What NOT to do in Costa Rica

Most travel blogs, guides, and influencers focus on the best things to do—exploring lush rainforests, relaxing on pristine beaches, and discovering vibrant local culture. But few resources highlight the critical mistakes that can lead to serious trouble. This guide is one of the first to clearly outline what not to do in Costa Rica—essential tips every visitor and expat should know to stay respectful, safe, and informed.

🚫🐶 Do Not “Rescue” Stray Dogs—You Might Be Dognapping!

One of the most misunderstood aspects of Costa Rican life involves the local dogs. Tourists from countries where stray animals are rare often assume that any roaming dog is homeless and in need of rescue. But in Costa Rica, many dogs live semi-nomadic lives—they may spend their days wandering beaches, neighborhoods, and shopping areas, but return to loving homes at night.

These dogs often belong to families or are cared for by entire communities. They may not wear collars or tags, but that doesn’t mean they’re abandoned. In fact, some dogs have multiple “homes” across a village or region, and their freedom is part of the local culture.

Here’s the problem: well-meaning visitors sometimes take these dogs to shelters or attempt to adopt them, unknowingly removing a cherished pet from its family or community. This act—though done with good intentions—can be considered dognapping and cause distress to the dog owners and even entire communities.

✅ What You Should Do If You See a Dog in Distress

• 🐾 If a dog appears injured or sick, take it to a local veterinarian.
• 🏠 If the dog is severely malnourished or clearly abandoned, contact a reputable animal shelter.
• 🚫 Avoid picking up healthy roaming dogs unless you’ve confirmed they are truly homeless.

🚫🍬Do Not Feed Hummingbirds in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a haven for hummingbirds, with dozens of native species flitting through its lush rainforests & gardens. It’s no surprise that many expat residents as well as hotels, restaurants, and eco-lodges install hummingbird feeders to attract these dazzling birds—especially in tourist-heavy areas. But while feeders may seem charming and harmless, they actually pose serious risks to both hummingbirds and the local ecosystem.

1. Nutritional Deficiency from Sugar Water

Most hummingbird feeders use a sugar-water solution that lacks the essential amino acids, proteins, and micronutrients hummingbirds need for proper health and development. These empty calories are the avian equivalent of junk food—delightful but damaging. Feeding hummingbirds this artificial nectar can lead to malnutrition and long-term health issues

2. Disruption of Natural Pollination Patterns

Hummingbirds are vital pollinators for Costa Rica’s native trees, shrubs, orchids, and flowering plants. When birds become dependent on feeders, they abandon their natural foraging routes, leaving local flora under-pollinated. This shift can hinder plant reproduction and reduce biodiversity. Feeders also attract bees and other nectar-feeding insects, creating competition and further ecological imbalance.

✅ A Better Way to Support Hummingbirds in Costa Rica

Instead of placing hummingbirds on a sugar diet, consider planting a garden filled with native, nectar-rich plants. This eco-friendly approach supports both the birds and the environment.

• 🌺 Choose Hummingbird-Friendly Flowers: Heliconia, verbena, hibiscus, and native orchids are excellent choices.
• 🐦 Create a Natural Habitat: Provide shelter, water sources, and pesticide-free zones to encourage healthy bird populations.
• 🌿 Promote Sustainable Birdwatching: Educate others about the impact of feeders and encourage responsible wildlife interaction.

By planting native species and avoiding artificial feeders, you help preserve Costa Rica’s delicate ecosystems and ensure that hummingbirds continue to thrive in their natural habitat.

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🚫🌦️Do Not Fear Costa Rica’s Wet Season: the “Green Season” Is a Hidden Gem for Travelers

When people hear “tropical wet season,” they often imagine endless rain, thunderous storms, and gloomy skies. But in Costa Rica, the reality is far more inviting. The wet season—also known as the green season—offers a unique and rewarding travel experience that many tourists overlook.

🌩️😎What the Wet Season in Costa Rica Really Looks Like

Contrary to popular belief, Costa Rica’s rainy season doesn’t mean constant downpours. A typical day during the green season often begins with light cloud cover, followed by sunny or partly sunny afternoons, and ends with a short, refreshing rain shower in the evening. In fact, many days remain completely dry, especially in certain microclimates across the country.

While occasional tropical waves or depressions may bring heavier rain for a few days, these are the exception—not the rule.

🌿 Why the Green Season Is a Great Time to Visit Costa Rica

Traveling during the wet season comes with several advantages:

• Lower Prices: Enjoy significant discounts on accommodations, tours, and attractions compared to the high season.
• Fewer Crowds: Popular destinations are quieter, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience.
• Lush Landscapes: Rain nourishes the jungles, making flora and fauna more vibrant than ever.
• Cooler Temperatures: Cloud cover and evening showers help moderate the heat, creating more comfortable days for exploring.

