Travelers can feel quite safe there Costa Rica. The Global Peace Index lists it as the safest destination in Latin America.
Although Costa Rica is one of the safest places to visit in Central America, you should still exercise caution. The main problem travelers face is petty theft, so you should always be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
LATEST NEWS from COSTA RICA:
February 20 – Costa Rica has identified 36 places in Costa Rica where tourists are at greater risk
The risky areas Involving the coastal towns and beaches of Jacó, Tamarindo, Quepos, Dominicalito and Manuel Antonio.
Based on an analysis, Costa Rican security services said tourist destinations are fun Garabito, Cahuita, Montezuma, Mal País, Santa Teresa, La Fortuna, Samara and the Osa Peninsula require closer surveillance to prevent crimes.
Tougher measures are being taken to curb the high crime rates affecting the country’s most visited tourist locations. In recent years, the Costa Rican government has been repeatedly urged by the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) to prioritize the safety of visitors.
February 19 – Experts warn of rising temperatures and increased UV radiation in Costa Rica
Experts from Costa Rica’s National Meteorological Institute (IMN) did just that raised the alarm about the expected rise in temperatures and an increase in ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels in the coming months. Daniel Poleo, climatologist at IMN, attributes this prediction to the Zenithal Sun phenomenon, which causes the sun’s rays to fall more directly on Costa Rica in March and April, leading to higher temperatures and a more intense feeling of heat. This period will see a peak in UV radiation, especially between March 15 and April 15, with the greatest risk of exposure occurring from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Areas to avoid
Quepos, the entrance gate directly outside Manuel Antonio National Park becomes dangerous. Be careful there. The same applies to Tamarindo and Jaco due to criminal activities (mostly robberies) aimed at tourists.
The Desamparados neighborhood of San Rafael, Santa Rosa de Pocosol, San Carlos, a rural area bordering Nicaragua, Matina, a small rural community along the Matina River in the province of Limón, Limón, Liberia, Pococí, Talamanca and the district of Barranca, on the Pacific coast in the province of Puntarenas, are additional high-risk regions with violent crime rates significantly higher than the national average.
US travel advice
The U.S. Department of State urges U.S. citizens exercise extra caution in Costa Rica because of crime.
Although violent crimes, such as armed robberies, murders and sexual assaults, are rare in Costa Rica, petty crimes pose the greatest threat to tourists visiting the country. In areas with many tourists, the Costa Rican government has strengthened security resources.
Canada Travel advice
Pickpocketing and purse snatching are examples of common petty crimes. Because people think they are rich, tourists are often the target of burglaries.
Property-related crimes are also common, including auto theft, burglary and auto theft. In addition, passport theft is a common problem that worsens from November to May and from July to August, when the flow of travelers is at its highest.
Common scams
The unauthorized taxi system: When you get off a bus at a station, you may encounter numerous people posing as taxi drivers and offering their services. These taxis are often illegal and can charge rates four to five times higher than the standard rate. It is important to note that legal taxis in Costa Rica are recognizable by their orange or red color (orange for airport taxis and red for official taxis).
The Fake Guide Scam: At popular tourist spots you may come across individuals offering their services as tour guides. They may even wear clothing from recognized travel organizations. However, after receiving payment, they disappear without providing the promised service. To avoid falling victim to this scam, book tour guides from official and reputable companies.
The drink wasting trick: The perpetrators of this scam deliberately spill a drink on you and then offer assistance in cleaning the stain. While you are distracted, their accomplice adeptly pickpockets you. Politely decline any offer of help to thwart this scam.
The ATM fraud: Avoid using ATMs in remote locations and instead opt for ATMs in densely populated areas. If you notice anything suspicious about an ATM, look for an alternative machine.
Online travel fraud: Be careful of online travel companies that operate without legal permission. Before booking, check the company’s ratings with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Canatur and ICT.
Taxi meter fraud: Legitimate taxis in Costa Rica are equipped with meters. However, some drivers may not be able to activate or reset the meter from the previous trip. Consider using Uber as a safer and more affordable alternative to taxis.
Currency exchange scam: Due to fluctuations in the value of the local currency, tourists can be exploited by companies that use outdated exchange rates to maximize profits. To avoid this, make sure that the exchange rate used matches the exchange rate published on bank websites or in reputable newspapers.
Safety tips for Costa Rica
Follow these tips to minimize problems wherever you are.
- Stay vigilant in busy environments, especially if you use public transportation in Costa Rica.
- Be careful in tourist-heavy areas such as beaches, national parks and downtown San Jose, as these are prime targets for thieves.
- Abstain from excessive alcohol and drug use.
- Due to the increase in theft from parked vehicles, choose well-guarded parking areas, keep doors locked, windows rolled up and do not leave valuables visible.
- Be careful not to draw attention to yourself with flashy belongings or clothing.
- Limit the amount of cash you take outside.
- Make sure valuables are kept safe, even in your hotel room.
- When traveling by bus, do not store luggage in overhead bins to avoid theft.
- In the event of a robbery, prioritize personal safety by handing over cash and valuables.
