Traveler Toolkit
Costa Rica Country Security Report
Costa Rica Country Security Report
Published: June 23, 2026
This report is intended to supplement the U.S. Department of State Costa Rica Travel Advisory and Costa Rica International Travel Information Page.
Embassy & Consulate Contact Information
Calle 98, Via 104
Pavas
San José, Costa Rica
+ 506-2519-2000
Emergencies: + 506-2220-3127. Hours. 8:00am-4:30pm
OSAC Country Chapter
San José’s country chapter is not currently active but may resume in the next year.
Contact OSAC’s Americas team with any questions.
Costa Rica Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling to Costa Rica.
Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.
Crime
The U.S. Department of State has assessed San José as being a HIGH-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica, indicating that widespread violent or organized crime is present in areas of the country; local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes.
The crime emergency line in Costa Rica is 911. Review the U.S. Department of State’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.
Crime: General Threat
Crime is a concern in Costa Rica, with property crimes, financial crimes, and robberies occurring most frequently. Most are petty crimes. Rare, but increasing, aggravated or violent robberies do occur. All individuals are potential targets for criminals. The U.S. Embassy released an alert in November 2025 highlighting several trends:
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Criminal gangs have targeted foreign-owned businesses and residences for crimes that included robberies, break-ins, and extortion.
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Criminal gangs have targeted foreign residents and travelers, forcing them to withdraw large sums of cash from ATMs or to make bank transfers.
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Tourists have reported break-ins and armed robberies at Airbnbs and other rental properties.
There has been an uptick in robberies at rental properties, especially in isolated locations. Research any rental homes to ensure they have adequate security and remember to properly secure all doors and windows.
Intentional homicide against U.S. citizens continues to be rare. The overall homicide rate in 2025 was 16.8 per 100,000 residents or 873 total homicides. While the rate is still not substantially higher than neighboring countries, Costa Rica’s homicide rate has increased in recent years from 11.5 homicides per 100,000 residents in 2021, to 12.2 in 2022, followed by a substantial increase to 17.2 homicides per 100,000 people in 2023. As many as two-thirds of incidents were related to increasing narcotrafficking activity in Costa Rica. This increased insecurity has led to security being a top political issue in the country and has affected tourist rates, a main driver of Costa Rica’s economy.
U.S. citizens commonly report theft of travel documents. Practice good situational awareness regarding passports. Theft of travel documents is a common complaint among foreign visitors – particularly during peak tourism season in the dry season (December – April) when criminals take advantage of larger crowds. Use a well-secured safe or lockbox wherever you stay. Make a copy of your passport identification and entry stamp pages and leave it in your hotel room or keep a picture of them on your phone.
More serious crimes, such as armed robbery, sexual assault, and homicide occur, although less frequently. It is not uncommon for criminals to carry a firearm or other weapons when committing a robbery or burglary. There is generally a spike in home burglary and robbery during the holiday season. If a thief confronts you, remain calm and do not resist. Most theft-related injuries occur when victims resist or try to fight back.
Costa Rica remains one of the top first stop transshipment points for narcotics between South America and the United States and Europe. Organized crime is a major concern for the population. Costa Ricans and third-country nationals alike participate in organized crime via car theft rings, drug trafficking, petty theft, and burglary. Organized criminals use less-monitored areas on Costa Rica’s borders and beaches to traffic drugs and other types of contraband. Criminal organizations favor Costa Rica's central location to commit financial crimes, including money laundering and financial scams. The Costa Rican government has responded to these trends by increasing funding to hire law enforcement personnel, upgrading infrastructure, and better equipping the Costa Rican Coast Guard, counter-narcotics police, and other security forces.
Costa Rica is a source and transit country for human trafficking involving labor and sex exploitation as well as organ trafficking. The trafficking market has grown in part due to tourist demand for sexual services. Costa Rica is a transit country, primarily to the US, for migrants moving through the Central American corridor. Since 2018, there has been an increase in human smuggling at the northern border, with many migrants using irregular crossing points with the help of ‘coyote’ networks. Since 2018, Chinese smuggling networks with contacts in Asia, Europe, and South America has also been identified, smuggling people to Costa Rica via Panama enroute to the United States. Notably, corrupt officials have been implicated in human smuggling.
