us government travel advisory costa rica

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Requirements

• Planning Your Trip
• Entry Requirements

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Requirements to enter the country.

Entry to Costa Rica has been opened to tourists from all countries.

All tourists must comply with the immigration processes established in the General Immigration and Aliens Act (Ley General de Migración y Extrangería).

During your visit in Costa Rica, you are required to comply with the health protocols put in place by private companies when participating in any tourism activities in the country.

In accordance with Article 42 of the General Law on Immigration and Aliens (No. 8764) and Article 30 of the Immigration Control Regulation (Executive Decree No. 36769-G), foreign nationals intending to enter Costa Rica must provide:

• A valid passport or travel document. Passports and travel documents will only be accepted if they can be read electronically in line with the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must be valid for the period set forth in these guidelines.
• Visa, if required under these guidelines.
• Proof of economic means, with a minimum of US$100.00 (one hundred US dollars) per month or partial month of legal stay in the country.
• Return ticket to the country of origin or plan of onward travel that includes the next destination.
• No impediment to entering Costa Rican territory.

MAXIMUM STAY:

The maximum legal stay for foreign nationals will be determined by the immigration agent upon their entry into the country.

Countries in the first group: UP TO 180 CALENDAR DAYS, NON-EXTENDABLE 

Countries in the second group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS

Countries in the third group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS, EXTENDABLE

Countries in the fourth group: UP TO 30 CALENDAR DAYS, EXTENDABLE

Please remember:

• In order to enter Costa Rica, you will need a ticket for a return flight, which the immigration official will ask to see when you arrive. It is recommended that you make a photocopy of your passport with the entry stamp, which you should carry with you at all times during your stay.
• The number of days you are permitted to stay in Costa Rica will depend on the group your country of origin belongs to.
• The immigration official may ask you to demonstrate that you have the funds needed for your stay in the country.
• The immigration official may indicate in your passport that your permitted stay will be for a different amount of time.
• Visitors to Costa Rica must have a valid passport and proof that they will be leaving the country before their visa or entry stamp expires.

All travelers must therefore have a ticket for return or onward travel.

Non-residents must have a ticket for return or onward travel if they:

Are arriving on a one-way ticket.

Are entering the country with a return ticket that is more than 90 days after their date of arrival.

Are flying to Costa Rica and flying out of a different country.

By law, a return or onward travel ticket may be on one of the following means of approved commercial transportation:

• A pre-purchased bus ticket out of the country.
• A pre-purchased flight out of the country.
• Proof of passage on a cruise ship.

Obligatory declarations when entering or leaving Costa Rica:

When entering or leaving a port of entry to Costa Rica, if you are carrying an amount equal to or greater than US$10,000 in cash or securities, or its equivalent in other currencies, you must request and complete the form designated for this purpose in the immigration checkpoint and present it to the Customs Authority for verification. The declaration must be made before finalizing the corresponding immigration procedures.

Failure to follow the provisions of Costa Rican law (No. 8204, Article 35) will result in the immediate forfeiture of the money.

What kind of vaccines do visitors to Costa Rica need?

As of July 30, 2007, Costa Rican authorities require all travelers from the following countries to have a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Bolivia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador, as well as the Republic of Guyana.

If you need more information, please click here

* By clicking on ‘ click here ’ you will leave visitcostarica.com and will be redirected to another website *

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US upgrades Costa Rica travel safety advisory

• Mar 6, 2023
• Mar 6, 2023 Updated Mar 7, 2023

Due to its closed proximity to the US, Costa Rica is a popular travel destination for Americans and South Floridians – almost 1.3 million Americans traveled to the Central American country in 2022 - looking for eco travel, beautiful beaches and tour the country’s lush rainforests.

Versión es español

It has also been considered safe and for having one of the most stable and democratic government in the region. That consideration has been tempered as last week, the U.S. issued a Level 2 alert for Costa Rica, asking those traveling to the Central American country to take extra precautions.

The U.S. government has a 4-level system to advice travelers on the safety outlook for each country:

• Level 1 – U.S. citizens should exercise normal precautions
• Level 2 – U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution
• Level 3 – U.S. citizens should reconsider travel plans
• Level 4 – U.S. citizens should not travel

The rise in level was due to an increase in violent crimes on the country. While no specific instances or types of crimes were mentioned, travelers should heed the warning.

On its website , the US Embassy in Costa Rica said:

“The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica advises U.S. citizens of increasing levels of crime, particularly violent crime, in Costa Rica and specifically San Jose. For this reason, the Embassy would like to remind you of the importance of personal safety and situational awareness.”

The Embassy highlighted the capital of San Jose as having most of the recent criminal, which is home to the country’s biggest airport and the hub where most visitors begin their Costa Rica adventures.

Along with the advisory, the Costa Rican U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica provided these safety guidelines:

• Be watchful when in a public, specifically when exiting a store or venue.
• Be aware of your surroundings and leave any area that does not feel safe.
• Do your best not to stand out in a crowd, and it is always best not to be alone.
• Don’t be flashy – keep valuables such as electronic, jewelry, and money hidden.
• It is best to walk around at night within a group on well-lit streets. Do not walk alone at night.
• Provide someone you trust with your contact information and let them know of your whereabouts, such as when and where you will be going.
• Always lock the doors when leaving your hotel, or vacation rental.
• When driving, it is advised to keep the vehicle’s’ doors locked at all times.

