Book your hotels in advance. It is better to have accommodations booked before you go to Costa Rica so you can arrive and put your bags in a hotel. It is not a good idea to walk around Fortuna, Santa Elena, Monteverde and the center of San Jose with your belongings, passports and personal items while looking for a hotel since robberies happen every day.
Carry some mace with you if possible. Every place has its crime and Costa Rica has its share also. Put your money somewhere safe when you are walking around and exploring. Place money in a fanny bag or something that is unrecognizable like a sunblock or sunglasses case.
Stay away from wild animals. Some animals are calm, while others such as scorpions, raccoons and certain exotic spiders may pose a threat. It is best to watch out and keep your hands and fingers away.
Travel together in pairs or groups. If you are traveling alone, ask a new friend at the hotel to go with you into town. It is smart to stay with others when you go out shopping, exploring or dancing in areas such as Fortuna, Santa Elena, Monteverde and the center of San Jose.
Keep your passport in a safe place or if you must take it with you keep it under your shirt or in the front of your pants. Avoid taking it out with you as a drivers license will be enough. Get a safe in your hotel and lock your passport up.
Keep your windows up when you are driving in areas such as Fortuna, Santa Elena and Monteverde. People have been robbed through a window before and you want to avoid temptation. When walking around or stopping in these areas, keep small things like purses and fanny bags under your shirt. If you are traveling through Quepas, then keep your personal belongings on you and keep your wallet in your front pockets.
