CARE TIPS | My Site 2

Tips to help you enjoy the sea, the sun, and the sand

Take care and enjoy your Costa Rican experience

Beaches

At locations where Costa Rican authorities have lifeguard presence, stations may or may not be staffed, may be far apart, poorly equipped, or have limited visibility.
- If lifeguards are present, speak with them to understand current conditions.
- If lifeguards are not present, ask your hotel or host about beach safety before you go.
Do not swim alone or dive into water of unknown depth.
Avoid alcohol while swimming.
Do not go into the water at night.
All beaches in Costa Rica are open to the public. You should not leave valuables unattended while you go into the water.
Avoid walking alone on poorly lit beaches.
Double check that your car is locked. Thieves often use signal blockers to prevent your key fobs from working.

Tips to help you enjoy your road trip

Road

Always lock your vehicle and do not leave valuables inside. Thieves may use signal blockers to prevent vehicles from locking with the vehicle remote.

Keep your gas tank full and ensure you have a spare tire and emergency supplies.

Drive carefully when crossing moving water, such as riverbeds – even shallow water can destabilize your vehicle.

Tips to take care of your health during your trip

Health

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to obtain travel insurance before traveling to Costa Rica.

Know how to contact local emergency services (dial 911). English-speaking operators may be available, but having a Spanish speaker can help.

Confirm your health insurance covers you in Costa Rica, or purchase travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Avoid unregulated alcohol, which can be dangerous. Drink responsibly and always watch your drink to ensure no substances are added. If you feel ill, seek medical attention immediately.

Tips for visiting volcanoes

Volcanoes

Always respect all signage and restricted areas, as these zones are established for your safety due to potential volcanic gases, unstable ground, or unexpected activity.
Do not approach craters or active volcanic zones without an authorized guide, since conditions can change rapidly and may be dangerous even when the volcano appears calm.
Wear appropriate footwear such as closed-toe, non-slip hiking shoes to prevent injuries on uneven, rocky, or loose volcanic terrain.
Stay informed about current volcanic activity and weather conditions before your visit by checking official sources or visitor centers.
Avoid inhaling volcanic gases; if you notice a strong sulfur smell, dizziness, or irritation, move away immediately to a safer, open area.
Always follow the instructions of park rangers or certified guides, as they are trained to ensure your safety in potentially hazardous environments.

Tips for exploring rivers and waterfalls

Do not swim in areas with strong currents or where there are no safety signs, as river conditions in Costa Rica can change quickly and become extremely powerful.
Avoid entering the water after heavy rainfall, since flash floods and sudden water level rises are common and can be life-threatening.
Wear water shoes or footwear with strong grip to protect yourself from slippery rocks, algae, and uneven surfaces in and around the water.
Do not jump from rocks or unknown heights, as water depth may be deceptive and hidden rocks or currents can cause serious injuries.
Always supervise children closely and never allow them to enter the water unattended, even in seemingly calm areas.
Respect all designated swimming zones and barriers, as they are placed to keep visitors away from dangerous currents or deep areas.

Tips for exploring rivers and waterfalls

Always stay on marked trails to protect both yourself and the environment, as going off-path can lead to getting lost or disturbing fragile ecosystems.
Inform someone about your hiking route and expected return time so they can alert authorities if you do not return as planned.
Bring enough water, sunscreen, and insect repellent to stay hydrated, protected from sun exposure, and safe from mosquito bites or other insects.
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing with long sleeves and proper hiking shoes to protect yourself from insects, scratches, and rough terrain.
Do not feed or approach wildlife, as animals may become aggressive or dependent on human food, which disrupts their natural behavior.
Avoid hiking alone on remote or less-traveled trails, as having a companion increases safety in case of accidents or emergencies.
Always check weather conditions before entering the forest, since heavy rain can cause slippery trails, falling branches, or difficult navigation.