Stay Healthy, Safe & Happy in Costa Rica

Staying healthy, safe, and happy in Costa Rica is straightforward when you know what to expect — the country is one of the safest in Central America, but a few local conditions call for simple precautions that make a real difference to your trip.

Costa Rica’s landscapes span tropical lowlands, cloud forests, and Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. Each brings its own delights — and its own things to be aware of. The tips below cover the main areas where a little preparation goes a long way. For a broader orientation, see our Costa Rica travel tips page.

Sun Safety

The tropical sun hits far harder in Costa Rica than most visitors are used to. The country sits between 8° and 11° north latitude, meaning the sun is nearly overhead for much of the year, and UV levels are high even on overcast days.

• Apply SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating.
• Avoid prolonged exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat — a baseball cap leaves your neck and ears exposed.
• Sun intensity increases with altitude; if you are hiking in the highlands, the cooler air can mask how much UV you are absorbing.
• Drink plenty of water. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can come on quickly in humid coastal areas.

Drinking Water and Food Safety

In San José and much of the Central Valley, tap water is treated and generally safe. In remote villages, small beach communities, and lowland jungle areas, bottled or filtered water is the safer choice. When uncertain, ask at your accommodation.

For food, Costa Rica’s restaurants and sodas (local eateries) are generally safe. Common-sense habits help wherever you go:

• Wash your hands before eating, and carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Eat at places with visible turnover and fresh preparation rather than food left sitting out.
• Be cautious with raw shellfish and ceviche from unfamiliar vendors.
• Ask your guide or hotel for local recommendations — they know which spots are reliably good.

Stomach upsets are the most common traveler complaint. Mild cases usually pass within a day; stay hydrated and carry oral rehydration salts. If symptoms are severe or persist beyond 48 hours, seek medical attention.

Insects and Mosquitoes

In highland and urban areas, insects are mostly a minor nuisance. In lowland rainforest and Caribbean zones, a bit more attention pays off.

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Wear light, long-sleeved clothing in jungle areas during peak biting hours.
• Dengue fever is present in some lowland regions; seek medical care promptly if you develop a sudden high fever after visiting tropical areas.
• Confirm that accommodation in higher-risk zones has screens or mosquito nets.
• Check for ticks after hikes through dense vegetation.

Beach and Ocean Safety

Costa Rica’s coastlines are stunning, but most beaches have no lifeguards. Ocean conditions can change quickly, and rip currents are the leading cause of ocean-related emergencies.

Rip currents: Look for channels of choppy, discolored water moving away from shore — these are likely rips. If caught in one, do not panic and do not fight it by swimming directly back to shore. Swim parallel to the beach until you are free of the current, then angle back to shore.

Before you enter the water:

• Ask local surfers, your hotel, or a park ranger about conditions for that day.
• Never swim alone, at night, or after consuming alcohol.
• On rivers and estuaries, be alert for crocodiles — they are present along parts of both coasts, particularly in Guanacaste and the southern Pacific. Never wade into murky water or at river mouths without getting local advice first.
• Respect flags and posted warnings at managed beaches.

Costa Rica has beautiful surf, snorkeling, and diving. Enjoy it safely by following these basic rules. For more on coastal destinations, see Costa Rica beaches.

Wildlife Encounters

Ecotourism is one of Costa Rica’s great strengths — the country protects more than 25% of its land area and harbors roughly 5% of global biodiversity. Most wildlife encounters are memorable and harmless, but a few guidelines apply:

• Do not handle wildlife. Monkeys, raccoons, and coatis in popular areas may look tame but can bite.
• Watch where you step and reach. Snakes, including the fer-de-lance, live in forested areas. Wear closed-toe shoes on trails; never reach into undergrowth without looking first.
• Stingrays inhabit sandy coastal shallows. Shuffle your feet when wading to avoid surprising one.
• If bitten, stung, or having an allergic reaction, seek medical care promptly rather than self-treating.

Health Precautions and Medical Access

See a travel medicine professional at least six weeks before your trip to discuss vaccinations and medications appropriate for your itinerary. Routine vaccines should be up to date, and Hepatitis A and Typhoid are commonly recommended.

Costa Rica has internationally accredited private hospitals near San José and reputable private clinics in major tourist hubs (Jacó, La Fortuna, Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, Puerto Viejo). In remote areas, the nearest facility may be hours away.

• Travel insurance is essential. Confirm your policy covers emergency medical evacuation, which can be expensive in remote jungle or mountain areas.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, notify your travel insurer before you depart and carry sufficient medication in your hand luggage.
• The national emergency number is 911 — it connects you to police, fire, and ambulance services.

Personal Safety and Valuables

Costa Rica is generally safe and welcoming. Petty theft is the most common issue affecting visitors, concentrated in crowded urban areas and certain beach towns.

• Leave jewelry, expensive cameras, and extra cash in your hotel safe.
• Carry only what you need for the day, and use a money belt or hidden pouch in busy areas.
• Be alert in San José city center, bus terminals, and crowded markets.
• Use reputable, licensed taxis (orange with a yellow triangle) or app-based services rather than unmarked vehicles. Ask your hotel to call or book one for you.
• Avoid displaying phones or valuables on restaurant tables or beaches.

Getting Around Safely

Costa Rica’s road network ranges from excellent toll highways to unpaved mountain tracks.

• Driving: Outside major highways, roads can be narrow, potholed, and unsigned. Drive defensively, allow extra time, and avoid driving in unfamiliar areas at night. Four-wheel drive is strongly recommended for rural and beach destinations, especially in the rainy season.
• Pedestrians: Sidewalks are often uneven or absent. Be cautious crossing streets, where drivers do not always yield.
• Buses: Affordable and far-reaching. Keep bags with you at all times and store luggage where you can see it on night services.
• Tours and activities: Use reputable, established operators for zip-lining, rafting, and other adventure activities. Check that equipment is in good condition and guides are certified. If anything feels unsafe, say so — good operators want to know.

See our activities and sports section and travel tips guide for more.

Hotel and Accommodation Safety

When you arrive at any accommodation — especially multi-story hotels — take a moment to locate the nearest fire exit and check that your room key, phone, and a small flashlight are within reach at night. Balcony railings, pool depths, and general safety standards can vary, particularly at older or budget properties. Familiarize yourself with the layout, and if anything seems unsafe, ask the front desk for an alternative room.

At swimming pools, be aware that most do not have lifeguards or depth markers. Never use a pool alone, at night, or after drinking alcohol.