Over the past few years, the Government of Costa Rica has passed legislation and undertaken a public campaign to curb promotion of the country as a destination for sex tourism and to highlight the legal risks of sexually exploiting minors. Tourists who engage in/solicit prostitution exponentially increase their chances of being a victim of theft or violent robbery or being arrested for violating Costa Rica’s laws regarding trafficking in persons. See the Department of State’s 2025 Trafficking in Persons Report for Costa Rica for additional information.
Crime: Areas of Concern
Theft is common in highly populated and tourist areas, particularly in cases where individuals are not watching personal belongings closely, including leaving items on beaches or in parked vehicles.
Along isolated coastal areas where drug trafficking organizations (DTOs) are more likely to operate there is a risk of incidental violence. The main drug transshipment routes go along the West (Pacific) Coast of Costa Rica, originating from Colombia and Ecuador and transiting north. Trafficking routes tend to avoid tourist areas such as beaches, although more remote adventure travel may expose tourists to increased risk.
The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica released an alert in 2023 that features a map of areas where it is recommended to exercise increased caution. It was last updated in August 2024. Some additional areas are highlighted below by province. OSAC also issued a report in 2024 on Crime Trends and its Impacts on U.S. Tourists.
San José: Growing drug-related violence has begun to impact areas in San José province where expatriates and foreign staff frequently live and visit, such as Escazu, Barrio Escalante, and Rohrmoser. While U.S. travelers and organizations are not specific targets of this violence, an increase in shootings and drug-related violent crime has the potential to impact those finding themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Travelers and residents in San José should remain vigilant to the threat of violent crime, even when in areas historically considered safe.
Downtown San José is a tourist destination during daylight hours. After dark, be aware of surroundings, and limit visits due to the increased potential for crime. Increased caution is advised in the Desamparados neighborhood in San Rafael, and the Pavas and Hospital neighborhoods in San José due to crime.
Alajuela: There are several neighborhoods in and around Alajuela city and the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) where increased caution is recommended. Some tourists have reported attempted roadside robberies transiting to and from SJO. Parts of San Ramon are also higher risk.
Cartago: Exercise increased caution in Turrialba.
Guanacaste: Exercise increased caution in Liberia, Nicoya, Santa Cruz, and areas near the Nicaraguan border.
Heredia: Exercise increased caution in Sarapiqui.
Limon: Exercise increased caution in the greater city of Limon area as the port serves as a key transit location for drug trafficking, as well as in Matina, Siquirres, Guacimo, and Guapiles.
Puntarenas: Increased caution is recommended in large parts of El Roble. Jaco and Bahia Ballena Beach saw about a quarter of reported crimes against U.S. tourists from 2020-2023. So, while they are popular tourist destinations, it is critical to practice travel safety measures when visiting.
Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, Taking Credit, and Our Two Cents: Petty Crime Basics and How to Minimize the Risk.
Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica.
Traditional kidnapping rates are very low, and incidents rarely involve U.S. citizens. Most traditional kidnappings are a result of feuds between rival criminal organizations.
However, roadside and virtual kidnappings are on the rise. Criminals are known to target tourists and foreign business owners for perceived wealth.
In a roadside kidnapping, attackers will purposefully cause a fender bender at the rear of a rental car. Once the driver exits the car, the attacker will threaten the victim with a weapon and hold them captive while they are extorted or robbed. When driving at night, on rural or isolated roads and highways, or any isolated area, do not stop and exit the vehicle if involved in a minor accident. Continue driving if safe to do so.
In June 2025, Costa Rica’s primary federal law enforcement agency, the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OJI), warned of the drastic increase in virtual kidnappings in Costa Rica. According to their data, there were 8 cases from January and May 2025 and 58 in the same period in 2026, a roughly 625% increase. Kidnappers are targeting foreign business owners and job seekers who have connections outside of Costa Rica and have publicly accessible personal information online.