In a The Tico Times report, Jorge Torres, Costa Rica’s Minister of Public Security, questioned the travel advisory, and promised to meet with US Embassy officials to discuss their rationale for issuing it. Torres also criticized Costa Rica’s judicial branch, calling judges “irresponsible.”

President Chaves and the Ministry of Security agreed that the upsurge in violent crime was due to drug gangs, The Tico Times reported .

For the complete US Embassy advisory, click here .

MORE NEWS HEADLINES

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• Key Biscayne
• Travel To Costa
• Coast Rica Travel Advisory
• Government Of Costa Rica
• Tourism In Costa Rica
• Us Embassy In Costa Rica

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Costa Rica travel advice

Latest updates: Entry and exit requirements - added information on entry stamp; Laws and customs – updated information on the validity of a Canadian driver’s license in Costa Rica

Last updated: May 22, 2024 13:54 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, costa rica - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to crime.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. Tourists are common targets for theft because they are perceived as being wealthy.

Crime against property, such as house burglary, theft from cars, and vehicle theft, is frequent. Passport theft is also extremely common and increases in frequency during the peak tourist seasons, from November to May and from July to August.

Thieves often work in teams, in which one thief diverts the victims’ attention while the other snatches their possessions. Thefts commonly occur: 

• in popular tourist areas, including viewpoints
• on buses, on trains, in bus and train stations as well as in airports terminals
• in hotel lobbies
• at restaurants, including on patios located near streets

While you’re in Costa Rica:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• carry your passport, including the Costa Rican entry stamp received at the immigration entry point
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid isolated or deserted areas
• avoid walking alone at night
• be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• San José

In San José, high-risk areas for theft include:

• the Coca-Cola bus terminal area, located between El Paso de la Vaca, Calle 12 and the Coca-Cola market
• the inner downtown area, located between the San Juan de Dios Hospital, the National Museum, Avenida 1 and Avenida 14
• the Mercado central areas
• public parks

Pacific Coast

In Puntarenas province, the following areas are of particular concern for theft:

• Jacó, including the crocodile viewing area along the Tárcoles River
• Manuel Antonio national park
• Cóbano area, including the small seaside towns of Mal País, Montezuma and Santa Teresa, as well as the port of Puntarenas

Caribbean Coast

On the Caribbean coast, the following areas are of particular concern for theft:

• Puerto Limón 
• Puerto Viejo

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur. Burglars may target rental accommodations or houses and apartments owned by foreigners.

• Choose well-secured accommodation
• Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Car break-ins and theft are very common throughout the country. Rental and luxury vehicles are a target of choice. Theft commonly occurs: 

• supermarkets
• restaurants
• national parks

If driving in Costa Rica:

• familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
• keep your windows and doors locked at all times
• keep your belongings out of reach
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even locked or out of sight in the trunk
• don’t stop to change a flat tire in an isolated area, and beware of strangers offering their help
• ensure emergency assistance and car insurance are offered by the rental agency when renting a car

Violent crime

Violent crime, including murders and armed robberies, occurs. Drug trafficking is common, and most incidents are drug-related.  The most affected provinces are:

• Limón

Although not frequent, violent assaults against travellers have occurred on the Caribbean coast in:

• Puerto Limón

If you are threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately without resistance.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with irregular or unusual features
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Unregulated alcohol

Some people died after consuming adulterated alcohol in Costa Rica during the summer of 2019. Further incidents occurred in October 2020.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Be wary of lesser-known or illegal brands
• Avoid buying alcohol from individuals
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault against foreigners at beach resorts and by taxi drivers in San José have occurred.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time, particularly in San José. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Costa Rican law prohibits political activity by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or activities may result in you being detained and/or deported.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Very few beaches are supervised by lifeguards.  There are no warning signs of dangerous conditions.

• Exercise caution when swimming
• Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Monitor weather warnings

Useful links

• Tips for travellers - Costa Rica Tourist Board
• Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as white-water rafting, scuba diving, bungee jumping, canopy touring and other adventure sports can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are rarely marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

Safety features on small boats used in river and lake excursions are not always reliable.

Life-threatening fauna such as jaguars, pumas, wild pigs and poisonous snakes are common in the densely wooded areas.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• don’t camp or sleep overnight on beaches
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed of weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety

National parks

You must obtain a permit to access national parks.

Nation Parks – Costa Rica Tourist Board

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are generally poor throughout the country. Costa Rica has one of the highest traffic accident rates in the world.

Road conditions

Most roads are not paved and those paved are generally in poor condition. Driving conditions may be hazardous, especially during the rainy season, due to:

• sharp curves
• lack of traffic signs
• narrow or unpaved roads

Driving habits

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. Motorists often drive without lights at night.

While driving:

• remain vigilant when stopped at lights or stop signs
• keep doors locked and windows closed at all times
• keep your valuables out of plain sight
• avoid travel at night

Public transportation

Public bus transportation is unreliable. Schedules and routes may not be accurate. Vehicles are often late due to traffic and road conditions. Itineraries may also vary from the ones originally announced.

Pickpockets often target tourists in public buses.

If travelling by public bus:

• keep your ID and valuables with you
• avoid placing your bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
• avoid sleeping

Police checks of passengers on public transportation also occur. Officers often use those checks to determine if foreigners have overstayed the 90-day visa exemption period.

Always carry your proof of legal stay on your person.

Official taxis are safe. They are orange at the airport and red with a yellow triangle on the side elsewhere in the country.

