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:
December 10: US issues travel advisory update for COSTA RICA ahead of 2025 season
On December 10 the U.S. Department of State has issued an updated Level 2 travel advisory for Costa Ricaadvising travelers to be more careful due to crime. Although petty crime is common, violent incidents such as armed robbery, murder and assault also occur, which can affect tourists.
Recommendations for travelers:
- Stay vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Avoid isolation: Don’t walk alone on dimly lit beaches or streets.
- Follow the rules during robberies: When confronted, don’t resist; prioritizing personal safety.
- Limit displays of wealth: Don’t wear expensive watches or jewelry that could attract attention.
- Register for STAP: Register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely alerts and help authorities locate you during emergencies.
Areas to avoid
Quepos, the entrance gate directly outside Manuel Antonio National Park becomes dangerous. Be careful there. The same goes for 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.
Official travel advice
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.
Crime statistics in Costa Rica
(Data source: Numbeo)
| Level of crime | 60.77 | High |
| Crime has increased over the past five years | 74.01 | High |
| Chance of broken house and stolen items | 52.12 | Moderate |
| Chance of being mugged or robbed | 59.29 | Moderate |
| Chance to be offended | 31.79 | Low |
| The likelihood that you will be physically attacked because of your skin color, ethnicity, gender, or religion | 17.13 | Very low |
| Violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery | 60.08 | High |
| Corruption and bribery | 65.10 | High |
