Avoid Scams in Costa Rica: Live the “Pura Vida” Culture with Integrity and Wisdom
- Teresita Alfaro
- Jul 27
- 5 min read
Costa Rica is a dream destination—lush jungles, golden beaches, and the warm “pura vida” spirit. But paradise isn’t scam-proof.
If you’re an expat or planning a long stay, knowing how to avoid scams in Costa Rica is just as important as finding the best beach or tour. Here’s how to protect yourself while enjoying the country’s authentic beauty and culture.
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How to Spot Scams in Costa Rica
Costa Ricans, or “Ticos,” are known for their warmth, helpfulness, and welcoming smiles. However, like anywhere in the world, a few take advantage of others’ trust for personal gain.
The Gospel says: “By their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7:16). This isn’t just spiritual advice—it’s a practical rule of life. Actions always speak louder than words.
After years of helping expats and tourists, I’ve seen how one bad experience can shake your confidence in everyone. That’s why knowing what signs to look for is key.
7 Practical Tips to Avoid Scams in Costa Rica
Trust, but verify. Honest people won’t hesitate to share references, contracts, or receipts.
Check references and past work. I always reach out to previous clients or projects for real feedback. A quick Google search or checking governmental pages (like Hacienda) can also help. I understand many expats lack time, language skills, or local contacts to do this—this is exactly where my concierge service can step in and handle the vetting for you.
Ask for electronic invoices (must be under your name). It’s mandatory in Costa Rica and protects you legally.
Never pay 100% upfront. A fair deposit is fine, but always request clear contracts or agreements.
Look at their track record. Do they deliver what they promise? Are they transparent when things go wrong?
Trust your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s probably not the right choice.
Observe professionalism and safety standards. A provider’s approach to customer service and safety often reveals their level of professionalism. For example, I once saw a property manager hire an “electrician” to fix a ceiling fan. He arrived wearing flip-flops, with no tools, no safety gear, and in poor clothing condition. Needless to say, he had to return three times to fix what should have been a simple issue. While uniforms or gear aren’t the only indicators of quality, they show that the person values safety, organization, and customer trust.
Why Integrity Matters More Than Ever
Integrity is what separates trustworthy professionals from opportunists. For me, integrity means:
Being honest, even when it’s not what the client expects to hear.
Keeping my word and only promising what I can truly deliver.
Working only with transparent providers, even if it means losing a commission.
Prioritizing the client’s well-being, even when I don’t directly benefit.
A real example: Recently, a client had issues with an air conditioner installed without an invoice. Legally, options were limited, but I negotiated a partial refund and a fair solution. Why? Because true integrity means defending others, even when you’re not obligated to.
Why It Matters to Work with Registered Businesses
In Costa Rica, many services are offered informally, which can create challenges—no invoices, no guarantees, and no clear accountability if something goes wrong. That’s why it’s essential to look for providers who are serious about maintaining professional standards.
Our companies (Expat Senior Life Management and Support and After Dark Rainforest Experiences) are officially registered as PYME (Pequeña y Mediana Empresa) with the Costa Rican government. While PYME certification is not required to operate, businesses that pursue this recognition usually do so because they value better service standards, transparency, and long-term trust.
What does this mean for you as a customer?
You can expect official electronic invoices (factura electrónica), which give you legal protection.
The company has demonstrated commitment to quality and professionalism.
It shows that they are investing in doing things the right way—not cutting corners.
When paying for any service, it’s worth asking: “Does this provider meet the standards I expect for the price I’m paying? "
Choosing professionals who prioritize accountability and quality will give you greater peace of mind and help raise service standards across Costa Rica.
Our Commitment to Expats in Costa Rica
Once you know how to protect yourself from scams, the next step is finding people you can truly trust.
At Expat Senior Life Management and Support and After Dark Rainforest Experiences, we’re more than just luxury transfers or senior concierge services—we’re your ally in Costa Rica.
Transparent pricing. No surprise charges, ever.
Reliable providers. We only work with those who share our values.
Real concierge support. From airport transfers to expat assistance, our mission is to give you peace of mind.
Looking for trustworthy services in Costa Rica?
We know finding reliable providers can be tricky—especially when you're new to the country. Whether you need airport transfers, tour planning, or help navigating daily life as an expat, we’re here to make it stress-free.
and let’s make your “pura vida” adventure worry-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I avoid scams as an expat in Costa Rica?
The best way to avoid scams in Costa Rica is to verify references, ask for electronic invoices (factura electrónica), and never pay 100% upfront. For a deeper dive, check out my blog post: Consumer Protection for Expats in Costa Rica: A True Story and What You Can Do. It shares a real case I handled for a client and offers actionable steps you can follow.
Is Costa Rica safe for expats and tourists?
Yes, Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America. However, like any destination, scams can happen. Staying alert, dealing only with trusted companies, and understanding local regulations (like requiring electronic invoices) will help you stay protected.
What should I check before hiring a service provider in Costa Rica?
Always ask for references, confirm they are registered with Hacienda (Costa Rica’s tax authority), and read online reviews. If you don’t speak Spanish or aren’t sure where to check, our concierge service can do background checks for you—saving you time and stress.
Are After Dark Rainforest Experiences and Expat Senior CR part of the same company?
Yes, both After Dark Rainforest Experiences (focused on luxury transportation and tours) and Expat Senior CR (concierge services for expats and seniors) are part of the same business group. Both brands operate under the same commitment to integrity, personalized attention, and high-quality service.
What is PYME certification, and why does it matter?
PYME (Pequeña y Mediana Empresa) certification is a recognition by Costa Rica’s MEIC (Ministerio de Economía, Industria y Comercio) that a business meets certain standards as a small or medium-sized enterprise. While it’s not required to operate, companies that register as a PYME show a commitment to better standards, transparency, and service quality.
You can learn more about PYME certification on the official MEIC website.
Ready for Peace of Mind in Costa Rica?
Both of our PYME-certified companies—After Dark Rainforest Experiences and Expat Senior CR—are committed to transparency, reliability, and top-tier service.
and start enjoying your “pura vida” adventure without worries.
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