Costa Rica is a very safe and stable country, and our favorite to visit for many reasons. We can safely say we've never felt in danger or uneasy here on any of our trips. The country is known for its friendly locals and has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries Central American countries.

Costa Rica is widely considered the safest country in Central America in 2026 due to its long-standing political stability and social investment. Unlike many of its neighbors, Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948, redirecting those funds into public education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. This has created a robust middle class and a high "Human Development Index" (HDI), which naturally lowers the rates of violent crime driven by poverty. The country also relies heavily on its "Pura Vida" tourism brand; consequently, the government maintains a dedicated "Tourist Police" force that is highly visible in popular areas like La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, and Guanacaste. While petty theft (like "smash-and-grabs" from rental cars) remains a common issue, violent crime against tourists is statistically very low. Furthermore, Costa Rica's commitment to "sustainable peace" and its status as a "neutral" nation make it a sanctuary of stability, allowing visitors to explore its lush rainforests and beaches with a level of personal security that is rare in the tropical latitudes.