Warnings & Dangers in Puerto Rico
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
In Puerto Rico, it can be dangerous if you do not take precautions. Tourist areas are usually safe, but outside them, you should be as careful as possible. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking late at night.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is unsafe due to the large number of pickpockets operating in it. In addition, vehicles often do not go on schedule and can be late. Use taxi services to get around, but never drive in the street. Only licensed taxis are safe. Make sure the driver turns on the taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
There are a lot of pickpockets in Puerto Rico. Usually, they prey on tourists. Be especially careful in crowds, train stations, and even beaches. Keep personal items with you, and do not leave bags unattended. Do not stand close to the carriageway at intersections - reported cases of snatching bags from tourists when they cross the road.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
The territory faces an array of natural hazards, including hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, periodic droughts, and flooding. Situated in the middle of the Atlantic hurricane belt, Puerto Rico is ordinarily subject to severe storms in the Caribbean from June to October every year.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
The risk of serious armed robberies and attacks in Puerto Rico is very high. Slums in large cities of the country should be avoided, do not walk after sunset, and in poorly lit streets. Do not carry a lot of cash and expensive things - it is better to leave them at the hotel. Park auto in guarded parking lots and carefully lock the car.
TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM
Terrorist attacks are likely in Puerto Rico because terrorists have been operating in the United States and Puerto Rico for more than two decades. Due to the island’s political status, separatist violence will likely continue. Examine the political environment before your visit here. Avoid rallies.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Most often, fraud in Puerto Rico is associated with street lotteries, the sale of tickets for non-existent flights, or excursions. Be careful not to participate in such events. Buy goods and services only in licensed locations. Withdraw money at ATMs at banks to avoid scamming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone to Puerto Rico can feel quite safe if they follow specific measures. Do not walk around the city at night. Do not draw attention to yourself with your clothes or expensive items. Return to the hotel by taxi if it is too late.
How Safe Is Puerto Rico for Tourists?
Puerto Rico is a rather dangerous country to travel to.
The crime index is high and has not been falling for many years.
The main problems are related to thefts, car thefts, assaults, armed robberies, as well as drug trafficking.
Most crimes are concentrated in the major metropolitan cities of San Juan and Ponce, and most of them are related to drug trafficking.
Police heavily patrol tourist areas in both cities, and violent crimes against tourists are very rare.
The main problem is theft: do not leave your things unattended.
You always need to keep track of your things and your surroundings.
Do not carry a lot of cash and expensive devices.
If you travel by car, always carefully lock it and park it in guarded parking lots.
Car theft is widespread.
Usually, tourist resorts are safe and well guarded.
But if you go beyond, especially at night, be especially careful and careful.
Better to get around by car or taxi.
Also, be careful around the beaches in the evening – on deserted beaches, robberies and assaults are often committed.
Avoid public housing projects known as caseríos.
This is often the location of drug dealers and other illegal activities, as well as violent crimes.
Beggars on the streets of the city also need to be careful.
Often they can distract you while their accomplice steals your bag or wallet.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is a United States territory, so a visa is not required for United States citizens. All tourist visa requirements are in compliance with US visa requirements. A valid passport is required.
Which Currency Is Used in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is a commonwealth country under the United States of America, and this uses the United States Dollar (USD) as its official currency. The United States dollar has a symbol: $, also abbreviated US$. It subdivided into 100 cents.
How's the Weather like in Puerto Rico?
The best times to visit Puerto Rico for ideal weather are mid-February to April. Average temperatures in Puerto Rico vary very little, and the weather feels hot for most of the year, with a little chance of rain throughout the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Puerto Rico?
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport is a joint civil-military international airport. It located in suburban Carolina, Puerto Rico, five kilometers southeast of San Juan. It is the busiest airport in the Caribbean region by passenger traffic. Over 4 million passengers board a plane at the airport per year, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island and unincorporated U.S. territory with a landscape of mountains, waterfalls, and the El Yunque tropical rainforest. In San Juan, the capital and largest city, the Isla Verde area is known for its hotel strip, beach bars, and casinos. Its Old San Juan neighborhood features colorful Spanish colonial buildings and El Morro and La Fortaleza, massive, centuries-old fortresses.
Capital: San Juan
Is the Water in Puerto Rico Safe to Drink?
The EPA said that virtually all Puerto Ricans supplied by the island’s water authority had “reliable drinking water.” But tap water isn’t drinkable.
Is Uber Safe in Puerto Rico?
There is no Uber taxi in Puerto Rico. However, you can use any other taxi service in this country or travel by car.