Emergency Help Abroad – Costa Rica

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting Costa Rica — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to arrest and imprisonment.

• Carrying weapons without authorisation, including knives, is illegal.

• Public drunkenness can attract police attention.

• Drink-driving is strictly prohibited and penalties are severe.

• Attempting to bring illegal substances into the country results in immediate arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Costa Rica places a strong emphasis on nature preservation — damaging plants, wildlife or protected landscapes is illegal.

• Modest dress is recommended in rural communities and religious areas.

• Littering anywhere, especially in beaches or national parks, can lead to fines.

• Disrespectful behaviour in churches or cultural sites is not tolerated.

• Graffiti, vandalism or damaging public property is a criminal offence.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request ID — carry your passport or a copy.

• Petty theft, bag-snatching and car break-ins occur in tourist zones; remain vigilant.

• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated or poorly lit areas.

• Public disorder, aggressive behaviour or harassment can lead to police involvement.

• Bribing police or officials is illegal and taken seriously.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Speeding, dangerous driving and failing to wear seatbelts or helmets are enforced with fines.

• Car rental agencies require valid licences and cards — check conditions before driving.

• Road conditions vary; avoid driving in remote areas at night.

• Using unofficial taxis can be unsafe — use registered taxi services only.

• Overstaying your visa can lead to fines at the airport.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drones require approval and are banned in some national parks.

• Photography may be restricted around government buildings.

• Always respect local communities when photographing individuals.

• Some wildlife reserves prohibit flash photography to protect animals.

• Filming in indigenous territories often requires permission.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing plants, shells, sand or rocks from beaches and protected areas is illegal.

• Feeding wild animals, including monkeys and raccoons, is prohibited.

• Swimming in rivers or waterfalls may be dangerous due to strong currents.

• Entering closed hiking trails or volcano zones is restricted for safety.

• Lighting fires in national parks or forests is forbidden.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging archaeological sites, caves or indigenous lands is illegal.

• Removing cultural artefacts is strictly prohibited.

• Respect wildlife and keep distance — Costa Rica enforces strong protection laws.

• Climbing on fragile rock formations or heritage structures is not allowed.

• Buying souvenirs made from endangered species is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels everyday or familiar in the UK may follow different norms and expectations in Costa Rica.

• Don’t feed wildlife, including monkeys, coatis and raccoons, as it disrupts ecosystems and can cause aggression.

• Don’t swim near river mouths, where crocodiles may be present.

• Don’t ignore red flag warnings at beaches, especially on the Pacific coast where rip currents are strong.

• Don’t leave valuables in parked cars, particularly at trailheads or surf spots.

• Don’t approach snakes, frogs or poisonous insects, which can be dangerous even in well-visited areas.

• Don’t underestimate driving conditions, especially during rainy season when roads flood or become muddy.

• Don’t touch plants or trees without caution, as some species can irritate skin.

• Don’t walk barefoot in forests or gardens, due to biting ants and hidden hazards.

• Don’t buy wildlife souvenirs, including shells or coral, as many products are protected.

• Don’t hike without proper footwear and insect repellent, especially in cloud forests.

• Don’t ignore national park rules, such as staying on marked trails.

• Don’t leave bags or food unattended on beaches, as animals may take them.

• Don’t drink untreated tap water outside major towns, where quality varies.

• Don’t rely solely on cards in rural areas, as some lodges and cafés take cash only.

• Don’t disrespect turtle nesting sites, including using flash photography or standing too close.

• Don’t attempt river crossings after heavy rain, as water levels rise rapidly.

• Don’t assume all waterfalls are safe for swimming, and check local advice first.

• Don’t wander into private farmland, especially areas with cattle or electric fences.

• Don’t handle leafcutter ants or tropical insects, which can bite painfully.

• Don’t underestimate sun exposure, even on cloudy days near the equator.