Virtual kidnappings are social engineered scams where the victims are in no actual physical danger. Scams targeting a victim in country may lure a person to an isolated location for a false business opportunity or tour. Once on location, they receive a threatening phone call in which the criminal uses personal information to convince the victim that they are being watched and could be shot or killed if they do not follow demands to transfer bank funds. Scammers may also use social media to learn that a foreigner is in Costa Rica and ascertain the phone numbers of their family members and loved ones. In these scenarios, no contact is made with the traveler. Instead, callers contact family members and say that they have kidnapped their loved one. Calls often include a crying/pleading voice immediately after answering the call but before the kidnapper gets on the phone. Callers intend to confuse the victim and trick them into giving away important information. Criminals use fear and timing against victims. They plan their calls to coincide with times when it is difficult to contact the victim (e.g., when children are on their way to/from school, or when someone is on a flight).
Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.
Terrorism
The U.S. Department of State has assessed San José as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica.
There are no specific threats of terrorism regarding Costa Rica. Due to Costa Rica’s relatively porous borders, though, the threat for terrorist elements to use the country as a transit point does exist.
In February 2025, the U.S. Department of State designated certain TCOs as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs). This includes the Cartel de Sinaloa, Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), Cartel del Noreste (CDN), La Nueva Familia Michoacana, Cartel del Golfo (CDG), Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), Tren de Aragua and Carteles Unidos. Some of these groups may have minor operations in Costa Rica.
Political Violence and Civil Unrest
The U.S. Department of State has assessed San José as being a LOW-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.
Elections/Political Stability
Costa Rica held Presidential elections in February 2026 without incident. Laura Fernández, a close associate with former President Rodrigo Chaves, won approximately 48% of the vote, avoiding a runoff. Presidential terms last four years.
Costa Rica has a long history of stable democracy. The country has not had a military since 1948, and prides itself on its peaceful nature and efforts to maintain neutrality. Costa Rica is, at its core, a stable democracy and allows for opposing voices to be heard. Where there has been opposition to government policies, the internal security forces have worked to keep the peace in a way that allows protests to continue, without too significant a disruption to daily life. The security services tread lightly and uphold principles of human rights.
Protests & Demonstrations
Most protests in Costa Rica are peaceful and commonly occur in heavily populated areas, like parts of downtown San José. They often center on fair pay and working conditions, education, environmental protection, and, recently, on the Israel-Hamas conflict. It is recommended to avoid all protests as a safety precaution and avoid any perception of interfering in local politics. The Constitution bars foreigners from political activity and authorities could arrest foreigners involved with protests -- even peaceful ones.
Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
Costa Rica is generally free from anti-U.S. sentiment. Costa Ricans regard U.S. nationals and other Westerners in a positive manner and are known for their friendliness toward foreigners. Due to the country’s reputation as a leader in ecotourism and biodiversity, Costa Rica annually receives millions of foreign tourists, and national/local-level authorities and businesses work to maintain the country’s positive image as an attractive tourism destination.
Law Enforcement
The country has no military forces. Civilian authorities maintain effective control over the various agencies that have law enforcement components. Civilian authorities maintained effective control over the security forces.
Fuerza Publica (Public Force): This is Costa Rica’s primary uniformed police agency. The Fuerza Publica falls under the Ministry of Public Security and oversees ground security, law enforcement, counter-narcotic efforts, and border patrol functions. Some municipalities manage municipal police forces
Judicial Investigation Department (OIJ): Investigates all crimes for prosecution. This agency is within the judicial branch.
Transit Police: Enforces traffic laws and responds to all traffic accidents. This agency is within the Transportation and Public Works Ministry.
Tourist Police: Stationed in high-traffic tourist areas including recreational areas, beaches, national parks, and tourist sites in order to provide security for tourism. They fall under the Ministry of Public Security.
Intelligence & Security Directorate (DIS): Costa Rica’s intelligence agency. This agency is within the Ministry of the President.
Special Intervention Unit (UEI): Special weapons and tactics (SWAT) police unit, specializing in counter-explosives and tactical operations.
