Is Costa Rica Safe for Travel in 2026?

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What You Need to Know Right Now

On November 25, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in San Jose issued a security alert following reports of increased property crimes, financial fraud, and armed robberies targeting tourists.

Vacation rentals, including Airbnbs, have experienced break-ins, and criminal groups have forced travelers to withdraw cash at ATMs.

Does this mean you should cancel your Costa Rica trip? No. But it does mean you need to travel smarter than you might at a typical beach resort.

I’ve been visiting Costa Rica for years, and it remains one of my favorite destinations in Central America.

The beaches are stunning, the people are welcoming, and the country has earned its reputation as the safest in the region. But like any destination, it requires awareness and common sense.

Costa Rica Travel Advisory 2026: Current Safety Level

As of December 2025, Costa Rica has a Level 2 Travel Advisory from the U.S. Department of State.

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That rating simply means “Exercise Increased Caution.”

France has a Level 2 advisory. So does Germany. And the United Kingdom. And Spain. And Italy.

See where I’m going with this? Level 2 doesn’t mean dangerous. It means pay attention and don’t be careless.

Breaking Down the Advisory Levels

Here’s how the State Department actually rates countries, because context matters:

Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions This is your baseline. Countries like Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland fall here. Basically, just don’t do anything wildly stupid.

Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution This is where Costa Rica sits, along with most of Europe and many popular tourist destinations. It means petty crime exists, you should be aware of your surroundings, and tourists are sometimes targeted for theft. Not violent crime, just theft.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel Now we’re getting serious. Parts of Mexico, Honduras, and Venezuela have Level 3 warnings due to violent crime, kidnapping, or civil unrest. The government is saying “think really hard about whether you need to go here.”

Level 4: Do Not Travel This is the red alert. Active war zones, countries with widespread violence, places where the U.S. government can’t help you if something goes wrong. Afghanistan, Syria, parts of Ukraine. You get the idea.

Costa Rica is a Level 2. That should actually make you feel better, not worse.

What Happened on November 25, 2025

The U.S. Embassy in San Jose issued a security alert on November 25, 2025, and this is what actually prompted a lot of the recent concern. The alert specifically mentioned:

• Increased reports of break-ins and armed robberies at Airbnbs and vacation rentals
• Criminal groups forcing tourists to withdraw cash from ATMs or make bank transfers
• Theft from rental cars, especially using signal-blocking devices

This alert wasn’t telling you not to go to Costa Rica.

It was telling you to lock your rental car manually, choose your Airbnb carefully, and don’t walk around with your Rolex visible.

That’s not fear-mongering just practical advice.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America for women traveling alone.

I’ve done it both ways, solo and with my husband, and honestly, I never felt unsafe either time.

The last time I went, I spent a week exploring Santa Teresa on my own, and it was one of those trips that reminded me why I love solo travel in the first place.

I walked to the beach every morning, took surf lessons and failed miserably, and wandered around town without ever feeling like I needed to look over my shoulder.

That said, traveling alone as a woman requires a different level of awareness than traveling with my husband.

It’s not that Costa Rica is dangerous for solo female travelers.

It’s that as women, we’re often seen as easier targets for petty theft, scams, and unwanted attention. That’s true anywhere in the world, not just Costa Rica.

How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler

Here’s what actually worked for me, both in Santa Teresa and on other solo trips to Costa Rica:

Choose your accommodations carefully. I stayed at a boutique hotel in Santa Teresa with a locked gate, 24-hour reception, and good reviews from other solo female travelers.

It cost more than a hostel, but I slept better knowing someone was always around and the property had real security.

Read recent reviews, check if there’s a safe in the room, and look for places with female staff or owners who understand the concerns women have.

Use Uber or registered taxis only In Santa Teresa, I used Uber whenever I needed a ride at night. During the day, I’d ask my hotel to call a trusted taxi service.

I never got into unmarked cars or accepted rides from random people, even when they seemed friendly. Always verify the driver’s details before getting in, and sit in the back seat.

Dress appropriately and keep jewelry minimal I left my nice jewelry at home and wore simple, inexpensive pieces.

I do not dress too revealing when I’m traveling solo, especially when walking through town or even at the beach.

It’s not about blaming women for unwanted attention, but about reducing the chances of being harassed.

Stay in well-traveled areas, especially at night In Santa Teresa, I stuck to the main strip after dark. I didn’t wander down isolated beach paths or explore empty side streets alone.

Trust your instincts immediately If a situation feels wrong, leave. Don’t worry about being rude or overreacting.

Keep your phone charged and share your location I shared my location with my husband and a close friend back home.

They knew my itinerary, where I was staying, and could check in if they didn’t hear from me. I also kept my phone charged at all times so I could call for help if needed.

