Tourist Scams in Costa Rica — Safety Guide 2026
Costa Rica has 10+ documented tourist scams across 1 city in our database. Scam activity is rated high. The most common risks are taxi & transport, street scams, tour & activities.
Overall risk
High
Scams documented
10+
Cities covered
1
High severity
4
Most common scam types in Costa Rica
Taxi & Transport
3 reports
Street Scams
2 reports
Tour & Activities
2 reports
Money & ATM Scams
2 reports
Costa Rica travel safety questions
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?
Costa Rica is visited by millions of tourists every year and is generally safe with preparation. Our database documents 10+ tourist scams across 1 city in Costa Rica. Scam activity is rated high overall. The most common risks are taxi & transport, street scams, tour & activities scams. Reviewing the specific warnings for your destination before you travel significantly reduces your risk.
What are the most common tourist scams in Costa Rica?
The most frequently documented tourist scams in Costa Rica are Taxi & Transport, Street Scams, Tour & Activities, Money & ATM Scams. San José has the highest documented scam count with 10 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.
Which city in Costa Rica has the most tourist scams?
San José has the highest number of documented tourist scams in Costa Rica with 10 recorded incidents in our database.
How can I stay safe from scams in Costa Rica?
The most effective protection in Costa Rica is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention from strangers near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each city you plan to visit.
Editorial note: Scam warnings for Costa Rica are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →
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