Costa Rica Travel Tips
Costa Rica Travel Tips
Choose Sustainable Options
An industry leader in sustainability, living sustainably is a way of life in Costa Rica. It is, therefore, very important that you travel with as low an impact as possible.
When choosing your accommodations, rental car, local tour operators and even restaurants to eat at, select businesses that have been awarded the Certificate of Sustainable Tourism (CST) from the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT). You’ll recognize them by the “Leaf” symbol. There are currently 2 levels – Basic and Elite. Elite businesses may be more expensive, but if your budget allows it, choose Elite as these will be the more sustainable option.
Travel Light
Travel as lightly as possible when travelling to Costa Rica. If you can, avoid checking a suitcase and only pack what you need. You’ll generally only need warm weather clothes. Pack lightweight items that are easy to wash and quick to dry. Take a few TruEarth laundry strips with you so you can be sure to use an environmentally friendly product that will also not take up any additional room in your bag.
Check Cabin Baggage Allowance
Whether you’re checking a bag or not, be sure to check your airline’s cabin bag allowance as these vary from airline to airline and many have strict size and weight restrictions for cabin baggage these days. Check that your carry-on bag’s dimensions meet their size restrictions before packing. Once packed, check your bags combined weight (your personal item as well as your cabin bag) to ensure you have not exceeded the airline’s cabin bag weight allowance.
Pack Medications
Medications in Costa Rica require a certified prescription. If you have a medical condition, be sure to pack all the medications you’ll need for the duration of your trip. Carry them in their original containers with an intact prescription label .
Is Costa Rica safe for solo female travellers?
As mentioned here, compared with other countries in the region, Costa Rica is a safe country, but that does not mean it’s crime free. As with any tourist destination, tourists are often the target of crime, particularly female travellers, so be sure take precautions while exploring Costa Rica, especially if you’re travelling solo.
Below, I share some safety tips specifically for solo female travellers to Costa Rica, as well as some general safety tips for all travellers to Costa Rica. (Source: the official website of Costa Rica.)
Safety Tips for Solo Female Travellers in Costa Rica
- Use official transportation only.
- Avoid walking, jogging, or sightseeing alone in secluded areas, especially at night.
- Do not share the details of your itinerary on social media or with strangers.
- Understand the risks of traveling alone and being with people you do not know.
- You can trust the police. They are here to help you.
- Always keep in touch with your family and friends.
- In case of emergency or suspicious behavior, dial 9-1-1.
More safety tips for all travellers to Costa Rica
- Always take care of all your belongings and valuables, even when traveling by bus.
- Carry your backpack in front of you.
- Avoid unsolicited help from strangers.
- Avoid walking in isolated places and places without lighting.
- Check your map and mobile phone in secure areas.
- Book tours offered by authorized travel agencies.
- Exchange money only at banks and approved change offices.
- Always check the local weather conditions and forecasts before you take a tour.
- Make sure the tour guide provides you the safety instructions and the activity´s regulation before starting the tour.
- Ensure the company has the operating permit of the Ministry of Health, insurance policies and certified tour guides.
Find more safety tips for travelling to Costa Rica here.
Experience Costa Rica on a Women Only Adventure!
Women Only Costa Rica Wellness & Adventure
If you’re a solo female traveller looking for an exciting mix of wellness and adventure in a bucket list destination, then this Costa Rica Women Only Wellness Adventure in Central America’s safest country will satisfy your travel desires. Your wellness adventure will include yoga sessions, hiking excursions, sea kayaking, SUP, snorkelling and more.
7 Nights / 8 Days - Dec 5th to 12th 2022
Visiting: San Jose – Sarapiqui – Arenal – Rincon de la Vieja – Playa Carrillo
