If, like me, your first move before visiting a new country is googling "Is Costa Rica Safe?" then you've come to the right place. In this blog, I’ll draw on my personal experience as a solo backpacker (Hi, I’m Jack 🙌 thats me in the photo over there), as well as 2024’s most up-to-date safety information rounding off and out into 2025.
I’ll take you through popular destinations like San José, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Tamarindo, Puerto Viejo, and even the Osa Peninsula, sharing tips and a few stories (including that time I accidentally ended up walking down an unknown road at 2am attempting to get home from a rather wild night out! Frankly something I would not have done or felt safe doing in many ... scratch that, ANY other central American country! If you want a bit more about the history of Costa Rica then make sure to check out the Where's Next? Costa Rica episode where you can discover more about the origin story of this country. Spoiler, it really is one of the most peaceful countries on the planet! That said, it is currently going through something of a tricky spot which hopefully the government can crack down on, but generally this will not effect you as a visitor, but you do need to pay attention in the right places at the right times.
CONTENTS QUICK LINKS
IS COSTA RICA SAFE?
San José: Costa Rica’s Urban Hub
San José is a bustling city with vibrant culture, colonial architecture, and lively markets. While it’s a gateway to the country’s adventures, safety can vary depending on where you go. On the plus side, Uber is available in the city centre where I would highly recommend using it, although you should only need it in the city centre as most of the other areas you will be heading tend to be walkable, and Uber will likely not be available!
San José can feel a bit rough around the edges in certain areas, especially after dark. Petty theft like pickpocketing is common, particularly at bus terminals and crowded markets, I arrived into San Jose from La Fortuna by bus (not into the main bus terminal but somewhere north to the top side of the city) and decided to walk from the bus station to where I was staying (Selina). I do not know if this is just because I had come from such a quiet and peaceful town (there are some early insights on La Fortuna for ya); but walking the streets with all my backpacks I felt slightly uneasy. The area around the bus terminals are generally pretty gritty and feel rundown (even at the main station). Pulling out my phone to check the distance and direction I quickly memorised the route and put my phone back into my zip up pocket and thats where it stayed.
The main bus station feels like what I imagine the waiting room to a prison is like. Stark, not overly clean, and plastic chairs in a line in the centre of the square box space. At night a security guard asks to see your ticket before letting you through and then locks the door behind you. In the compound where the buses are lined up, they too are protected by extensive gates that are only opened when a bus is passing through before the gate is quickly slid back and locked again. These things are done to keep you safe yet also remind you that these measures are there for a reason! Having spent time in many a bus station at many different hours of the day, I can say that this experience was unique. The truth is that these measures did make me feel safe and even thought the bus was meant to leave it midnight hour, it did not leave until 2am yet I felt relaxed enough to disappear into a good audiobook.
Generally the experience in hostels was similar, security at the doors which were locked in the evening and advice of do not walk about on your own at night.
My honest opinion of this city; it not the best (sorry Costa Rica) but lets get real here, you likely have not gone to Costa Rica for a city visit to San Jose, you have gone for what Costa Rica does have ... world class beaches, rainforests and biodiversity in buckets. The good news is these areas have a completely different vibe to the city (with one exception). Alas, if you are in San Jose then you should have a look around so, here are the spots you should check out.
Safer Areas in San José
Barrio Escalante: Known for its trendy restaurants, cafes, and craft breweries, this is one of the safest and most walkable neighbourhoods. I stayed at Selina San José (just outside Barrio Escalante), which offers great vibes and comfy dorms starting at $20 per night. You can check the prices on Hostel world below. In Barrio Escalante you are also close to avenida central which is a pedestrian highway in the centre of the city. It will lead you all the way down to the the central market where you need to make sure you look out for pickpockets!
Private Rooms From: $119.9
Shared Dorms From: $23.76
San Pedro: This university district (around the university of Costa Rica) has a youthful energy and feels relatively safe during the day. You’ll find affordable food spots and local pubs to hang out in but do not venture too far out of the central area, theres just not that much beyond it to explore!
So ... That for me is about it! Other than some interesting buildings which you can find in my top architecture picks for San Jose (number 11 is super cool).
I would not spend more than a day or two in San Jose and use it for a quick explore before legging it to the countryside or beaches. There are some interesting stays just outside the city. One of which being Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm & Inn which you can find out more on in the 5 insanely Beautiful Eco-loge blog post (I say just outside but its still a good few hours to get to it). I would have a read of this post regardless of your budget as the properties are simply stunningly beautiful. I mean the sort of stay we all dream of but are out of budget for a more budget backpacker like myself!