• Use official taxis only booked ahead of time
• Never board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis in the street
• Note the driver’s name and plate number
• Make sure the driver uses the meter
• Never use shared taxis

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Costa Rican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 180 days Business visa: required Student visa: required

Length of stay

The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of your stay when you enter Costa Rica. As a tourist, you may be granted a stay up to 180 days.

If you intend to stay for more than 180 days, you must obtain a residency status from the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería.

You may face deportation if you overstay the authorized 180-day period. Persons deported from Costa Rica will not be allowed to re-enter the country for 5 to 10 years.

• Immigration department – Costa Rica government (in Spanish)

Entry stamp

You must obtain an entry stamp from immigration officials upon entry into Costa Rica.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials will ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Minors with dual citizenship

Costa Rica strictly enforces requirements for the departure of minors with dual citizenship.

The Canadian passport of a dual citizen child must have a Costa Rican departure approval delivered by the immigration authorities. The granted permission may be temporary or permanent and will be recorded in the Costa Rican immigration electronic system.

The approval must be requested jointly by both parents, prior to departure, to either of the following authorities:

• Costa Rica’s immigration department
• the Embassy of Costa Rica in Canada

Several cases of departure denials have occurred due to the lack of proper documentation.

Minors with dual citizenship who are travelling unaccompanied must also have legally certified written consent from both parents.

Useful Links

Children and travel.

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country. 
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs , excluding Argentina and Panama, or if you are coming from Tanzania or Zambia.
• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care provider.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Mpox (monkeypox)   is a risk in this country. It is a viral disease that can cause serious illness in some circumstances. Risk is generally low for most travellers.

Mpox spreads in 3 ways:

• from animals to humans through direct contact or by eating or preparing undercooked meat of infected animals or coming into contact with an infected animal's body fluids
• from person to person through close contact, including direct contact with the skin lesions, blood, body fluids, or mucosal surfaces (such as eyes, mouth, throat, genitalia, anus, or rectum) of an infected person
• through direct contact with contaminated objects such as bedding and towels, or by sharing personal objects used by an infected person

Follow recommended public health measures   and avoid contact with animals such as rodents and primates to help prevent getting or spreading the infection.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is very good.

Public hospitals offer very good services throughout the country but waiting times may be long. Doctors rarely speak English or French.

Private clinics and hospitals provide excellent health care. They are mainly located in San José. Services may be expensive. Doctors and hospitals typically require upfront payment.

Emergency services may be limited in rural areas.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and may be necessary in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medications

Some prescription medication may not be available in Costa Rica.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel:

• make sure you’ve done your research
• use reputable health-care providers only

Receiving medical care outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Costa Rica are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Costa Rica to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Costa Rican authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

If you violate Costa Rica’s laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.

Overview of the criminal law system in Costa Rica

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Child sex tourism

It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Costa Rica.

Conviction may result in a lengthy prison sentence.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

Identification

Authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry valid identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Photography

It is illegal to photograph official buildings.

Check with local authorities before taking photos.

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Costa Rica:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Costa Rica before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Costa Rica.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Costa Rica, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Costa Rica.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Costa Rica, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Costa Rican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Costa Rica to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You can drive with your valid Canadian driver’s licence in Costa Rica  for up to 180 days, or the length of the stay granted on your entry stamp.

You must also carry your passport when driving in the country. Photocopies are not acceptable. You may face a fine if you fail to provide proper documentation when stopped by a traffic officer.

If you are involved in a road accident, the Costa Rican government may prevent you from leaving the country until all injury claims have been settled, regardless of which party is at fault or has insurance coverage. The local legal process may take several months.

In the event of a car accident:

• don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive
• remain at the scene
• call 911 to report the accident

Automatic speed cameras are common. If you exceed the speed limit, you may receive a speeding ticket by mail.

Traffic fines don’t have to be paid on the spot. You can pay a fine:

• at COSEVI (Costa Rican Road Safety Council)

If a police officer asks you for money, you may make a complaint to the Costa Rican Tourism Bureau.

• Costa Rican Tourism Bureau
• Road Safety – Costa Rican Road Safety Council (in Spanish)
• International Driving Permit

The currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).

Credit cards are generally accepted.

It’s extremely difficult to exchange Canadian dollars in Costa Rica. U.S. dollars are more easily exchanged.

Cash withdrawals are possible with a 4-digit PIN only.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

The rainy season extends from May to November, which sometimes extends into January.

Torrential rains and landslides occur frequently in the lowlands and mountainous areas along the Caribbean and in the Central Valley.

Seasonal flooding often causes power outages.  It can also hamper overland travel and reduce the delivery of other essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Costa Rica is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tremors occur regularly. Tsunamis are possible.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

There are several active and potentially active volcanoes in the country, including:

• Poás
• Rincón de la Vieja

Eruptions may occur at any time. They sometimes lead to evacuations of surrounding areas on short notice.

In the event of an earthquake or volcanic eruption:

• pay careful attention to all warnings issued for national parks
• monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders 
• Earthquakes  - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response  (in Spanish)
• Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Consular assistance

Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Costa Rica, in San José, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

Before you travel .

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see  support for British nationals abroad  for information about specific travel topics. 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get  appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About  FCDO  travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out  more about  FCDO  travel advice .

Follow and contact  FCDO  travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also sign up to  get email notifications  when this advice is updated.

