I get asked quite often which country do I prefer the most. “Mexico vs Costa Rica along with how safe is Costa Rica or Mexico for your next vacation.
If you have decided to travel to Central America for your next vacation, but can’t decide if you should explore Mexico or Costa Rica I am here to provide you with the pros and cons of visiting each country along with which country is my favorite and why.
Are you wondering is it safe to travel to Mexico right now or is Costa Rica safe?
Both Mexico and Costa Rica have a lot to offer in terms of authentic cuisine, attractions, beaches, and a ton of upscale boutique hotels.
Mexico is a hop, skip, and jump from any major U.S. city with more than 30 million Americans visiting Mexico last year.
Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, rowdy spring breakers, luxury resorts, a fluctuating currency, and even the long-running drug war with the cartel.
Costa Rica, on the other hand, is a bit farther away from the United States but all the major airlines offer low-cost flights to Costa Rica.
Costa Rica might be smaller than Mexico, but Costa Rica is just as diverse and includes gorgeous beaches, volcanos, rain forests, jungles, bird watching, insects, plants, and animals not seen anywhere else in the world.
While the Mexican resort towns of Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and Tulum are filled with Spring Breakers, Costa Rica on the other hand offers a more relaxed, family-friendly environment and is great for couples and solo travel.
When deciding whether to visit Costa Rica or Mexico you first have to decide what it is you love to do, who you are traveling with, and do you want a party scene or more of an adult and laid-back atmosphere.
Mexico vs Costa Rica – (Costa Rica)
Costa Rica ranges from tiny surf towns on the Pacific to the busy capital of San Jose while Mexico is the party capital of Latin America.
I prefer Costa Rica over Mexico because the water is safe to drink, and the country has some of the best healthcare facilities in the world so I don’t worry about what will happen if I get sick while traveling.
Costa Rica is famously located in the “blue zone” where people live longer and they are healthier than most people anywhere else in the world.
I love Mexico and I travel there annually because there is so much natural beauty. If you prefer to layout on the beach, hike a waterfall, or kayak down a river you will find yourself surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
For me, it really comes down to my mood and what I am looking to get out of my vacation when deciding whether I am traveling to Costa Rica or Mexico.
When considering which country is the best fit for your next vacation consider the cost of flights hotels and the language barrier.
Let’s take a look at the two countries and compare Mexico vs Costa Rica to see what each country has to offer.
Why Vacation In Costa Rica
Costa Rica is known as the “happiest country on earth”. Costa Ricans live a peaceful and nearly conflict-free lifestyle embodied in the local phrase “Pura Vida!” meaning Pure Life!
Costa Rica also has one great advantage that you just can’t find in Mexico – world-class surfing!
The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is home to some of the best surf sites in the world with huge swells and long breaks that are ideal for surfers of all abilities and experience levels.
When To Go To Costa Rica
The green season months are typically better for surfing but be prepared for rain, mosquitos, and muddy roads.
The dry season months are prime beach weather, but also be prepared to spend an arm and a leg on hotel accommodations.
For experienced surfers, there are definitely world-class waves to be had at several different breaks in the area during the swell season, which is May through December.
Where To Stay in Costa Rica
Travelers can find luxury boutique hotels ranging from $200 a night up to $600 a night. If you are planning to travel during the peak season – December through April – make sure to book your accommodations early.
A few places worth checking out for your next trip to Costa Rica are the following: Latitude 10 Beachfront Resort, Selva Resort, Otro Lado Lodge, and Florblanca Resort.
What Do To In Costa Rica
- Go surfing
- Do yoga
- Hike to the waterfall
- Explore a nature reserve
Best Beaches in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has made a name for itself as the adventure capital of Central America thanks to its rainforest hikes, volcanoes, zip-lining, and ATV-ing but let’s not forget about the stunning beaches in Costa Rica.
I’ve rounded up seven of Costa Rica’s best beaches. With sun-kissed sands and turquoise waves, these not-to-be-missed beaches effortlessly embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle.
- Playa Conchal
- Playa Manzanillo
- Nosara
- Playa Montezuma
- Costa Ballena
- Tamarindo
- Manuel Antonio
Is Costa Rica Safe?
Costa Rica does have some crime but it is very minimal, unlike Mexico which is known for its crime even if it is unwarranted and over-exaggerated by the U.S. Media.
