Want to take a trip to one of the most beautiful countries in Central America but you wonder if Costa Rica is dangerous or not.

Indeed, with the sharp increase in violence in many countries in recent years, tourists are wondering about the security of the country they are going to visit and the areas to avoid.

Here is a guide on the safety of travelers who want to travel to Costa Rica in 2024. It is a synthesis of information from specialized and reliable sources: government recommendations, press articles, statistics, studies and rankings.

Is Costa Rica a dangerous country in 2024?

In the 2023 Global Peace Index ranking made with 2022 data, Costa Rica was green on the map with a security index of 1.73, which meant it was a safe country.

But in 2024, crime in Costa Rica increased sharply. In fact, homicides rose by 38% in just one year! See the article on Reuters.com and ticotimes.net , which mentions that Gustavo Mata, former Minister of Security, and Gerardo Castaing emphasized that the country was falling into the hands of criminal groups linked to drug trafficking.

This is confirmed by the Numbeo world ranking , where Costa Rica has a crime index of 53.63 in 2024. With this level of crime, Costa Rica can no longer be considered a completely safe country.

Indeed, if we compare on this ranking, Costa Rica appears more dangerous than the United States, Morocco , Tunisia or the Philippines.

Is it dangerous to go to Costa Rica right now?

The majority of travel agencies and websites claim that it is not dangerous to go to Costa Rica, but this is no longer entirely true in certain places in the country.

In 2024, the French Government classified Costa Rica as requiring heightened vigilance on the France Diplomatie website and indicated in particular:

In tourist areas, including national parks, theft is the most common crime targeting foreign travelers. However, while petty crime poses the main threat to tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, is also present in the country. 

Diplomatie.gouv.fr

But Costa Rica remains a magnificent destination that tourists can continue to discover. In fact, it will be enough to respect precautionary measures and avoid certain areas which may be less safe than others for tourists (see list below).

Areas to avoid in Costa Rica

During your visit to Costa Rica, certain regions may present security risks, particularly at night. It is therefore important for your next trip to know these areas to avoid in Costa Rica:

1. Areas to Avoid in Costa Rica’s Capital

One of the most dangerous areas in Costa Rica is its capital, San José. Indeed, San José has experienced an increase in violent crime, muggings, and armed robberies. It is therefore recommended to exercise caution and avoid certain areas (see my more detailed article: Neighborhoods to Avoid in San José ).

2. Areas to avoid on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica

Some areas of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, such as Limón and Puerto Viejo, have also been marked by security concerns. Thefts and assaults are more common in these areas, particularly at night. It is advisable to be vigilant and not walk alone late at night.

3. Border areas with Nicaragua

Due to political tensions and security concerns that persist in the border areas between Costa Rica and Nicaragua, it is recommended to avoid these areas. Political unrest and mass movements can make these areas dangerous for tourists. It is best to stay informed of the latest updates and follow the advice of local authorities before venturing near the border.

Safest Places to Go in Costa Rica

The majority of tourist sites in the country are safe. This is what I observed during my 3-week trip to Costa Rica through its national parks.

Among all these beautiful places, here are some examples of destinations in Costa Rica that offer unique tourist experiences and are considered safe for travelers:

• Manuel Antonio : Located on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is famous for its eponymous national park which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. This area is generally considered safe for tourists and offers great beaches, outdoor activities and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Tamarind : Tamarind is one of the most beautiful seaside destinations on the Pacific coast. You can enjoy beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and wonderful spots for surfers.
• La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano : The La Fortuna region, with its famous Arenal volcano, is a popular destination for tourists. Guests can enjoy hot springs, hikes, waterfalls and spectacular volcano views. The area is generally safe for tourists and offers many exciting activities.
• Monteverde : Known for its cloud forest, Monteverde is an ideal destination for nature lovers. You can go hiking, watch exotic birds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Monteverde is considered safe for tourists and offers a unique experience.

Tips for travelers to Costa Rica

Before traveling to Costa Rica, it is essential to review travel advice and warnings from local and international authorities. Here are some of the resources you can consult for up-to-date information on travel safety and conditions:

• The website of your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Costa Rican embassies and consulates
• Websites of Costa Rican tourism organizations

Make sure to stay informed throughout your trip and follow authorities' guidelines and recommendations to ensure your safety.