In 2026, Costa Rica remains one of the safest destinations in Latin America, though it requires a "high degree of caution" regarding petty theft. Violent crime against tourists is statistically rare, and the country's "Pura Vida" culture makes it a welcoming environment for families and solo travelers. However, the 2026 safety landscape is marked by an increase in opportunistic theft, particularly at popular beaches and in rental cars. "Smash and grab" incidents are common if valuables are left visible in a vehicle. Standard precautions include using "Red Taxis" (official) or Uber rather than unlicensed "pirate" taxis and avoiding walking alone on unlit beaches at night. The government has increased the presence of "Tourist Police" in hubs like Manuel Antonio and La Fortuna. As long as you treat your surroundings with the same level of awareness you would in a major U.S. or European city, Costa Rica continues to be a top-tier, secure choice for eco-tourism.