🧭 Tips for Traveling During Costa Rica’s Rainy Season

• Research Regional Weather: Costa Rica has multiple climate zones, so rainy patterns vary by region.
• Check Seasonal Closures: Some shops and businesses may close temporarily during the green season.
• Pack Smart: Lightweight rain gear and quick-dry clothing will keep you comfortable and prepared.

🌧️ Wet Season ≠ Constant Rain

The term “wet season” simply means it’s the time of year when rain is possible—not guaranteed. It’s not the endless jungle deluge many imagine. With the right mindset and a little planning, you can enjoy Costa Rica’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and tranquil pace without the high-season crowds.

🚫 Do not Approach Wildlife in Costa Rica

Social media is filled with videos of tourists getting too close to native animals, often in pursuit of likes or viral fame. While some encounters end with nothing more than a startled animal and a misguided influencer, others result in serious injuries. Even seemingly gentle creatures like sloths can deliver painful bites or scratches when stressed or provoked.

More importantly, these interactions can cause long-term harm to the animals:

• Stress and Injury: Human contact can traumatize wildlife, leading to physical harm or behavioral changes.
• Habitat Disruption: Animals may become dependent on human food or lose their natural foraging instincts.
• Separation from Ecosystems: Interference can isolate animals from their habitats, affecting their survival and reproduction

⚖️ Costa Rica’s Wildlife Protection Law: Know Before You Interact

In 2017, Costa Rica enacted the Wildlife Conservation Law N° 7317, often referred to as the “animal selfie law.” This legislation strictly prohibits:

• Handling or touching wild animals—even in rescue centers
• Taking commercial selfies or promotional photos with wildlife
• Removing natural objects like shells, corals, or rocks from beaches and protected areas

Violations can result in hefty fines, sometimes exceeding tens of thousands of dollars, and even prison sentences. The law is designed to protect Costa Rica’s fragile ecosystems and ensure ethical tourism practices.

✅ How to Respect Wildlife While Traveling in Costa Rica

• 📸 Observe from a Distance: Use zoom lenses or binoculars to enjoy wildlife without disturbing it.
• 🐾 Support Ethical Tours: Choose certified eco-tours that follow responsible wildlife viewing guidelines.
• 🌿 Leave No Trace: Avoid collecting natural souvenirs and respect protected areas.

🚫🏊🏼‍♀️🐊 Do Not Swim at Night

Costa Rican waters are warm, safe and inviting – but like every other tropical or subtropical nation in the Americas, they can harbor the American Crocodile, a reptile adapted to live in both fresh and salt water.

Common in all of Central America & Caribbean, this animal is everywhere. While the crocs prefer coastal areas they are also found in river systems – but tend to prefer salinity, resulting in the species congregating in brackish lakes, mangrove swamps, lagoons, cays, beaches, and small islands.

The American Croc is not an aggressive reptile – it tends to mind its own business and make a hasty exit at any sign of trouble. Most people who experience an unpleasant encounter with these animals make the mistake of swimming at night, when the visibility is greatly reduced and the crocs are out hunting. For this reason, and many others, it is best to avoid getting into the water during dusk, dawn and night. For more crocodile safety tips and information, see our comprehensive article.

🚫💵⌚ Do Not Get Careless About Your Belongings

This advice is as applicable in Cancun, Hawaii, New York, Paris or Bali as it is in Costa Rica. Thieves of opportunity can be found in every corner of the world. A suitcase left in a parked car, a handbag carelessly slung over a chair, a wallet or camera sitting on the corner of a restaurant table, a mobile phone hidden under the beach towel – these are invitations for your belonging to be taken – stealthily, quickly, confidently – leaving you wondering what happened. And the odds of getting your things back are next to ZERO.

And be on guard against pickpockets – they can empty your pockets, handbags, or backpacks in a flash. Zipper or button pockets can help but nothing is foolproof. And if you must put valuables in your pockets, use your front pockets only and keep your hands over them. Avoid using backpacks, especially in crowded places. If you must use a backpack, carry it in front and look for antitheft models.

Lock your passport (make a photocopy to show to police if asked), jewelry, extra credit cards, and other valuables in the accommodation safe. The best idea is to leave the expensive things at home and enjoy a low-down jungle experience without the bling, fancy electronics or designer handbags.

🚫⌚ Do Not Underestimate Travel Times in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and diverse terrain make road trips an unforgettable experience—but they also come with unexpected delays. While the country boasts modern four-lane highways that wind through mountain ridges and cross dramatic suspension bridges, many routes are far less forgiving.

🚗 Road Conditions Vary Widely Across Costa Rica

Beyond the main highways, travelers often encounter National and Secondary Routes that are narrow, poorly maintained, and riddled with potholes. One-way bridges, steep inclines, and cliffside roads without guardrails are common—especially in rural and backcountry areas.

