Caution Advised Near Costa Rica's Airport

As Spring Break 2025 approaches, many travelers plan to visit the Republic of Costa Rica's warm waters and flush mountains. However, a new alert indicates that driving near the local airport should be done cautiously. 

The U.S. Embassy in San Jose today announced it has received reports regarding incidents near the Juan Santamaría International Airport.

As of February 5, 2025, the Embassy recommends that all travelers use caution when frequenting this area or routes from the airport and consider using alternate routes. If confronted, do not stop; continue progressing forward and contact 911 when it is safe. The Embassy also suggests that visitors enroll in NEWSMART to make contacting them during emergencies easier and send them safety and security alerts.

Previously, the U.S. Department of State upgraded its Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, Travel Advisory for Costa Rica, due to local crime.

From a health perspective, Costa Rica reported over 31,000 dengue cases, 232 malaria patients, 40 chikungunya, and 26 Zika cases in 2024.

The U.S. CDC suggests that future visitors to Costa Rica speak with a travel vaccine expert about one month before departure in 2025.