Ensuring the safety and well-being of our visitors is a top priority. Follow these tips to have a safe and enjoyable trip in Costa Rica:
When traveling far from your hotel, carry your passport and be cautious. If staying close to your hotel, keep your documents in a safe box. You can use your hotel’s safe if available and carry a copy of your passport with all relevant information, such as the first page and the arrival stamp.
Use the safe deposit box of your hotel for your valuables.
Don’t leave your possessions unattended in public areas (hotel lobby, transport, airports, restaurants, etc.).
Ask for information at the front desk of your hotel about the safest routes and means of transportation, especially at night.
When using taxi services, verify that they comply with requirements, such as yellow triangles printed on the doors and a meter.
Use ATMs located in public, well-illuminated areas. Don’t allow strangers to stand near you, and avoid taking unsolicited help. Count your money and put it away before leaving the ATM.
Keep car windows closed and doors locked when traveling and parking. Do not leave items in your car. If you get a flat tire, are told something is wrong with your car, are bumped from behind, or feel you are being followed, do not stop. Call 9-1-1 and seek police assistance or drive to a busy shopping center.
If you need to check your cell phone or guide, do so in a public and secure area or ask a police officer for help. Do not stop in front of strangers.
Exchange money only at banks. Bank transactions require a passport (not a copy).
Protecting Children and Teenagers
Costa Rica protects its children and teenagers. Sexual exploitation of minors is a crime punished by law.
In Costa Rica, a person from 18 years old is considered an adult.
