Puerto Viejo Safety Tips: Avoid These Common Mistakes When Visiting Costa Rica

Are you unsure about whether Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, is a secure destination for your trip? You’ve landed at the perfect spot!

As a duo hailing from the USA and Germany, we’ve been residing in Costa Rica since 2016. Having made several trips to Puerto Viejo, we’re well-acquainted with the safety aspects of this relaxed Caribbean coastal village.

This guide will cover every aspect of safety in Puerto Viejo, not limited to just criminal issues. Additionally, we’ll discuss precautions related to climate conditions, measures for safeguarding against encounters with native animals, and tips to steer clear of typical tourist errors.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about staying safe in Puerto Viejo!

Safety Overview of Puerto Viejo

In an emergency, call

9-1-1

. The operators communicate in both English and Spanish.
The primary worry is petty theft. You might also face issues with bag snatchings, bicycle theft, and pickpockets.
Make sure you purchase travel insurance prior to your journey to safeguard against emergencies, theft, and delayed trips.

Get a quote here
Steer clear of walking solo during nighttime hours, particularly on beaches or desolate secondary roads.
Make sure to always secure your rented vehicle by locking it and ensure that you do not leave any personal belongings within.
Puerto Viejo has a laid-back vibe, but make sure to take care of your belongings and ensure your personal safety.

Safety from Crime in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is typically safe for visitors, though occasional small-scale theft occurs.

Here’s how you can remain safe:

Bike Theft is Common

Many individuals rent bicycles in Puerto Viejo. Should you choose to do so, make sure to secure your bicycle (both frame and wheels) with a sturdy lock at all times, including brief pauses. Typically, the bike rental establishment will supply you with an appropriate lock.
Beach Thefts

Don’t let your belongings be left alone at the beach. There have been cases where individuals had their bags taken when they were for a swim. Only carry essentials with you and ensure your items stay within view.
Steer Clear of the Shore After Dark

It might be alluring to stroll along the beach under the moonlight, yet numerous instances of theft and harassment occur at night when these places are empty.
Do Not Bring All Your Possessions

Pack only essentials for today. Leave the remainder in your hotel safe.
Be Aware at Restaurants

Many restaurants have outdoor seating. Make sure to keep your bag nearby (don’t leave it on the back of your chair) and refrain from placing phones or wallets on the table.

What to Do If You Become a Victim of Theft

The majority of thefts in Costa Rica tend to be non-violent and spontaneous. Should such an incident occur, follow these precise steps:

Stay Calm and Comply

When confronted directly, avoid resisting. Typically, robbers only seek possessions and will depart swiftly upon obtaining them. Your well-being takes precedence over all else.

Move to a Secure Location

Make your way to a brightly lit, busy location such as your hotel or an adjacent eatery where you can meet up again and plan your next moves.

Call 9-1-1

In Costa Rica, you can use this number for emergencies involving the police, medical services, or firefighters. The operators are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish. There’s no requirement for an active phone plan; 911 calls will connect with any device.

Travel Tip

Even if you’re utilizing a data-only eSIM,
like Airalo
, you can still dial 9-1-1 in Costa Rica.

File a Police Report

You must file a report with the OIJ (Organismo de Investigación Judicial). The closest branch to Puerto Viejo is located in Bribrí, approximately 30 minutes away by vehicle or taxi. It’s advisable to check with your hotel for assistance with transport or directions.

Be ready to provide:

Your passport or an image copy
A collection of missing belongings
Timing and place where the event occurred
A short account of what transpired.

Submitting this document is necessary to receive help from your embassy and is typically essential for processing insurance claims as well.

Contact Your Embassy

If your passport or important papers have been stolen, reach out to your nation’s embassy or consulate without delay. They can help with:

Replacing your passport
Communicating with local authorities
Offering directories of English-speaking physicians or attorneys
Assisting you in reaching out to your relatives if necessary

Embassy contact info:

U.S. Embassy

(San José): +506 2519-2000
Canadian Embassy

: +506 2242-4400
British Embassy

: +506 2258-2025

Travel Tip:

Maintain a photocopy of your passport or at minimum, keep an electronic picture of it on your smartphone. Possessing a digital replica frequently aids in expediting the procedure for obtaining a provisional substitute.