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America whether you are traveling solo, with your kids, girlfriends or your significant other – it’s one of the safest Central American destinations you can explore.
Travel Advisory
November 30, 2021
Costa Rica – Level 3: Reconsider Travel
Reconsider travel to Costa Rica due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to crime.
Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3Travel Health Notice for Costa Rica due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country.
Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine. Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC’s specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.
Visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Costa Rica.
Country Summary: While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica.
The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources in areas frequented by tourists.
If you decide to travel to Costa Rica:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for Costa Rica.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Travel Advisory Levels
Assistance for U.S. Citizens
Pavas
San José, Costa Rica
Costa Rica or Mexico – (Mexico)
Mexico is the third-largest country in Latin America behind Brazil and Argentina and has a population of 106 million people so you must be asking yourself is it safe to travel to Mexico right now.
The people of Mexico are warm and friendly, and I have always felt welcomed there while vacationing. Mexico is a country rich in cultural history, ancient traditions, and customs as they are of progressing in the world.
The legacy of the Olmecs, Maya, and Aztecs can be seen in over 60 surviving languages spoken today. Furthermore, the architecture and art found in most major cities will help you to see Mexico in a whole new light.
While Mexico is a great country, it comes with major issues including feuding drug cartels, rising crime rates, and growing unemployment.
I am not sure if the crime rates are overblown by the U.S. government because I have not once encountered any kind of crime while exploring Mexico.
Each region in Mexico has its own distinct flavors and techniques that make its cuisine one of the most varied in the world.
Mexican cuisine is distinctive and one of a kind and in fact, it’s so delicious that it is the first cuisine to receive World Heritage status from UNESCO.
Why Vacation in Mexico
Mexico is one of the top 5 most biologically diverse countries in the world, boasting around 1,500 mammals, amphibian and reptile species, 1,000 bird species, and 30,000 different plant species.
You will also find whale sharks, grey whales, and monarch butterflies all of who end their yearly journey in Mexico.
If you decide to vacation in Mexico there will be plenty of opportunities to see some of the most beautiful animals including whale watching and swimming with dolphins.
When To Go To Mexico
The best time to visit Mexico is from December to April during the peak season. Even though the crowds are heavier, you’ll experience near-perfect weather and find some of the cheapest flight and room rates for a winter getaway at the beach.
Just try to avoid traveling from mid-March to early April – that’s when spring breakers descend on the Yucatán’s shores.
There are also significant discounts in late spring, summer, and fall, but Mexico summers are sweltering and the fall months are prone to storms so you really need to take weather into consideration when planning your vacation to Mexico.
Where To Stay in Mexico
Some of Mexico’s beach destinations have gained popularity once college students begin to descend upon the resort towns for spring annually.
These popular vacation spots in Mexico offer powdery sand and crystalline water along with an abundance of tourist amenities and attractions.
A few places worth checking out for your next trip to Mexico are the following: Rosewood Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, and Secrets Vallarta Bay, Puerto Vallarta
What Do To In Mexico
- Scuba diving
- Snorkeling
- Jet skiing
- Kayaking
- Hiking
- Cooking Classes
Best Beaches in Mexico
With its 6,000 miles of coastline, Mexico is one of the most popular beach destinations for both families and couples alike.
If you look beyond Cabo and Cancún, there are tons of less crowded and beautiful stretches of beaches that have not been spoiled by spring breakers.
Here, are my seven favorite beaches south of the border.
- Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo
- Playa San Agustin, Oaxaca
- Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco
- La Paz, Baja California Sur
- Troncones, Guerrero
- Playa de Akumal, Quintana Roo
- Xcalak, Costa Maya
Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico Right Now?
When my readers ask me if Mexico is safe, my response is a resounding yes!
Safety is something you should be concerned about no matter the destination. Despite what the media is reporting, thousands of people travel to Mexico without anything bad happening to them.
While Mexico does suffer from high crime and homicide rates which are linked to the drug trade — most areas of Mexico are safe to visit, even for women traveling solo throughout the country.
While these are isolated incidents I believe for the most part Mexico is safe but you must use common sense when traveling to any foreign country.
I can’t guarantee that nothing will happen but I also can’t guarantee you won’t get robbed as you are leaving your home but it doesn’t stop you from running errands, going to work, shopping, or just hanging out.
My experience with Mexico has been nothing but pleasant. The people are friendly, family-oriented, very religious, and completely willing to help and answer questions therefore I believe Mexico is safe.
