Costa Rica is a popular destination generally considered safe for tourists, though petty theft occurs. Check the current US State Department advisory before you go.
Overview
Costa Rica is a popular destination. Check the State Department’s current level before you go. It has been Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, due to crime.
Risks
- Petty theft, especially from cars and beaches.
- Rip currents.
- Scams.
Safe areas
Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Guanacaste and San José’s tourist zones.
Tips
- Don’t leave valuables in cars.
- Swim at lifeguarded beaches.
- Use licensed taxis.
- Buy travel insurance.
Advisory and visitor data
Costa Rica receives over 2 million international visitors a year, with many from the US, and the State Department generally lists it at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, because of crime. Check the current advisory before travel. Tourist areas such as Guanacaste, Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio and the Central Valley are visited in large numbers.
- Petty theft, such as car break-ins and bag snatching, is the most common problem, especially at beaches and trailheads.
- Rip currents are a leading danger on Pacific beaches, and drownings are among the leading causes of death for tourists.
- Natural hazards include earthquakes, volcanic activity (Poas, Rincon de la Vieja) and the rainy season from May to November.
Tips
Do not leave valuables in cars, use licensed taxis or ride apps, swim at lifeguarded beaches and book guides for hikes. Use bottled or filtered water in remote areas. Dengue is present, so use repellent. Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and carry copies of your passport. Rent a car with full insurance and drive carefully on rural roads.
Advisory and visitor data
Costa Rica receives more than 2 million international visitors yearly, with US citizens the largest group. The State Department lists Level 2 exercise increased caution because of crime. Crime against tourists is mostly theft.
Tips
Use official taxis, avoid isolated beaches at night and swim in guarded areas. Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Safety profile
Costa Rica is a popular destination for American travelers, and the US State Department lists it at Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) in recent advisories because of crime. Petty theft, such as bag snatching and car break ins, is the main risk for tourists. Violent crime occurs mostly in specific areas and in drug related cases.
Practical tips
Do not leave valuables in vehicles or on the beach, use licensed taxis, and be careful at night in San Jose. Rip currents are a leading hazard at beaches, with drownings reported every year. Dengue risk exists, so use insect repellent. Emergency number is 911. Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Travel insurance is recommended, and entry requires a valid passport, often with proof of onward travel. Check current advisories before your trip.
Based on data from the US State Department and the Costa Rican Tourism Board