Cancel Stolen Cards

Right away, contact your bank to get your credit or debit cards canceled and stop any fraudulent activities. Should you be utilizing international travel credit cards, these frequently provide 24/7 customer service hotlines, or you might be capable of revoking your card via the banking app associated with your account.

Reach Out to Your Travel Insurance Company

Many travel insurance plans include coverage for stolen possessions such as gadgets, valuable items, and important papers. However, you might have to provide a police report along with evidence of ownership when making a claim, if feasible.

Contacting your insurance provider promptly following the event to initiate a claim and understand their requirements is advisable.

We recommend
Heymondo Travel Insurance

For trips to Costa Rica, they provide robust theft protection and feature a 24/7 assistance app to guide you through claims and emergencies, even when you’re overseas.

Safety While Engaging in Activities in Puerto Viejo

No matter if you’re surfing, hiking, biking, or simply relaxing at the beach, remember these key points:

Surfing Safety

Puerto Viejo houses some of the strongest waves in Costa Rica and draws seasoned surfers globally.

Beginners Beware

: Most of the
beaches in Puerto Viejo
are not suitable for novice surfers unless you’re joining a lesson. The water currents can be quite strong, and the waves crash harshly over a shallow coral reef in certain spots.
Surf with a Buddy

Never venture out solo, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with the state of the sea.
Respect the Flags

Red flags indicate hazardous conditions. Despite seeing local surfers, treat these warnings with seriousness.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

You’ll spend a considerable amount of time in the water, and the sun is quite intense here. To avoid getting sunburned, wear a rash guard that offers UV protection.

Biking Safety

Cycling is among the most favored methods to navigate Puerto Viejo and discover beaches such as Playa Negra, Cocles, Punta Uva, and Manzanillo.

Use a Good Lock

Bicycle theft occurs frequently around this area, including rental bikes. Always lock your bicycle firmly through both the frame and one of the wheels when unattended.
Wear a Helmet

Helmets aren’t necessarily included with rentals, but it doesn’t hurt to inquire.
Avoid Riding at Night

The roadways are dimly lit, winding, and occasionally slick. It’s best to reserve your bicycle trips for times when the sun is up and have a flashlight or headlamp handy as an extra precaution.

Jungle Expeditions & Hiking Safeguards

Puerto Viejo is encircled by dense jungle, with nearby areas such as the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge in close proximity.
Cahuita National Park
offer unforgettable nature experiences.

However, keep in mind that this is the genuine wilderness, and it houses actual wild animals.

Stay on the Trails

: This is
not
a spot for getting lost. There are
poisonous snakes
Like the Fer-de-Lance, which is my greatest fear, I am also terrified of spiders and other creatures you’d rather avoid. Stay on the trails as they are intended; this way, you won’t inadvertently encounter these critters.
Wear Closed-Toe Shoes

Trails may be muddy, steep, and slick, particularly during the wet season. Wearing robust footwear with excellent traction will safeguard your feet and prevent slipping accidents.
Avoid Contact with Trees or Plants

Some possess thorns or irritant sap, and creatures such as snakes or insects might blend into the bark of trees or their limbs.
Bring Bug Spray

: You’ll definitely need it. Mosquitoes, ants, and other creatures are active, especially in the early morning and around sunset.

Weather and Climate Safety in Old Harbor

When visiting Puerto Viejo, you should keep certain weather-related safety precautions in mind.

Rain and Flooding Risks

Unlike the Pacific region, which has distinct wet and dry seasons, the Caribbean coastline experiences significant precipitation without such predictable patterns. Notably, high rain levels occur particularly in November, December, and July; however, these forecasts can be quite unreliable from year to year with some experiencing entirely different weather timings.

Flash flooding

This can occur during heavy rainfalls, particularly in lower sections of land, along jungle paths, and on countryside routes heading towards urban centers.
Streets may turn slippery or be partly flooded, hence drive or bike with care following significant rainfall.
River crossings and waterfalls

It can enlarge rapidly. When hiking close to bodies of water or planning to swim in a river or natural pool, avoid doing so following a significant rainfall.