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How I planned my trip to Costa Rica

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written by Ties Lagraauw

updated 31.05.2024

While some might argue that planning a trip is more fun than the trip itself, I wouldn’t go that far. However, I do believe planning is both fun and essential. As a content manager for Rough Guides, I’m no stranger to organizing travel, but this time, I wanted to uncover gems beyond the typical tourist trail. Good preparation is half the journey, so let's dive into the pura vida spirit ! Here’s how I meticulously planned my Costa Rica adventure—and how you can do it too.

First, I decide what I want to get out of the trip

Next, when is the best time to go, i decide how long i want to travel, i book some activities in advance, i go online, i only bring my favourites, how i budget my trip, i enjoy reading about the culture, i always book transport from the airport to the hotel, my credit card gets in the bag first, mistakes i made (and how to avoid it).

First, I decide what I intend to get out of the trip. I can confidently say this is one of the best tips for planning a trip to Costa Rica. It's essential to start with a clear vision of what you want from your travel experience.

I wanted a combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and serene moments in nature, and decided to skip cities. To be honest, you don't travel to Costa Rica for the cities. If you are keen to explore colonial cities, opt for Nicaragua instead (I loved it!). 

Anyway, I envisioned walking through Manuel Antonio National Park , gazing at the Arenal Volcano , surfing at pristine beaches and some relaxing in the best hot springs .

This clarity helped shape my entire itinerary and ensured my trip was aligned with my interests and desires.

Take some time to think about what excites you most about your destination. Make a list of must-see places and activities . Knowing your goals will make the planning process smoother and more enjoyable. 

My tip: Always start your travel planning with a clear vision of what you want to experience.

The weather can make or break your trip. You can travel to the most remote beaches in the world with the whitest sand you've ever seen. If it's raining cats and dogs, it's just not as good. So always check the best time to visit your destination.

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December through April . There is plenty of sunshine during this period, making it ideal for exploring beaches , rainforests, and volcanoes. 

However, this is also the peak tourist season , so I had to book accommodation and activities well in advance to get the best deals. If you want to save money and don't mind a little rain, the green season from May to November is also a great option. 

The landscapes here are lush and the crowds are smaller, making for a more relaxing and secluded vacation

I visited Monteverde Cloud Forest, and as the naming suggests.. it's a bit cloudy. But also beautiful!

I would have preferred to stay here for a few months, but unfortunately, I didn't have that time. In addition, experience shows that no matter how much time you plan, it is almost always too short.

You definitely need 3 or 4 weeks in Costa Rica. Shorter than that is also possible, but then you will have to cross off places from your to-do list. Fortunately, travelling around Costa Rica is easy. Pricey, but efficient. 

By the way, the best way to travel around Costa Rica is a rental car . 

I ended up travelling in Costa Rica for about 4 weeks and was able to see most of the things I wanted to see. It allowed me to enjoy a balanced itinerary without feeling rushed.

My tip: Give yourself enough time to truly experience the destination. A well-paced trip is more enjoyable.

Although I enjoy the freedom of not booking in advance, I've also learned that securing spots for popular activities ahead of time can make a huge difference. Both in hassle at the moment as in price. 

For example, a boat tour in Tortuguero National Park , is sold out quickly in high season.

I don’t want to miss out or waste time waiting in long lines. By booking activities in advance, I ensure I have a spot and can plan the rest of my trip around these highlights.

Booking in advance also gives me peace of mind and allows me to spread out my activities to avoid cramming too much into a single day. 

My tip: Booking ahead guarantees your spot for popular activities. Especially handy during high season (December - April).

Make sure to visit Cape Uvita © Shutterstock

By that, I don't mean taking selfies at the Arenal volcano to post on Instagram. I'm referring to a local SIM card or an eSim. "In the past" I always travelled offline. Peaceful, but not always convenient. Nowadays, I always buy a local SIM card. Most phones (not mine, unfortunately) are even suitable for an eSim.

The advantage is that it makes planning your trip a lot easier. I use it to find routes or book tickets via 12Go or Bookaway. But also for checking out the best bars or restaurants.

It doesn't mean I'm online all day, on the contrary, but it does make travelling easier.

My tip: if you don't want to be online, download the map of the city you are visiting. Makes navigation a lot easier. This can be done with Maps.me or simply in Google Maps .

By this, I not only mean my wife and children, but also clothing. I'm always amazed at what people take with them when they travel. Bags full of "just in case" items. When checking in at airports, it often seems as if people take their entire wardrobe with them.

I get it, you want to look nice in the photo. But believe me, carrying a 20kg bag or suitcase on the bus or taxi is no fun. Certainly, not in 30 degrees.

Choose light clothing and pack only what is necessary. Nobody cares if you wear the same pants for 2 days. And even if they do, you never see those people again. Unless it's your own partner.

Arenal volcano in Costa Rica ©Shutterstock

My least favourite part of planning a trip, especially after the trip. But very important. After COVID, ticket prices, but also hotels, activities and food, have become a lot more expensive.

That is why it is extra important to know what you can spend while travelling and where. And no matter how well you budget, you often end up spending more than you plan. There's nothing wrong with that, since travelling (at least for me) is also a bit about letting go.

In any case, what you should consider is that Costa Rica is not very cheap. Expect to pay at least US$150 per day including accommodation, food and transport. If you have a rental car , it will be a little more expensive.

Of course, this depends on how you travel, with whom ( travelling with kids , for example) and what activities you plan to do.

My tip: I sometimes meet travellers, staying at their hotel because they want to save money. Whatever floats your boat, of course, but you don't travel to Costa Rica each year, right?

That may sound a bit boring, but I think it is important. I am surprised, and not always positively, by travellers who seem to have no idea where they have ended up. That's how they behave, anyway.

