Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit in 2025? ✅ The Ultimate Travel Safety Guide for Tourists, Families & Expats

Costa Rica is a top destination in Central America for nature lovers, digital nomads, retirees, and real estate investors. But one of the most common questions on Google is: Is Costa Rica safe to visit?

This expert safety guide answers everything you need to know before traveling, driving, drinking the water, or venturing outside your resort — whether you’re planning a family vacation, a solo trip, or considering moving to Costa Rica long-term.

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Is Costa Rica Safe for American Tourists?

Yes, Costa Rica is considered safe for American tourists. The country ranks high on the Global Peace Index and is known for its friendly locals, low crime rate in tourist zones, and stable democracy with no standing army.

Popular destinations like La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Tamarindo are well-patrolled, have established tourism infrastructure, and are welcoming to U.S. travelers.

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Is Travel to Costa Rica Safe in 2025?

Traveling to Costa Rica in 2025 remains safe when basic precautions are followed. Tourists should be cautious of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in crowded areas like markets and public beaches.

✅ Avoid displaying valuables
✅ Use registered taxis or rideshare apps
✅ Follow local weather alerts during the rainy season (May–November)

As lawyers certified by the American Embassy in Costa Rica, we share with you information from the U.S. Government: Travel.State.Gov

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Is Costa Rica or Mexico Safer?

In general, Costa Rica is considered safer than Mexico for tourists. While both offer amazing experiences, Costa Rica has fewer regions affected by drug-related violence and receives higher safety ratings from international travel advisories.

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Is Costa Rica Safe to Leave the Resort?

Yes, it’s safe to leave your resort in Costa Rica, especially in tourist-friendly regions. Many travelers explore beaches, national parks, volcanoes, and waterfalls independently without issues.

⚠️ Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and always ask your hotel for local safety tips and trustworthy tour recommendations.

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Is It Safe to Drive in Costa Rica?

Driving in Costa Rica is generally safe, but it requires attention and preparation:

• Roads are well-paved in major cities but may be narrow and bumpy in rural areas

• Use a 4×4 vehicle when visiting mountains or beaches

• Drive only during the day and avoid unfamiliar routes after dark

• Use GPS apps like Waze for real-time traffic and road alerts

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Where Not to Go in Costa Rica?

While Costa Rica is largely safe, some areas are better avoided due to higher crime rates:

• Parts of San José (e.g., León XIII, Hospital, and certain parts of downtown at night)

• Limón city (not to be confused with the province, which has beautiful safe beaches)

• Remote beaches or isolated trails without guides

Always consult locals or your hotel before exploring unknown places.

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Do They Speak English in Costa Rica?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Costa Rica’s tourist areas, such as resorts, hotels, tour companies, and restaurants. However, Spanish is the official language, and in rural or legal matters, you may need a bilingual lawyer or translator — especially when dealing with real estate, immigration, or business registration.

AG Legal offers fully bilingual legal support for expats and investors.

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Is the Water Safe to Drink in Costa Rica?

In most urban and tourist destinations, tap water is safe to drink. The country has a high-quality water system, especially in cities like San José, Heredia, and Liberia.

However, if you’re visiting remote rural areas, it’s safer to drink bottled water or use a water purifier.

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Why Not Go to the Beach at Night in Costa Rica?

While Costa Rica’s beaches are beautiful, they should be avoided at night. Here’s why:

• Most beaches have no lighting or security after sunset

• Theft increases after dark, especially in party towns like Jacó or Puerto Viejo

• Riptides and poor visibility make nighttime swimming dangerous

Stick to daylight hours and always keep an eye on your belongings.

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Which Part of Costa Rica is the Safest?

These regions are considered the safest in Costa Rica for tourists, expats, and investors:

• La Fortuna – Tourist favorite with strong police presence

• Santa Ana & Escazú (San José suburbs) – Modern, high-end residential zones

• Monteverde – Eco-conscious and community-oriented

• Nosara & Tamarindo – Secure beach towns popular with expats

• Arenal – Low crime and well-organized tourism

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Is Costa Rica Safe for Families?

Absolutely. Costa Rica is a family-friendly destination. Its natural parks, wildlife tours, beaches, and eco-lodges are perfect for traveling with kids.

💡 Tips for families:

• Stay in reputable hotels with child-friendly amenities

• Use proper car seats when renting vehicles

• Choose beaches with lifeguards like Playa Hermosa or Playa Carrillo

• Avoid long night drives and isolated areas

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Should You Get Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. It protects you from:

• Medical emergencies

• Trip cancellations

• Lost or stolen belongings

• Natural disasters like floods or earthquakes

Choose a plan that covers adventure activities (surfing, zip-lining, volcano hikes) and emergency evacuation.

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Safety Checklist Summary ✅

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Ready to Travel, Relocate or Invest in Costa Rica?

👉 Contact AG Legal — Your trusted legal partner in Costa Rica for:

• Residency permits: Residency in Costa Rica

• Real estate transactions: Buy Land in Costa Rica

• Business formation: Starting a Business in Costa Rica