Is Liberia, Costa Rica Safe? A Backpacker’s Guide to the Gateway of Guanacaste
- Jack Thompson
- Mar 5
- 5 min read
Liberia, Costa Rica Safe? A Backpacker’s Guide to the Gateway of Guanacaste
Often overlooked in favour of Costa Rica’s beaches and rainforests, Liberia is a fascinating gateway to the country’s northwestern adventure destinations. As the capital of Guanacaste province, it’s a common stop for backpackers crossing from Nicaragua, flying into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), or heading to Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
Unlike heavily touristed areas like Tamarindo, Liberia offers a more authentic Costa Rican experience. You’ll find local markets, friendly family-run hostels, and hidden gems like La Leona Waterfall. But is it safe? Here’s what you need to know.
-- Is Liberia Safe for Backpackers? --
🌞 Daytime Safety
Liberia is generally safe, especially in central areas where locals and tourists mix. The markets, bus stations, and restaurants are fine for solo travellers, but always keep an eye on your belongings, I picked up a bus from to Tamarindo and it was to be honest a simple and rather joyful experience, people seemed relaxed and happy and simply going about their daily lives barely even noticing you were there!
🌙 Nighttime Safety
Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in less busy areas. Stick to well-lit streets and established backpacker-friendly bars or restaurants (I have a hostel rec. below who will point you in the right direction). Some taxi drivers overcharge tourists, so agree on a price beforehand and always use an official taxi, if you are unsure ask the place you are at to book you a cab. A splash of Spanish, is super useful here so if you have the opportunity to do a but of learning before hand, it goes a long way.
👮🏻♀️ Common Scams & Risks
Petty theft is the biggest issue, particularly at the bus station; keep your bags close and make sure you have an eye on them and do my usual trick of keeping your valuables in you day bag and make sure it stays on your back.
Fake tour guides sometimes approach tourists, so book with reputable agencies, again I have a top recommendation for you below in the Top tour section 👇
Street dogs are common; they are usually harmless but avoid petting them, if you want to risk it make sure you have your insurance at the ready ohhh and naturally make sure you are upto date with you rabies jabs!
-- Where to Stay in Liberia --
🎒 Best Stop for Backpackers on a Budget
Ospedaje Dodero
For backpackers this is by far the best choice of stop. If you are crossing over the border from Nicaragua or coming from Nicaragua, Ospedaje Dodero has the lay of Liberia sorted. Its a no thrills hostel and you will mainly find people about to take on the border or who have come from it so its one of those odd worm hole experiences of people in a transitional mode rather than here to chill and relax. But it has an interesting outdoor kitchen and a security gate to keep you and your belonging safe.
🏨 Best Mid Range Hotel For a Bit of Comfort
Hotel Boyeros
Liberia is a bit gritty on the surface but Hotel Boyeros will provide a stay that will make you feel like you are far from the grit. If you need a comfortable stay that will springboard you to your next stop or to a hike then its an extremely good choice!
🌾 Something a bit unique to Liberia
Rancho Curubandé
How about a farm stay? Located just to the top side of the town Rancho Curubande is set in the quiet grounds of a farm, ideal for those looking for a relaxed and eco - friendly experience. Its still a bit rustic, like most things in Liberia. But its a stay you will not easily forget about! Its a better option for those with a vehicle as it is quite a walk without a car!
-- What to Do in Liberia Top Pick Tour --
Truthfully, there is not a vast amount to do in Liberia, but that does give you as a reader of this very blog an absolute advantage, why? Because it is lesser travelled and yet it is still supremely beautiful just outside the city. What does this mean ... It means you can discover La Leona Waterfall with far fewer and at a much cheaper price point than elsewhere in Costa Rica! You can expect turquoise waters, jungle hikes, and canyoning.
🚿 La Leona Waterfall
La Leona Waterfall Tour
This waterfall is the hidden gem of Liberia and because of that reason it is one of the hidden gems of Costa Rica. Anywhere else in Costa Rica a tour like this would set you back double
Is a tour required, as this post is about safety, the sentiment rings true here, a guided tour with a knowledgeable park guide is by far the safest way to navigate the hike and waterfall.
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (Dec–April) for clearer trails and better water conditions.
🎒 What to Pack
Take a light day bag or a hiking bag with water and some snacks. If you are a fancy pants like me you can put your Grayl to the test at the waterfall! It will be worth packing a microlight towel as well (a travellers essential item get the biggest size going).
Beyond that make sure you are in lightweight breathable clothing, It can get hot and humid in these rainforest hikes. If you do in the wet season a waterproof is an absolute must!
Finally make sure you have your trail shoes but also a pair of sandles attached the to bag is going to be useful around the water.
-- Border Crossing: Costa Rica to Nicaragua (Quick Tips) --
For a full guide, see our separate post: "Crossing from Costa Rica to Nicaragua: A Backpacker’s Survival Guide." But we have put together a couple of early tips for those who are looking to use Liberia as a spring board into Nicaragua.
🛂 Peñas Blancas Border
Exit Tax: Around $8-$10 USD, payable at a bank kiosk or online.
Common Scams: Fake helpers charging for “mandatory forms” (these are usually free).
Best Transport Options: Direct buses from Liberia to the border or shared shuttles.
👉 For more details on avoiding scams, wait times, and how to navigate customs, check our full guide!
-- So Is Liberia Safe and is it Worth Visiting? --
YES! If you’re a backpacker looking for adventure, a convenient stopover, or a budget-friendly way to explore northern Costa Rica, Liberia is a safe spot to lay your head.
Stick to well-reviewed accommodations (our recommendations above 👆). Book legit tours, and take basic safety precautions, especially at night.
Ohhh, and don’t miss La Leona Waterfall; it’s one of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets!
🚶♂️ Have you visited Liberia? Share your experience in the comments! 📷 Follow my journey on Youtube (@BackpackersBlueprint) for more travel inspiration!
For the intelligent explorer
We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way to support Backpacker's Blueprint and helps us keep bringing you awesome travel content.
Thanks for the support! 🙌
✍️ Want to Write for Backpackers Blueprint? Are you a fellow traveler with a story to share? Passionate about architecture, how to explore it and how to read it or cultural deep dives? We’d love to feature your work! Drop us a message and let’s chat!
☕ Support me on Buy Me a Coffee If you’ve found our content helpful or inspiring, consider buying us a coffee! Every little bit helps keep us on the road, creating more in-depth travel guides and sharing our adventures with you.
Cheers! 🚀