Fortunately, the cultural differences in Central America are not very great. I read about Pura Vida before my trip. And you should too! 

“Pura Vida” - the art of slowing down, is more than just a phrase. It’s a way of life that emphasizes simplicity, happiness, and living in harmony with nature. It's what the locals do, and it’s best to go with it. This sometimes means that you'll have to wait longer than you hoped, or that buses don't always go on time. Just take it as it is!

My tip: Take time each day to enjoy a moment of tranquillity. Just sit down, listen to the birds or people chatting. Enjoy!

Beautiful Tulemar beach© Shutterstock

After a 20-hour journey, you don't feel like looking for a taxi stand and endlessly negotiating a price only to end up paying too much. Of the times I paid too much for a taxi, I could have bought a ticket to Costa Rica.

Make it easy on yourself and book transport from the airport to your accommodation in advance. There are plenty of options, such as WelcomePickups . Here you can book a taxi online and the driver will wait for you with a sign at arrivals.

Of course, you can also just use Grab.

Okay, that's not entirely true. Earplugs go first. 

But a credit card is a lifesaver when travelling. Foreign debit cards are often not accepted. With a credit card, you may pay a fee to withdraw money, but you know for sure that it works.

In fact, we always have 2 with us. Just in case someone, I won't mention names, leaves my credit card in an ATM in Thailand .

Espadilla beach near  Manuel Antonio national park © Shutterstock

I think it's safe to say I'm an experienced traveller, but wow.. I've made some horrible planning mistakes! From overloading my itinerary to seriously misjudging the weather conditions. And from spending 28 hours in a bus instead of 8 (don't travel during Easter in the Philippines) to not having enough cash with me.

I've made a list of most common planning mistakes, so you can hopefully avoid spending 28 hours in a never-ending traffic jam!

Planning travel times

On my trip to the Philippines , I travelled from Manila to Banaue in the north. A trip that should take around 8 to 10 hours. What I didn't realize was, that I travelled on a Friday right before Easter. Apparently, all locals had a long weekend and travelled back home.

The bus ride took 28 hours! You'll be amazed at how many card games you can learn in 28 hours, but it messed up a lot of travel plans. Ever since that trip, I check holidays, travel times and bus routes. I’m never spending 28 hours on a bus again!

Overloading your itinerary

I always like to see and experience as much as possible, but unfortunately that is not possible. You cannot experience an entire country in just a few weeks. As much as you would like that. 

The biggest mistake many travellers make is planning their itinerary from day to day.

The result: an itinerary that is planned minute by minute, with a maximum of 2 overnight stays in one place. Result: a beautiful trip, but very rushed and not very relaxed. And the great thing about travelling is freedom, right?

Ignoring the weather

I climbed Acatenango in Guatemala ( and you should too! ) and I heard many stories about the changeable weather. Although I was reasonably well-prepared for what I was doing, the weather at the top was terrible!

It was windy, it was raining, and I couldn't even see (or hear) the guide, who was walking 2 meters in front of me. There I was in my sweatpants and a second hand wind jacket. I could have turned around and enjoyed the view at base camp, but it's not every day you're at the top of Acatenango!

Tip, if you plan to go hiking, especially volcanoes, don't go for a lot of clothes, but for the right clothes!

Not carrying enough cash

Back to the Philippines again! I travelled to El Nido somewhere around 2010, when there was only one ATM in the area. I should've done my research, because when there's only one ATM, chances are, it's either empty or broken. And it turned out to be.

I ended up without cash, and back then (and still) the Philippines was a cash-only destination. With the help of a local, I was able to use my credit card to get cash at a gas station for a fee that still haunts me. Unfortunately, there was little else I could do. 

If I only knew what I know now!

Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl , Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.

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Travel advice for Costa Rica

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Costa Rica

• Eating and drinking in Costa Rica
• How to get around in Costa Rica?
• National Parks in Costa Rica
• Travel Tips Costa Rica for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Costa Rica
• Papagayo, Costa Rica
• Tortuga island, Costa Rica
• Costa Rica Weather in January
• Costa Rica Weather in March
• Costa Rica Weather in April
• Costa Rica Weather in May
• Weather in Costa Rica in August
• Weather in Costa Rica in June
• Costa Rica Weather in November
• How to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo
• How to get from San Jose to Tortuguero
• How to get from San José to La Fortuna
• How to get from San José to Tamarindo

Find even more inspiration for 13 here

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Is Costa Rica Safe To Visit?

C osta Rica is a quaint country within Central America that borders Nicaragua and Panama. Although many travelers mistake it for one, Costa Rica is technically not an island. On the west side of the country is the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is located on the east. Costa Rica is an ideal location with a tropical climate and incredible natural beauty, alongside thriving biodiversity and vast landscapes that are quite impressive. This mountainous country is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

Travelers visiting the country will not have a dull moment. There is plenty for travelers to do in Costa Rica. Some of the top tourist attractions in the country include the Nicoya Peninsula, Ecotermales Hot Springs, Manuel Antonio National Park and Arenal Volcano. There are countless other natural attractions that travelers enjoy exploring. Although a lot of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions are naturally made, the country has metropolitan areas as well. Safety in metro areas can be somewhat questionable. This is especially true in situations where travelers face unfamiliar environments abroad. To establish whether or not Costa Rica is safe , we compiled all the important information on the country for potential visitors.

