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Most of the country’s crimes are committed in the capital of San Jose. Even so, when compared to other major cities around the world – Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York or Paris – San Jose’s streets are quite safe. In fact, the Costa Rican government created a special Tourist Police in 2007 to protect the country's visitors, which contributed significantly to a 36% drop in crime that year.It still pays to be safe in San Jose. Most of the crimes committed are non-violent, such as pickpocketing, jewelry and purse snatching, and video camera grab-and-run jobs. Unfortunately, violent crimes like mugging, kidnapping and carjacking have increased slightly in recent years.
The best precautions when visiting San Jose are to exhibit a healthy dose of common sense, and to realize that you're in an unfamiliar city. Always ask your hotel and other travelers before walking downtown, take an official taxi if you're unsure of the neighborhood, and never walk alone at night. Leave expensive and flashy jewelry in your hotel lockbox, and always hold your purse, briefcase or backpack in front of you. Keep an eye on your surroundings.
Additional caution should be taken at bus terminals, especially when headed to the beaches or more remote areas of the country. For instance, La Coca Cola – the bus station to Guanacaste and Puntarenas beaches – is notorious for stolen luggage. Thus, travelers are advised never to leave bags unattended.
The financial district, the area between Calle 8 and Calle 13 and the streets surrounding the Banco Central, Plaza de la Cultura, Parque Central, Barrio Amon and Parque Morazan are also higher crime areas. You should be careful during the daytime and avoid these places altogether between 10pm and 6am.
If you are a victim of theft or crime, file a report in person with the Organismo de Investigacion Judicial, located in the Supreme Court building. Offices are open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Watch Out For:
San Jose thieves are cunning, so keep your eyes open for these tricks:
Street Swipe: As you get out of your car or taxi, a motorcycle, bicycle or car rolls up beside you, quickly snatches your purse or wallet, and drives off. Avoid this by getting out of cars on the sidewalk, and always hold your belongings close.
Lonely Pedestrian: You're walking alone in a quiet downtown area, and see one or two individuals coming toward you – though unlikely, they could be muggers. Avoid this situation by heading toward the nearest populated area, or ducking into a nearby store.
Unofficial Taxis: It's raining and you jump into the first taxi that stops. Before you know it, the taxi driver has demanded your money and left you in unfamiliar territory. Avoid this ploy by only taking official taxis – they are easily identified by candy-apple red paint and yellow triangles painted on the door.
Millionaire ATM: A car stops beside you, and the passenger demands at gunpoint that you enter the vehicle. They drive you around to several ATMs until you have emptied your account. Avoid this situation by never walking alone and never walking in unsafe areas (consult your hotel). Also, call your bank ahead of time, and place a maximum daily withdrawal on your credit and debit accounts.
Always remember that your health and safety are worth more than any belonging.
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