Getting around Costa Rica
The principal domestic hub is San José, with most internal flights operating from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) or the smaller domestic-focused Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ) in the Pavas district of the capital. The two main domestic carriers are SANSA Airlines and Costa Rica Green Airways, both operating small aircraft to destinations across the country.
Domestic routes connect San José with destinations including Liberia, Tamarindo, Nosara, Quepos (for Manuel Antonio), Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula, Puerto Jiménez, Tortuguero, Golfito, Limón and La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano. Flight times are generally short, often between 25 minutes and one hour, and many routes provide impressive aerial views of volcanoes, rainforest and coastline.
Some destinations are particularly dependent on air access. Tortuguero, on the Caribbean coast, has no direct road connection from most parts of the country and is commonly reached by a combination of domestic flight and boat transfer. Drake Bay and parts of the Osa Peninsula also become considerably easier to access by air, especially during the rainy season when roads may deteriorate.
Aircraft used on domestic routes are typically small turboprop planes carrying between 10 and 20 passengers. Baggage allowances are often more restrictive than on international flights, particularly on smaller aircraft serving remote airstrips. Excess baggage charges are common, and soft-sided luggage is often preferred on light aircraft services.
Weather can affect domestic flight schedules, especially during the rainy season from May to November. Afternoon thunderstorms, low cloud and heavy rain occasionally disrupt operations to smaller airstrips in mountainous or coastal regions.
Costa Rica's road network radiates outward from the Central Valley and San José, linking the capital with the Pacific coast, Caribbean coast and northern regions. The Inter-American Highway, part of the Pan-American Highway system, forms the backbone of the network and crosses Costa Rica from the Nicaraguan border in the north to the Panamanian frontier in the southeast. Major tourist destinations such as Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo and Puerto Viejo are all accessible by road, though final approaches to some areas may involve unpaved or rougher secondary roads.
Driving in Costa Rica can be rewarding, particularly for travellers wanting flexibility and access to less-visited regions. Scenic routes pass through volcanic highlands, cloud forests, cattle country and tropical coastline, often changing dramatically within a few hours. However, driving standards can be unpredictable, signage inconsistent outside major routes and road conditions highly variable. Heavy rain during the wet season from May to November can lead to flooding, potholes and landslides, especially in mountainous areas.
Traffic congestion is concentrated in and around San José, where rush hour delays can be severe. Outside the capital, traffic is generally lighter, though holiday weekends and peak tourism periods can produce long queues on roads to the Pacific beaches. Night driving outside urban areas is best avoided where possible due to limited street lighting, sharp bends, and the risk of encountering poorly marked hazards.
Road quality in Costa Rica varies considerably depending on the region and the type of road. Major highways linking San José with Liberia, Limón and parts of the Pacific coast are generally paved and in reasonable condition, though surfaces can deteriorate quickly during periods of heavy rain. Improvements to the national road network have continued in recent years, particularly on key tourism and freight corridors, but outside the main routes, conditions can become far less predictable.
Mountain roads in Costa Rica are often narrow, winding and prone to fog, landslides and washouts during the rainy season from May to November. In rural and coastal areas, particularly on the Nicoya Peninsula, around Monteverde and in parts of the Osa Peninsula, unpaved roads remain common and may become muddy or difficult after heavy rain. Flooding, potholes, fallen trees and occasional road closures can affect travel in mountainous and rainforest regions, while some remote routes still include river crossings without bridges. Travellers heading to isolated beaches, lodges or national parks should check local road conditions before departure, especially during the wet season.
The main highways are usually suitable for standard vehicles, but a four-wheel-drive vehicle is advisable for certain rural routes and remote destinations, especially during periods of heavy rain. Roads to some eco-lodges, surf beaches and mountain communities can become muddy or difficult to navigate in ordinary cars.
Road signage has improved but can still be inconsistent outside urban areas, and GPS navigation is widely relied upon by both visitors and locals. Distances are measured in kilometres, but estimated journey times are often more useful than the distance itself due to the terrain and varying road conditions.
Costa Rica's road network is divided into national routes and local or cantonal roads. National routes are maintained by the national road authority and form the principal intercity and regional connections, while cantonal roads are managed by local municipalities and vary considerably in quality and maintenance standards.