Migration & Foreigners Directorate: Controls immigration at the borders and maintains the immigrant detention center for pending deportees. This agency is within the Interior Ministry.
Police Response
Response times may vary due to the availability of manpower/vehicles and based on location, time of day, and severity of the accident, particularly outside of San José or major tourist centers. Harassment of foreigners is not common. A defendant has a right to a public defender and translator services.
The emergency line in Costa Rica is 911, and can be used for reporting crimes, fire and rescue, and medical emergencies.
Fire and Rescue: 118
Medical Emergencies: 128
Tourist Police: 911, (506) 2258-1008 or (506) 2258-1022 for further assistance.
To have police investigate/prosecute a crime, you must report it to the investigative/judicial police (OIJ, 2295-3639 or -3640).
Transportation Security
Road Safety
Driving can be extremely challenging, even to the most experienced driver. Roads are often in poor condition, and large potholes that can cause severe damage to vehicles are common. Additionally, most roads are insufficient for the quantity and types of vehicles using them. This often results in significant traffic jams and delays, which can lead to aggressive driving behavior. Accidents can significantly impact travel times and hinder law enforcement, medical, and fire department response to an emergency. Drivers often ignore traffic laws and speed limits, rarely use turn signals, pass on dangerous stretches of highway, and do not give pedestrians the right of way. Motorcyclists commonly drive without respect to rules of the road, often passing on the right, weaving in and out of traffic without warning, and creating lanes where none officially exist. Heavy traffic provides the opportunity for thieves to steal property that is left in plain view in vehicles. Another challenge confronting drivers is the lack of street signs/names, which makes finding an address extremely difficult even with a GPS. Practice defensive driving and exercise common sense.
Obey all traffic regulations and be familiar with road conditions prior to traveling. Traffic Police only occasionally enforce traffic rules. Citations can be costly and must be paid before leaving the country. Road conditions may change drastically and suddenly due to weather, construction, or accessibility. In downtown San José, the government imposed a law restricting cars from operating on certain days of the week depending on the last number on a vehicle’s license plate. This tactic has relieved some traffic congestion. However, traffic delays remain a common daily occurrence.
Driving outside of San José at night can be treacherous due to narrow or poorly maintained roads, many of which lack adequate lighting, markings, guardrails, and signage. During the rainy season (May-November), landslides and washed-out roads are common.
The accident and related fatality rate for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists is high. Due to a lack of resources, the Traffic Police are not proactive and do not monitor roads regularly, mainly responding to traffic accidents. Often, those involved in simple fender-benders are unwilling to move their vehicles at all, even from busy travel lanes, for fear of not being able to resolve insurance claims. As a result, Costa Ricans almost always await the arrival of investigative authorities before moving their vehicle. Those involved in traffic accidents should prepare for a significant wait. As a result, single-lane roads can often back up for miles. Visitors should prioritize their safety and move their vehicle if deemed appropriate to decrease the risk of danger to themselves.
The Government of Costa Rica may prevent any driver involved in a vehicular accident from departing the country until all injury claims are settled, regardless of whether the driver is at fault or has insurance coverage. The courts often delay imposing a settlement until all injured parties have recovered fully and the definitive costs are known.
Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.
Public Transportation Safety
Only use taxi cabs from reputable companies. Officially registered taxis will be red or orange with a yellow triangle on the side door and functioning meters. The triangle will include a designated number that matches the number on the license plate.
Rideshares like Uber, Didi, and InDriver are available within Costa Rica and are in heavy use among residents and visitors alike. Ongoing disputes between Uber and the taxi union have resulted in protests and strikes.
Public buses are not always reliable forms of transportation, with fluctuating routes and schedules. If traveling by bus, maintain a flexible schedule. Pickpocketing is common on buses and may target tourists that are perceived as wealthy. If traveling by bus, keep all valuables close and avoid putting them in compartments out of your line of sight. You should avoid sleeping on buses. Bus stations are common locations for criminals to target, including the Coca-Cola bus station in San José.