Caution Areas in San José
Coca-Cola District: Despite the cheerful name, this area near the bus terminal is notorious for petty crime. Avoid wandering here, especially after sunset, generally have your guard up around the stations of San Jose, they have a feel about them that is hard to describe but I would go for 'unsettling' as though you are being watched!
Downtown after dark: Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night. Taxis or Ubers are a safer bet there are a lot of unlit streets in Costa Ricas capital and some are unavoidable.
Overall View of San Jose: I recently (December 2024) read an article from InSight Crime on the safety of Costa Rica where reporter Peter Appleby looks at the latest trends of Costa Rica this year. He highlights the upward trend in violence and homicide and largely attributes this to organised crime and drug trafficking. In a similar vein to this euro news reported in February of this year (2024) that Costa Rica has reached out and asked the EU to help with the increase in crime.
For me the worrying this about this (which is highlighted in Euro New' reporting is the fact that Costa Rica does not have a military presence what-so-ever (you can hear why in my podcast episode above). This remarkably peaceful country could become a victim to its own progressive ideas and totally derailed by crime if it is not cut off. Panama for example has quite a robust military and police presence. To speculate for a second, shipping in Panama is extensive and it is also carefully watched with a global interest, on the flip side of that, port towns like Limón in Costa Rica simply are not. This makes them much more attractive to traffic drugs across seas to Mexico, America or even Europe.
Generally this underbelly of drug related crime does have a big impact on tourists. The homicide rate increase is of course concerning but this is gang on gang related you would have to be terribly unlucky to become a victim of it, yet it does happen. Check out my post on Iquitos in Colombia where two poor girls were tragically caught up in the cross fire of a gang related shooting.
The area where this additional drug related crime does effect your average holiday maker/ backpacker/ explorer is in uncomfortable encounters. What do I mean? Well simply, strangers walking uncomfortably close to you to whisper in your ear, "cocaine?" It seems to happen too regularly and really removed you from a moment of observation and internal thought. The reply of "no, gracias no tomo drogas" in an attempt to sounds as fluent in Spanish as possible goes a long way yet is repeated all to often. I would recommend upping your Spanish level if travelling solo through the country.
Although this is not just a San Jose thing. Expect it in each and every country from Mexico down. I guess it just seems more targeted when you are clearly a foreigner. I have had this happen to me in London, Lisbon; now I think about it ... it happens everywhere. Perhaps it just seems more common when you are clearly not a local! 🤔 I have popped a map below to show the 'safer districts' (green boundaries) you can see the zone is pretty darn small. The numbers are the building that hold architectural significance that you can add to the itinerary. You can find more detail on all of them in the 15 Architectural Treasures to Discover in San José, Costa Rica post.
If you are a regular reader of my blog posts then you know what I am about to suggest, a Guru Walking Tour of San Jose. Why, because they are a fantastic way to safely explore a city with a local guide who can further help advise you on the safety of the area, especially given that events can change in a moment in the Central America countries. If you take one, you will not regret it!
Something different in San Jose?
Ok not quite in San Jose but because you are at backpackers blueprint the travel site that brings you the best architecture. I am going to point you cooly in the direction of Cartago. Just south east of San Jose you will find the basilica of Cartago, or to give its correct name 'The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles'. If you are looking for something off the usual tourist trail then a day trip including a volcano hike, the town of Cartago and the Orosi Valley is something a bit more unique combining the best or nature and architecture.
La Fortuna: Gateway to Arenal Volcano
Safety Overview for La Fortuna
This small town is a major tourist hub, surrounded by natural wonders like waterfalls, hot springs, and the iconic Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna is safe for visitors. Crime here is rare, thanks to its focus on tourism. The town is tiny and everything is within walking distance, it can however be quiet. There are interesting things to do here like, the Volcano hike, bathing in warm springs, horse rides through the valley and sloth parks. You will find cute little places to eat and drink around the main plaza. The biggest safety issue here is going to be the hikes. A tour guide can make this easier, if you do not want all the planning or if you are in a rush then simply book onto a waterfall, volcano and hot spring tour and away you go ... just make sure you have the following.
Ample water.
Ample snacks.
Warm and waterproof clothing.
Solid hiking shoes.
Let your hotel/ hostel know you are undertaking a day hike.
Plan your trails and transport.
have everything on charge and take a power bank.
What struck me about La Fortuna was the sense of community. The locals were warm and welcoming, and I never felt uneasy during my stay. Of course, every traveller’s experience may differ, but this calm atmosphere really shaped my perception of safety here.
