ensure you have the necessary equipment and sufficient water.
- Stay Informed About Weather: Monitor weather conditions for potential hazards.
- Know Altitude Sickness Symptoms: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness if engaging in high-altitude activities.
- Inform Someone of Your Itinerary: Let a family member or friend know your detailed itinerary.
- Check Equipment Safety: Refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts about their safety.
Road Safety and Public Transportation: Navigate with Care
Road conditions and road safety are generally poor in Costa Rica, which has a high traffic accident rate.
Road Conditions and Driving Habits:
- Poor Road Conditions: Many roads are unpaved, and even paved roads are often in poor condition with potholes and sharp curves.
- Hazardous Driving Conditions: Driving can be dangerous, especially during the rainy season, due to landslides, narrow roads, and poor signage.
- Disregard for Traffic Laws: Many drivers do not respect traffic laws, and driving without lights at night is common.
Safe Driving Practices:
- Be Vigilant: Remain extremely vigilant when driving, especially at intersections and stop signs.
- Keep Doors Locked and Windows Closed: Always keep your doors locked and windows closed while driving.
- Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Store valuables out of plain sight to deter potential theft.
- Avoid Night Driving: Limit or avoid driving at night due to poor visibility and driving habits.
Public Transportation Safety:
- Buses: Public buses can be unreliable with inaccurate schedules and routes. Pickpockets often target tourists on public buses. Keep valuables with you, avoid overhead compartments, and stay awake. Police checks on buses are common to verify visa status. Always carry proof of legal stay.
- Taxis: Official taxis (orange at the airport, red with yellow triangle elsewhere) are generally safer. Use official taxis booked in advance and avoid flagging taxis on the street or using shared taxis. Note driver details and ensure the meter is used.
Health and Medical Considerations: Prioritize Your Well-being
Health care in Costa Rica is generally good, especially in private facilities in San José. Public hospitals offer good services but may have longer waiting times, and English or French-speaking doctors may be less common. Private care can be expensive, and upfront payment is often required. Emergency services may be limited in rural areas.
Health Recommendations:
- Consult a Travel Health Professional: See a doctor or travel health clinic 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice and necessary vaccinations.
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
- Recommended Vaccines: Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended for travelers. Discuss other vaccines like typhoid, rabies, and measles with your doctor.
- Malaria Risk: There is a malaria risk in certain areas. Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication and mosquito bite prevention.
- Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika: Dengue and Zika virus are risks spread by mosquito bites. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
- COVID-19: Ensure you are up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations. Check Costa Rica’s entry requirements before travel.
- Food and Water Safety: Practice safe food and water precautions to avoid traveler’s diarrhea. “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!”.
- Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Legal and Cultural Considerations: Respect Local Laws
Be aware of and abide by local laws in Costa Rica. Penalties for drug offenses are severe. Child sex tourism is a serious crime with harsh penalties. Carry valid ID at all times and keep copies of your passport and entry stamp. Photography of official buildings may be restricted.
Driving Laws: You can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 180 days. Carry your passport while driving. If involved in a car accident, you may be prevented from leaving the country until claims are settled. Do not move your vehicle after an accident and call 911.
Currency and Money: The currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). Credit cards are widely accepted. US dollars are easier to exchange than Canadian dollars. ATMs usually require a 4-digit PIN.
Natural Disasters and Climate: Be Prepared
Costa Rica is prone to natural disasters, including hurricanes (June to November), flooding (rainy season May to November), earthquakes, and volcanic activity.
Natural Disaster Preparedness:
- Hurricane Season: Be prepared to change travel plans during hurricane season. Stay informed about weather forecasts and follow local authority advice.
- Flooding: Be aware of potential flooding during the rainy season, especially in lowlands and mountains.
- Earthquakes and Tsunamis: Costa Rica is in an active seismic zone. Be aware of tsunami evacuation plans if staying on the coast.
- Volcanoes: Several active volcanoes exist. Heed warnings in national parks and monitor local media for updates during volcanic activity.
Conclusion: Responsible Travel for a Safe Costa Rica Experience
So, is it safe to travel to Costa Rica? Yes, with a balanced approach of awareness and precaution, Costa Rica is a safe and incredibly rewarding destination. By understanding the potential risks, practicing common sense safety measures, and respecting local laws and customs, you can minimize vulnerabilities and maximize your enjoyment of this beautiful country. Embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle with confidence, knowing you are prepared for a safe and enriching travel experience in Costa Rica.