Hurricane Season

Although much of Costa Rica lies beyond the typical hurricane belt, the southeastern Caribbean coastline, such as the area around Puerto Viejo, may sometimes experience tropical storms or exceptionally rare hurricanes originating from the Atlantic.

The greatest danger occurs in
October
and early November.
In most years, storms occur without significant problems; however, intense rainfall and winds from adjacent weather systems may lead to power disruptions, roadway blockages, and area-specific inundation.

Heat & Sun Exposure

Puerto Viejo remains hot and humid throughout the year, and due to the strong sunlight combined with physical exertion, you could experience heat exhaustion or dehydration more quickly than anticipated.

Stay Hydrated

Pack extra water than you believe necessary, particularly during cycling, trekking, or lounging at the shore. In my case, I have a strong affinity for Lemon Lime Gatorade to restore lost electrolytes on scorching days.
Enjoy Resting in Shady Spots

It’s simple to go too far during peak afternoon temperatures. Make sure to take breaks, particularly from 11 AM to 2 PM, when the sun is at its most intense.
Wear Protective Clothing

A large-hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeve UV-protective tops can prevent sunburns and keep you from getting overly hot.
Sunscreen is Not Optional

Even when it’s overcast, the UV index can still be very high. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours, particularly after you swim or sweat. Believe me; I learned this lesson the hard way.

Earthquakes

Costa Rica is situated in an area prone to seismic activity, and earthquakes occur from time to time.

Many earthquakes are minor and last for only a short time, however, it’s important to be prepared just in case:
- If inside: Dive underneath a strong table or doorway, then take cover and grip securely.
- If outdoors: Keep away from trees, power lines, and structures.
Structures in Puerto Viejo usually consist of smaller, adaptable buildings (primarily wooden) that are typically more secure during an earthquake compared to those made of concrete.

To get additional advice, take a look at our guide about earthquakes in Costa Rica.

Staying Safe While Driving

Navigating through and about Puerto Viejo can offer an excellent opportunity to discover the shoreline at your leisure, yet it presents certain difficulties and safety concerns as well.

Here’s all you need to know to remain secure while driving:

The main
road into Puerto Viejo
(Route 36) leading from Limón is asphalted and well-kept. Keep in mind that there is a police station right before you go past it.
Cahuita.
Police officers frequently stop vehicles and simply request to view your passport and driver’s license. Keep these papers accessible at the front of the vehicle instead of in the trunk for easy retrieval.
The roads inside the town are generally paved, however, you might encounter significant potholes and sections that are not kept up as well.
Ensure your vehicle doors remain locked during travel and choose air conditioning instead of lowering the windows.
Remember that navigating can be challenging after dark, particularly if you’re not acquainted with the surroundings.
A 4×4 vehicle isn’t necessary to get to Puerto Viejo or visit most nearby sites. Nonetheless, during the wet season, having one could be beneficial if you intend to venture into lesser-known spots such as cascades, isolated retreats, or quieter shores.

Rent your vehicle through Adobe (our top pick from the locals) and enjoy a 10% reduction along with additional awesome benefits.

Always ensure you do not leave valuable items inside your vehicle, regardless of whether it is locked. Cars left unattended can be targets for theft, particularly near locations such as trailheads, isolated shorelines, and well-liked dining spots.
Certain beaches and eateries provide guarded parking areas for a nominal charge. When these options are offered, they’re beneficial to use because they help prevent thefts.
Download Google Maps for offline use so you have it if your service drops out during your drive.
Ensure your phone is always powered up and have a portable charger handy, particularly if you depend on it for navigating around.

Medication Safety in Old Harbor

You might be approached with an offer of marijuana when strolling around.
Puerto Viejo
It occurs quite frequently, particularly close to the shoreline, within urban areas, or around the vicinity of bars and eateries.

Even though it may seem relaxed and ordinary here, it’s crucial to be aware:

Cannabis is not entirely legalized.

In Costa Rica, although small personal quantities are frequently ignored by law enforcement, possessing, purchasing, or selling it remains legally prohibited.
Purchasing from sidewalk sellers can be dangerous.

You might end up with counterfeit goods, adulterated products, or simply poor-quality items. Additionally, there can be periodic law enforcement raids. Therefore, what appears relaxed today may change tomorrow.
Don’t attempt to carry any medications across boundaries.

