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If you’ve been dreaming of epic jungle shots or swooping over turquoise waves with your drone, Costa Rica probably feels like paradise. And it is — but even paradise has rules. Before you launch your DJI into the rainforest skies, there are a few things you should know about drone laws in Costa Rica. Trust me, this is one of those “better safe than explaining to customs why your drone was confiscated” situations.
So let’s break down the Costa Rica drone regulations in a way that actually makes sense (and won’t give you a headache).
Do you need a permit to fly a drone in Costa Rica?
In most tourist situations, no, you don’t need a formal drone permit in Costa Rica — unless you’re planning to use your footage commercially. If you’re just flying for fun, snapping vacation shots, or capturing your partner doing a slow-mo cartwheel on the beach, you can relax.
But here’s the catch: if you’re planning to use the footage for any business or promotional use (hello, travel vloggers), you must register with the Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGAC). The process can be slow and entirely in Spanish. So unless you’ve got weeks to spare and a passion for government forms, think twice before monetizing your beach drone shots.
Are there any no-fly zones or drone restrictions in Costa Rica?
Oh yes — and ignoring them is a big no-no.
There are strict drone rules in Costa Rica when it comes to protected areas. National parks, wildlife reserves, and conservation zones are off-limits for drone flying unless you have special written permission. That includes all the favorites: Manuel Antonio, Corcovado, Arenal, Tortuguero — basically, if it has monkeys, waterfalls, and a park ranger, you probably can’t fly your drone there.
This isn’t just red tape. It’s about protecting wildlife and not scaring the toucans. Literally. One buzzing drone can ruin a nesting season or stress out sloths (and no one wants that).
What happens if you break the drone laws in Costa Rica?
Short answer? You could get fined or have your drone taken away. Longer answer: It depends how serious the infraction is. Flying in restricted areas, especially national parks, without a permit can get you into real trouble. Don’t count on charming your way out of it with “but it’s for Instagram.”
DGAC has been stepping up enforcement in recent years, and local authorities are more aware than ever. Play it safe — or risk explaining Costa Rica drone restrictions to a very unimpressed ranger.
Can you bring a drone into Costa Rica legally?
Yes, bringing a drone into Costa Rica is perfectly legal for tourists. You don’t have to declare it at customs unless it’s a commercial-sized beast or packed with extra batteries. Still, it’s smart to pack it carefully, and make sure it’s charged if an agent wants to inspect it.
And here’s a pro tip: bring printed proof of your drone model and specs (just in case), and don’t pack your batteries loose in your checked luggage. Airlines hate that.
Why are drone rules in Costa Rica so strict in national parks?
Costa Rica takes its biodiversity very seriously. And honestly? That’s one of the reasons you’re probably coming here. The drone rules in national parks exist to protect the delicate balance of wildlife and ecosystem — not to ruin your cinematic dreams.
Sloths don’t sign photo release forms. Scarlet macaws aren’t fans of buzzing. So if you see that glorious view inside a national park, enjoy it the old-fashioned way — with your eyes and a silent selfie stick.
So where can you legally and safely fly a drone in Costa Rica?
There are plenty of stunning places where flying a drone in Costa Rica is allowed. Think open beaches (away from airports), rural hills, private properties (with permission), and areas that aren’t protected reserves. Uvita, parts of the Nicoya Peninsula, or remote inland valleys can be ideal.
Just remember to always check your location. Use apps like AirMap or Aloft to double-check flight restrictions. And be respectful — not every local wants a drone zipping over their surf lesson.
Want more Costa Rica travel tips (the stuff no one tells you)?
Grab our free guide: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.” It’s packed with real-deal travel secrets — no sponsored beaches or overhyped waterfalls.
Just the kind of places where you can fly your drone legally and still feel like a National Geographic filmmaker.
Need help planning your adventure?
At GoExploreWith.me, we’re not just about showing you Costa Rica’s best sides — we help you experience them without the guesswork. We’ll help you plan trips where the waterfalls are real, the trails make sense, and the bathrooms are clean. And if you’ve got drone questions, we’ve probably already crashed one and learned the lesson for you.