There are a number of options for a fantastic stay here but the choice is getting more and more difficult as the number of hostel offerings keeps going up, for me there is one stand out, Arenal Backpackers Resort, a fantastic hostel with dorm beds starting at $15 and a pool that feels like a luxury hotel. The vibe here is social perhaps beyond that of any other, so if your time in La Fortuna is to meet some fellow backpackers and have some fun it is a great choice.
Another great choice that is fantastic on price is La Choza Inn, having stayed here the facilities where good and the breakfast and kitchen great for use, however the social vibe was not that of other places. Fortunately I knew people here already else I think it could have been a fairly lonely stay. The other thing to note about this place is that you cannot use the kitchen area in the morning as the Inn does do a breakfast, although it may be easier to tack this onto the costs as you can be sure of a good feed and get to the days activities.
Private Tent (shared Bathroom) From: $49.72
Shared Dorms From: $28.31
Private Rooms From: $45.00
Shared Dorms From: $13.52
I hinted at a long walk home late one night. Well this is exactly where it happened. Staying in La Choza Inn, a friend and myself walked to ARENAL POSHPACKER (another good choice for a stay) to meet another friend. That friend had heard about a party at a hostel/ hotel a few miles walk out, after a bit of discussion, we walked to the party.
A couple of drinks and a lot of dancing later the clock passed 2am and it was time to head home. In this rural location at this time in the morning, there were no taxis to be had, thus we decided to walk home.
This is usually against every 'keeping myself safe' protocol I have and its not something I recommend. This was a personal judgment based on the calm atmosphere I experienced during my stay. If you find yourself in a similar situation, always assess your surroundings carefully and err on the side of caution."
Whilst I would not recommend this, and as someone who is usually a bit overly cautions on the safety of travel, it does give an interesting barometer to how I was feeling in La Fortuna!
Pro Tip: Book activities like hiking and hot spring visits through your hostel or hotel. Guides not only enhance the experience but also ensure safety in areas where trails can get tricky.
Ok so from La Fortuna if you are heading North your next stop will likely be Monteverde, however do not let the geographical proximity fool you, these are a long, but beautiful journey apart.
Monteverde: Cloud Forest Bliss
Safety Overview for Monteverde
I had a whistle stop in Monteverde, attracted like so many others by its mystical cloud forests and the iconic images of suspension bridges stretched across the canopies of trees. It’s one of the safest destinations in Costa Rica, with a laid-back and eco-conscious community.
The heart of Monteverde is tiny, you will find an interesting bar and restaurant in the centre of it all where which you can find on my see on my Backpacking Costa Rica Travel guide page. Look for the Tree House Restaurante, an interesting pieces of architecture and interior design. You will also find some video footage from the journey to get from Monteverde to La Fortuna (I was heading North to South).
Here in Monteverde you are going to have a plethora of activities to do including zip lining, hikes, wildlife sanctuaries coffee tours. If you are looking for something a bit special then a wildlife night tour is a fantastic option.
Stay Dry and Safe in Monteverde
The biggest safety concern here is the weather. Monteverde’s misty cloud forests often bring sudden rain showers, especially during the wet season. Staying dry isn’t just about comfort; hypothermia or prolonged exposure to wet conditions can ruin your adventure.
To tackle Monteverde’s unpredictable weather, invest in a high-quality waterproof jacket something like a Patagonia Torrentshell or a Columbia Watertight II (both options below). Also do not forget to ensure your backpack has a waterproof covering! These items are an absolute must for Costa Rica's unpredictable weather.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket
Price: ~$150 USD
Perfect for lightweight packing and durable enough for multiple trips, this jacket is a favourite among eco-conscious travellers. It offers three-layer waterproof protection and excellent breathability for hikes and activities.
Budget Alternative: Columbia Watertight II Jacket
Price: ~$75 USD
Affordable and compact, this jacket delivers reliable waterproofing without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for backpackers sticking to a tighter budget.
Health Considerations/ Insurance
Monteverde has a local health clinic for minor issues, but for more serious medical needs, you might need to travel to Puntarenas or San José. Make sure your travel insurance covers rural emergencies, especially if you're participating in activities like zip-lining. I never travel without insurance, it simply gives me piece of mind when doing things like surfing or hiking. Even if the budget is tight its one thing I would make sure you have in place before going anywhere. I have used True Traveller before but for upcoming trips I am going to be using SafetyWing, they provide a Nomad Insurance and there price point is very competitive, check it out on the widget for a guide. I love the rolling monthly cost instead of guessing how long I will be gone for! As with all insurance make sure to read the policy carefully to make sure it has everything you need. For my last extended travel I paid over 700GDP thinking I would be gone for a year but ended up only being 6 months, lessons learned and all that!
