Costa Rica Cracks Down: Heavy Fines for Illegal Park Entry and "Ghost" Tours

Starting April 30, 2026, Costa Rica will enforce strict new penalties for entering protected areas through illegal routes. Fines reach up to ₡4.6 million for unauthorized tour operators.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 22, 2026, 10:23 AM EDT

Source: Havana Times

The Cost of Breaking the Rules

The new measure strengthens the National Parks Service Act, creating a tiered fine system based on the 2026 base salary of ₡462,200.

Individuals: Entering a restricted area or using an unofficial access point carries a fine of three base salaries, totaling ₡1,386,600.

Promoters: Organizing or promoting unauthorized activities (even via digital platforms) results in the same ₡1,386,600 fine.

Tour Operators: Operators selling tours to unauthorized sites face a steeper penalty of seven base salaries (₡3,235,400).

High-Risk Violations: If a guide takes visitors into high-risk zones, the fine jumps to ₡4,622,000, with the potential confiscation of equipment.