Is the Osa Peninsula Safe? I Was There and I Can Tell You

With its lush rainforests and rich biodiversity, the Osa Peninsula is one of Costa Rica’s most captivating destinations. While it offers an unparalleled natural experience, many travelers wonder about its safety. From our visit to the Osa Peninsula, I can assure you that it is generally safe, but you should take a few precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Firstly, the biggest dangers in Osa are not from crime but from nature itself. Carry bug repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a mosquito net to protect yourself from insects and the tropical sun. While petty crimes like theft do occur, especially near beaches and waterfalls, staying aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings can help prevent these incidents.

What struck me most about the Osa Peninsula was its remoteness. Unlike the more populated areas of Costa Rica, Osa feels wild and untouched, with fewer people and vast stretches of virgin rainforest. This seclusion adds to its charm but also means it’s easy to get lost. Always hike with a guide who knows the area well to avoid potential hazards.

In this article, I will share key takeaways about the safety of the Osa Peninsula, including insights into its towns, wildlife dangers, and tips for staying safe. Whether you’re exploring Puerto Jimenez, hiking through Corcovado National Park, or enjoying the serene beaches, following these guidelines will help you have a safe and memorable adventure in one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful regions.

Key Takeaways From This Article

One rule a guide gave me when visiting the Osa Peninsula was not to touch everything. Most things in Costa Rica bite. You might not get mugged, but be cautious about the things that bite. Here are my key takeaways on whether the Osa Peninsula is safe. 

  • The Osa Peninsula has several towns, but they are not as big and developed as the ones on the northern side of Costa Rica. 
  • Puerto Jimenez, the largest town in Osa, might have a few cases of petty crimes due to increased tourists. 
  • Apart from theft, other dangers include poisonous snakes and trees. I recommend always hiking with a guide who knows the area well. 
  • Dial 911 in case of any emergency. In every town, there are local clinics or pharmacies for medical emergencies. 

Are Osa Peninsula Towns Safe?

Is the Osa Peninsula Safe

Most towns in the Osa Peninsula are generally safe. However, I still recommend taking the necessary precautions as you would in your local town. The towns don’t have as many tourists as the other regions in Costa Rica. Hence the reduced crime rate. 

Puerto Jimenez

Puerto Jimenez is the largest town in the Osa Peninsula. Its airstrip accommodates domestic flights, and the town serves as a base for travelers exploring the Osa Peninsula. The town borders Corcovado National Park and Golfo Dulce.

The San Jose to Puerto Jimenez roads are safe if you plan to drive and not fly. However, I recommend a four-wheel drive. Puerto Jimenez has a laid-back, small, but welcoming community. I consider Purto Jimenez safe and family-friendly. 

However, remember that Osa’s largest town is more prone to crime. Hence, you should take precautions and avoid getting drunk around people you don’t know. 

Drake Bay

Bahi Drake( Drake Bay) is a safe area. However, I recommend you follow the safety tips mentioned in this article. Its principal town is Agujitas, which has a small population. The Bay is in the northern part of the Osa Peninsula. You can get to Drake Bay by car, bus, boat or flight.

It’s a small community where everyone knows everyone. Drake Bay is a major Cano Islands and Corcovado National Park entry point. There is nothing much to write about the Bay’s nightlife. 

However, you must be careful about the rip currents commonly occurring in this part of the ocean. Bug spray is also essential to prevent painful insect bites when hiking in the forests. You won’t have to worry about getting lost in the park as entering with a guide is now compulsory. However, ensure you stay on the trails when exploring in the forest. 

Sierpe

The port town sits at the mouth of Rio Sierpe and is the doorway to Térraba-Sierpe National Wetlands and some of the largest mangroves. It’s 280km from San Jose. I recommend taking a flight to Palma Sur and a boat taxi to Sierpe. 

Sierpe is a generally safe town, but you must take precautions. It’s a rural area, so don’t expect streetlights within the town. The locals are also friendly, but that does not mean you can walk alone at night. 

If you have a rental car, I recommend you leave it in a safe parking area at night. Most of the places near Sierpe only have boat access. The best places to leave your car are at the Las Vegas and Don Jorge restaurant car parks. 

Cabo Matapalo

Known as a surfing town, Matapalo is on the southern tip of the Osa Peninsula. It is 40 minutes from Puerto Jimenez and 6-8 hours drive from San Jose. There is little to resemble a town center. 

A few homes, eco-lodges, and small hotels scattered around the town. The area is off-grid, and there are no street lights. The town is safe, and night hikes are popular. However, do them as a group and use a flashlight to avoid stepping on anything dangerous. 

The only unsafe places at Capo Matapalo are the deserted beaches at night. If you are not experienced, I recommend asking locals for the most beginner-friendly surf point. The waves in the various surf spots can be challenging for a beginner. 

Uvita 

The crime rates in Uvita are low. However, you should take precautions, considering the town is growing, and with that comes an increase in crime. Petty theft crimes are on the rise, especially around waterfalls and beaches, mainly because these areas are where you’re likely to leave things unattended to swim. 

