How Does Emergency Numbers Work in Costa Rica?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
Dial 911 for all emergencies; tourists can also call 1800-TURISMO (1800-887476) for dedicated tourist assistance.
2What You Need to Know
Costa Rica uses 911 as its single unified emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance — the same as the United States and Canada, making it easy for North American visitors to remember. The dedicated tourist assistance line 1800-TURISMO (1800-887476) connects callers with Spanish and English-speaking operators who can assist with crime reporting, lost documents, and tourist-specific situations. The Red Cross (Cruz Roja) operates ambulance services at 128. Coast guard and maritime emergencies are handled through 1800-800-8000.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Save 911 and 1800-887476 in your phone before you leave for the day.
- 2The 1800-TURISMO line has English-speaking staff and is specifically trained for tourist problems.
- 3For non-emergency police matters, look for the OIJ (judicial police) or local Fuerza Pública station.
How does this compare?
Emergency Numbers rules in nearby and similar countries:
Call 911 for all emergencies nationwide; dial 078 for the tourist assistance hotline.
Police (Polícia Militar): 190; ambulance (SAMU): 192; fire brigade (Bombeiros): 193; Federal Police: 197.
Call 911 for all emergencies — police, fire, and ambulance — anywhere in Canada.
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More About Costa Rica
A 10% service charge (ley de propina) is legally included in all restaurant bills, so no additional tip is required.
Updated 2025-06
Costa Rica has no national rail system; intercity buses are the cheapest option, while shared tourist shuttles and domestic flights connect remote destinations.
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Costa Rica has good private hospitals in San José, but travel insurance is essential as private care is expensive and public hospitals are slow for non-emergencies.
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Costa Rica is generally law-relaxed with a 'pura vida' attitude, but wildlife protection, environmental laws, and anti-drug laws are strictly enforced.
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Costa Rica is extremely casual with no strict dress requirements — light clothing is ideal for the coast and layers are needed for cooler highland areas.
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The legal drinking age is 18, alcohol is widely available, and drinking on most beaches is legal, but drunk driving is strictly enforced.
Updated 2025-06
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