Is Costa Rica a dangerous place to go alone?

Question

I am planning a trip to Costa Rica, with a travel partner. A few weeks ago, my friend dropped a bomb, saying that she could not go (in spite of us having non refundable tickets). I can't get anyone else to go so I'm thinking of going it alone. I'm a 27 year old man and I will be staying at three places: Monteverde, Quepos (Manuel Antonio), and La Fortuna. I am NOT planning on spending any time in San Jose nor will I be going out too much at night. Do I have to worry about getting mugged or robbed in the above three places...or is that more of a San Jose thing? I'm a little bit concerned, partly b/c I just bought an expensive SLR camera (though I would not flaunt it in public). Any advise/information would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks!!!

Answer 1

No, it isn't.  Costa Rica is one of the safer Latin American countries.  I think the homicide rate is lower than the US.  

I traveled all over Costa Rica alone and never had any problems. While in neighboring countries I always felt like I had to be on guard, in CR I felt I could relax a lot more.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't be careful, as its unfamiliar and  there definitely are bad neighborhoods.  San Jose's Coca Cola bus station area is kinda sketchy, although except for late at night or very early there are too many people walking around for you to worry about anything worse than pickpockets.

Monteverde seemed quite safe, and Quepos didn't seem too bad. Most provincial towns seemed fairly safe.  The Caribbean coast, especially the port of Limon, are known for having rather high crime compared to the rest of the country.

Just to be careful, it might be good to avoid deserted areas after dark. And do watch out for pickpockets and bagslashers in crowded areas, and don't leave valuables lying around your hotel room because the maids might nab them. I always kept my wallet in my front pocket, and I put my camera in a part of my backpack where it couldn't be easily reached by unzipping or cutting open a compartment- the latter happened to me once in Guatemala but all I lost was my first aid kit.

One thing I used for my money and passport was a hidden pocket that hung from my belt and slipped inside my pants. Reassuring for,  say, Guatemala, possibly overkill for CR.



I wouldn't freak out about it, but taking some basic precautions can't hurt.

Answer 2

You should definitely go! I'm Costa Rican so I know. You should try and go in October so you can participate in Carnival!! There are parties left and right and I'm sure the girls will love you. Go and enjoy yourself! If you're paranoid about getting robbed or something, you'll ever have any fun. Buena Suerte!!

Answer 3

i don't think so unless you go showing off stuff and acting like your rich !!

Answer 4

Of course not, is a safe place, just take your tours in the hotel for avoid risks.

Answer 5

If ppl know you american, then yes, If you disguise, then no.

Answer 6

I was in those areas just a few years ago. You will be just fine with your camera during the day. You should be ok at night, but keep it in your safe in your hotel just to be extra cautious. I walked around at night through the towns and didn't feel like there was any threat. If you need to go to the bank, they usually have security posted at the door. Carry travelers checks instead of cash. The area relies on US tourism so you will find the area there very friendly and fairly safe. Make sure you take the Mangrove tour and the jungle tour in Manuel Antonio. It's beautiful!

Answer 7

Anywhere can be a dangerous place to go alone.

Answer 8

Ya you will be safe. Those places are all tourist centres and muggings are not common in La Fortuna or Monteverde, I know Manuel Antonio is getting a bit more dangerous as it is coastal. Robbery is the most evident crime in all three places, but usually it is a break and entry sort of thing. Costa Ricans are generally non-confronting, so the thieves/ drug addicts are usually trying to do things with out getting caught. Stick to crowded areas, make sure to book tours with reputable tour companies. You can look up some of the legit tour operators at these sites.

http://www.arenal.net/

http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/

I just went traveling to the Nicoya peninsula by myself and I am female 23. Keep valuables to a bare minimum and have fun!

Answer 9

Be careful in Manuel Antonio my wife & I were robbed at Gun Point last year on the beach, during the day. Been to Costa Rica 5 times first time this has happen. La Fortuna is one of my favorites places. I feel safe walking around at night in La Fortuna. As for travelers checks the Costa Ricans have don't really like them anymore. Tourist would buy thing then report them stolen. My advice is to get a prepaid visa or master card put some money on it. I would keep a little bit of regular cash though. As for Manuel Antonio area please be careful the area is getting more dangerous. Hope this info: helps.

Answer 10

You will be fine. Costa Rica is full of tourists and I've been to all the places you are going. Just use common sense like you stated in your question, you would not be flaunting your camera. Just don't venture off the beaten path unless you are w/a group. Have fun, so beautiful and full of nature!

Answer 11

Anywhere is dangerous to be alone. Costa Rica is the second safest country in Central America, the most common type of crime is petty theft like robbery (with no aggravated assault) and pickpocketing. Things like kidnapping are extremely rare to non-existent. The murder/homicide rates are also low.

Just be cautious, don't flash any expensive items (especially your camera, talk to Americans there and they will let you know that first hand), when/if you go out at night make sure you get a taxi instead of walking or taking public transportation and don't keep anything else of much value on you. If your taking a tour with other people at your destinations, it would be best.