Travel Advisory for Republic of Costa Rica
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of Costa Rica from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Republic of Costa Rica.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-06-05
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
45
Safety Index Score
Overview
Costa Rica warrants a high degree of caution due to prevalent petty and violent crime, including armed robberies and sexual assaults, particularly in tourist areas and urban centers. Natural disasters like earthquakes and volcanic activity are also a risk, alongside health concerns such as mosquito-borne illnesses.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Costa Rica, while a popular destination, presents a complex safety landscape requiring vigilant awareness. The country faces significant challenges with both petty and violent crime. Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is rampant, especially in tourist hotspots, transportation hubs, and public transport. Tourists are often targeted due to perceived wealth. Violent crime, such as armed robberies, carjackings, and sexual assaults, is on the rise, with drug-related violence contributing to a high homicide rate in provinces like San José, Limón, and Puntarenas. Criminals sometimes employ elaborate tactics, like staging accidents or slashing tires to facilitate theft.
Travelers should exercise extreme caution regarding drink spiking and methanol poisoning, as contaminated alcoholic beverages have led to serious illness and death. It is crucial to never leave drinks unattended and to be wary of unsolicited offers. The risk of credit card fraud is also noted.
Natural hazards are a significant concern. Costa Rica is located in an active seismic and volcanic zone, with frequent earthquakes and potential for volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. The hurricane and rainy season (roughly June to November) brings risks of flooding and landslides, which can disrupt transportation and essential services. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable.
Health-wise, while medical facilities in San José are generally good, they can be basic and expensive, especially in rural areas. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are prevalent, particularly during the wet season, necessitating the use of insect repellent and protective clothing. Waterborne diseases are also a risk, so drinking bottled or purified water is advised.
Local laws, particularly concerning drugs, are strictly enforced, with severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences. Foreigners are prohibited from participating in political demonstrations. Road safety is a concern due to poor road conditions, unpredictable driving habits, and inadequate signage, increasing the risk of accidents, especially at night. Official taxis should be used, and rental vehicles checked thoroughly for maintenance and security.
Overall, a proactive approach to safety, including staying informed, avoiding risky areas, securing belongings, and heeding local advice, is essential for a safe visit to Costa Rica.
Travelers should exercise extreme caution regarding drink spiking and methanol poisoning, as contaminated alcoholic beverages have led to serious illness and death. It is crucial to never leave drinks unattended and to be wary of unsolicited offers. The risk of credit card fraud is also noted.
Natural hazards are a significant concern. Costa Rica is located in an active seismic and volcanic zone, with frequent earthquakes and potential for volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. The hurricane and rainy season (roughly June to November) brings risks of flooding and landslides, which can disrupt transportation and essential services. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable.
Health-wise, while medical facilities in San José are generally good, they can be basic and expensive, especially in rural areas. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are prevalent, particularly during the wet season, necessitating the use of insect repellent and protective clothing. Waterborne diseases are also a risk, so drinking bottled or purified water is advised.
Local laws, particularly concerning drugs, are strictly enforced, with severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences. Foreigners are prohibited from participating in political demonstrations. Road safety is a concern due to poor road conditions, unpredictable driving habits, and inadequate signage, increasing the risk of accidents, especially at night. Official taxis should be used, and rental vehicles checked thoroughly for maintenance and security.
Overall, a proactive approach to safety, including staying informed, avoiding risky areas, securing belongings, and heeding local advice, is essential for a safe visit to Costa Rica.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-06-02 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-05-26 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-05-29 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-05-19 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-03-12 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-14 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-17 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-06-03 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-21 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-05-20 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-03-16 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-06-03 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-06-04 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-03-03 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-03-02 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-04-22 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions | 2026-04-19 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from certain countries in South America or Africa with a risk of transmission.
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccines (MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, seasonal flu)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Tetanus booster if more than 10 years since last dose.
- Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended for specific areas (e.g., Limón, Puntarenas) and seasons.
Consult a travel health professional well in advance of travel to determine specific vaccination and medication needs based on your itinerary and health status.
Routine vaccinations should be up-to-date for all travelers.
Yellow Fever: While there is no risk within Costa Rica itself, proof of vaccination is required if arriving from specific countries in South America or Africa. Ensure your certificate is valid.
Malaria: Risk is considered low overall but present in specific regions like Limón and Puntarenas, particularly near the Panama border. Discuss preventative medication with your doctor if visiting these areas.
Insect-borne diseases: Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are risks. Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using repellent, wearing protective clothing, and ensuring accommodations are insect-proof.
Rabies: Present in wildlife; vaccination may be recommended for those working with animals or in high-risk rural areas. Seek immediate medical care if bitten or scratched by an animal.
Food and Water Safety: Practice safe food and water precautions to prevent illnesses like traveler's diarrhea. Boil or drink bottled water, eat well-cooked food, and peel fruits and vegetables.
COVID-19: Stay up-to-date with recommended vaccinations and follow public health guidelines.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Visa-Free / Entry Stamp | Up to 180 days | Check Embassy | Passport valid for duration of stay; return ticket required. |
|
| Business | Visa-Free / Embassy Confirmation | Up to 180 days (for short visits) | Check Embassy | Passport valid for duration of stay; may require specific business documentation. |
|
| Student | Visa required | Varies | Check Embassy | Requires prior application and approval. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: At least 1 day after planned departure, though some transit countries may require 6 months.
- Blank Pages Required: 0
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Recognized
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required for entry
- Currency Limit Declaration: $10,000 USD
- Drone Usage Law: Not explicitly mentioned, but photography of official buildings is illegal; local regulations likely apply.
Emergency Contacts
- General Emergency (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 911
- Police Investigative Service: 911 or 2221-5337
- Ambulance: 911 or 128
- Fire Service: 911 or 118
- Tourist Police: 911
- Civil Protection: (506)22103977
- Costa Rican Tourism Board: +506-2299-5800 or via WhatsApp +506-8628-3247
- U.S. Embassy San José (Emergency after-hours): +506-2220-3127
- Embassy of Canada to Costa Rica (Emergency Consular Assistance): +506 2242-4400 and follow instructions
- Irish Embassy in Mexico City (Emergency Assistance): +52 55 5520 5803 (out of hours)
- Austrian Honoray Consulate San José: (+506) 2221 4306 (by appointment)
- Swiss Embassy San José (Ad-hoc/Emergency Representation): +506 22 21 48 29
- Italian Embassy in San José (Emergency): +506-88286286 or +506 22713765
- Netherlands Embassy San José: Contact via +31 247 247 247 (Contact Centre) or WhatsApp +31 857 737 400
- Australian Consulate, San José: +506 4052 4676
- 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre (Australia): +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas)
- Emergency Services (General): 911
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Tire slashing scam: Thieves slash a car tire, then offer assistance to change it while an accomplice steals from the vehicle or its occupants.
- ATM/Credit Card Fraud: Be cautious at ATMs, especially street-side ones. Thieves may use skimmers or electronic jammers to intercept signals.
- Spiked Drinks: Be wary of drinks offered by strangers or left unattended in bars and clubs, as they may be spiked with drugs leading to robbery or assault.
- Fake Currency: Street money changers may pass counterfeit currency; only use official banks or exchange bureaus.
- Impersonating Officials: Beware of individuals impersonating police officers to demand money.
- Express Kidnappings: Victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs under duress.
Cultural Etiquette in Republic of Costa Rica
Do
- Greet locals: A simple ¡Hola! or Buenos días is appreciated.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases: Even a little effort shows respect.
- Dress modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
- Use official taxis: They are red with a yellow triangle or orange at the airport.
- Ask permission before photographing people: Particularly women and children.
Don't
- Do not engage in political demonstrations: Foreigners are prohibited and may face detention or deportation.