The most important routes are the primary national highways, many of which form part of the Inter-American Highway system crossing the country from northwest to southeast. These roads link San José with Liberia, Limón, Pérez Zeledón and the borders with Nicaragua and Panama. Primary routes are identified by one or two-digit numbers and generally receive the highest maintenance priority.
Secondary national routes connect smaller towns and tourist regions to the main highway network. Conditions on these roads can vary significantly, ranging from well-paved roads to narrower mountain routes with sharp bends and uneven surfaces. Tertiary roads provide access to rural communities, beaches, agricultural areas and remote lodges, and are often unpaved.
Toll roads operate on several major approaches to San José, including sections of the route towards the Pacific coast and the airport. Tolls are relatively modest and are payable in Costa Rican colones, though some toll booths also accept US dollars or contactless payment methods. During holiday periods and weekends, queues at toll plazas can become lengthy.
Road numbering and signage are generally straightforward on the principal highways, but smaller roads are not always clearly marked. In rural areas, directions are often given using landmarks rather than street names or route numbers, reflecting a long-standing local custom of navigation.
International rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar and Alamo, operate from Juan Santamaría International Airport near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberias, alongside numerous local operators. Vehicles can also be hired in major tourist destinations such as Tamarindo, Jacó and La Fortuna.
A standard vehicle is usually sufficient for travel on the principal highways and around the main tourist centres. However, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended for remote beaches, mountain areas and some rural regions, especially during the rainy season from May to November when roads can become muddy or uneven. Destinations such as Monteverde, the Nicoya Peninsula and parts of the Osa Peninsula are among the areas where higher ground clearance is often useful.
Drivers must generally be at least 21 years old, though some rental companies impose higher minimum ages or additional fees for younger drivers. A valid national driving licence is accepted for temporary visitors, provided the traveller entered the country legally. An International Driving Permit is not normally required but can be useful as a supplementary document.
Insurance costs in Costa Rica can significantly increase the overall rental price and are a frequent source of confusion for visitors. Mandatory local liability insurance is usually added separately even when international booking websites appear to show lower rates. Before confirming a booking, travellers should check carefully what insurance is included, what excess applies and whether coverage extends to tyre, windscreen or water damage.
Fuel stations are common along major routes and in towns, though they may be sparse in remote regions. Costa Rican petrol stations are full-service rather than self-service. Navigation apps such as Google Maps and Waze are widely used and generally more reliable than relying solely on road signage.
Official taxis are widely available, and they are usually red with a yellow triangle on the door indicating they are licensed vehicles. At San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport, official airport taxis are orange and operate at fixed or metered rates. Using authorised airport taxis is generally recommended for first arrivals.
In San José and other urban areas, licensed taxis are required to use meters, known locally as marías, though some drivers may attempt to negotiate fixed fares instead, particularly with tourists. Visitors should ensure the meter is activated at the start of the journey unless a fare has been agreed in advance. Outside major cities and in beach or rural destinations, fixed-price journeys are more common.
Taxis can usually be hailed on the street in urban areas or booked by telephone, hotel reception or messaging apps. In smaller towns and tourist regions, taxis are often found waiting near bus stations, supermarkets or central plazas.
Ride-hailing services operate extensively in Costa Rica, particularly in San José and surrounding urban areas. Uber is the dominant platform and is widely used by both residents and visitors due to its convenience, transparent pricing and generally lower fares compared with traditional taxis. DiDi also operates in some areas.
Availability of ride-hailing services becomes more limited outside the Greater Metropolitan Area, though Uber can still be found in popular tourist destinations including La Fortuna, Jacó, Tamarindo and Liberia. In more remote regions, traditional taxis remain the primary option.
Cycling in Costa Rica is more popular as a recreational and adventure activity than as a practical means of long-distance transport. The country's mountainous terrain, tropical climate and variable road conditions make extended cycling physically demanding, though experienced cycle tourers are drawn to Costa Rica by the scenery and the challenge of riding through rainforest, volcanic highlands and coastal regions.
Road conditions for cyclists vary considerably. Outside a few urban areas, dedicated cycling infrastructure is limited, and cyclists often share narrow roads with buses, trucks and fast-moving traffic. Steep gradients are common in the interior, while high temperatures and humidity can make coastal riding exhausting. Potholes, sudden rainstorms and limited road shoulders require constant attention.
