Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America. Criminal activities tend to involve pickpocketing, and car breaking to steal luggage or personal objects. In San José you shall be particularly careful; be precautious also around beach areas. As a general rule, take care of your safety as you might do it in any big city around the world. Personal security often is a matter of common sense. Follow these simple guidelines to reduce risks as much as possible.

• When you are in San José, avoid having watches, bracelets, necklaces and earrings too visible.
• Do not carry large sums of cash with you
• Do not leave luggage inside the car
• If you walk along the streets in the main cities carrying a backpack, hold it in front of you and close to your body
• If you travel by public bus, keep an eye on your luggage, or have it put in the locked compartments
• If you are going out at night, ask the receptionist of your hotel to call a taxi cab of a recognized taxi cooperative
• If you are driving and your vehicle is bumped from behind, do not stop on the roadway or side road. Drive to the nearest public area (gas station, restaurant), and call the police for assistance
• If you are lost, stop at a gas station or public area to check your map before you continue
• The signals of emergency or police vehicles are blue or red, do not stop for flashing headlights alone.
• Park your car in well-lit areas, preferably in parking lots (you might have to pay in some of them, especially in San José).
• Be cautious when you enter ATM’s to withdraw money. Do not count it in front of other people.
• ALWAYS carry a photocopy of your passport with you.
• If you are harassed by a burglar or by a hostile individual, do not resist, do what they ask and avoid looking to this person in the eyes. Your belongings are not worth your life.
• Report every incident to the nearest police department.