How to Travel Safely in Costa Rica

How to Travel Safely in Costa Rica | SJOShuttle.com

Plan Ahead: Arrange transportation and accommodation in advance, especially if arriving late at night. Keep valuable items like cameras hidden and never leave your belongings unattended. Avoid walking alone at night.
Minimize Risks: Leave irreplaceable items at home. Learn how to escape rip currents and avoid swimming past your waist unless lifeguards are present.
Stay Cautious: Be wary of scams. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stay vigilant at bus stops and keep your bag close, as distractions can lead to theft.

Stay Alert: Driving in Costa Rica can feel unpredictable. Get a local SIM card at the airport, use Waze, and avoid renting outdated GPS devices from car rental companies. Never leave bags unattended in your car and be cautious of people trying to make you stop on the roadside. Always ask about parking safety.
Night Driving: Avoid driving in rural areas at night where pedestrians, dogs, and wildlife may be on the roads. Follow speed limits and stay alert to frequent lane changes and parked cars in dangerous spots.

Be Vigilant: Public transportation is excellent and affordable. Watch your belongings, avoid accepting food from strangers, and beware of pickpockets. Keep an eye on your bags on buses and at stations as thieves target carry-ons.

Stay Safe: Beware of rip currents, sun exposure, and limited lifeguard services. Avoid swimming near river mouths where crocodiles are common. Always ask if it’s safe to swim before entering the water. Choose crowded beach areas and only bring essentials. Leave your passport, money, and credit cards at the hotel.

Be Prepared: Carry a compass, cell phone, sunscreen, plenty of water, proper clothing, and insect repellent. Hike with a companion, inform someone of your plans, wear appropriate footwear, bring enough water and snacks, and stick to marked paths.

Stay Informed: For those with allergies, discuss your needs with your hotel beforehand. While most water in Costa Rica is safe to drink, always ask locally. Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

Essentials: Travel insurance is essential. Waze is highly useful for navigation in Costa Rica. Consider using a decoy wallet with expired cards and photocopied money to deter thieves. Old, non-functioning cell phones can also serve as decoys. When going for a swim, wrap valuables in a diaper to prevent theft.

Community Initiatives: Support community vigilance networks and anonymous reporting apps. More safety information is needed in tourist areas, including emergency contact details in national parks. Community efforts like security channels on messaging apps can be effective. The tourism industry should focus on employing and training local people to enhance safety and community well-being.