Aviation Concerns
In general, air travel is reliable without major security concerns or unnecessary travel delays. Changes in weather conditions and increased levels of volcanic ash can cause flight cancellations or delays. There are two main international airports in Costa Rica.
Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is located approximately 12 miles west of downtown San José. It is the primary airport serving international travelers to the country’s capital and central valley regions. SJO is rated the second-busiest airport in Central America, serving over four million passengers annually.
Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) is located in Liberia, Guanacaste Province. LIR serves as a tourism hub for visitors to the Pacific coast and western Costa Rica.
In addition to the larger international airports, there are multiple smaller airports and airstrips serving various regions within the country through smaller domestic carriers and a variety of charter flights. Smaller domestic carriers and charter flights do not have the same type of oversight and regulation as the commercial aviation industry in the United States.
Various U.S. government agencies, including Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA), work closely with the Government of Costa Rica to improve airport procedures for the increased safety of passengers and efficiency of airport operations.
Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.
Maritime Security
When traveling in remote areas or by boat, be mindful of limited mobile phone reception and limited first responder access.
Travelers with Special Considerations
For specific traveler concerns in Costa Rica, review the local laws and circumstances on the U.S. Department of State’s Country Information Page.
Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption, & Transparency
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Risk of Wrongful Detention “D” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica.
Two major corruption cases drew attention to corruption concerns in Costa Rica in the fall of 2021. While these cases highlight the continued presence of high-level corruption in Costa Rica, analysts note that they also indicate the strength of an independent judiciary willing to pursue high-level officials to enforce rule of law. While this is a positive trend in a region not known for judicial independence, Costa Rica has not had a great deal of success prosecuting complex corruption cases. Costa Rica consistently demonstrates low levels of corruption.
The constitution prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention and provides for the right for any person to challenge the lawfulness of his or her arrest or detention in court. The government generally observes these requirements.
The law requires issuance of judicial warrants before police may make an arrest, except where probable cause is evident to the arresting officer. The law entitles a detainee to a judicial determination of the legality of detention during arraignment before a judge within 24 hours of arrest. The law provides for the right to post bail and prompt access to an attorney and family members. Authorities generally observe these rights.
The law provides for an independent judiciary, and the government generally respects judicial independence and impartiality. The law provides for the right to a fair and public trial, and an independent judiciary generally enforces this right. There were no reports of political prisoners or detainees, no reports that the government or its agents committed arbitrary or unlawful killings, and no incidents of disappearances by or on behalf of government authorities.
The law prohibits torture, cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment or punishment, and there are no reports that government officials employed these practices in 2020.
Impunity is not a significant problem in the security forces.
Health Concerns
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.
The medical emergency line in Costa Rica is 911. Medical care in San José is adequate.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.
U.S. medical insurance is not always accepted, and most hospitals will require payment or a deposit up front for services. Public hospitals generally do not accept private insurance, but private hospitals will, if the plan includes suitable coverage for care while abroad. To have coverage under the Costa Rican public health system, an individual must be a Costa Rican citizen or resident. If presenting either a medical emergency or visiting the hospital for medical care, always present your insurance card to the hospital's insurance office to avoid paying out of pocket. In case of an emergency, call your insurance company to pre-authorize medical care.
Review your insurance plans to guarantee coverage in the event of an emergency during travel. Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including a provision for medical evacuation, has been useful in many emergencies. The Embassy recommends purchasing private medical evacuation (medevac) insurance before travel. The Costa Rican government can place a departure impediment on individuals attempting to leave without paying their medical bills. Medicare and Medicaid do not offer coverage outside the United States.
Thoroughly research clinics offering alternative medical treatments and their providers. The Embassy has received reports of hospitalizations resulting from clients at so-called wellness centers undergoing medically unverified “alternative treatments.”
Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on health insurance overseas.
See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.
Vaccinations
Costa Rica does not have strict vaccination requirements for most travelers, but there are some important considerations. The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for travelers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission, such as parts of Africa and South America. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel, and proof of vaccination, known as the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), must be carried. Travelers who have only transited through these countries for less than 12 hours or remained in airport areas are exempt from this requirement.