Mexico Travel Advisory
July 12, 2021
Mexico – Level 3: Reconsider Travel
Reconsider travel to Mexico due to COVID-19.
See state summaries and advisory levels below for information on your specific travel destination. Some areas of Mexico have an increased risk of crime and kidnapping.
Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Mexico due to COVID-19, indicating a high level of COVID-19 in the country.
Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine.
Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC’s specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers. Visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Mexico.
Do Not Travel To:
- Colima state due to crime.
- Guerrero state due to crime.
- Michoacán state due to crime.
- Sinaloa state due to crime.
- Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
Reconsider Travel To:
- Chihuahua state due to crime.
- Coahuila state due to crime.
- Durango state due to crime.
- Jalisco state due to crime.
- Mexico state due to crime.
- Morelos state due to crime.
- Nayarit state due to crime.
- Nuevo Leon state due to crime.
- San Luis Potosi state due to crime.
- Sonora state due to crime.
- Zacatecas state due to crime.
For detailed information on all states in Mexico, please see below.
If you decide to travel to Mexico:
- Keep your traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text to a friend.
- Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
- Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
- Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Reports for Mexico.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Travel Advisory Levels
Assistance for U.S. Citizens
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
06500 Ciudad de Mexico
Mexico
Conclusion of Mexico vs Costa Rica
Mexico is known for its all-inclusive resorts with private beaches, unlimited drinks and food, and a ton of activities, but you can find the same sort of vacation in Costa Rica.
Whether you decide on Mexico or Costa Rica is really dependent upon who you are traveling with, your budget, and the type of vacation you want to have.
For me, Costa Rica is a great alternative to a Mexican vacation because of its lush rainforests, the country is a great place if you’re looking to include zip-lining in your vacation plans.
Pretty much anyone between the ages of five and 85 who visit the country can find a zip-lining adventure that suits them, whether it involves soaring through the canopies, rappelling down waterfalls, hanging off bridges, or all of the above.
No matter where you stay, a zip-line adventure will be none too far away, and the stunning views should not be missed.
On top of that, there are several active volcanoes and many rivers and streams that attract kayakers and canoers from around the world.
There are beaches to lounge on, trails to hike and ride horses on, and reefs for diving and exploring, making Costa Rica a great spot for your next trip.
DO YOU NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE WHEN TRAVELING THIS FALL?
YES! Travel Insurance is important no matter where you are traveling because accidents happen and you should always travel with insurance.
I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic and that was the one time I decided to forego travel insurance I racked up thousands of dollars in medical bills and they wanted their money before I would even be seen by the ER Doctors.
Ready to plan your trip, grab my FREE Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!
ADDITIONAL ARTICLES
7 Day Costa Rica Travel Guide & Itinerary
Riviera Maya Travel Guide Including Excursions
Do you have your own reasons for choosing Mexico vs Costa Rica or vice versa? Add your comments and tell us why you love Mexico.
I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram
ARE YOU ALSO ON PINTEREST?
Why not save this post to your Pinterest board for later? I am also on Pinterest so feel free to follow Passports and Grubboards and get the latest pin directly.
Efrain Jimenez says
LOL, you certainly did a terrible job comparing Mexico and Costa Rica.
1) Mexico is EXACTLY 40 Costa Rica countries,
2) Mexico has HUGE surf towns, check Oaxaca Puerto Escondido and the likes, Sayulita in Nayarit
3) Mexico is not in Central America, Mexico is in North America
4) Mexico has 4 time zones, all climates, from jungles as the Amazon to deserts as the Sahara
5) Food in Mexico is amazing, UNESCO heritage of Mankind awarded, only France and Japan have the same award
6) Don´t drink water from your home, buy bottled water
7 ) Mexico received 42 million tourists in 2019, to 3 million in Costa Rica for a reason
8) If you are to travel Mexico from point to point is the equivalent of going from Portugal to Siberia
9) Mexico is megadiverse, Costa Rica is not
10) Mexico has 37 UNESCO sites, the most in the Americas, compare it to 22 the USA has, and Costa RIca has 5
11) Mexico has a huge hotel, hostel, tourist infrastructure, internet, etc
12) Hospitals are better in Mexico, you can check medical tourism statistics
13) There are dozens of flights a day to the USA
14) Prices in Mexico are amazing value