Best Travel Advisories

An important factor of traveling abroad safely is having information on the status of a potential travel destination. Travelers that are unsure about the safety level of their upcoming trip location should do their research. Seeking out reputable resources is wise so that travelers stay well informed. These are the top organizations that provide up to date safety information on travel destinations.

Crime Safety

The U.S. Department of State provides a well updated travel advisory. It has important information regarding the general safety of different countries and their regions. Costa Rica, for example, is categorized by the department of state as a level two destination. This means that travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling there. This caution is due to crime in the country. The types of crime are described in the safety and security portion of the travel advisory. Costa Rica’s tourism website is a good place to start for travelers with concerns for their safety. There travelers will find information about tourism and safety. To access the most secure information, online platforms like the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) are appropriate. The World Factbook on the CIA’s website describes the country’s history, U.S. Embassy contact info , local customs and travel safety tips. These pieces of information could offer travelers an opportunity to secure a safer environment while traveling.

Health Safety

Health safety is just one part of a travel destination’s overall safety level. But personal health is incredibly important for all travelers. This is especially true when tourists are traveling to a particular destination for the first time. It is important for travelers to stay informed about their potential travel destination and prepare accordingly. There are different online platforms that provide helpful information concerning the health status of locations abroad.

One of the top resources for travelers is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s traveler’s health page presents travel health notices, available medications, preventable illnesses and specialized travel tips for particular countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) is another reputable resource that will help travelers assess the health safety of their potential travel destination. On Costa Rica’s official country webpage, travelers can find a profile for the destination, location specific travel advice and health statistics. There is even contact information for the WHO offices in Costa Rica.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Tourists and Solo Travelers?

Yes, Costa Rica is a relatively safe destination for travelers. It is pretty well known by the tourism community as a safe country for solo and family travel. The country is considered secure. Technically Costa Rica is among the few countries in the world without an active army. The money that does not go to the military is for public healthcare and education. This serves as a testament to the safety level of Costa Rica. But that does not mean that crime does not occur in the Central American country.

Costa Rica does experience some crime, even though the majority of tourists feel safe there. Tourists are not disproportionately impacted by crimes in the country, but crimes do occur mostly in populated areas. Some of these may include areas frequented by tourists. The most common crimes in Costa Rica impacting tourists are petty. These include pickpocketing and theft. Generally, travelers that exercise basic travel precautions avoid being targeted by criminals.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

Exercising a baseline of travel safety precautions is a wise way for travelers to secure their safety. Some of the basic precautions include staying alert in crowded areas, never leaving valuables unattended, maintaining awareness and avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas. It is also important for travelers to know the contact information of local emergency services. This ensures that they are well informed of precautionary and preventive measures that may impact their overall safety abroad.

Travelers often rely on public transportation while abroad. In Costa Rica, the bus system is the most common way that both locals and visitors get around. So, it is important to know the best ways to stay safe on public transport while in unfamiliar surroundings. Travelers should at the very least be sure to stay alert while in public spaces, secure their personal belongings at their accommodation and avoid flaunting valuables or expensive things. Additional security measures while riding public transportation in Costa Rica include verifying driver’s certifications and confirming fares before entering vehicles.

Where to Stay

Costa Rica is quite vast and overall safe, so travelers have plenty of options for where to stay . But there are some options that stand out as the top selections for travelers. Tamarindo, Drake Bay and Atenas are some of the safest places for travelers to stay in. Tamarindo is located on the Pacific coast and is a popular destination in Costa Rica. Despite its popularity, Tamarindo does not have swarms of tourists in the area. The town is popular for water-sports, nightlife and culinary experiences. Drake Bay is a southwestern coastal area that offers travelers a family friendly environment. The slight privacy and peaceful ambiance of Drake Bay make it one of the safest areas of Costa Rica. Atenas is another option for travelers that stands out due to its tranquility. This small town is considered to be one of the safest areas for families or travelers that prefer to be out of all the hustle and bustle.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Costa Rica is dependent on the preferences of travelers but should be considerate of the weather conditions. The weather varies by region, but travelers can premeditate the weather conditions with forecasts before their trip. The dry season is the most popular season due to the pleasant weather. From around December to April travelers can enjoy the most ideal amount of sunshine. The characteristics of the dry season also mean that travelers should expect crowds and higher prices. If travelers do not mind rain or warmer temperatures, visiting in the rainy season or during summer may be best. The rainy season is between May and November and the highest temperatures occur during June and July.

People Also Ask

Is Costa Rica safe to live in? Yes, Costa Rica is actually one of the safest countries in Central America to live in.

Are tourists safe in Costa Rica? Tourists are perfectly safe while in Costa Rica as long as they exercise some basic travel safety precautions.

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Travel Advisory 2024: Is COSTA RICA safe? Travel Advisory for 2024

According to the latest Global Peace Index update, Costa Rica is considered the safest country in Latin America . It’s also the most peaceful country in Central America with a low violent crime rate and high political stability.

Costa Rica is the only country in the world that has no army.

Thus, for those still wondering, yes, Costa Rica is very safe.

LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from COSTA RICA:

January 12 – costa rica’s murder rate reaches a record high, as drug-related gang violence soars.

Costa Rica, long regarded as the safest country in the region, suffered a fresh blow on Tuesday when authorities revealed that the nation had recorded its bloodiest year in 2023 as the homicide rate surged, driven primarily by surging violence linked to drug trafficking gangs.

The country saw 907 homicides in 2023, an increase of 38% from the year before.

According to Security Minister Mario Zamora murder rates in Costa Rica are approaching all-time highs due to the influence of Mexican drug gangs and rising cocaine production in Colombia.