It is also important for travelers to be up to date with their routine vaccinations, including Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP), Polio, Varicella (chickenpox), and Influenza. While Costa Rica does not currently require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or testing for entry, travelers should check any specific requirements from airlines or transit countries before traveling.
In addition, Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended for travelers, especially depending on their itinerary and activities. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic before visiting Costa Rica to ensure all necessary vaccines are up to date.
Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.
Issues Traveling with Medications
Travelers entering Costa Rica may carry personal medications with them and in suitcases but also should carry a copy of the prescriptions. Medications should be in original packaging, and quantities should correspond to the prescription. Please review Costa Rica’s rules on importing medication at the Health Ministry website.
Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.
Water Quality
Costa Rica generally has good water quality, and in most urban areas, including San José and popular tourist destinations, tap water is safe to drink. The country has a well-maintained water treatment system, and most hotels, restaurants, and other establishments provide clean drinking water.
However, in rural areas or less-developed regions, it is advisable for travelers to take precautions, such as drinking bottled or filtered water to avoid potential waterborne illnesses. If hiking or visiting remote locations, carrying a water purification system or water bottles with built-in filters is recommended. Overall, Costa Rica maintains a high standard of water quality, but travelers should remain cautious depending on their location.
Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?
Natural Disasters
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Natural Disaster “N” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Costa Rica.
Costa Rica is located in a seismically active zone, with frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. The most significant earthquake occurred in 2012 with a magnitude of 7.6, causing limited damage despite its strength. Smaller tremors (magnitude 4-5) are more common throughout the year. On average, there are about 1,400 quakes of magnitude 3 or higher each year.
For volcanic activity, visitors should exercise caution, particularly around active sites like Turrialba and Poás. The Turrialba Volcano National Park was closed from 2012-2020 due to heightened volcanic activity but has since reopened. Poás Volcano National Park continues to exhibit regular ash emissions, and access is often restricted during periods of elevated volcanic activity. Always check for the latest updates from Costa Rica’s National Commission on Risk Prevention and Emergency Response (CNE) (in Spanish) and the U.S. Embassy alerts page before visiting these areas. A red alert was issued for Poás in April 2025.
Air quality in the greater San José area can be affected by volcanic ash from nearby volcanoes and vehicle emissions, posing a potential health concern. While the average annual level of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is generally below international thresholds, spikes have been recorded, notably in 2024, when San José saw levels of 27.1 micrograms per cubic meter, higher than Mexico City in the same period.
Serious flooding occurs annually in the Caribbean province of Limón and the Pacific province of Puntarenas. Flash floods and severe landslides occur in other provinces as well, depending on the time of year and rainfall. Flooding and landslides can be exacerbated when preceded by prolonged periods of drought.
While Costa Rica’s coastline is geographically insulated from major tropical storm and hurricane activity, Costa Rica is vulnerable to occasional tropical storms and rare hurricanes. The season runs from June through November each year. Check for updates from Costa Rica’s National Commission on Risk Prevention and Emergency Response (CNE) (in Spanish) and the U.S. Embassy alerts page during this season.
Review OSAC’s report, Landslides: What Are They and How to Prepare.
Review OSAC’s report, Earthquake Preparedness Toolkit.
Cybersecurity
Costa Rica has cybersecurity concerns similar to many other countries, with government agencies having suffered cyber-attacks in recent years. Phishing and social engineering scams have also been reported in Costa Rica, and travelers should be mindful of who they share private information with online.
Visitors to Costa Rica commonly encounter credit card theft/fraud. Many victims maintain physical possession of their cards, but criminals steal credit card information and later use it without their knowledge.
Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.
Counterintelligence Issues
Counterintelligence issues that may be relevant for the private sector are negligible.
Import/Export Restrictions
Costa Rica requires a special permit to import or export items such as explosives, weapons, agricultural items, and animals. A country-specific listing of items goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.
There are no known restrictions on satellite phones.
A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.
Additional resources and reports can be found in the OSAC Traveler Toolkit.