Don’t advertise that you’re alone When people asked if I was traveling solo, I’d sometimes say “my friend is meeting me later” or “my husband is back at the hotel.”

It’s a small lie that can discourage anyone with bad intentions. I also wore a cheap ring on my left hand to avoid unwanted romantic attention.

Avoid excessive drinking I love a good cocktail as much as anyone, but I was careful not to get drunk when I was alone.

I’d have one or two drinks with dinner, but I always use common sense to get back to my hotel safely.

Common Scams in Costa Rica (And How to Avoid Them)

Most scammers in Costa Rica target people who are looking at their phones, lost or drunk.

The good news?

Once you know what to watch for, they’re easy to avoid. Here are the most common ones and how to protect yourself.

1. Taxi Tango: Some taxi drivers might “forget” to turn on the meter or take the scenic route to inflate fares. Use official taxi stands or agree on the fare beforehand.
2. Fake Cops Hustle: Watch out for people posing as cops asking for on-the-spot fines—honest officers issue tickets, not cash demands. Ask for ID and, if unsure, head to the nearest police station.
3. ATM Shenanigans: Be cautious at ATMs; skimming devices are rare but not impossible. Stick to ATMs at banks and check for anything unusual before swiping your card.
4. Currency Confusion: When paying in cash, be clear on the currency. The Costa Rican colón and the U.S. dollar are both used, and confusion can lead to getting shortchanged.
5. Fake Tours and Guides: Only book tours through reputable agencies. Some scammers might offer deals that sound too good to be true, and sadly, they usually are.
6. Overpriced Everything: In touristy areas, prices might magically skyrocket. Bargain a bit, and don’t be afraid to walk away if it feels too steep.

How to Avoid Scams: The Basics

Stay skeptical of deals that sound too good to be true, always use official services instead of street vendors, verify prices before agreeing to anything, and trust your gut when something feels off.

Most scammers rely on tourists being polite or confused.

NO is a complete sentence!

The Rental Car Signal Blocker Scam

Thieves use devices that block your key fob signal when you lock your car. You press the button, hear the beep, and walk away thinking it’s secure. It’s not. They wait for you to leave, then steal everything inside.

How to avoid it: Physically pull the door handle after every single lock. Every time. No exceptions.

Fake Police Officers

People posing as cops will approach tourists and demand to see identification or claim you owe an on-the-spot fine for some made-up violation. Real officers issue tickets, not cash demands.

How to avoid it: Ask to see official identification and badge numbers. If you’re uncomfortable, tell them you’d prefer to go to the nearest police station to resolve it. Real cops won’t have a problem with this. Fake ones will back off.

Taxi Meter “Malfunctions”

Some taxi drivers claim their meter is broken and quote an inflated flat rate, or they’ll take unnecessarily long routes to drive up the fare.

How to avoid it: Only use official red taxis with yellow triangles or use Uber. If a meter is “broken,” find another taxi. Agree on fares beforehand only if absolutely necessary, and ask your hotel what a reasonable price should be.

ATM Skimming and Shoulder Surfing

Criminals install skimming devices on ATMs to capture your card information, or they watch over your shoulder to see your PIN.

How to avoid it: Use ATMs inside banks during business hours, not standalone machines on the street. Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. Check for anything unusual attached to the card slot before inserting your card.

Currency Confusion

When paying in cash, scammers intentionally confuse tourists about whether they’re paying in U.S. dollars or Costa Rican colones. The exchange rate is roughly 500 colones to $1, so mixing them up can cost you significantly.

How to avoid it: Always clarify which currency is being used before handing over money. Keep dollars and colones in separate pockets or wallets. Use a currency conversion app to quickly verify you’re being charged correctly.

Fake Tours and “Too Good to Be True” Deals

People on the beach or near tourist areas offer tours at unbelievably low prices. These are often unlicensed operators with no insurance, unsafe equipment, or worse, scams where you pay upfront and never see them again.

How to avoid it: Only book tours through reputable agencies, your hotel, or verified platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide. If someone approaches you on the street with a deal, walk away. Real tour companies don’t need to hustle tourists on the beach.

The “Flat Tire” Scam

Someone punctures your rental car tire in a parking lot, then a “helpful” local offers to assist while their partner steals your bags from the car while you’re distracted.

How to avoid it: Never leave valuables visible in your car, even for a minute. If you get a flat tire in a sketchy area, drive slowly to a safer, more populated location before stopping. Be wary of overly helpful strangers in parking lots.

Overpriced Everything in Tourist Zones

Restaurants, shops, and services near major tourist attractions inflate prices dramatically. It’s not technically a scam, but it’s definitely taking advantage.

