Safety on the Osa Peninsula is our top priority. We want you to remain safe while on vacation here. I have lived in Central America for over 20 years and have never encountered a safety issue.
Safety Tips
If you follow a few simple safety rules, your vacation on the Osa Peninsula will be wonderful. While crime exists everywhere, being prepared makes a difference.
Petty Theft
Petty theft is the most common issue on the Osa Peninsula. If you leave your belongings unattended, there is a chance they will be stolen. For example, if you are at the beach and want to go for a swim, do not leave your backpack in plain sight. If you are alone, hide it well; if a bag with no valuables is taken, it is replaceable. However, your passport, mobile phone, and bank cards are not!
The best practice is to avoid carrying items of high value. Passports, cash, mobile phones, and bank cards are what thieves look for.
Leave Valuables at Your Lodging
Wherever you are staying, leave your valuables at the front desk. Put your money in an envelope and seal it. Keep an extra bag for your passport and bank cards at the front desk for safekeeping.
If you are traveling in a group, ensure at least one person is watching everyone’s belongings at all times. Even on deserted beaches, you aren’t always alone—white-faced monkeys are known to climb down from trees and grab backpacks. They love shiny objects! Unless you want to chase a monkey through the jungle, keep an eye on your gear.
Bring Only Necessary Cash
Always bring only enough cash for the day. Make a mental list of your expected spending and carry only what you need to cover your expenses.
Dress Simply and Avoid Jewelry
The Osa Peninsula is hot and humid. The best attire is shorts, a thin top, and sandals or flip-flops. Never wear expensive-looking jewelry. You want to blend in like a local, not a tourist; there is no need to impress anyone in the jungle!
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When in a crowd, watch your surroundings. Keep a hand on your backpack straps at all times. Thieves look for easy targets, not someone who is clearly securing their bag.
Keep Money in Your Front Pocket
Keep your daily cash in your front pocket rather than a wallet. It is safer to leave your wallet at your lodging.
Make a Copy of Your Passport
Take a photo of your passport and your immigration stamp after clearing customs. Print these out at a local shop. Keep your original passport safe at your lodging; in most cases, a printed copy is sufficient for identification, even for the police.
Going Out at Night
Puerto Jimenez is generally safe at night in the downtown area and on the beach road. However, it is best to take a taxi from point A to point B. Have your lodging or the restaurant call a taxi for you when you are ready to move.
Bars at Night
If you visit a bar, do not go alone. Most bars on the Osa Peninsula play Latin music and attract a local crowd. Be polite at all times; if a situation feels uncomfortable, it is best to leave immediately.
Leave Nothing in Your Rental Car
NEVER leave anything of value in your rental car. Thieves can quickly break into vehicles, including trunks, and may even lock the car back up after stealing the contents.
Safety on the Osa Peninsula is #1
Your safety is the top priority. If you follow these simple rules, your time on the Osa Peninsula will be filled with incredible memories. Enjoy your time in the place I call home. Pura Vida!