Despite these challenges, Costa Rica has developed a strong cycling culture, particularly around mountain biking and adventure riding. The regions around Arenal, Monteverde and the Central Valley offer a number of off-road trails and scenic routes through forest and farmland. Mountain biking tours are widely available in tourist areas, while some visitors undertake longer multi-day rides between the Pacific coast, the Central Highlands and the Caribbean.
Anyone planning longer-distance cycling should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, carry sufficient water and avoid riding after dark. Visibility can deteriorate quickly in mountainous areas due to fog and heavy rain, particularly during the wet season from May to November.
Long-distance coach travel is the main form of public transport for most Costa Ricans and remains one of the most affordable ways for visitors to travel around the country. An extensive network of private bus companies connects San José with cities, beaches, border crossings and remote rural communities, although journey times can be slow. Most services operate from San José, but there is no single central bus terminal; different companies use separate terminals across the capital, so travellers should confirm departure points carefully in advance.
Major tourist destinations, including Liberia, Tamarindo, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Tortuguero, are all served by regular long-distance buses. Air-conditioned coaches are common on the principal routes, while smaller or more rural services may use simpler vehicles with fewer amenities.
Journey times are often longer than distances suggest due to mountainous terrain, road conditions and traffic congestion around San José. The route from San José to Liberia, for example, typically takes around four to five hours, while journeys to Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast usually take around five hours. Services to remote areas may involve transfers between multiple buses.
Tickets can often be purchased on the day of travel, though advance booking is advisable during weekends, public holidays and the Christmas and Easter travel periods when buses become particularly busy. Some operators now offer online booking, while others still rely largely on ticket office sales.
Security on long-distance buses is generally reasonable, but travellers should keep valuables with them rather than in overhead racks or luggage compartments. Night buses operate on some routes, though daytime travel is generally more comfortable and allows travellers to appreciate the scenery along the way.
Traffic in Costa Rica drives on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 25km/h (16mph) in school zones and some residential areas, 40km/h to 60km/h (25mph to 37mph) in urban areas, and between 80km/h and 100km/h (50mph to 62mph) on major highways, unless otherwise indicated. Speed limits are enforced through police patrols and speed cameras on some routes.
Seat belts are compulsory for drivers and passengers, and the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system. Motorcyclists and passengers must wear helmets. Children under 12 years old are required to use an appropriate child restraint system.
The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05%, though stricter limits apply to novice and professional drivers. Costa Rica takes drink-driving offences seriously, and penalties may include heavy fines, vehicle confiscation or arrest.
Drivers must carry their passport or a copy of their identification page together with entry stamp details, a valid driving licence and vehicle documentation at all times. Police checkpoints are common on highways and near border regions, particularly during holiday periods.
Road signage follows international conventions and distances are measured in kilometres. However, signage can be inconsistent outside major routes, and many local directions rely on landmarks rather than street names or house numbers.
Driving standards can appear informal by European or North American standards, particularly in heavy urban traffic. Defensive driving is advisable, especially during heavy rain or at night when visibility and road conditions may deteriorate quickly.
Costa Rica does not have a single nationwide motoring organisation equivalent to the AA in the United Kingdom, and roadside assistance is generally provided through car rental companies, insurance providers and private towing services. Coverage and response times vary considerably depending on location, with assistance more readily available in and around San José and the main tourist routes than in remote rural areas.
For visitors using hire cars, the rental company should be the first point of contact in the event of a breakdown, flat tyre or accident. Most major rental firms provide emergency assistance numbers and roadside support as part of the rental agreement, though the level of coverage varies. Travellers should confirm before departure what assistance is included and whether additional charges apply for towing or vehicle recovery in remote areas.
Mobile phone coverage is generally good on major roads and in populated areas, but the signal can be limited in mountainous regions, national parks and parts of the Nicoya and Osa peninsulas. Carrying water, a charged phone and basic emergency supplies is advisable when driving in isolated areas, particularly during the rainy season when landslides or flooding can affect roads.