Tamarindo: Surf’s Up on the Pacific Coast
Safety Overview for Tamarindo
Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s most popular beach destinations, attracting surfers, backpackers, and families alike. With stunning sunsets, a lively nightlife scene, and excellent beginner surf spots, it’s easy to see why it’s a must-visit on any itinerary. However, there are safety and practical considerations to keep in mind.
Secure Your Belongings: Never leave valuables unattended on the beach or in a vehicle, if you are on your own and want to head into the water then I have a motorbike helmet tip for you below as I know had frustrating this can be when you want to relax but cannot as you feel you need to have an eye on your bag 24/7. Whilst it wont fully stop a dedicated robber it will slow them down or make them reconsider!
Use Trusted Transportation: Generally if you are staying in Tamarindo, you are going to be able to walk pretty much everywhere but if you do need to get further afield, stick to licensed taxis or pre-book private shuttles.
Travel Insurance Is a Must: Given Tamarindo’s adventurous activities like surfing, make sure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies and extreme sports, these can sometimes be 'bolt on options' so just check your policy if you are hitting the waves or make sure the surf school you are using has insurance for accidents and emergencies.
Lock up your stuff at hostels: Theft from dorms isn’t unheard of if you want a top tip travel hack here ... I stayed in a hostel that did not have any lockers (a mistake on my part but the hostel was fantastic and I did not have any trouble, however, I carry a motorbike helmet lock. I used it to locked both my bags together, locked the zips and wrapped the helmet lock around the metal bars on the bed! Its not going to stop a really determined robber, but it will definitely slow them down or might just put them off entirely. I also use the helmet lock on the beach!
Nightlife: The night life in Tamarindo is awesome but, walking back alone after a few drinks isn’t the smartest move. Buddy up or grab a taxi and don't walk alone down the beach in the dark.
Puerto Viejo: Caribbean Chill
Safety Overview for Puerto Viejo:
Puerto Viejo is generally safe for travellers, but there are a few key concerns to keep in mind:
Petty Theft: This is the most common issue, especially bike theft or valuables left unattended on beaches.
Nightlife Risks: The town’s vibrant nightlife is a draw, but walking alone late at night can make you an easy target for opportunistic crime.
Road Safety: Biking is the main form of transportation, but the roads can be poorly lit and uneven, making accidents more likely.
Accommodation Tip: Two top stays here are Wolaba for a younger vibe and Playa 506 for a really unique and different beach style stay.
4 Bed Apartment Ensuite: $129.60
Shared Dorms From: $18.36
Basic Doubles From: US$92.16
Shared Dorms From: US$24.44
Top Tips for Staying Safe:
Lock Your Bike: If you rent a bike, invest in a solid lock or check if the rental service provides one.
Stick to Groups: Enjoy nightlife with friends and take taxis instead of walking back to your accommodation alone.
Protect Valuables: Make sure to keep your items safely locked away and dont carry more on you than you need. Again with your day bag make sure you are able to lock/ strap it to something and that the zippers are locked together themselves (If you already have a day bag that you use frequently then check out the helmet lock tip above in the Tamarindo section ⬆️.
Osa Peninsula: Wild and Untamed
Safety Overview for Osa Peninsula in 2024
The Osa Peninsula is one of Costa Rica's most biodiverse and remote areas, making it a favourite destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts. While it is generally safe for visitors, it’s important to remain cautious due to its remoteness and occasional reports of criminal activity, such as petty theft and illegal hunting near protected areas like Corcovado National Park. Recently, the Costa Rican government and conservation groups have intensified efforts to ensure safety and environmental protection in this region
Recent Developments
Enhanced Protection Efforts: The government and conservation organisations like Osa Conservation have ramped up patrols and monitoring systems. In 2023 alone, rangers covered over 51,000 kilometers of forest in anti-poaching efforts, while initiatives like arboreal bridges and wildlife tracking systems continue to bolster the region’s safety and ecological health
Tourism Police and Local Guides: Local tourism operators and specialised police units are actively involved in ensuring visitor safety. These professionals emphasise hiring certified guides for activities like hiking and night tours, which not only enhance safety but also enrich the travel experience.
