Costa Rica - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions in Costa Rica. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

           Exercise increased caution in:

• Central neighborhood in Limon due to crime.
• Liberia city due to crime.
• Desamparados neighborhood in San Rafael due to crime.
• Pavas and Hospital neighborhoods San Jose due to crime.

Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.

If you decide to travel to Costa Rica:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Costa Rica.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Central neighborhood in Limon

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, is common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

Liberia city

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, is common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

Desamparados neighborhood San Rafael

Violent crime, such as homicide and assault, is common. Police presence is limited.

Pavas and Hospital neighborhoods in San Jose

Criminal assault and homicides have been reported in these areas. Gang activity, such as territorial disputes and narcotics trafficking, has been reported in Pavas in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy.