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

4.4 /5

Based on 80 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.5 /5

Based on 26 experiences from local women

Costa Rica is currently ranked #52 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.4 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Costa Rica?

Safety at night:Moderate

Costa Rica overall is relatively safe compared to many other countries, but just like anywhere else, it has its rough areas. It's usually safe to walk around higher tourist areas, but the situation tends to change at night. It's always recommended to use taxis or Ubers when traveling in the evening, especially if you're alone. Avoid displaying expensive belongings and always be cautious of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Moderate

Costa Rica's public transportation systems, including buses and taxis, are generally reliable and commonly used by locals and tourists. However, incidents such as pickpocketing and occasional minor scams can occur. It's advised to keep an eye on your belongings and to travel mostly by day. Stick to official taxis marked with yellow triangles and make sure the meter is running to avoid scams. As for buses, they're mostly used for inter-city travel and are generally secure, but can be crowded, so vigilance with personal belongings is needed.

Street harassment:Low

Costa Rica is generally known for being fairly safe and respectful towards women. However, like any country, it isn't immune to instances of street harassment. It's not widespread or aggressive but it can occasionally occur in more populated areas. It's mainly limited to catcalling or unwelcome comments. Always be vigilant, but don't let it deter you from enjoying all the beauty this country has to offer.

Petty crimes:Moderate

In Costa Rica, as a solo female traveler, you may encounter issues like pickpocketing and bag-snatching, primarily in populated areas and public transportation. It is best to remain vigilant and keep your possessions secure, especially in busy areas like markets and bus terminals. While not extremely common, these crimes do occur, so caution should be taken. However, overall, the country is relatively safe if you stick to recommended tourist areas and follow standard safety practices.

Is Costa Rica worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 80 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.4/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

3.7/5

Puerto Viejo, Solo travel

I felt very safe in Puerto Viejo! I stayed a bit outside of town near Playa Negra and rented a motorbike to get around. It’s a beautiful area; very laid-back vibes if you’re into that. There is a good mix of travelers and locals around town, which I appreciate. Apparently Ama Ser is closing, but one of the highlights of my trip was doing yoga at their studio. Really good vegan food in Puerto. I would love to go back one day!

Posted: May 14, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Barb

Czech Republic

Costa Rica, Solo travel

places I have been really showed me the differences, but everyone was always nice, I could hitchhike without worrying. I saw incredible things, met many wonderful travelers and thing that was stolen from me was a skirt in a hostel… sad

Posted: May 12, 2025

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San José, Solo travel

I really didn’t like San Jose at all. Especially traveling solo as a woman. I was assaulted because i was wearing a non gold, but golden necklace. My neck was scratched open and I was pushed to the ground in plain daylight, in the middle of a busy street. The police was standing next to me and didn’t even react. In General I was catcalled a lot, I felt I was being observed and followed and avoided going out. I’m sure that there are nicer areas than the ones I was in but I really had no good time. BE CAREFUL ALWAYS! and don’t wear any jewelry!

Posted: February 24, 2025

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Silvia

France

Costa Rica, Solo travel

Costa Rica was a breeze as a solo traveler. Catching taxis or ubers has been very easy and the taxi drivers were always nice and ready to provide advice on safety or just chat. I never took public transport, just shuttles. But they make it super easy to do (although it is of course more expensive). The only place that felt a bit sketchy was San Jose as you are easily spotted as a tourist and outside of the main streets it felt a bit unsafe mostly for the lack of people.

Posted: February 9, 2025Experienced: January, 2025

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Sam

United Kingdom

Costa Rica, Solo travel

Costa Rica was my first truly solo travel experience (I’ve done a few in Europe as a single parent as the only adult, but this one was only me). It’s a wonderful place and I felt very safe there. Bar one night… did you know howler monkeys song like horrific monsters?! If you can keep in mind that that frightening 5am wake up call is simply monkeys saying Good Morning and not some sort of prehistoric creature waiting to eat you when you step outside your be fine! I rented a car in Costa Rica - driving was absolutely fine with the exception of San Jose near the airport which was an experience (think motorcycles over and undertaking you simultaneously as you try to make a turning!) My first stop was Ocotal. I didn’t particularly like it here, and if I could redo my trip - I’d skip this. I felt uneasy, but then again - it was my first solo adventure. Nothing untoward happened. Next I drove to La Fortuna. The drive is fantastic and the waterfalls and Arenal volcano is amazing! There are plenty of adventure sports to do in this area. Lastly I took a (long) drive to Manuel Antonio. This was by far the highlight of my trip. The natural park is wonderful with monkeys everywhere and the beach is beautiful. I felt very safe here and even walked briefly in the dark. Police are everywhere to guard tourists

Posted: January 28, 2025

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Is Costa Rica safe for women?

Safety index

3.5 /5

Based on 26 local experiences

Crime index

2.6 /5

Based on 26 local experiences

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

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Meet locals in Costa Rica

Gabby

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.

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Priscila

About Me

Hi, I’m Priscila! I’m from Costa Rica, and I’m heading to Europe for a solo trip while also living as a digital nomad for two months. I’m planning to spend some time in Switzerland and Hungary, exploring the cities a bit during the day and also in the evenings, since I’ll be working too. I’ve always been very interested in getting to know different cultures, and I feel that connecting with local people is the best way to do that.

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Stay with locals in Costa Rica

Gabby

Heredia

Can host for:

3 days

About me

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Alessia

Costa Rica

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Looking for a host in Madrid, 5th-8th of July From Switzerland🇨🇭 Living in Costa Rica🇨🇷 24 y.o.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Costa Rica

Jella

About Me

Hi I'm Jella, 18 years old and I grew up in Switzerland. I play the piano and I love to dance. Im always open to meeting new amazing people!

Speaking

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Vanea

About Me

Hi everyone! I've recently left my job and will be leaving the US with my pup at the end of the month! Planning to write, explore, and push myself daily to vigorously pursue my best life with every breath left in me. Care to join me?