Costa Rica has long been known for its nature, its volcanoes and its numerous parks and reserves scattered throughout the territory. It is also thanks to this unique environment and the tourism development policy begun several decades ago that the destination is called the “Eco-tourism paradise”. This activity contributes largely to the wealth of this country sometimes also referred to as “Switzerland of Central America”…including the low risks involved in traveling there.
Health matter
Even if no vaccination is obligatory to go there, it is better to be up to date with them.
THE Costa Rica is a destination which does not really pose any health problems, even if some diseases carried by certain mosquitoes can sometimes “invite themselves” into the territory. So, nothing special, other than just bring an anti-insect repellent, especially when walking in parks and reserves.
Dengue, Zika and Chikungunya
These are the three diseases transmitted by mosquitoes that can be found in Costa Rica where there is no proven malaria.
As there is no prophylaxis (preventive medication) against the three, the solution therefore consists of protecting yourself as best as possible from mosquito bites using repellent, using a mosquito net or air conditioning to sleep, without forgetting to cover arms and legs at nightfall when mosquitoes are most voracious. However, it should be noted that zika can also be transmitted during sexual intercourse.
Another thing in terms of health: avoid swimming in fresh water because of the risk of bilharzia and other parasitoses.
Hygiene question
As is often the case, good personal and especially dietary hygiene is necessary if you are not too used to “eating local”. So avoid tap water which is not always very drinkable or appreciated by sensitive stomachs and dishes or foods that do not offer all the guarantees of freshness, if only to avoid the turista.
Health infrastructure
There is a public or private service in Costa Rica capable of handling the main problems. It should be noted that although many treatments may seem relatively cheap to North American visitors to the point that there is now a small amount of medical tourism in the country, compared to the European healthcare system and particularly the French one, the costs can on the other hand turn out to be less expensive. Good assistance insurance is therefore recommended.
In terms of security
Crime and delinquency
Costa Rica is a fairly safe destination. Which does not mean, however, that we should not take the basic precautions usual for any trip, such as not showing off our wealth, walking alone at night in isolated places, etc.
Likewise, a certain vigilance is also required in transport, bus stations, in certain peripheral areas of cities, as well as on beaches or during nighttime outings.
In the event of aggression, you should also not resist and always have “something” with you to give to your attackers. Finally, if you have a vehicle, it is strongly recommended to use guarded parking lots and not to leave anything inside.
Finally, note that drug possession is severely punished by Costa Rican law with penalties of up to 20 years in prison.
Climate and nature
Nature is not necessarily always peaceful in Costa Rica.
This is how quite regularly – and sometimes for a long time – a volcano can erupt or the earth shake. In the rainy season (May to october), it also happens that a road is cut due to flooding or landslides.
In another area, also pay attention to sea currents which can be dangerous on the Pacific side. And then of course, you must avoid going alone and under-equipped into nature, off the beaten track, otherwise you risk getting lost.
Two final words regarding animals. Beyond stray dogs possibly carrying rabies (vaccine useful in the event of a long stay in the countryside), we will pay attention even if the risk is low to creatures such as scorpions, spiders, even snakes, which we can encounter in high places. grass, under rocks or any other place they may like.
In another genre, Costa Rica is home to quite a few crocodiles which it is best to avoid getting too close to, particularly in the estuaries on the Pacific side.