Safety

General Safety Situation

Costa Rica is the safest country in Central America — and remarkably safe by Latin American standards. The crime rate is significantly lower than in neighboring countries, and violent crimes against tourists are rare. However, Costa Rica is not a European safety paradise, and petty crime is a real issue.

Common Problems

• Car Break-ins: THE number one problem for tourists with rental cars. Cars are regularly broken into at beaches, waterfalls, and hiking parking lots. Leave NOTHING visible in the car — not even flip-flops or an empty bag.
• Pickpocketing: In San José (especially around Mercado Central and on the bus), at busy beaches, and during festivals. Keep your backpack in front of you, valuables close to your body.
• Beach Theft: NEVER leave valuables on the beach, not even "briefly" while swimming. Wear a waterproof phone case around your neck.

Natural Hazards

• Rip Currents: Many Pacific beaches have deadly undertows. Swim only at supervised beaches! In a current: don't fight it, swim parallel to the shore.
• Crocodiles: Large crocodiles live in the Río Tárcoles and some river mouths. Do not swim in rivers that flow into the sea!
• Snakes: Fer-de-Lance (Terciopelo) is the most dangerous — common in lowlands. Stay on paths, wear sturdy shoes, never reach into bushes.
• Earthquakes & Volcanoes: Costa Rica is on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Light earthquakes are frequent and harmless. Volcanic eruptions are well monitored.