Fuel stations are widespread on the principal highways and around towns, but can be infrequent in remote areas. Costa Rican petrol stations are full-service, and attendants handle fuelling for customers. It is sensible to refuel before travelling into sparsely populated regions.
In the event of a traffic accident, Costa Rican law generally requires vehicles to remain in place until traffic police and insurance representatives arrive, unless moving the vehicle is necessary for safety. Emergency services can be contacted by dialling 911.
Foreign visitors may drive in Costa Rica using a valid driving licence from their country of residence for the same period as their permitted tourist stay, usually up to 90 or 180 days depending on immigration status. The licence must be carried together with the traveller's passport or a copy of the identification and entry stamp pages.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not normally required for short visits, but it can be useful as a supplementary document, particularly if the driving licence is not in English or Spanish. Rental companies may have their own documentation requirements, and some request an IDP in addition to the national licence.
Drivers using hired cars should also carry the rental agreement, vehicle registration and proof of insurance, as police checkpoints are common on highways and near border regions. Traffic police may request documentation during routine inspections.
Third-party insurance is mandatory in Costa Rica and is generally included in car hire agreements, though additional collision and damage coverage may be offered separately. Travellers entering Costa Rica with their own vehicle must comply with temporary importation and local insurance requirements.
Urban transport in Costa Rica is centred on buses, taxis and private vehicles, with San José functioning as the hub of the country's transport network. The capital and surrounding cities of the Greater Metropolitan Area, including Heredia, Alajuela and Cartago, experience significant traffic congestion, particularly during weekday rush hours. Journey times within San José can therefore be considerably longer than distances suggest.
Public buses are the backbone of urban transport and are widely used throughout the country. In San José, an extensive network of privately operated buses connects the city centre with suburbs and neighbouring towns. Fares are inexpensive, though routes and departure points can be confusing for first-time visitors as there is no fully centralised terminal system. In smaller cities and towns, local buses provide reliable transport between residential areas, markets and commercial centres.
A commuter rail system operates within the Greater Metropolitan Area, linking San José with Heredia, Cartago, Alajuela and several suburban districts. The trains are aimed primarily at commuters and operate mainly during peak weekday periods, but they provide a useful alternative to road traffic on certain routes.
Taxis are widely available in urban areas, with official red taxis operating in most cities and orange taxis serving San José International Airport. Ride-hailing services, particularly Uber, are extensively used in the capital and other major towns.
Walking is practical in certain neighbourhoods, particularly in areas such as Barrio Escalante and parts of central San José, as well as in smaller tourist-oriented towns including La Fortuna, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Tamarindo. However, uneven pavements, heavy traffic and limited pedestrian infrastructure can make walking less comfortable in some urban areas.
In many beach towns and smaller communities, bicycles, golf carts and scooters are commonly used for short journeys. Boat transport also plays a local role in areas such as Tortuguero, where canals function as part of the transport network.
Rail transport in Costa Rica is limited and plays a relatively minor role in national travel. The country no longer has an extensive long-distance passenger rail network, and most railway services are concentrated within the Greater Metropolitan Area around San José, where commuter trains provide an alternative to the capital's heavy road congestion.
Water transport plays a limited but important role in parts of Costa Rica, particularly in coastal and rainforest regions where rivers, canals and gulfs provide easier access than roads. While there are no large-scale domestic ferry networks comparable to those in some island nations, boats are essential in several parts of the country.
One of the most notable examples is Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast, where access is commonly by boat through a network of canals and waterways running through tropical rainforest. Riverboats and launches transport both local residents and visitors between Tortuguero and mainland departure points such as La Pavona and Moín.
On the Pacific side, ferry services operate across the Gulf of Nicoya between Puntarenas and towns on the Nicoya Peninsula including Paquera and Playa Naranjo. These ferries carry passengers, vehicles and freight, and are widely used by both residents and tourists travelling towards destinations such as Montezuma and Santa Teresa.
Boat transfers are also common around the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay and Golfo Dulce, where water transport can be quicker and more practical than road travel. In some remote coastal areas, small boats remain the primary way of reaching lodges, beaches and isolated communities.
Conditions and schedules can be affected by weather, particularly during the rainy season from May to November when rough seas and heavy rain occasionally disrupt services. Travellers using domestic boat services should check departure times locally, as schedules may change with little notice.
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