Is Costa Rica a Safe Place to Travel and Live?
For those wondering whether Costa Rica is a safe place to visit or relocate, the answer is a resounding YES, especially in the province of Guanacaste. This region is known for its friendly locals, relaxed atmosphere, and generally low crime rates. As long as you exercise common sense and take basic precautions, you can enjoy everything Costa Rica has to offer with peace of mind.
Crime in Costa Rica: A Balanced Perspective
General Crime Rates
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America. Unlike many other nations in the region, Costa Rica has no standing army, which has contributed to a culture with relatively low levels of violence. Compared to the U.S., Canada, and other large countries, serious crime is far less frequent. Most Costa Ricans (commonly called Ticos) are honest, hardworking people who value peace and community.
However, like anywhere in the world, petty crime does exist. Theft and opportunistic crimes occur, but violent crime is rare in most parts of the country, especially in Guanacaste.
Crime in Guanacaste vs. Other Regions
Guanacaste, a top destination for tourists and expats, is generally one of the safest regions in Costa Rica. Violent crime and organized crime are nearly nonexistent in this area. The most common crimes involve petty theft when valuables are left unattended.
In contrast, crime rates, particularly homicides, have increased in certain other areas, primarily due to drug-related gang activity. The province of Limón on the Caribbean coast and parts of the Central Valley near San José have seen rising violence as criminal organizations compete for territory. However, these areas are many hours away from Guanacaste, and their issues do not affect the safety of the province.
Common Types of Crime and Prevention Tips
The majority of crimes in Costa Rica are non-violent and avoidable with basic precautions:
- Petty Theft: Keep valuables out of sight, especially in public places or parked cars.
- Bag Snatching: Always keep your belongings close, particularly in crowded areas.
- Home Security: Almost all our clients choose to live in gated communities, or in areas known for their peaceful and safe environment. We can help you locate these communities.
Law Enforcement and Security Improvements
Costa Rica’s Police Forces
Costa Rica has two primary law enforcement bodies:
- Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) - The country’s investigative police force, responsible for handling serious crimes. Similar to the FBI in the US.
- Fuerza Pública (National Police) - A public security force that patrols communities, responds to emergencies, and performs counter-narcotics and border security operations.
The police force has improved significantly over the years, with better funding, training, and modern equipment. Response times have become much faster, and law enforcement agencies work proactively to ensure safety, particularly in tourist and expat-heavy regions like Guanacaste.
U.S. Support for Costa Rica’s Security
In January 2020, the U.S. Embassy’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) provided additional resources to Costa Rican law enforcement, including:
- A K-9 training facility for judicial officers
- Four armored vehicles for the Ministry of Public Security and Judicial Police
The U.S. Ambassador reinforced the partnership between Costa Rica and the U.S., stating that Costa Rica remains a bastion of peace and stability in the region, and its police forces are among the most capable in Latin America.
Is Guanacaste Safe?
Absolutely! One of the reasons why the Guanacaste real estate is in such high demand is because the region is so safe. While some regions of Costa Rica are experiencing increased gang-related violence, Guanacaste remains one of the safest provinces in the country. Located far from crime hotspots, this area offers a secure and welcoming environment for tourists, retirees, and expats.
If concerns about safety have been holding you back from visiting or moving to Costa Rica, don’t let them. Guanacaste is an excellent choice for those looking for a safe and peaceful place to enjoy the country’s natural beauty and warm hospitality.
If you have further questions, feel free to contact us—we’ll be happy to provide more information!