How Costa Rica’s Peaceful Image Became a Cocaine Highway

Costa Rica built its global reputation on peace—no army, strong social services and lush national parks earned it the nickname “Central America’s Switzerland.”

Yet geography and growing inequality have turned it into a crucial link in cocaine’s journey from South America to the world’s largest markets.

Long coastlines, busy ports and under-resourced police make Costa Rica a natural drug transit zone. Cartels hide tonnes of cocaine in pineapple and banana shipments or load it onto semi-submersible vessels.

In January–September 2024 alone, authorities seized 32.1 tonnes of drugs, including 20.5 tonnes of cocaine. What once was strictly a pass-through route is now fueling local violence.

By mid-September 2025, 614 homicides were recorded—over 400 linked to gang turf wars. If trends continue, the year will approach 900 killings, shattering Costa Rica’s historic peace.

In September 2025, the U.S. State Department labeled Costa Rica one of 23 major transit or illicit production countries. Officials stress the designation reflects geography, not a lack of effort.

Security Minister Mario Zamora highlights 35 years of anti-drug collaboration with the U.S. and neighboring states, and recent praise from U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Rising inequality adds fuel to the crisis. Costa Rica’s Gini index hit 49.2 in 2024, among the highest in the OECD. Poverty pockets and underfunded courts create openings for criminal groups to recruit and hide.

Costa Rica remains the most peaceful in its region—54th in the 2025 Global Peace Index—but its model of security is under siege.

Experts call for stronger maritime patrols, tighter financial controls and deeper regional cooperation. Without swift action, the country risks losing the peaceful legacy that once defined it—and the world should watch closely.