- Do not carry or use illegal drugs: Penalties are severe, including long prison sentences.
- Do not resist during a robbery: Compliance is recommended to avoid escalating violence.
- Do not display excessive wealth: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large sums of cash.
- Do not drink unregulated alcohol: Risk of methanol poisoning is high.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-06-02
Canada advises a high degree of caution due to crime, including frequent petty theft like pickpocketing and purse snatching, with tourists being common targets. Violent crime, drug trafficking, and passport theft are also significant concerns. Specific high-risk areas in San José and popular tourist destinations on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts are highlighted. Travelers are urged to secure belongings, avoid affluent displays, and be aware of surroundings, especially in crowded areas and ATMs. Car break-ins are common, targeting rental vehicles. Violent crime incidents like murders, armed robberies, and assaults are noted, often drug-related. Fraud, spiked food/drinks, and unregulated alcohol are also risks. Women traveling alone may face harassment or verbal abuse, with reported sexual assaults. Demonstrations can occur and turn violent. Water activities pose risks due to dangerous riptides, and adventure tourism requires careful preparation. Road safety is generally poor, with dangerous driving habits and conditions. Public transportation can be unreliable and targeted by pickpockets. Official taxis are recommended. Entry requirements include a valid passport and proof of onward travel. Yellow fever vaccination may be required depending on the origin of travel. Health advice covers routine and pre-travel vaccines, with risks of Hepatitis A, Yellow Fever (entry requirement for some), Measles, Hepatitis B, COVID-19, Influenza, Malaria (risk in certain areas), Rabies, Chikungunya, Dengue, Zika, American trypanosomiasis, Leishmaniasis, Mpox. Medical services are good but can be expensive, and travel insurance covering medical evacuation is essential. Local laws must be obeyed, with severe penalties for drug offenses. Child sex tourism is a serious offense. Photography of official buildings is illegal. Dual citizenship is recognized but may limit consular services. International Child Abduction is covered by the Hague Convention. Driving with a Canadian license is permitted for up to 180 days, but road conditions and driving habits are hazardous. Natural disasters include hurricanes, flooding, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. Emergency services are accessible via 911.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-05-26
The U.S. Department of State advises "Exercise increased caution" in Costa Rica due to crime, including common petty theft and more serious violent crimes like armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault. Tourists are frequently targeted. The advisory highlights the danger of deadly rip currents on beaches, urging swimmers to use designated areas and heed lifeguards. It also notes Costa Rica's active earthquake and volcanic zones. Marijuana and related products are illegal. Travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates. Specific safety tips include staying aware of surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas, not resisting robbery attempts, and avoiding displays of wealth. Car break-ins are common, with thieves using signal blockers. Rental properties should have good security. Victims of crime should report to the OIJ. Sexual assault victims are advised to dial 911 and contact the embassy. Adventure sports carry risks, and medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended. Driving conditions are hazardous, and traffic laws are often ignored. Public transportation is not recommended due to pickpocketing risks; licensed taxis or ride-sharing services are preferred. Unpaid traffic tickets can lead to credit card charges. Natural disasters include earthquakes, volcanic activity, tsunamis, flooding, and wildfires. Health advice includes CDC recommendations, with specific mention of Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, and Malaria risks. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from certain countries. Medical care is available but can be expensive, and travel insurance covering medical evacuation is crucial. Marijuana is illegal. Alcohol tainted with methanol is a serious health risk. Drone usage laws are not specified. Entry requires a valid passport, return ticket, and potentially Yellow Fever proof. Currency limits apply.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-05-29
France classifies Costa Rica under "vigilance renforcée" (enhanced vigilance), highlighting a significant increase in crime, including homicides and violent delinquency across the country. Petty crime targeting tourists is common in popular areas like national parks, beaches, buses, and rental cars. Violent crime, such as armed robbery and sexual assault, is also present. Travelers are advised against resistance during armed assaults and to avoid isolated areas or walking alone at night. Specific neighborhoods in San José are flagged as high-risk. Car break-ins are frequent, especially targeting rental vehicles. Losing a passport requires reporting to the OIJ and consular assistance. Security in individual accommodations like Airbnb rentals is cautioned against, particularly in areas like Guanacaste near Tamarindo, where burglaries and serious violence have occurred. Sexual assaults against solo travelers are occasionally reported, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Natural risks include floods and landslides during the rainy season (May-November), and volcanic activity requires adherence to safety instructions. Road safety is poor due to road conditions and driver behavior, with night travel discouraged. Official taxis are recommended. Entry requires a passport valid beyond the stay, a return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds; visas are not needed for stays up to 180 days. Health advice emphasizes standard vaccinations, with Yellow Fever vaccination potentially required based on travel history. Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, Malaria (risk considered low but present), Rabies, and Typhoid are noted health risks. Medical care is available but can be expensive, necessitating travel insurance. Drug offenses carry severe penalties. Foreigners are prohibited from political activity.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-05-19
The UK advises "Exercise a high degree of caution" in Costa Rica due to significant risks of muggings, theft, and violent crime, particularly on the Atlantic coast and in tourist areas. Tourists are warned about common tactics like tire slashing scams and deliberate collisions used by criminals. Methanol poisoning from contaminated alcoholic drinks is a serious concern, with documented fatalities. Sexual assaults, some targeting tourists, have increased. The advice emphasizes carrying identification (a copy is usually accepted), strict penalties for drug offenses, and advises LGBT+ travelers that while relationships are legal, social acceptance varies. Swimming safety is a major concern due to common rip currents and lack of lifeguards, with drownings being a frequent cause of accidental death. Crocodile attacks have been reported on the Pacific coast. Adventure tourism operators' safety standards are variable, and specific insurance is recommended. Road travel is hazardous due to driving standards and conditions, especially during the rainy season. Official taxis should be used. Natural disasters include hurricanes, flooding, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, with potential ash plumes affecting air quality. Health advice includes Yellow Fever vaccination requirements based on travel history and recommended vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Malaria prevention in specific areas. Medical care is generally high standard but expensive, requiring adequate travel insurance. Entry requires a passport valid for at least one day beyond departure, and a tourist visa waiver is available for stays up to 180 days. A departure tax may apply.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-03-12
Warns of express kidnappings, where victims are coerced into withdrawing cash from ATMs. This specific threat is a central pillar of their safety advice.
It highlights the danger of unofficial taxis and provides a clear distinction between registered and unregistered transport. The advisory is highly actionable, focusing on preventing crime through alertness and avoiding risky behaviors.
It highlights the danger of unofficial taxis and provides a clear distinction between registered and unregistered transport. The advisory is highly actionable, focusing on preventing crime through alertness and avoiding risky behaviors.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-05-14
Spain's travel advice recommends traveling with caution and paying particular attention to personal safety due to an elevated crime rate and increased activity from drug trafficking gangs. Violent confrontations between these gangs can affect uninvolved individuals. The risk of terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out. The advisory details high crime rates, including pickpocketing, armed assaults, and car burglaries, particularly in tourist zones like the Caribbean coast, Manuel Antonio, and near bus terminals in San José. Violent assaults and armed attacks, sometimes fatal, are reported, as are assaults on tourist buses, rapes, and sexual offenses. Specific precautions include not carrying valuables or large sums of money, researching safe neighborhoods, being wary of spiked substances in food/drinks, and avoiding methanol-tainted alcohol. The advice also covers road safety issues, variable security standards for adventure sports, and particular legal aspects like prohibitions on foreign political activity and severe penalties for drug offenses. Natural risks include seismic and volcanic activity, hurricanes, tropical storms, and heavy rains causing floods and landslides. Health advice focuses on Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, and Malaria, recommending mosquito bite prevention and caution with water and food. Travel insurance covering hospitalization and repatriation is strongly advised. Entry requirements include a valid passport, return ticket, and visa-free stays up to 180 days for Spanish citizens, with specific procedures for minors leaving the country.