Safety Tips

Costa Ricans are generally very open-minded and friendly to foreign travelers. lf any problems should arise you will easily find a helping hand. Please follow the safety instructions below and you will travel unmolested, without great dangers and with much pleasure in this small but extremely interesting country.

In General

- Refrain from wearing expensive jewellery.
- Exchange money only at a bank or a currency exchange office and store it before leaving.
- Take a cab at night in the city. Only take a minimum amount of cash with you.
- Do not struggle or resist in case of a robbery or attack and stay calm. Documents and valuables are replaceable.

In Nature

- Follow the instructions of the park rangers.
- Study the maps of hiking trails (if available).
- Do not go alone into remote and impassable areas.
- Do not leave the designated nature trails.
- Bring enough drinking water.
- Do not touch unknown plants.
- Do no touch wild animals, especially snakes and amphibians.
- Wear closed ankle-high shoes during your walks.
- Do not overestimate your physical condition and skills, and observe the climatic conditions.
- Please inform yourself about potential risks before swimming in the sea/river.
- Please heed the warnings on the beach regarding dangerous currents.

In the Hotel

- Inform yourself about evacuation routes and safety zones on the property.
- Use the hotel safe for your valuables and documents.
- Close windows and doors of your room while you’re gone.

In your Car

- Follow the instructions of your car rental service.
- Always fasten your seat belt.
- Do not make phone calls or send messages while driving. Follow the traffic regulations.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs and/or prescription drugs.
- Avoid remote, impassable streets and river crossings.
- Only park your car on supervised lots.
- Do not leave valuables or baggage visible in the car.
- Always lock the car.
 

Natural Disasters

- Keep calm.
- Follow the instructions of the authorities and the hotel staff.
- Look for the signposted security zones and evacuation routes.
- Inform ARA Tours as soon as possible about your condition, even if you are unharmed.
- Call your relatives at home.
- Call your embassy.

If you do not contact us, we will try to determine your condition as follows:
- In the hotel
- Via your guide
- Via the cell phone of your car rental service (Please turn it on and make sure it is charged)
- Via the Red Cross
- Via your embassy