Costa Rica is a Central American paradise known for its incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes. This eco-tourism destination offers world-class wildlife viewing, adventure activities, and a laid-back 'pura vida' lifestyle that welcomes travelers from around the globe.
Costa Rica is one of Central America's safest countries for tourists. Most visits are trouble-free, though petty theft, pickpocketing, and opportunistic crime require standard urban precautions, especially in San José.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise normal precautions in most areas. Increased caution in San José city center after dark, Limón city, and beach towns like Jacó at night.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Violent crime including armed robbery and assault is a concern in San José city center, Limón, and some beach towns.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public
Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs, especially at night
Book accommodations through verified platforms and check reviews
Avoid isolated beaches and trails after dark
Keep car doors locked and windows up in urban areas
Register with your country embassy upon arrival — Costa Rica Ministry of Foreign Affairs website lists all embassies in San Jose.
Use only licensed yellow taxis or Uber and InDriver apps — unlicensed pirate taxis frequently overcharge tourists.
Be cautious on beaches after dark especially in Jaco and Limon where petty theft and assaults are more common.
Carry photocopies of your passport rather than the original when exploring — police accept copies for ID checks.
Costa Rica has strict drug laws despite its relaxed reputation — even small possession amounts can result in arrest.
Rent a 4WD vehicle for remote areas like the Osa Peninsula or Monteverde in rainy season — roads can flood.
Never feed monkeys as they become aggressive, maintain distance from crocodiles, and wear sandals on beaches to avoid stingray stings.
Riptides are common on Pacific beaches — swim only at beaches with lifeguards and heed warning flags.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Fake or unlicensed taxis
Unlicensed 'pirate taxis' operate especially around San José airport and tourist zones, often overcharging tourists significantly.
How to avoid: Use only official red taxis with yellow triangles and working meters, or Uber/InDriver apps. Never accept rides from strangers offering transport.
ATM card skimming
Card skimming devices have been found on ATMs in tourist areas, particularly in Jacó and San José. Criminals install devices overnight and collect data.
How to avoid: Use bank branch ATMs inside buildings rather than street ATMs. Shield your PIN. Use BAC Credomatic or Banco Nacional branded ATMs.
Distraction theft
Pairs of thieves work together — one distracts (asking directions, pointing at something) while the other snatches bags or pickpockets.
How to avoid: Keep bags in front, be alert when approached by strangers, walk purposefully and avoid stopping to engage.
Fake rental car damage claims
Some car rental companies claim pre-existing damage was caused by the renter and demand payment. Insurance disputes are common and difficult to resolve.
How to avoid: Photograph every inch of the rental car before driving away. Use a reputable international company. Video record the walk-around with date/time stamp.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine vaccinations up to date. Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended for food and water exposure. Hepatitis B for longer stays. Rabies pre-exposure if working with animals or going to remote areas.
- Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in San José and most tourist destinations. Bottled water recommended in remote rural areas. Most ice at restaurants comes from purified water.
- Food
- Food safety is generally good at established restaurants. Avoid raw seafood from beach carts. Street food from busy stalls is usually safe — high turnover indicates freshness. Wash hands before eating.
- Facilities
- San José has excellent private hospitals (CIMA Hospital, Clínica Bíblica, Hospital La Católica) with English-speaking staff. Public CAJA hospitals available everywhere. Well-stocked pharmacies in all towns.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Generally safe for solo travelers. San José has a good hostel scene with social environments. Stick to tourist neighborhoods (Barrio Amón, Escalante, Escazú). Inform accommodation of your plans for remote hikes or beach visits. The main risk is petty theft rather than violent crime.
Female travellers
Relatively safe with standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in San José city center, Jacó, and Limón. Beach towns are generally comfortable. Verbal harassment (piropos) occurs but rarely escalates. Travel on tourist shuttles rather than public buses in isolated areas late at night.
Families
Excellent family destination with safe beaches, well-maintained national parks, and child-friendly infrastructure. Use reef-safe sunscreen. Children's medications widely available at pharmacies. Most family accommodations have good security. Standard car seat laws apply — request infant seats when renting cars.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex marriage legal since 2020 — Costa Rica was the first Central American country to legalize it. Generally safe and accepting in San José, tourist areas, and beach towns. Rural areas and small towns may be less accepting. Dedicated LGBTQ+ venues in San José's La California district.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 911 (also for all emergencies)
- Medical
- 911 or 128 (Red Cross)
- Embassy
- US Embassy San José: +506 2519-2000. UK Embassy: +506 2258-2025. Canadian Embassy: +506 2242-4400
- Tourist Police
- OIJ tourist police: +506 2295-3643