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-04-17
Ireland advises "High Degree of Caution" (Level 2) for Costa Rica, citing increased risks from violent crime, including armed robbery, sexual assault, home invasions, gang muggings, and carjacking. Petty crime is noted as significant, particularly in tourist areas, transport hubs, and from vehicles. Travelers are warned about "express kidnappings" and drink spiking with methanol, which has caused deaths. Civil unrest, including demonstrations and strikes, can disrupt services. Natural disasters like earthquakes, possible tsunamis, and volcanic activity (which has caused airport closures) are risks. Health advice includes checking vaccination requirements (Yellow Fever may be needed based on origin) and being aware of insect-borne diseases like Malaria (a serious risk in Limón and Puntarenas), Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya. Medical facilities are generally good but can vary in remote areas, and comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is essential. Local laws, especially regarding drugs, carry severe penalties. Entry requires a valid passport with at least 6 months' validity; visa-free for tourism up to 90 days. A departure tax applies. Travelers are advised to use official taxis or Uber, avoid poorly lit or remote areas, and not resist during robberies. Crocodiles have been sighted on the Pacific coast, and beaches often lack lifeguards due to strong currents.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-06-03
Japan's advisory for Costa Rica is Level 1: Exercise sufficient caution (十分注意), with a notable increase in homicides, particularly those linked to drug organizations in San José, Limón, and Puntarenas provinces. General crimes like robbery and theft are also frequent, with inter-gang violence posing a risk to bystanders. Travelers are urged to be constantly aware of their surroundings. There are no current infectious disease warnings, but a separate risk advisory is in place for general safety. Specific crime statistics show an increase in overall crime, though homicides and robberies saw slight decreases in 2024 compared to the record high in 2023. Japanese citizens have reported various incidents including street robberies, theft from accommodations and vehicles, and pickpocketing. High-risk areas include San José's downtown and market areas, as well as popular tourist spots. Entry requires a passport valid for at least 180 days and an onward ticket; visa is waived for stays up to 180 days. Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from designated risk countries. Importing specific medications requires documentation. Driving licenses require conversion after 3 months, and road conditions and driving manners are poor. Natural risks include earthquakes, volcanic activity, hurricanes, and heavy rains. Medical facilities vary, and travel insurance is recommended. Strict penalties apply for drug offenses, and foreigners are prohibited from political activities. Dual nationality is recognized, but consular services may be limited for dual nationals. Minors require exit permits.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-04-21
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-05-20
Focuses on the vulnerability of tourists on public buses and the specific risks of robbery at gunpoint. It emphasizes the importance of using official red taxis.
It provides a comprehensive health section covering insect-borne diseases and the necessity of comprehensive travel insurance. The advice is tailored for those living or traveling long-term in the country.
It provides a comprehensive health section covering insect-borne diseases and the necessity of comprehensive travel insurance. The advice is tailored for those living or traveling long-term in the country.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-03-16
Highlights the tense security situation due to drug trafficking gangs. It provides a stern warning about the risks involved in participating in spiritual ceremonies using hallucinogens like Ayahuasca.
It offers a clear, direct tone regarding legal consequences and prison conditions. The advice on handling car breakdowns is particularly detailed and cautious.