We’ve never undergone an inspection at the Costa Rica/Panama border, yet uncertainty prevails. It’s best not to take chances.

Essentially, exercise care and be aware of the legal regulations.

Safety Tips for Solo Travellers in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a favored destination for solo adventurers, particularly backpackers, digital nomads, and surf enthusiasts.

A significant advantage of Puerto Viejo is its integrated traveler community. With hostels, yoga centers, and beach bars, making connections with others becomes quite simple here.

If you’re uncertain about tackling something alone (such as going hiking or surfing), odds are good you’ll come across another person eager to join in.

We do not suggest walking alone at nighttime, particularly on secondary streets or near the shoreline once darkness falls.
When venturing out, make sure to stay on the principal routes, travel with companions whenever feasible, or opt for an officially licensed cab.
Even though Puerto Viejo is small, it can be easy to find yourself in a dimly lit or isolated area without realizing it.
A lot of individual female travelers come here without issues and enjoy their trip, though they might receive some undesired notice, particularly in nightlife spots like bars or nightclubs.
The machismo culture exists in Costa Rica, where local men might be flirtatious or pushy. Should you find yourself feeling uneasy, firmly say no or simply move away. Generally, most individuals will honor your limits if you assert them clearly.
Avoid accepting beverages from people you don’t know or letting your drink go unchecked. Opt for sealed bottles or cans, and carry a lid if you’re worried about safety.

Items to Bring for Ensuring Safety

SPF 50 Sunblock

The ultraviolet index is extremely high in this area. In the past, I’ve certainly experienced a sunburn when I underestimated the amount of sunlight I received, even while being under trees.
A Sun Hat

: We love

this one from Columbia

It has a bit of a geeky appeal, yet it remains light and compact enough to be folded away effortlessly for travel.
Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes in Costa Rica can transmit diseases like Dengue and Zika; therefore, it’s advisable to take precautions.
Motion Sickness Pills

For the occasionally wild routes and all boating excursions.
A First Aid Kit

We possess this travel first-aid kit, which has proven to be quite useful for dealing with small injuries.
Blister Bandaids
:

If you intend to wear new shoes during your time in Puerto Viejo, consider packing some blister bandages. We’ve relied on them numerous times for relief. Additionally, I notice that the local humidity tends to cause more friction between my feet and shoes than usual.
A Head Lamp

This is excellent for situations where the power is down, but it’s equally useful for navigating during nighttime strolls.
Money Belt

We generally don’t utilize one of these, but it can be quite useful when strolling through the city center.
Portable Charger

It’s wise to keep your phone fully charged at all times for navigation purposes and to call the authorities during emergencies. I really like using the Anker portable charger for this purpose.
Glasses Strap

If you intend to engage in activities like ziplining, a glasses strap is excellent for ensuring your glasses or sunglasses stay securely in place.
LifeStraw Waterbottle
:

Here, drinking tap water is generally fine, but we recommend purchasing bottled water as a precautionary measure. Should you choose to consume tap water, using a LifeStraw filter will help remove most bacteria, providing extra security.
Electrolyte Powder

I often feel exhausted during physical activities because of the heat and humidity. To counter this, adding electrolyte powder to my water is always quite effective.
Waterproof Backpack

We own this waterproof daypack and adore using it for every adventure in Costa Rica. It safeguards you against rainfall during treks or prevents your belongings from getting wet during boat rides.
Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend buying travel insurance for your journey to Costa Rica. It provides an extra safeguard against issues like travel disruptions, cancelled trips, medical expenses, and much more.

We prefer HeyMondo for travel insurance when going to Costa Rica.
E-Sim Card:

It’s extremely vital to remain connected when in Costa Rica. Over the last year, we’ve begun utilizing

e-sims from Airalo

And they are fantastic! Just remember that this is purely for data usage, so making standard phone calls won’t be possible. Nonetheless, even without the capability to make typical calls, you will still be able to reach emergency services like 9-1-1.

Health Care and Emergency Services in Puerto Viejo

Fingers crossed, you won’t require medical attention during your stay in Puerto Viejo, but it’s wise to be ready, particularly when you’re exploring a more isolated region of the country.

