Although Costa Rica is one of the safest countries to travel in Central America, be aware of different safety issues. When traveling in the larger cities, keep an eye out for pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Since these are the most common crimes committed throughout the country, as a tourist, be aware of your surroundings. To lessen your chances of being robbed when walking throughout markets and city centers, stay closer to the vendors and away from the larger crowds of the sidewalk. In Costa Rica, pickpockets and robbers tend to blend into larger crowds.
Do not leave luggage unattended at any time when traveling throughout the country. If you are staying at a hotel, double check that a hotel staff member or porter is handling your bags. Verify that you are giving your luggage to a porter as luggage can go missing or be placed in the wrong hands. A good rule of thumb is to secure your luggage with a travel lock. Use caution when using luggage-storage facilities, which cannot take full responsibility for your bags. If you require luggage storage, utilize your hotel's concierge or luggage storage service.
When renting a car, do not leave valuables in vehicles or in the trunk, even if it is locked. Do not park your car in the street as this places you at higher risk to have your car or valuables stolen. Instead, look for safer places to park such as parking lots, national parks and other places that have people watching over the area.
Since Costa Rica is known for its abundance of natural beauty, several national parks are available for visitors to explore. When traveling through the parks, stay on the trails and designated areas, as park rangers state it is easy to get lost. Also pay attention to areas with signs and follow their directions at all times. This will lessen your chances of becoming injured. In certain parks there many not be adequate signage on trails. If the trail looks dangerous or unsecured, turn back immediately and notify a park ranger. This is especially important around trails that are atop mountains and the volcanoes of Costa Rica.
The beaches of Costa Rica can be dangerous to travelers. Keep an eye on the ocean currents, waves and riptides, as they have been known to take the lives of visitors each year. Swim around other swimmers and do not attempt to swim into the ocean, even if you are a strong swimmer. Swim at beaches that are in the shape of horseshoes and located in a harbor. Beaches in Costa Rica that are attached to a river mouth are especially dangerous.
Women travelers should not follow impromptu tour guides as they can be impersonators and might take you to far away secluded places. Although this is rare, if you are a woman, stay with your group and do not trust men that you have just been introduced to.
