Is It Safe To Travel To Costa Rica?

Covered with tropical rainforests, boasting beautiful coastlines, diverse wildlife, and extreme sports, Costa Rica is among the leading tourist attractions in Central America. Still, a number of potential visitors ask a common question: is it safe to travel to Costa Rica?

Oh but the good news is that Costa Rica ranks among the safest and most stable countries in the Latin American region. According to the GPI released in 2021, Costa Rica is secure and is ranked 38th out of 163 countries; therefore, it is the most secure country in Central America. In a Gallup poll conducted recently, more than 80% of the Costa Rica citizens said that they feel secure strolling alone in their neighbourhoods at night. To answer the question, therefore, it could be said that in most cases, it is relatively safe to travel to Costa Rica provided one observes certain measures of caution.

That being said, low-level criminal activities such as theft in places like markets, pickpocketing, and luggage theft are not out of the ordinary especially in regions such as San Jose. Acts of violence like armed robbery, carjacking, rape, and murder, though not rampant, have been on the increase in the past few years. Other natural calamities may also occur periodically such as: earthquakes, volcanic activities, floods and landslides.

Here are some tips to ensure a safe trip

San Jose Precautions
San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, is slightly more dangerous with locals advising to avoid crowded areas, poor neighborhoods, and transportation hubs as these areas attract pickpockets. It is safer not to stroll in the evening, wear clothes with bright bling, or carry all of your belongings in one bag that can be grabbed. Also, do not drive in poorly illuminated alleys and side roads during the night.

Go Out Of Your Comfort Zone, But Do Not Overdo It

Traveling means that you get out of your comfort zone and try new things, that is why it is so exciting. But, be familiar with your own tolerance towards risks. If the idea of taking public buses passing through small towns with small populations seems too dangerous to you, try spending more money to take shuttles, organized tours or hiring private drivers. Evaluate the adrenalin rush activities such as zip lining, surfing, hiking etc, and only join the companies that have been rated high on safety measures.

Be Vigilant Of Surroundings

Regardless of if you are walking around a new neighborhood, on the road, or in the nature, pay attention to what is going on. If a place/person appears to be suspicious or dangerous, do not take any chances and follow your gut instinct. Do not go to deserted places where there are no people around. There are some places where sticking out like a sore thumb is a very bad idea, so don’t overdo your fancy clothes.

Guard Against Petty Theft

Pick-pocketing and luggage theft occurs most frequently when tourists are relaxed – on buses, at sea-shore, while getting on or off a vehicle etc. Do not display your valuables where they can easily be noticed. Backpacks are easily accessible on the ground or on your back in crowded places, so they should be close to the chest.

Research Reputable Tourism Companies

Check the companies you get your tour and activity bookings from. Check the reviews, make sure the relocation companies put emphasis on safety measures and work with reputable companies only. Avoid taking anonymous cabs – instead, request a radio cab or get your hotel to book one for you.

Store Copies Of Documents

It is possible to lose a passport to theft or mishandling and this may compel one to be inconvenienced during a trip. This means that you should have 2 or 3 photocopies of your passport and other ID/permits in different pockets than the originals. Also leave a set with someone back home. This will assist in accelerating the process of acquiring the replacements. These can also be temporarily used by airlines for verification as well as hotels and embassies.

Have Insurance Coverage

Purchase good health, baggage and cancellation insurance that can also cover for flight delays, trip cancellation costs and more. Check policy restrictions and obtain insurance before your travel. Also, look at your insurance policy to determine the coverage on foreign nations. This coverage will assist in eliminating the need to expend additional cash due to an emergency or an accident. If planning to drive, inquire whether your current auto insurance policy includes rentals in foreign territories. If not, purchase rental car insurance.

Compliance With Local Laws and Regulations

Costa Ricans preserve their cultural and family traditional norms. As in most parts of the world, courtesy and tact will get you very far in dealing with people. Pick up some fundamental Spanish words and expressions. Understand local laws too – for example, driving under influence can have more severe penalties. Costa Ricans, if you are polite and cautious, are friendly folks.

However, despite the fact that criminal activity is not as widespread in Costa Rica as in many other Central American countries, it is still important to implement certain measure of safety. Be cautious of potentially unsafe situations, trust instincts and be aware of surroundings, only work with credible tour operators and transportation services. It similarly fosters goodwill from locals insofar as it avoids offending their cultural susceptibilities. However, with certain degree of prudence and sense of reality, Costa Rica is a country that one does not mind getting to know.

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