Safety in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has long been considered the safest nation in Central America and the fact that it has functioned so well without an army says a lot about its society and people.  But because so many travelers head to this tiny country every year, theft is on the rise, much of it specifically directed towards tourists.  This said, Costa Rica is still a lot safer than many other destinations and just requires taking appropriate safety precautions to avoid any dangerous and undesired situations.

Hotels in Costa Rica are like any other; wealthy tourists stay there and that attracts thieves. Watch your things and make sure you lock your door at all times. Almost every hotel has safety deposit boxes in the room, which can be easily programmed with your own code and are essential for keeping valuables safe.

Police coverage in Costa Rica is better and more modern than that of other Central American countries; however, it’s still not up to developed nations’ standards.  All crimes should still be reported to the police. 

Safety tips when visiting Costa Rica

• Don't flash large rolls of money
• Don’t leave anything of value in a vehicle, even if the car is locked
• Reduce the amount of jewelry that you wear
• Use only official taxis —red with yellow triangles
• Don't walk around in secluded areas of the city at night
• Leave your passport and tickets in the hotel’s safe, and carry a photocopy instead
• Never hand over luggage, unless it’s to an official airport/hotel porter

Following these basic safety tips can ensure you get the most from your Costa Rican adventure!

Important contacts

For police emergencies, dial 911
To contact the police directly, dial 117