How to avoid it: Walk a block or two away from the main tourist strip for better prices. Ask locals or your hotel staff where they eat and shop. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or walk away if prices seem unreasonable.

Safest cities and areas in Costa Rica

While San José is the largest city and capital of Costa Rica, it is also known for its increasing crime rate.

According to OSAC, there is a considerable crime risk in San José.

While most people do not fall victim to crime, theft is common in densely populated and tourist areas, especially when individuals are not vigilant about their personal belongings.

Common types of theft include vehicle burglary, home robbery, pickpocketing, smash-and-grab incidents, muggings, and purse/wallet snatching.

Although less frequent, more serious crimes such as armed robbery, sexual assault, and homicide do occur.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the safest cities and areas in Costa Rica.

1. Manuel Antonio: Located on the central Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches and national park. This area is well-known for its safety and attracts many tourists, making it comfortable for families, solo female travelers, and couples alike.

2. Tamarindo: Situated on the northern Pacific coast, Tamarindo offers travelers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The town has a strong expat community and a bustling tourist scene that offers fun activities, contributing to its safety.

3. La Fortuna: Known for its iconic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is a small town in northern Costa Rica. It is a popular destination for adventure activities, such as hiking and hot springs, and has a reputation for being one of the safest destinations in Costa Rica.

4. Puerto Viejo: Located on the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo is known for its laid-back vibe and stunning beaches.

5. Monteverde: Nestled in the cloud forests of the Cordillera de Tilarán, Monteverde is a nature lover’s paradise. This area is renowned for its biodiversity, and it’s simply a peaceful getaway- just what you need to unwind from your life back home.

While these cities and areas are generally safer than others in Costa Rica, it is still essential to exercise common sense.

Areas to Avoid in Costa Rica

While Costa Rica is generally safe, certain areas have higher crime rates and should be approached with extra caution or avoided altogether, especially at night.

I’m not saying you’ll definitely have problems in these places, but why take the risk when there are so many safer options?

Here’s where you should be extra careful:

Isolated beaches and remote areas after dark – Beautiful, secluded beaches are part of Costa Rica’s appeal, but being alone in remote locations makes you vulnerable.

San José downtown and Coca-Cola bus terminal area – The capital’s downtown gets sketchy after dark, with pickpocketing and muggings more common around the main bus terminal. If you need to stay in San José, book accommodations in neighborhoods like Escazú or Santa Ana instead.

Limón and Puerto Limón – The Caribbean port city has the highest crime rates in Costa Rica, including drug-related violence. The surrounding beaches like Cahuita and Puerto Viejo are fine during the day.

Jacó at night – This beach town is popular but has a reputation for drugs, prostitution, and late-night crime. It’s fine during the day for surfing and beach activities, but once the sun goes down, things get sketchy.

La Carpio and Desamparados neighborhoods in San José – These are local residential areas with poverty and gang activity. You have absolutely no reason to be here.

Is Costa Rica Safer Than Mexico?

Yes, Costa Rica is significantly safer than Mexico overall.

I’ve traveled to both countries multiple times, and the difference in how safe I feel is noticeable.

That doesn’t mean Mexico is off-limits because I’ve had incredible trips to Mexico City, Tulum, and Oaxaca. However, when it comes to consistent safety across the entire country, Costa Rica wins hands down!

If safety is your top priority, choose Costa Rica.

It’s easier, more predictable, and you can relax more without constantly watching your back.

If you’re comfortable doing thorough research and sticking to safer regions, Mexico offers richer culture, better food, and often lower prices.

Both countries are worth visiting, but Costa Rica is the safer bet, especially for first-time travelers to Central America or anyone traveling solo.

Getting Around Costa Rica Safely

Driving and transportation in Costa Rica are not for the faint of heart!

Poor road conditions, limited signage, and scams targeting tourists make it extremely important to choose your transportation carefully. Here’s what works best.

Rental Cars: What You Need to Know

Driving yourself gives you the freedom you want, but Costa Rican roads are extremely challenging, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.

The U.S. Overseas Security Advisory Council warns that driving here can be “extremely challenging, even to the most experienced driver.”

The Reality:

• Roads have frequent potholes and poor maintenance
• Narrow, winding routes that can’t accommodate traffic volume
• Limited lighting and unclear road markings
• Heavy traffic jams in and around San José
• Drivers who ignore speed limits and traffic laws

The Signal Blocker Scam: This is the most important thing to know about rental cars right now.

Thieves use devices that block your key fob signal. You press the button, hear the beep, and walk away thinking your car is locked. It’s not.

They wait for you to leave, then steal everything inside.

