Is Costa Rica Safe? If you’re thinking of a trip to Costa Rica, you probably want to know whether it is safe. While crime rates are not a problem in most areas, it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.
It’s also a good idea to stay away from beaches after dark, especially if you’re traveling alone. If you do go on a beach, stay well-hydrated and apply sunblock.
Crime is not a problem in most areas.
Compared to other countries in Latin America, Costa Rica is one of the most peaceful. In fact, it ranks 32 out of 163 countries in the 2020 Global Peace Index.
However, it’s important to exercise caution. Especially on the streets of major cities, after dark and when traveling alone.
Keep your valuables in a safe place or by your side. Never flash them on the street, use only official tourism transportation and be careful when withdrawing money from ATMs or leaving your wallet in a hotel room.
Women should be particularly vigilant, as Costa Rica has a high rate of sexual assault. Solo female travelers are prone to being targeted by criminals, so it’s best to travel with a group of friends.
Crime is a problem in Limon.
Limon, the capital of Costa Rica’s homicide-ridden province of Puntarenas, continues to be a hotbed of violence. The city’s container port, Moin, is still a major point of departure for drugs smuggled to the United Kingdom, and the homicide rate is higher than ever.
Despite the homicide numbers, crime in Limon is generally low compared to other cities of comparable size. There are a few areas that tend to have higher crime rates, but those areas are usually outside of the city’s core.
Crime is a problem in Arenal.
Although crime rates are lower than in neighboring countries, it is still a concern for tourists. Petty thefts and armed robberies are common, especially in tourist areas.
Human trafficking is also an issue, but this problem is much less prevalent in Costa Rica than other places around the world. This includes sex exploitation, labor exploitation, and organ trafficking.
Money scams are very common in Costa Rica, and you should always change your cash only in a bank. Changing money on the street is risky, as you can end up with counterfeit coins or worse.
Passport theft is also a common issue in Costa Rica, so make photocopies of your passport and keep it safe. You can also avoid leaving valuables on display in your hotel room.
Crime is a problem in Guanacaste.
If you’re visiting Costa Rica, particularly in Guanacaste, it is important to be aware of crime. Petty theft and robberies are a common occurrence, especially in busy tourist destinations like Tamarindo.
While this is not a serious issue in general, it is important to be aware of it, especially at nighttime. If you have any concerns, make sure to contact the police immediately.
The homicide rate in Costa Rica has dropped since last year, and the decrease is primarily due to a gang crackdown in Guanacaste and other parts of the country. Honduras, Belize and Panama also posted decreases in the number of homicides.
However, it is not uncommon for people to suffer home invasions in Guanacaste. This is especially true in January, August and September. It is a good idea to ask for police help if you are threatened or have your belongings stolen.
Crime is a problem in San Jose.
While crime isn’t a big deal for most travelers, you should take some basic precautions. For example, avoid walking around in crowded tourist areas at night.
You also want to be aware of crooks who scam people out of their money on the street. Another popular theft is stealing money from people who drop it down in a crowded area.
If you’re staying at a hotel, be sure to lock your valuables in the safe. Often hotels have security gates that close at night.