Uvita town is in southern Puntarenas province. It is the entry point for Marino Ballena National Park. Fortunately, the local business community in Uvita has come up with ways to provide ATVs so the guards can patrol the beach better. 

Uvita is generally a safe town but only walk at night if you’re in a group. Don’t leave your items unattended at the beach. 

When exploring the more remote parts of Uvita, I recommend you be careful of the stray dogs. Carry a stick or a few rocks when hiking La Union. Ensure to swim in designated areas. Heed warnings or recommendations of lifeguards when in swimming areas.  

Golfito

It’s a port city on the Gulfo Dulce close to Panama. Golfito is a small town and generally safe. However, I recommend you take the necessary precautions, such as not driving or walking at night. Do not wear flashy jewellery or clothes, nor leave your items unattended at the beach. 

Taking a taxi is safe in Golfito. Official taxis are dark red and safe. You might have to do a lot of sightseeing alone, as there are no guided tours in this part of Costa Rica. Fortunately, the local community is welcoming and willing to show you around. 

Wildlife  Dangers

It’s essential to take care when traveling to the Osa Peninsula. While wildlife watching is a significant tourist attraction, injuries occur if you are not careful. Some snake species, mainly in forest coverings, are venomous. Three species that you need to be cautious of consist. 

  • Terciopela: Also known as the Fer-de Lance or Bothrops Asper. It is the most dangerous snake and is highly feared by the locals in Costa Rica. Terciopela has a high reproduction rate and is the leading cause of life-threatening snake bites. It’s a large snake with olive green, brown, or dark gray base color. 
  • Hog-nosed Pit Viper is a small, turned-up snout similar to the one of a pig. The viper mainly hides in marshy areas and tropical forests. It does bear a resemblance to the eyelash viper. 
  • Allen’s Coral snake: Mainly found at night in mushy jungles. They have white or yellow rings around the inner black ring. 
  • Eyelash Palm Pit Viper has crests above the eye with striking color variations. The modified eye scales, which resemble eyelashes, are the source of the name. Its head is triangular-shaped, and its eyes have vertical pupils. 

If you walk around at night in unlit areas, I recommend carrying a flashlight whose beam should also flash in front of you. Be careful of what you touch, especially anything lurking in the vegetation. Poisonous snakes can also be tiny and camouflage very well. Wear closed shoes when hiking to prevent bites. 

The Bolivian Wandering Spider is one insect that you should be wary of. 

Some trees are also poisonous, so you should learn how to identify them. The manchineel tree is one of them; all its parts are toxic. It produces a thick, milky sap from every part. Most places have warning signs, a red cross, or a paint ring. That’s why I recommend having a local guide when venturing into forests. 

How To Get Help In Osa Peninsula

How to get to osa peninsula

There is a basic clinic with an ambulance on call and a 24-hour doctor at Puerto Jimenez. You can request for an air ambulance to San Jose, which should only take 45 minutes. There are also a few private hospitals and pharmacies in Puerto Jimenez. 

In any emergency situation, dial 911, which is the national emergency system and is available 24/7. Alternatively, contact the Red Cross by dialing 128 to get an ambulance. Dial 2222-9245 for the transit police on the National Highway and 2786-7824 for the transit police at Palmar Norte

Tips On How To Stay Safe At Osa Peninsula

Osa Peninsula is relatively safe, considering it is not as crowded as other regions in Costa Rica. However, following the tips I have highlighted below is essential to staying secure. 

  • Wearing flashy clothes or jewelry might make you a target by criminals mistaking you for a wealthy tourist. 
  • Ensure your pockets don’t expose your documents or wallet to protect them from pickpocketers. 
  • Leave your valuables in a safety deposit box at the hotel. You should get a portable one if the hotel doesn’t provide one. 
  • Avoid traveling at night. Apart from criminals lurking around, there are no street lights, and most of the region has dirt roads that flood. When renting a car, I recommend four-wheel drive and avoiding nighttime traveling. 
  • Do not allow your kids to swim alone in the ocean. Avoid swimming and leaving your items unguarded. 

Now that your safety in Osa Peninsula is guaranteed, you should also check out our comprehensive Osa Peninsula Full Travel Guide,if you’re looking to travel to Osa Peninsula soon.

Conclusion

Apart from a few mosquito bites, the Osa Peninsula is generally a safe region. However, just like any other area, you must take several precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Due to the long distance from San Jose, I recommend taking domestic flights if you are traveling with kids. 

Did you encounter any problems during your visit to Osa Peninsula? Please share your experience. 

Rate this post
View Our Global Travel Guides of First Hand Experiences

About 

Born in California, Michelle traveled extensively through the USA and Europe before moving to South Florida during the pandemic. Her career in Marketing has taken her all across the world. Her favorite country is France but she'll never turn down a beach vacation! Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.

Leave a Comment