How to protect yourself:

• Always pull the door handle physically after locking
• Never leave valuables visible, even for five minutes
• Park in well-lit, busy areas
• Avoid driving at night on unfamiliar roads
• Inspect your rental thoroughly before accepting it
• Book only with reputable companies like Adobe, Budget, or Economy

Private Shuttles: Best for Airport and Long Distances

Private shuttle services are more expensive than public options, but they’re worth it for safety and convenience.

Why private shuttles work:

• Door-to-door service eliminates exposure to theft at bus stations
• Professional drivers who know the routes
• No risk of pickpockets or bag snatching
• You can book in advance and confirm pickup times
• Drivers often provide local recommendations and safety tips

Recommended for:

• Airport transfers to your hotel
• Trips between tourist destinations (San José to Manuel Antonio, La Fortuna to Tamarindo)
• Travelers with luggage or expensive equipment
• Anyone uncomfortable with public transportation

Book through reputable companies like Viator or ask your hotel to arrange transportation. Avoid accepting rides from people who approach you at airports or bus stations.

Safest Hotels in Costa Rica

Here are some of my favorite and safest luxury hotels in Costa Rica:

1. Four Seasons Costa Rica

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo: This luxurious resort is located on the Papagayo Peninsula and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a golf course, a spa, and several restaurants. It is also gated and has 24-hour security. Click here to book the Four Seasons.

2. Andaz Costa Rica

Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo: This eco-friendly resort is located on the Papagayo Peninsula and offers beautiful views of Culebra Bay.

The resort has several swimming pools, a spa, and various dining options. The property is gated and has 24-hour security. Click here to book Andaz Costa Rica

3. Nayara Springs

Nayara Springs: This adults-only resort is located in Arenal and offers luxurious villas with private plunge pools and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.

The resort has a spa and several restaurants and offers hiking and bird-watching activities. The property is gated and has 24-hour security. Click here to book Nayara Springs 

4. Florblanca Resort

Florblanca Resort: This luxury resort in Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula offers beautiful villas with private pools and outdoor showers.

The resort has a spa and a beachfront restaurant and offers activities such as surfing and yoga. The property is gated and has 24-hour security. Click here to book Florblanca Resort

5. Villa Buena Onda

Villa Buena Onda: This adults-only boutique hotel is located in Guanacaste and offers luxurious suites with private balconies and views of the Pacific Ocean.

The hotel has a swimming pool and spa and offers activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. It is gated and has 24-hour security. Click Villa Buena Onda

These are just a few of the safest luxury hotels in Costa Rica, but many more options are available.

When booking your accommodations, look for properties prioritizing safety and security, and ask about their safety measures and procedures.

By taking precautions and choosing safe accommodations, you can enjoy a worry-free and luxurious vacation in Costa Rica.

 
 

Frequently Asked Questions About Costa Rica Safety

Final Thoughts on Traveling to Costa Rica in 2026

After all the security alerts, crime statistics, and safety warnings, here’s what I really want you to know: Costa Rica is still worth it.

I’ve been going back for years, and every single trip reminds me why I fell in love with travel in the first place.

There’s something about watching the sunrise over Manuel Antonio, hiking through cloud forests in Monteverde, or sitting on a beach in Santa Teresa with absolutely nothing to do that just resets your soul.

Yes, the November 25 embassy alert is real, and you should take it seriously. Yes, you need to be smarter about locking your rental car and not wearing expensive jewelry.

But don’t let fear rob you of experiencing one of the most beautiful countries in Central America.

The truth is, most crime in Costa Rica is preventable. It’s not random violence or cartel activity like you might worry about in other parts of the region.

It’s opportunistic theft that targets careless tourists who make themselves easy marks. If you stay aware, trust your instincts, and follow the advice in this guide, you’re going to be fine.

I’ve traveled solo, I’ve traveled with friends and my husband, and I’ve never once regretted choosing Costa Rica.

The locals genuinely want you to have a good time. The country’s entire economy depends on tourism, so there’s a real investment in keeping visitors safe and happy. When something does go wrong, people step up to help.

So if you’re sitting there wondering whether to book that flight, my answer is yes. Book it. Go see the sloths, chase the waterfalls, eat all the gallo pinto, and let Costa Rica remind you why travel matters.

Just pack your common sense along with your sunscreen, and you’ll come home with incredible memories instead of regrets.

Plan Your Costa Rica Trip with These Helpful Resources

• 🏝 10 Best Hotels in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica — My handpicked list of luxury and boutique hotels on the Nicoya Peninsula.
• 🧳 Costa Rica Packing List — My complete list of what to bring (and what to leave behind).
• 🛡 Comprehensive Travel Safety Guide – $19.99 — The exact safety strategies I use to stay confident while traveling abroad.
• If you would like to donate to Passports and Grub click here!

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