How to Get Around Costa Rica

Tourists have many options for getting around Costa Rica.

Located in Central America and sandwiched between Nicaragua and Panama, the country of Costa Rica is slightly smaller than the state of West Virginia. With a variety of rugged terrain, including coastlines, mountains and volcanoes, the tropical geography is worth exploring. Whether you are a resident or a tourist, there are plenty of personal, public and private methods of transportation to get around the country.

Things You'll Need

• Knowledge of Spanish language helpful

Instructions

1. 

   Road travel in Costa Rica can be rough.

   Rent a car. Several well-known car rental agencies, including Alamo, Budget and National, are located in the San Jose airport. Others, such as Hertz and Avis, can be found in cities throughout the country. Expect to pay for insurance in addition to your car rental fee. You will likely receive a four-wheel-drive vehicle, which will be helpful on rural roads and the many streets that have potholes.

2. 

   Taxis are abundant in Costa Rica.

   Take a taxi. When you need a quick ride, or your destination is not too far away, hail a cab. All city taxis have meters; make sure the meter is turned on before the driver starts driving. Cabbies in some of the smaller cities, especially beach and mountain towns, charge a flat rate rather than use a meter. If you happen to hail one of these taxis, make sure to agree on the fare first. Also, it is good to remember that taxi fares increase when you leave the city.

3. 

   Busses, while convenient, can be crowded.

   Take the bus. Costa Rica offers bus transportation not only within cities but also between cities. The fare is cheap, typically between 50 cents and $2 around town, while longer trips may cost up to $30. Always remember to travel safely and keep an eye on your belongings. There is limited luggage space, and there are no bathrooms. Bus schedules may change without notice, so be prepared to be flexible.

4. 

   Local airlines provide quick travel between cities.

   Fly. Costa Rican airlines also provide travel between cities. Most air travel departs from the Juan Santamaria San Jose International Airport or from the airport in Pavas called Tobias Bolanos. And remember, air travel will be between airports. You will need to arrange for additional transportation once you arrive.

Tips & Warnings

• The main tourist spots are easy to get to but if you want to get off the beating track you will need a car, or to spend the time in the local buses.

• Non-regulated taxis do no have meters and charge higher fares.

• Bus terminals can be high-crime areas.

References

• Visit Costa Rica
• Costa Rica: Costa Rican Rental Car Insurance Explained (Sort Of)
• Costa Rica Uncovered: Taxis and Cab Fares in Costa Rica
• The Real Costa Rica: Bus Service in Costa Rica -- Public and Private
• Central Intelligence Agency; The World Factbook; Costa Rica

Resources

• Travel.State.Gov: Costa Rica Country Specific Information
• Visit Costa Rico: ICT Bus Schedule
• Sansa Regional
• Nature Air