Is Costa Rica Safe to Travel to in 2026?

The US State Department has issued an upgraded travel advisory for Costa Rica, moving the country to "Exercise Increased Caution" status due to rising crime rates affecting tourists.

Is Costa Rica Safe to Travel to in 2026?

Costa Rica remains safer than most Central American nations but faces mounting security challenges. The Canadian Government issued a similar advisory in February 2026, warning that "tourists are a target" and advising travellers to remain vigilant. Crime statistics show a 23% increase in tourist-targeted incidents compared to 2025 figures, according to the Costa Rican Tourism Board.

The country recorded 847 homicides in 2025, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. Tourist areas previously considered secure now report regular incidents of armed robbery and theft.

The Current Situation

Armed criminal groups have expanded operations into tourist zones. The US Embassy in San José confirmed increased activity near Manuel Antonio, Jacó, and parts of the Central Valley. Drug trafficking organisations compete for control of coastal smuggling routes, creating spillover violence affecting civilian areas.

Guanacaste Province reports the highest crime increases, with incidents rising 31% year-on-year. The Osa Peninsula experiences particular challenges, with authorities struggling to maintain consistent security presence across remote areas.

Police resources remain stretched across Costa Rica's 51,100 square kilometres. The Fuerza Pública operates with approximately 15,000 officers nationwide, a ratio of one officer per 350 residents. Rural areas receive limited patrol coverage, leaving gaps in tourist protection.

Regional Safety Breakdown

San José Metropolitan Area: The capital region accounts for 40% of reported tourist crimes. Avoid downtown San José after dark, particularly around the central market and bus terminals. The La Sabana area sees regular muggings targeting hotel guests. Exercise extreme caution in Desamparados and Pavas districts.

Guanacaste Province: Liberia airport surroundings remain relatively secure, but beach towns show increased criminal activity. Tamarindo reports weekly incidents of armed robbery against tourists. Avoid isolated stretches of coastline between Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo after sunset.

Puntarenas Province: Manuel Antonio National Park vicinity experiences regular theft from vehicles and hotel break-ins. The port city of Puntarenas requires constant vigilance, with drug-related violence affecting tourist areas. Jacó reports significant increases in robbery and sexual assault cases.

Limón Province: Caribbean coast areas face heightened security risks. Puerto Viejo and Cahuita see regular incidents despite tourism police presence. Drug trafficking creates volatile security conditions along the border with Nicaragua.

Central Valley: Monteverde and surrounding cloud forest areas maintain better security records. However, transport routes between attractions increasingly target tourist vehicles for robbery.

Crime & Safety

Armed robbery represents the primary threat to tourists. Criminals typically operate in groups of 2-4 individuals, targeting rental vehicles and tourist accommodations. The Costa Rican Tourism Police report that 67% of incidents involve weapons, predominantly firearms and knives.

Vehicle break-ins occur frequently at popular attractions. Thieves systematically target rental cars, identifiable by licence plates and tourist behaviour patterns. Never leave valuables visible inside vehicles, even in seemingly secure locations.

Sexual assault cases involving tourists have increased 28% since 2025, according to the Judicial Investigation Organisation. Women travelling alone face elevated risks, particularly in beach communities and nightlife districts.

Petty theft remains endemic across tourist areas. Pickpocketing operations target crowded markets, public transport, and attraction queues. Passport theft specifically targets tourists, creating significant complications for departure.

Express kidnapping incidents, whilst rare, have affected tourists in San José and GuanacCast. Victims are typically released within hours after ATM withdrawals or ransom payments.

Entry Requirements & Practicalities

British passport holders require valid passports with six months remaining validity. No visa is required for stays under 90 days. Proof of onward travel and financial means may be requested at immigration.

Costa Rica requires yellow fever vaccination certificates for travellers arriving from affected countries. COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but health insurance remains strongly recommended.

The colón serves as local currency, though US dollars are widely accepted. ATMs are common but frequently targeted by criminals monitoring tourist withdrawals. Use machines inside banks or major hotels when possible.

Emergency services operate on 911 for all situations. Tourist police can be reached at 2290-7640. British Embassy services are limited; the nearest full consulate operates from Panama City, 450 kilometres southeast.

Transport infrastructure generally functions well on major routes. Secondary roads may become impassable during rainy season (September-November). Rental car insurance is mandatory and strongly advised given theft rates.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Book accommodations in well-established hotels with security measures. Avoid budget hostels in high-crime areas, particularly central San José. Research specific locations before arrival and maintain flexible itineraries allowing quick departures if security deteriorates.

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage. Ensure policies cover theft, as replacement costs for documents and electronics can be substantial. Verify coverage includes adventure activities if planning outdoor pursuits.

Register with the British Embassy upon arrival. Maintain copies of important documents stored separately from originals. Use hotel safes for valuables and never display expensive electronics, jewellery, or large amounts of cash.

Travel in groups when possible and avoid isolated areas entirely. Use official tourist transport rather than public buses for intercity travel. Hire guides through established tour operators rather than street arrangements.

Monitor local news and embassy updates throughout your stay. Crime patterns shift rapidly, and previously safe areas can become problematic quickly. Maintain communication schedules with family or friends at home.

Key Facts:

• US State Department upgraded Costa Rica to "Exercise Increased Caution" status in April 2026
• Tourist-targeted crime increased 23% compared to 2025 figures
• Guanacaste Province reports highest regional crime increases at 31% year-on-year
• Armed robbery incidents involve weapons in 67% of cases affecting tourists