Illegal Activities in Decline: Anti-illegal hunting and gold mining operations have been successful in recent years, reducing some of the risks associated with exploring deeper parts of the rainforest. These operations highlight the importance of adhering to designated tourist routes and respecting park regulations.
Safety Tips for Visitors
Stick to Guided Tours: Solo hikes in Corcovado National Park or other remote areas are discouraged. Guided tours provide both safety and a deeper appreciation of the local biodiversity and will even give you a steer on what animals need to be avoided etc!
Secure Your Belongings: While serious crime is rare, petty theft can occur. Secure your valuables, especially in entry towns like Puerto Jiménez and Drake Bay.
Prepare for the Terrain: The Osa is remote, and many areas have challenging trails. Bring sturdy footwear, proper gear, and ensure your phone or GPS device is fully charged or take a power bank with you
Why Visit Despite the Risks?
With its rich biodiversity, including rare wildlife like tapirs, jaguars, and scarlet macaws, the Osa Peninsula remains one of Costa Rica’s most magical destinations. With proper precautions and respect for local guidelines, it offers an unforgettable and safe adventure.
Limón: Costa Rica’s Caribbean Gateway
Safety Overview for Limón in 2024
Limón, located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, is a culturally vibrant but complex destination in terms of safety. Earlier (during the San Jose section) I mentioned San Jose is a bit 'sketchy' as far as safety goes but you will be fine in the countryside and beach locations other than one other area ... Well welcome to the other area. Known as a centre for Costa Rica’s drug trafficking routes, Limón has faced challenges with organised crime and gang activity. The Tico Times reported in February 2024 that Limón accounted for 18 of Costa Rica's reported homicides in the early part of the year, reflecting the area's higher-than-average crime rates compared to other provinces.
While tourist-centric spots like Cahuita and Puerto Viejo are generally safer, petty theft such as bag-snatching and vehicle break-ins remain a concern. Visitors should exercise caution when navigating urban Limón and avoid venturing into isolated areas, particularly at night
Recent Developments
The Costa Rican government has ramped up efforts to improve safety in Limón and other high-risk areas. In late 2023, funding was allocated for a new police station in Cahuita to bolster safety along the Caribbean coast. The Tourist Police, a specialised bilingual unit, continues to maintain a presence in major tourist zones, ensuring visitors' safety in key areas like national parks and beaches.
However, while crime prevention measures are increasing, travellers are advised to remain vigilant. Keep personal belongings secure, avoid leaving valuables in cars, and be cautious in urban areas where opportunistic theft is more common
Key Safety Tips for Limón
Stay in well-lit, populated areas, particularly near tourist hubs.
Use reputable transportation options like licensed taxis or private shuttles.
Be cautious about displaying valuables such as cameras or smartphones.
When visiting Cahuita or Puerto Viejo, consult local guides or accommodations for the latest safety advice.
Don't go! Limón has a lot of history and culture and I understand people who want to see countries 'warts and all', but if you want the Caribbean chill and beach vibes away from the more touristy spot of Tamarindo then Puerto Viejo is the better choice heading into 2025.
Looking Forward
The Costa Rican government has recognised Limón’s importance to the country’s tourism and economy and is working to address the root causes of insecurity. As a visitor, staying informed and taking basic precautions can ensure a safe and rewarding experience in this region of rich Afro-Caribbean culture and stunning natural beauty, but please take the above point 5 into consideration before strutting into Limón.
Key Safety Tips for Costa Rica in 2024
So Is Costa Rica Safe for Tourists?
Absolutely. Costa Rica remains one of the safest countries in Central America for tourists. Its main attractions, from lush jungles to sunny beaches, are well-patrolled and welcoming. While petty theft exists, major crimes against tourists are rare. With a little common sense and preparation, you’ll have an unforgettable trip. The top tips we conclude with are:
Stay alert for petty theft: Always keep your belongings secure, especially in urban areas and on public transportation. Anti-theft bags are a solid investment.
Trust the locals: Costa Ricans (or Ticos) are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice on where to go or avoid.
Use ride-sharing apps: Uber is reliable and much safer than hailing a random taxi in cities like San José.
Check weather and road conditions: Landslides can happen during the rainy season, so plan your routes accordingly.
Lock up your gear: Make sure you stay in places where you can lock up your clothing and any equipment you carry.
Pura vida, my friends! 🌴 Please feel free to add your own advice for fellow backpackers and explorers in the comments below 👇
Much love till the next adventure, Jack, ohhh ... I have set up a buy me a coffee account to help keep me going please consider buying me a coffee, its much appreciated.
For the curious explorer
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