Is Costa Rica Safe? Safety Tips for Travelers

Costa Rica is one of the safer and most welcoming destinations in Latin America, drawing more than three million international visitors every year. The country is politically stable, abolished its military back in 1948, and has well-established tourism infrastructure. That said, no destination is risk-free, and a little preparation goes a long way. The main thing most travelers deal with is petty, opportunistic theft — not violent crime. Understand the real risks, take sensible precautions, and you are very likely to have an enjoyable, trouble-free trip. See our general travel tips for a broader overview, or read more about why Costa Rica is such a popular destination.

Petty theft is the main risk

Opportunistic theft is the most common problem tourists face in Costa Rica. Thieves look for easy targets — unlocked bags, phones left on café tables, or valuables left in plain sight.

• Keep your wallet and phone in a front pocket or a zipped inner pocket, especially in crowded markets and bus stations.
• Use the in-room safe at your hotel or hostel for your passport, extra cash, and a spare credit card.
• Carry only what you need for the day — leave the rest secured at your accommodation.
• Avoid displaying expensive cameras, jewelry, or electronics unnecessarily in busy public areas.
• A money belt worn under clothing is useful in high-traffic tourist areas such as San José city center or La Fortuna.
• Photocopy your passport identification page and keep the copy separate from the original (or store a photo on a secure cloud service).

Rental car and driving safety

Rental car break-ins are a well-known issue throughout Costa Rica. Thieves can work quickly, and even a 10-minute stop with items visible inside can be enough.

• Never leave anything in a parked car. Not a daypack, not a jacket — if something is visible, it is a potential target.
• Park in attended lots (parqueos) wherever possible, especially in cities and popular tourist towns.
• If you must park on the street, choose a well-lit, busy spot and put everything in the trunk before you arrive at your destination.
• Road conditions range from smooth highways to unpaved, deeply rutted mountain tracks. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended if you plan to explore rural areas.
• River crossings without bridges exist on some rural routes — never attempt a crossing if the water level looks high. Flash flooding can occur quickly in the rainy season (May–November).
• Avoid driving in unfamiliar rural areas after dark. Unmarked speed bumps (tumulos), livestock on roads, and poor lighting are genuine hazards at night.

Beach and ocean safety

Costa Rica’s coastlines are extraordinary, but the ocean demands respect. Rip currents are the single leading cause of tourist fatalities in the country — more so than crime or road accidents.

• Learn to identify and escape a rip current. If caught in one, do not fight it by swimming directly back to shore. Swim parallel to the beach until you are out of the current, then angle back in.
• Swim only at beaches where you see locals swimming or where lifeguards are on duty. Flags and posted warnings at staffed beaches exist for good reason — heed them.
• Waves in Costa Rica can be powerful and unpredictable, particularly on the Pacific coast. Sneaker waves are a real risk; never turn your back on large surf.
• Do not leave bags, cameras, or valuables unattended on the sand while you swim. Designate someone to watch your belongings, or use waterproof pouches and take essentials with you into the water.
• Stay out of the water during electrical storms, which are common in the afternoon during the rainy season.

Nature and outdoor safety

Costa Rica’s wildlife and landscapes are a major draw, and most experiences are perfectly safe with basic preparation.

• Book guided tours for volcano hikes, jungle treks, and whitewater activities. Licensed guides know the terrain, can monitor weather conditions, and carry emergency equipment.
• Do not feed wildlife. Monkeys, coatis, and other animals can bite, and feeding them disrupts their behavior and health. Keep a respectful distance.
• The sun is intense at tropical latitudes — use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink water consistently throughout the day, especially during hikes.
• Insects can carry dengue fever and, in some areas, other mosquito-borne illnesses. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk, and check current health advisories before you travel.
• Pack a small first-aid kit with antiseptic, antihistamine cream, blister plasters, pain relief, and any prescription medications you need. Pharmacies (farmacias) are widely available but may not stock specific brands.

Common scams and how to avoid them

Most locals are honest and welcoming, but a small number of scams target tourists. Awareness is your best defense.

• Unofficial taxis: unlicensed drivers may overcharge or, rarely, pose a safety risk. Use licensed red taxis with visible meters (taxímetros), or official rideshare apps. Verify the taxi number on the door.
• Overprice tours: street sellers near tourist hotspots sometimes offer tours at inflated prices, with quality that does not match what is promised. Book tours through your hotel, a reputable agency, or well-reviewed operators.
• Distraction theft: a common technique involves one person engaging you in conversation while an accomplice takes your bag. Keep your possessions close in busy areas.
• Currency confusion: when paying in US dollars (widely accepted), confirm the change you receive. Counterfeit bills do circulate; inspect larger denomination bills when you receive them.
• Fake police: if someone approaches you claiming to be a plainclothes officer and asks to inspect your wallet or documents, request that they escort you to the nearest police station. Legitimate officers will comply.

Emergencies and staying connected

Should something go wrong, Costa Rica has a reliable emergency system and a tourist-friendly police presence in most popular areas.

• 911 is the national emergency number for police, fire, and medical services. English-speaking operators are generally available.
• Tourist police (Policía Turística) patrol high-visitor areas such as Manuel Antonio, La Fortuna, Jacó, and the Nicoya Peninsula.
• Purchase travel insurance before you leave home. Medical care in Costa Rica is good, but private clinic fees can be substantial for uninsured visitors.
• Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, airline tickets, travel insurance policy, and emergency contacts. Store copies separately from the originals.
• Let someone at home know your itinerary and check in regularly, particularly if you are heading into remote areas.
• SIM cards are inexpensive and widely available; having local data on your phone makes navigation, translation, and emergency contact far easier.

With sensible precautions and an awareness of where the real risks lie, the vast majority of visitors to Costa Rica leave with nothing but great memories. The warmth of the Tico people and the extraordinary nature of the country more than justify the trip.