It offers a clear, direct tone regarding legal consequences and prison conditions. The advice on handling car breakdowns is particularly detailed and cautious.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-06-03
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-06-04
The Netherlands assigns Costa Rica a yellow travel advisory color code, indicating that travel is possible but with "special safety risks". The primary concern is criminality, particularly drug-related violence leading to a high murder rate, and frequent robberies and assaults, sometimes involving violence. Travelers are advised to move during daylight, be cautious of car-related scams, leave no items visible in vehicles, and use official taxis. Sexual violence, especially against women, is a concern. Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences in poor prison conditions. Natural hazards include tropical storms, cyclones, floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and dangerous rip currents on coasts. Demonstrations can occur and become violent. Road safety is poor due to non-compliance with traffic rules and aggressive behavior. Entry requires a passport valid for at least one day beyond departure; no visa is needed for stays up to 180 days. Yellow Fever vaccination may be required based on travel history. Health risks include mosquito-borne diseases (Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, Malaria) and potential issues from contaminated water or food. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Travelers are advised to register for email alerts on travel advisory changes.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-03-03
Italy's advisory highlights significantly increased criminal activity, including muggings, armed robberies, scams, and car break-ins, with a homicide rate significantly higher than Italy's. Tourists are specifically targeted, with tactics like tire slashing scams noted. Sexual assaults against tourists, particularly women, have increased, especially on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. The use of drugs in food/drinks and the sale of adulterated alcoholic beverages containing methanol pose serious health risks. Road conditions are precarious, and night travel is discouraged. Adventure sports require using authorized guides and companies, with variable safety standards. Natural risks include earthquakes, volcanic activity, tsunamis, and frequent hurricanes/heavy rains causing floods and landslides. Medical care is available but costly, especially in private facilities, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation. Entry requires a passport with at least 90 days' validity and a return ticket; visa-free for up to 180 days. Yellow Fever vaccination is required from risk countries. Drug offenses carry severe penalties (8-20 years imprisonment). Minors require specific exit permits. Specific areas are flagged as high-risk for crime, including certain districts in San José and popular tourist locations like Jacó, Quepos, and Cahuita.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-03-02
Austria classifies Costa Rica under Security Level 2, advising "particular attention to personal security" due to heightened drug trafficking activity and associated violent confrontations. Terrorism risk cannot be ruled out. Crime rates are high, with organized gangs active in tourist areas, carrying out armed robberies, burglaries, and assaults, sometimes resulting in death. Travelers are strongly advised not to resist assailants and to be wary of staged accidents or assistance from strangers during breakdowns. Vehicles should be parked in guarded lots, and valuables should be minimized, with original documents kept securely. ATMs should only be used during daylight, and caution exercised against trick thefts. Staying on beaches after dark is discouraged. Official red taxis with a yellow triangle are recommended. Entry requires a passport valid for at least 6 months, and a visa is not required for tourist stays up to 180 days. A departure tax applies. Yellow Fever vaccination is required from risk countries. Public hospitals are below European standards, while private clinics are better but expensive; comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Risks include insect-borne diseases like Dengue, Malaria (rare but present), Chikungunya, and Zika. Road conditions are partially poor, and night travel is discouraged due to increased risks. Adventure sports require using accredited companies with verified safety measures. Natural risks include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, hurricanes, and heavy rains. Dual nationality is recognized, but consular assistance may be limited. Minors require notarized consent for exit.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-04-22
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-04-19
Finland advises normal caution in Costa Rica, noting that while the political situation is stable, caution is needed, especially in tourist areas. Crime, including pickpocketing and robberies, occurs in crowded places, bus stations, and national parks. The advisory highlights an increase in gang-related disputes and murders, leading to more civilian casualties. Travelers should not leave valuables unattended in vehicles or on beaches. Road safety is considered poor, with bad road conditions and disregard for traffic rules; caution is advised when driving, especially at night. Natural risks include earthquakes, volcanic activity, strong sea currents on beaches (often without lifeguards), and hurricanes during the May-November season. Health risks include mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue (with increased cases), Zika, Chikungunya, and Malaria, necessitating protection against mosquito bites. Medical services are limited in rural areas, and comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. Entry requires a valid, well-maintained passport; visa-free stays are up to 90 days for tourism. Exporting agricultural products and CITES-listed species is prohibited without permits. Photography of military facilities, airports, or ports is generally forbidden. Demonstrations are common and can turn violent; travelers should avoid them.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Republic of Costa Rica
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of Costa Rica aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Republic of Costa Rica.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of Costa Rica and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-06-05