As tourism rebounds globally in 2026, Costa Rica remains a top destination for North American travelers seeking tropical landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural warmth.
But with rising global concerns over safety and political stability, many potential visitors are asking: Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica in 2026? Here’s a detailed look at the current travel advisories, areas of concern, and essential tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable visit.
General Safety Overview
Costa Rica has long enjoyed a reputation as one of the safest countries in Central America, supported by its stable democracy, lack of a standing army, and a general emphasis on peace and education.
The Global Peace Index 2025 ranked Costa Rica as the most peaceful nation in Latin America, and it consistently performs well in international safety indexes compared to its regional neighbors.
Nonetheless, like many developing nations with growing tourism sectors, Costa Rica faces ongoing challenges with property crime, drug-related offenses, and localized violence, particularly in areas where law enforcement may be limited. Petty theft remains the most common threat for tourists, while violent crime—though rare—is more likely to affect locals or occur in specific high-risk zones.
Recent statistics from Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Security highlight that the overall crime rate has remained relatively stable over the past year. However, incidents involving tourists—especially in beach towns and urban centers—underscore the importance of situational awareness.
In 2026, the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) has ramped up efforts to increase tourist security, including the deployment of specialized Tourist Police units in high-traffic areas like Tamarindo, Jacó, and La Fortuna. These units are trained in multilingual support and cultural sensitivity, aiming to provide both assistance and deterrence against opportunistic crime.
Costa Rica also benefits from strong local support structures for travelers, including a responsive 911 emergency system, good hospital access in major towns, and widespread use of English in tourism zones.
In summary, while Costa Rica is broadly safe for visitors, it is not without risk. As La República reported in its January 2026 security review,
“Travelers are unlikely to encounter serious danger if they follow basic safety guidelines, remain aware of their surroundings, and avoid high-risk neighborhoods.”
Visitors who respect local customs, plan carefully, and avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night are highly likely to enjoy a safe and rewarding travel experience in Costa Rica this year.
Official Reviews: Canada and the United States Travel Advisories
As of January 2026, both Canada and the United States have issued updated travel advisories for Costa Rica, reflecting moderate caution rather than alarm.
United States (U.S. Department of State)
The U.S. Department of State currently ranks Costa Rica at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, which is consistent with past years. The advisory cites petty crime, especially in urban areas, as the primary concern. Travelers are urged to remain vigilant, particularly in San José and popular tourist locations.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in San José stated in a recent press release:
“Costa Rica remains a welcoming and safe destination for most travelers, but as with any international travel, visitors should remain alert, secure their belongings, and avoid isolated areas at night.”
No travel restrictions are currently in place, and the U.S. has not issued any alerts for terrorism, political unrest, or health emergencies.
Canada (Global Affairs Canada)
Canada also advises travelers to “Exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting Costa Rica. While it notes a low threat of terrorism, the advisory highlights petty theft, express kidnappings, and credit card fraud as concerns, particularly in crowded public areas and tourist-heavy zones.
The Canadian government emphasizes:
“Most visits to Costa Rica are trouble-free. However, incidents of crime do occur, and tourists are often targeted due to perceived wealth.”
Both countries advise travelers to register their trip through government platforms (STEP for U.S. travelers and Registration of Canadians Abroad) and maintain regular communication while overseas.
