Costa Rica in Panama

Recent changes

• 5 May 2025: Bernardina Esther Vargas García, the new Ambassador of Costa Rica, presented credentials in Panama. (source)

Frequently asked questions

How attractive is Costa Rica as a destination for visitors from Panama?

Costa Rica is an appealing destination for many Panamanian travelers due to its rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. With around 400,000 Panamanians traveling abroad each year, a portion of them may find Costa Rica particularly attractive, offering a diverse range of activities for both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation.

Please answer the following question: How safe is Costa Rica for tourists coming from Panama?

Costa Rica is generally considered safe for tourists coming from Panama. According to the Global Peace Index, Costa Rica ranks 56th out of 160 countries, making it safer than Panama, which ranks 94th. In terms of murder rates, Costa Rica has a rate of 11.4 per 100,000 people, slightly lower than Panama's rate of 12.7. When examining organized crime, Costa Rica also shows better indices in several categories. For example, Costa Rica scores 1.5 in state crime compared to Panama's 7.5, indicating a much lower level of state-related criminal activity. Although both countries face challenges with crime, Costa Rica's overall safety profile is more favorable for tourists.