The healthcare system in Costa Rica is typically of high quality, with even smaller communities such as Puerto Viejo offering essential medical services.

Here’s what you should be aware of if you become ill or hurt during your visit.

Local Health Centers in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo features several small private medical clinics along with one public EBAIS (basic government clinic), offering care for minor injuries, infections, and general health concerns.

These facilities can assist with matters such as

foodborne illness, allergies, small wounds, or elevated body temperature

.

Most private clinics

do not require appointments

However, it’s advisable to arrive early in the morning.

Although certain physicians communicate in English, it remains

not guaranteed

, so using a translation app (like Google Translate’s voice function) can really help.

Your hotel typically suggests a reliable local physician and assists with setting up an appointment if necessary.

How to Act During a Major Emergency

In case of a significant medical emergency, like a possible fracture, intense allergic response, angina, or a critical wound, you will require transfer to a bigger healthcare facility.

The nearest hospital is Hospital Tony Facio in Limón, approximately 1.5 hours away by vehicle. An ambulance would typically transport you there. While it serves well for basic emergency treatment, it isn’t ideal for more intricate medical needs.

For more sophisticated care, many individuals are moved to San José, typically via an ambulance or, in critical situations, transported by helicopter.

Should you be capable of speaking or have another person present who can communicate, ask to be transported to CIMA Hospital located in Escazú, San José.

It is broadly regarded as the top private hospital in Costa Rica, particularly for:

English-speaking doctors and staff
Up-to-date facilities and individual chambers
Seamless collaboration with global travel insurance partners

Pharmacies in Puerto Viejo

Several pharmacies (farmacias) in Puerto Viejo are available to assist with various minor health issues.

You have the option to enter and talk directly with the pharmacist regarding your symptoms. Many medications do not require a prior doctor’s appointment.
Drugs such as antibiotics, antinausea medications, allergy treatments, and prescription creams can usually be obtained without a prescription in this country.
The majority of pharmacies operate every day with varying hours.

Travel Tip:

Some of the pharmacy staff may not speak English, so make sure to write down your requirements or utilize a translation application.

Travel Insurance Tips

Should you require medical attention, particularly at a private clinic or hospital, you’ll probably have to cover the costs yourself initially and later send the invoice to your travel insurance provider for repayment.

For this reason, we strongly suggest obtaining travel insurance prior to your journey.

We individually utilize and endorse
Heymondo Travel Insurance
They provide excellent emergency assistance along with round-the-clock chat support and comprehensive coverage for accidents, illnesses, and theft.

Should you require care:

Keep all invoices and paperwork.
Inform your insurance provider at the earliest opportunity (as some require notification within 24–48 hours).
If feasible, reach out to them prior to undergoing non-urgent care to verify what is covered and determine the location.

Our View on the Safety of Puerto Viejo

We mostly feel secure in Puerto Viejo and have revisited this region many times without encountering any issues personally. However, to be entirely truthful, it can occasionally seem somewhat dubious, particularly when contrasted with the more refined atmosphere of tourist spots such as La Fortuna or Manuel Antonio.

For instance, something we aren’t fond of is how frequently individuals will approach you to inquire about purchasing marijuana, sometimes even during daytime hours right downtown. Although this situation typically isn’t dangerous and politely declining their offer is straightforward, it might still come across as somewhat unsettling or intrusive, particularly when children are present or if such attentions are new to you.

In the evening, some parts of town—particularly the quieter backstreets and pathways leading to the beaches—can seem somewhat unsettling. While they may not be particularly risky, the dimly lit roads and sporadic presence of people hanging around might make you feel uncomfortable.

That being said, nothing negative has ever happened to us personally in this place. The locals are typically welcoming, the atmosphere is easygoing, and we’ve enjoyed numerous pleasant and stress-free trips there.

Just as everywhere else in the world, staying vigilant about your environment, protecting your possessions, and exercising good judgment can significantly help you remain secure.

Indeed, Puerto Viejo is safe for visitors provided they remain vigilant and do not allow the laid-back ambiance to make them complacently lower their guards entirely.

If you have any questions or concerns about safety while planning your trip, feel free to drop a comment below. We’re happy to help however we can!