“The trend of settling scores increased to 70%, a figure that we had not had before,” stated Zuniga, pledging to lower the number of homicides by 2024.

U.S. Travel Advisory – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to crime.

While violent crime, such as armed robberies, homicides, and sexual assaults, is rare in Costa Rica, minor crime is the main threat to tourists visiting the country. In tourist-heavy areas, the Costa Rican government strengthens security resources.

Safety measures to keep in mind:

• Do not engage in physical resistance to any robbery attempt.
• Keep an eye on your surroundings
• Do not show signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for rescuers to find you.
• When visiting abroad, Americans should always be cautious.
• Follow the State Department on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
• Review Costa Rica’s country safety report.
• Prepare a contingency plan in case an emergency occurs. Check out the checklist for travelers.

Why travel to Costa Rica

1. puerto viejo.

This Caribbean coast is popular among young people and backpackers because of its great beaches, surfing, and party atmosphere. In the town, nearby visitors will find some fun activities going on every day.

When in town, you must pay a visit to the jaguar rescue center where local wildlife is rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

2. Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero is Spanish for “a lot of turtles.” With more than 77,000 acres, this Amazon rainforest-like is home to rivers, jungles, and “a lot of turtles” coming to nest along the shoreline.

3. Corcovado National Park

Costa Rica is known for its amazing national parks, where tourists can enjoy some thrilling activities like river rafting, canyoning, cave tubing, and wildlife spotting.

This one in particular is the right fit for adventurous people. It features 13 major ecosystems including a rainforest, highland cloud forest, swamps, and beaches.

Update Archives:

September 8 – latest security alert – u.s. embassy san jose, costa rica.

Travel advisories for Costa Rica remain at Level 2: Increased caution, according to the U.S. State Department.

The U.S. Embassy is also informing the people of the United States that an internal travel advisory has been developed to better alert Embassy staff members of regions where they should exercise increased caution, owing to violent crime, remoteness, and/or lack of access to emergency services, among other concerns.

Although there are no formal travel restrictions in place, Embassy staff are discouraged from visiting certain locations. This map, which you can download to your smartphone, tablet, or computer for reference, shows these regions with increased caution.

These regions are routinely reviewed and updated as needed. Regarding the security situation in the country, the U.S. Embassy continues to be in regular contact and cooperation with the Costa Rican government.

August 9 – Record-Breaking Violence Surges In Costa Rica Amidst Growing Drug Influence, says Security Minister

According to a top official, the influence of Mexican drug gangs and increasing cocaine production in Colombia have caused the homicide rate in Costa Rica to reach a record high, casting a shadow over a country that has long been a pillar of stability in the region.

656 homicides in Costa Rica were a record at the end of 2022. But in 2023, it gets worse: According to government data, the number of homicides in the first half of the year increased 42% over the previous year.

In an interview with Reuters this week, Costa Rican Security Minister Mario Zamora claimed the country has a “Mexicanization of crime.” He was referring to the increase in gang fights that take place in broad daylight, leaving Costa Ricans concerned for their safety and the country’s industry, which is heavily dependent on tourism.

June 30 – Ecstasy Seizures in Costa Rica: Gangs Target Tourists and the Youth Market

According to data provided by the Drug Control Police (PCD), the top narcotics seized include ecstasy with 117,922 doses, followed by LSD with 31 doses and ketamine with 15 doses. The PCD further highlighted that ketamine is primarily imported since there are no existing laboratories for its production within the country.

“These drugs are consumed mainly in coastal areas, also in electronic music parties, where the young population mostly consumes it,” said the prosecutor of the Specialized Jurisdiction in Organized Crime, Esteban Chavarría Araya.

Prosecutors warned that users of these drugs should exercise extreme caution because they are highly addictive.

“The most addictive synthetic drug is fentanyl, considered 50 times more potent than heroin. However, other substances, such as the MDPV drug created in recent years, are 800 times more addictive than fentanyl or heroin. Those who consume it experience greater euphoria than with fentanyl, for example, and it has lethal consequences,” pointed out Chavarría.

The post Is COSTA RICA Safe? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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By: Daniela Kaňková Title: Is COSTA RICA Safe? Travel Advisory 2024 Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/is-it-safe-to-visit-costa-rica-right-now/ Published Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:00:00 +0000

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COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

Costa Rica’s June Gardening Secrets: From Lush Lawns to Bountiful Harvests

Costa rica’s central bank rejects industrial sectors’ economic demands, bus catches fire in costa rica, exposing passenger safety concerns, costa rican president accused of offering bribes to congress president, costa rican business sector protests exchange rate policies, costa rica contract nightmares: how to protect yourself.

Signing a contract or making a deal in Costa Rica can be the simplest thing, full of good faith and trust for all parties involved or it can be a nightmare experience in which, usually the weakest party, must suffer the loss of time, money and hope and in some cases the stronger party can count on this as leverage.

Investors and businesspeople that visit Costa Rica can be divided into those that have great corporate legal advice and on the other hand, the rest of the people that come to buy a property, lease a house, rent a cabin, build a house, buy a car, start a business and so on and don’t expect to have to hire a lawyer to enter into a relatively small deal.

When a person decides to contract a good or service, he or she has usually had some communication with the seller or offeror and is usually pleasantly impressed with the manner, treatment, and service, simply because the seller will probably put his best foot forward in order to get the sale. In my experience one can usually trust reputable businesses to carry out their obligations in a timely and responsible manner. The trick is distinguishing those who are reputable from those who are not.