During the rainy season, road closures due to flooding, landslides, or fallen trees are frequent. In the dry season, road construction ramps up, leading to long traffic delays and detours. Add to that slow-moving trucks on hilly terrain with no passing zones, and your estimated travel time can quickly double.

⏱️ Why You Must Plan Extra Time for Driving in Costa Rica

• Unpredictable Delays: Weather, construction, and terrain can all affect your route.
• Limited Infrastructure: Remote areas may lack signage, lighting, or alternate routes.
• Safety Concerns: Sharp turns, blind corners, and unpaved roads require cautious driving.

✅ Smart Travel Tips for Navigating Costa Rica’s Roads

• 🗺️ Use Reliable GPS Apps: Choose apps that account for real-time traffic and road closures.
• 🕒 Add Buffer Time: Always plan for extra hours, especially when traveling between regions.
• 🚙 Rent a Suitable Vehicle: A 4×4 is recommended for mountainous or rural areas.
• 🌧️ Check Weather Forecasts: Avoid travel during heavy rain or tropical storms.
• 🛑 Respect Local Driving Norms: Be patient, cautious, and alert—especially on unfamiliar roads.

As an example, google will tell you that the drive from San Jose Airport to Uvita (212km) takes 3 hours. From experience, I can say you are lucky to do the drive in 4 hours, and 5-6 hour trips are not at all uncommon. One landslip, accident, construction zone, police checkpoint, bike race, etc. can turn a ‘3 hour drive’ into a half-day expedition. And at the writing of this article, the Costanera’s Tárcoles crocodile bridge is being upgraded and multi-hour delays are being reported on that short length of road.

🚫💳 Do Not Rely Solely on Credit Cards in Costa Rica

Costa Rica may seem like a card-friendly destination at first glance. Many hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit and debit cards with ease. But don’t be fooled—sooner or later, you’ll encounter a “no tarjeta” (no card) policy, and if you’re not carrying cash, you could be left stranded.

⚠️ The Reality of Card Payments in Costa Rica

Even well-established businesses can experience power outages or internet connectivity issues, forcing them to revert to cash-only transactions—sometimes for hours. Waiting for the system to come back online might be an option, but there’s rarely a clear timeline. You could be stuck for 10 minutes… or three hours.

And while ATMs are available in most towns, they’re not always nearby—and international withdrawal fees can be steep, often ranging from $15 to $20 USD per transaction.

💡 Why Carrying Cash Is Crucial in Costa Rica

• Not All Businesses Accept Cards: Especially in rural areas, local markets, and small eateries.
• USD Isn’t Always Accepted: Some places only take Costa Rican Colones, and those that accept USD may offer poor exchange rates.
• Avoid Unexpected Delays: Having cash on hand ensures smooth transactions even during outages or emergencies.

✅ Smart Payment Tips for Costa Rica Travelers

• 💵 Always Carry Local Currency: Keep a mix of small and large denominations of Colones.
• 🏧 Use ATMs Strategically: Withdraw larger amounts at once to minimize fees.
• 🧾 Ask About Payment Options in Advance: Especially before dining or booking activities.
• 💳 Use Cards Where Reliable: Reserve them for hotels, major retailers, and online bookings.

🚫💉🚨 DO NOT PLAY WITH DRUGS

Penalties for illegal drug possession, sales or trafficking are very severe here. And the local jails & prisons are not said to be very fun. Drug laws have been changing rapidly in Costa Rica so before you travel, make sure you are 100% sure that the medical CBD oil packed in your checked luggage will not land you in jail. You may have a Doctor’s prescription from back home, but this will mean very little in another nation. And that little handful you just bough from the dude at the beach may be your one way ticket to a lifetime of regret.

If you are thinking of bringing, using, or selling illegal drugs in Costa Rica you deserve what is coming to you. Remember that your home country will do very little to help you if you clearly break foreign laws. Leave all of that at home and enjoy PURA VIDA without the need to amplify the experience by using illicit substances.

🎓 HONORABLE MENTIONS

🍺 Don’t Overindulge or Act Disruptively

While party destinations like Cancun or Ibiza may embrace wild nightlife, Costa Rica is a family-oriented and religious society. Excessive drinking, loud behavior, or public disturbances are frowned upon and can quickly turn locals against you. Respect the peaceful atmosphere and avoid becoming a nuisance in public spaces.

🚩 Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English

Although English is spoken in some tourist areas, Spanish is the dominant language across Costa Rica. Learning even basic conversational Spanish—greetings, directions, and polite phrases—can greatly enhance your experience and help you connect with locals. It shows respect and opens doors to more authentic interactions.

⏳ Don’t Stress Over Delays or Schedule Changes

Costa Rica operates on a relaxed, flexible schedule. It’s common for buses to run late, tours to start behind schedule, or restaurants to open outside their posted hours. The “Tico time” mindset values patience and calm over rigid punctuality. Embrace the slower pace—it’s part of what makes Costa Rica so appealing to visitors and expats alike.