Is Costa Rica safe for solo female travelers?

Costa Rica is generally safe, particularly in tourist areas. However, like any destination, it can have potential risks. Petty theft or pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded places, and it's always important to stay alert. Costa Ricans are warm and friendly, and will often go out of their way to help out a stranger in need. However, avoid isolated areas and stay in groups whenever possible, especially at night. Public transportation is reliable, but be careful with your belongings. Overall, Costa Rica has a strong reputation for safety compared to other countries in the region.

Safety rating

Make travel friends

Meet other female travelers, find travel buddies and stay with local women for free through hospitality exchange
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

How safe is Costa Rica for solo female travelers?

Travel safety index

4.4 /5

based on 85 experiences from female travelers

Costa Rica, Solo travel

Costa Rica was my first solo trip so I did feel nervous about it. I spent a weekend in San Jose 2 weeks in Samara and another Weekend in Monteverde. I felt safe during my trip but I would advise you to skip San Jose as it is a very hectic city and I experienced a lot of catcalling. I felt less safe than in the other places mentioned. In terms of prices Costa Rica is way more expensive than i expected.

Posted: July 29, 2025
favorite_border 1
mode_comment 0
pollyanna

pollyanna

Spain

Costa Rica, Solo travel

Costa Rica was the perfect place to reset and connect to my intuition. Such a lush and beautiful place. I stayed in Nosara most of the time and noted how expensive the food was, but they had lots of vegan options which was important for me. I was lucky to have a friendly host who offered to drive me late at night, which is a point of caution for solo women. Otherwise I had a lovely time at the beach and did lots of yoga :)

Posted: July 24, 2025
favorite_border 2
mode_comment 0

Costa Rica, Group travel

Did a planned group tour with GA Adventures. Travelled to different districts within Costa Rica. One of my favourite countries by far, I loved the rain forest and got to zip line through it. Also went to Jaguar animal rescue and saw the wonderful work they do there, a dream is to one day volunteer with them. Gallo Pinto is delicious and the fresh fruit available. Lots of adventurous activities available, such as rapids and ziplines. As well as more chill ones of walking up volcanoes and cycling along the beach.

Posted: June 18, 2025Experienced: June, 2018
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

How safe is Costa Rica for women?

Local safety index

3.5 /5

Based on 27 local experiences

Local crime index

2.7 /5

Based on 27 local experiences

Shaony

Shaony

Guácima

Very safe, is a nice place and people is respectful. Also have a very good transport system and very close to the airport . Police are always around making sure all is in order and safe. Welcome 🙏🏾

Posted: September 22, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0
Priscila

Priscila

San Ramon

My hometown is safe, but like anywhere else, it’s important to be cautious after a certain hour. It’s better not to walk alone late at night and to use a car if you’re out after 11 p.m. Just like when you’re traveling to another country, it’s always good to take basic safety precautions.

Posted: May 26, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Costa Rica

Costa Rica used to be a relatively safe country. In recent years, however, violence has increased significantly, including femicides. It is still a country where you can go out, but certain precautions need to be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, even in tourist areas; share your location with someone if you're taking an Uber or taxi, especially at night. Going out in groups is safer, and it's important to always enjoy yourself, but stay alert. During the day it’s relatively safe—you just need to be more cautious at night.

Posted: May 25, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Safety in Costa Rica

Hospitality Exchange in Costa Rica

Gabby

Gabby

Heredia

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I really like to travel and exchange cultures. I live near the airport and I would be happy to help female travelers, picking them up at the airport. Also children no longer live at home, there Is space in my home. I have had exchange girls from Germany and Denmark for one year. A wonderful experience.

Speaking

mode_comment 1
Amanda

Amanda

San Jose Province

Can host for:

7 days

About me

Hi! My name is Amanda 🌷 i’m 25, i’m from Costa Rica but I lived the past 6 years in France (currently back in CR for some time). I love to travel. I would love to meet new people around the world and hang out together 🤍 I love to plan my travels really well (where to eat and what to do each day) but sometimes I don’t stick to it haha I love matcha, good food, thrifting, crocheting, cinema and just discovering the city! (i can offer a tattoo in exchange for a place to stay🤍)

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Expats in Costa Rica

Gabby

Gabby

Heredia

About me

I really like to travel and exchange cultures. I live near the airport and I would be happy to help female travelers, picking them up at the airport. Also children no longer live at home, there Is space in my home. I have had exchange girls from Germany and Denmark for one year. A wonderful experience.

Speaking

Amanda

Amanda

San Jose Province

About me

Hi! My name is Amanda 🌷 i’m 25, i’m from Costa Rica but I lived the past 6 years in France (currently back in CR for some time). I love to travel. I would love to meet new people around the world and hang out together 🤍 I love to plan my travels really well (where to eat and what to do each day) but sometimes I don’t stick to it haha I love matcha, good food, thrifting, crocheting, cinema and just discovering the city! (i can offer a tattoo in exchange for a place to stay🤍)

Speaking