I agree with Luis, they aren't that common inside. I always stay in places next to or in the jungle and I think I might have seen one or two in the many months I've accumulated over the years.

I understand this is a phobia, and as such, not easily rationalized away, but spiders are beautiful and amazing creatures. And reason for far less concern than lets say local bus and truck drivers...

One of my favorite tours in the country is the night tour given by Tracie Stice, "The Bug Lady" down in Drake Bay, in which spiders feature prominently.

Perhaps something like hypnotherapy to knock out the fear would be worth a shot?

2 weeks in costa rica, only spider's I saw were 2 on a night hike (hidden, out guide specifically looked for them) and 2 on a day hike (again, wouldn't have seen them if not for our guide).

I agree with the others this will not be a problem. Mostly only find them if you are looking for them.

I had a similar fear for snakes and for sharks. Both fears were gone after my first encounter with a snake in the wild and when I started scuba diving. It may help you if you ask a guide to teach about spiders. By standing in front of a web, hearing about how they live, what they do etc. could take a big chunk out of your fear.

I'm with the rest. Very rare to see spiders and I was expecting to see a lot. Unlike GeckoesLodge though, my fear of snakes has developed since being here! Fortunately, it is really unusual to see them either without the help of a guide.

ditto, spiders rare in CR, I was once bitten by a brown recluse (in another country) so you can imagine my fear, I don't care if they eat other bugs, I will kill every one I see.

You should be more concerned about the roaches, I had one in my bed in a hotel, so choose your property carefully. Safe travels and enjoy.

I really haven't seen tons of spiders here! As a precaution though, if you have a traveling companion, send them into the hotel room to make a quick visual scan of corners, ceiling and shower. In the event, you do have an unwelcome visitor, it can be quickly disposed of and you will rest easier. Hope it helps!

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