With coastlines on both the Caribbean and Pacific, the rainforest-laden country of Costa Rica is a magnet for travellers.
Yet it can pose problems for those unprepared for its jungle terrain and cities.
Nestled between Panama and Nicaragua, Costa Rica is one of Central America’s most frequented tourist destinations.
Recent reports have focused on rising crime in the country, with a homicide rate of 16.8 per 100,000 inhabitants.
This sounds grim, but none of it impacts the tourist sector and is confined to small gang rivalries.
For tourists, the country remains safe and provides one of the most unspoilt wilderness experiences that must be sampled.
How Safe Is Costa Rica?
Central America has developed a reputation, and some of this is for good reason.
Yet Costa Rica remains one of the safest countries in the region.
If you exercise the same caution you would in any global location, then you should not encounter any problems.
The US Embassy notes that petty theft is the main crime, as does the British Embassy.
This means keeping valuables and wallets out of sight and hidden away, locking cars, and being vigilant with luggage, especially in public spaces.
Costa Rica has no history of terrorism or similar related activities.
In fact, the only real danger in Costa Rica is not planning.
As a country full of natural wonders and wildlife, it can be tempting for adventurers to head off on their own and underestimate how tough this terrain can be.
Driving in Costa Rica
Driving in Costa Rica in the main cities is fairly safe, though you may still find roads bumpy and pothole-ridden.
Such is the way of Central America.
In all areas, these roads can be treacherous during the rainy season, and outside of the city, you may find that some can not be traversed due to sinkholes, floods, and landslides.
For this reason, you are best with some kind of SUV, and it is these that rental agencies will stock the most.
When you rent a car in Costa Rica, you will find the booking process just as easy as in any other country.
Prices are reasonable, and you can pick them up at the major airports such as Liberia International.
If possible, it is best to avoid using your rental car at night.
Very few areas have adequate lighting, and the volume of nocturnal wildlife can prove troublesome.
The roads can also be very tricky outside cities in the daytime, making them very dangerous after dark.
Should you break down, don’t accept help from a stranger, as it could be a ruse; instead, call your rental company.
Methanol Poisoning
One warning issued by the government of the United Kingdom concerns methanol poisoning.
In October 2025, the regional authorities reported a spate of spikes in poisoning from contaminated alcohol.
However, this was across Latin America with reported outbreaks in Brazil and Colombia.
The authorities in the country were keen to point out that no major outbreak had occurred in 2025, with the last being in 2021.
This generally comes from criminal gangs, who use methanol to make cheap vodka and guaro, a local cane spirit.
Even small amounts can kill, and it is undetectable by smell.
Thus, try to stick to well-known brands in reputable bars and establishments, such as hotels.
Planning a Trip
With sound planning, you can limit any issues that occur on your trip and manage to increase your safety levels.
If driving, check the road conditions way in advance of your departure.
Make sure your car has all the safety equipment you need.
If getting public transport, check the route and destination before you board.
Keep your belongings close, and be wary of anyone who is overly friendly, as they may be trying to steal your personal items.
If you are heading out into the mountains or forests, it is best to do so with a designated guide.
If you must go alone, let the park ranger know your route, such as where you will start and where you will end.
Stick to the trails, and use designated entry and exit points.
This is especially important in areas of volcanic activity.
Make sure you have all the necessary equipment, such as food, water, bug spray, first aid kits, and sunscreen.
When at beaches and rivers, you should take the necessary precautions, being wary of currents and riptides.
Pay attention to any signs about the ocean on that day.
If swimming in rivers, you may also want to keep an eye out for some of the more aggressive wildlife.
By following these guidelines, your trip to Costa Rica should be safe and trouble-free.
Like any country, it has risks.
Yet Costa Rica has worked hard to minimise these and make sure tourists like yourself enjoy their stay.
