Wash your hands before eating, Take sensible precautions with where you eat while travelling around the country. Chose places with a high turnover so the food will be fresh, avoid eating uncooked vegetables and unpasteurized milk and dairy products such as cheese and yogurt.

While Costa Rica is generally safe, there are specific food and water precautions you should take to avoid "Turista" or stomach upset. Tap water is generally safe in the Central Valley (San José) and popular mountain areas like Monteverde, but it is highly recommended to stick to bottled or filtered water in coastal and rural regions like Guanacaste, the Osa Peninsula, and Tortuguero, where the mineral content is different or the treatment is less rigorous. Avoid drinking "frescos" (fruit juices) made with tap water in these remote areas. Regarding food, exercise caution with street-side ceviche if it hasn't been properly refrigerated, as the lime juice alone does not "cook" away all bacteria. While tropical fruits are a highlight, ensure they are washed with clean water or peeled yourself. Lastly, be wary of tainted alcohol; only purchase liquor from reputable stores and avoid extremely "cheap" unbranded spirits, as there have been occasional historic reports of methanol poisoning in non-commercial "moonshine" batches.

When visiting Costa Rica, it’s generally safe to eat and drink most things, but there are a few precautions to take to avoid stomach issues or health risks. Here’s what to avoid or be cautious with:

Foods to Avoid:

1. Tap Water (in some areas) – While tap water is safe in most urban areas (like San José), rural or remote regions may have contaminated water. Stick to bottled or filtered water when unsure.
2. Unpeeled Raw Fruits & Vegetables – If you didn’t wash or peel them yourself (e.g., from street vendors), they may carry bacteria. Opt for cooked or peeled fruits (like bananas, oranges).
3. Undercooked Meat & Seafood – Avoid rare meats, raw fish (ceviche from questionable sources), or undercooked shellfish, which may cause foodborne illnesses.
4. Street Food (if unsure of hygiene) – While some street food is delicious (like empanadas or fresh fruit), check if the vendor follows proper hygiene (clean hands, covered food).
5. Unpasteurized Dairy – Stick to pasteurized milk and cheeses to avoid stomach issues.
6. Pre-cut or Pre-washed Foods – Salads or pre-cut fruits from markets may have been rinsed in unsafe water.

Drinks to Avoid:

1. Unpurified Ice – In rural areas, ice may be made from tap water. Ask for drinks sin hielo (without ice) if unsure.
2. Unsealed Bottled Water – Ensure water bottles are properly sealed to avoid refilled tap water scams.
3. Homemade or Unregulated Alcohol – Avoid guaro (local sugarcane liquor) from unlicensed sellers, as it may be contaminated.
4. Fountain Drinks (in remote areas) – Sodas from fountains may use tap water.

General Tips:

• Eat at reputable places – Busy restaurants with high turnover are safer.
• Wash hands frequently – Especially before eating.
• Stick to hot, cooked foods – Less risk of contamination.

Costa Rican cuisine is delicious and generally safe if you take basic precautions. Enjoy gallo pinto, casados, and fresh tropical fruits—just be mindful of preparation!

Would you like recommendations on must-try foods? ?