In the beginning there is a lot of trust involved and in many, many cases, even a friendship has evolved between the parties. The buyer or client finds it hard to “offend” the seller by requesting all the elements of guarantee that, deep down in his or her mind, they know they should require.

A contract in Costa Rica has some very simple rules and some nuances that people should consider before signing and handing over their hard-earned money.

A contract must clearly state who is contracting for each side. Identifying the contracting parties should be a simple matter but contracts are often negated or annulled because the contracting parties are unclear or outright false. If it is an individual, the contract must state the full name, with both last names if they are from Costa Rica, the marital status, the activity or profession, the exact address and the cedula (national ID) or passport number.

It must be stated if the person is acting on their own behalf or in representation of a company, an association or other group. Corporations must be identified by name and by “cédula jurídica” number (corporate ID number) and it´s essential to check that the corporation is current and up to date in taxes.

If more than one corporation is mentioned, the responsibility for each entity should be precisely defined. The address for the purpose of notification is extremely important in case the situation ends up in court and the opposing party must be served.

A contract must have a specific time frame for compliance, for both or all parties. It should be clear who is supposed to perform each action and on which dates. Very often these aspects are so uncertain that it is difficult to prove there is a breach of contract. There should be no blank spaces that can be filled in later. Each party must perform some consideration. It is important each party is certain they can perform theirs in a timely manner.

Performance is an essential aspect of the contractual relationship, and it is sometimes difficult to pinpoint. For example, in construction contracts, the owner can often want to change his mind about this or that element (color, types of materials, etc.) and those changes can cause important additional expenses which were not contemplated in the contract wording.

Other examples can be the quality of the materials, the time of performance, warehousing costs, unexpected expenses, import duties, transportation, security, weather issues and many others.

In Costa Rica a contract must be set in Spanish because if that contract ends up being disputed in court, it will not only have to be officially translated but at that point the parties are leaving, in the hands of the translator, the possible meaning of essential concepts. Many times, to make it easier or more convenient for the client, sellers or agents will have the contracts drafted in English and as long as everything goes well, there’s obviously no problem but when problems arise, and the contract has to be judicially disputed, legal costs skyrocket.

In Costa Rica a contract can certainly be stated in US dollars but if it goes to court, that dollar amount must be converted into Costa Rica colones at the outset of the court process and the final sentence will be in colones, and the collection of money will necessarily be done in colones.

There are some special contracts that can be executed in dollars for certain reasons, such as import and export contracts but, in any case, at the end of the day, the loser who must pay, can pay in colones, at the official exchange rate of the Costa Rica Central Bank. The colon has been a very stable coin for a long time, but when dealing with large sums of money, that exchange rate should be an important consideration.

When entering an important contractual relationship, no matter how nice or responsible the opposing party may seem to be, one must, for a moment, mentally assume that this business relationship will end up in court and one must do that in order to take all necessary precautions, precisely to avoid going to court, spending thousands of dollars and losing a friend.

Some important questions one must ask oneself are the following: If things go bad what are my real chances of recovery? Does this person or company have enough assets or insurance to reimburse me if there is a problem? Is there a way to establish an escrow or trust account where the money can be safeguarded until my opposing party complies?

If a person finds it difficult to be upfront with their counterpart, they might consider hiring a lawyer or other representative to speak for them. It will be less expensive to hire a representative before the contract is signed than hiring a lawyer when you must go to court.

An important difference with other countries is that, in Costa Rica, certain contracts or actions must be performed by a Public Notary. The Public Notary here is very different from the U.S. figure. In the U.S., the public notary is no more than a qualified witness, whereas in Costa Rica the “Notario Público” will necessarily be a lawyer (or a diplomatic official in embassies overseas).

He is obligated to give BOTH parties legal advice and cannot represent one party in detriment of the other. He or she must be impartial. The “Notario Público” is there to ensure the LEGAL ACT ITSELF is done correctly.

He is not there to represent one party against the other but rather to protect the legality of the act he is authorizing. That said, the Notario Público will probably be more likely to protect the interests of the party paying his fees, for which reason, in practical reality, each party usually hires their own.

Contracts that must be registered such as marriages, divorces, wills and estates, transfers of property, mortgages, car sales, liens, encumbrances, property limitations, subdivisions of land and many other acts MUST be performed by a Notario Público and must be entered into a large book with Folio size pages that is called a “PROTOCOLO”.

Contracts is an enormous area of the law. A failed contract does not necessarily need to end up in court because an important option, usually for smaller claim issues, is the “Comisión Nacional del Consumidor” (Consumer Defense Office), which is a powerful government office that protects the consumer and works very well.

For everyday contractual situations the best thing is to use keen common sense. In the first place, understand we are in a different country, with some particular rules and a specific legal culture. One cannot simply try to transpose a foreign legal culture. It is important to not be impulsive; to check a business´ references (performing a background check can usually prove useful) and find others that have contracted with them. In business reputation should be paramount. It is impossible to foresee all possible scenarios but the best advice, in practical terms, is always to deal with very reputable businesses.

About the Author

Lic. Jorge Montero B. is an attorney educated in the U.S.A. and in Costa Rica. He holds various specialties and master’s degrees in criminal, Commercial, Environmental and Agrarian Law from the University of Costa Rica and has over 30 years of litigation, contract and counsel experience. Email: [email protected] Tel: (506) 8384 – 2246 WhatsApp: (506) 8384 – 2246

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