Another option for getting around Costa Rica without a car is by using the national taxi service. Look for the official red taxis, which are nationally registered and insured. Taking a “taxi pirata,” or pirate taxi is not recommended as you never know if the driver is insured or even trustworthy.
Contents
What is the best way to get around in Costa Rica?
The best way to get around Costa Rica is by bus, which is reliable, navigable, inexpensive and frequently runs through San José, Costa Rica’s capital. Driving on your own is not highly recommended as some roads are tricky (speckled with potholes and ambiguously marked intersections).
Is Costa Rica easy to travel around?
With the exception of San Jose and some of the bigger cities such as Limon, Costa Rica is a relatively easy country to travel around. Directions are typically given using landmarks. For example, drive 100 meters north and take a left at the yellow house on the corner.
Do u need a car in Costa Rica?
We recommend not renting a car in Costa Rica. Skipping the car rental will avoid much of the stress, hassle, risk, liability, and time consumption that you have little interest in dealing with while on vacation.
Does Costa Rica have public transportation?
Public Buses—Often the cheapest mode of transportation for solo travel in Costa Rica. Buses range in price from around $0.90 to $18.00 and can be the fastest and most convenient method. Buses on the main routes are modern and comfortable but typically not air conditioned.
How much does a taxi cost in Costa Rica?
2020 Taxi Fares in Costa Rica
| in U.S. Dollars | City | Airport Van |
|---|---|---|
| first km | $1.06 | $1.58 |
| additional km | $1.00 | $1.50 |
| waiting (per hour) | $6.11 | $7.05 |
| traffic (per 6 min) | $1.00 | $1.50 |
How long does it take to go around Costa Rica?
We recommend spending 10 days to two weeks in Costa Rica, as this timeframe will give you enough time to cover all the major highlights while also including time for traveling from one destination to another. A two-week Costa Rica itinerary will guarantee you see everything the country has to offer.
What should I avoid in Costa Rica?
Things You Should Never Do While Visiting Costa Rica
- Leave valuables unattended. Unfortunately, one of the most common crimes in Costa Rica is theft.
- Go to the beach at night.
- Buy drugs.
- Speed.
- Swim in front of a surf break.
- Take a dip in the river.
- Think you can get a base tan.
- Skip out on mosquito repellent.
Can you drink tap water in Costa Rica?
Tap water in Costa Rica is generally clean and safe to drink. In some areas of the country, though, mainly on the Caribbean side and in non-touristy pockets around the country, it’s best to stick to bottled water.If you have any doubt, bottled water is widely available to purchase.
Can I use my cell phone in Costa Rica?
In Costa Rica, you have two options for using your own cell phone: you can use your cellular data plan from home in Costa Rica and pay for the international charges and keep your current phone number, or you can put a SIM card (or chip) into your phone and use a local number.
Can I drive in Costa Rica with a US driver’s license?
In Costa Rica, all you need is a valid driver’s license from your home country to operate a vehicle. Also be sure to have your passport or a copy handy in case you get pulled over. There is no requirement for an international driver’s license.
Is driving around Costa Rica safe?
Yes, driving in Costa Rica is safe and is the best way to travel around the country.
Is it possible to drive to Costa Rica from the USA?
A: You can drive from the US border to Costa Rica in 8 days if you drive non-stop and hit all the border crossings just right.
How do you transport to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica transportation methods summary
- Most comfort and flexibility: renting a car.
- On a budget: the bus.
- In between car and bus: shared shuttles.
- For big groups: private shuttles or renting a car.
- With kids: private shuttles or renting a car.
- No tight budget & short trip: flying.
Does Costa Rica have Uber or Lyft?
InDriver has even more limited availability than Didi or Uber but some locals swear by it. Lyft does not currently operate in Costa Rica.
Do you need an electrical adapter in Costa Rica?
Do I need a converter/ adapter for the electricity? Costa Rica uses 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type, so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter.
Can you wear shorts in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica doesn’t have a strict dress code so comfortable and casual is best for pretty much the entire country. At the beach, your wardrobe will consist mostly of shorts, tank tops and flip flops.Guys, I don’t recommend wearing board shorts in the city. Jeans, khakis or long pants are better.
Do taxis in Costa Rica take US dollars?
U.S. Dollars are Accepted in Costa Rica
The taxis out in front of the airport, the restaurants and hotels all accept dollars. Bring $20 bills or smaller (larger denominations are harder to spend because there problems with counterfeit 50s and 100s) and make sure they are in good condition with no tears.
Do you tip taxis in Costa Rica?
If you’re taking a cab a short distance, a large tip isn’t really necessary, but rounding the fare up to the nearest dollar is usually the norm. For longer cab rides, a tip of between $1 and $5 is sufficient, but if you’re going a really long way, giving a little extra might be a good idea.
How long is the drive from one side of Costa Rica to the other?
about four hours
The travel time can vary significantly between destinations, but a general rule of thumb is 30 mph (50 km/hour). Thus, if the distance between destinations is 125 miles (200 km), you should plan on it taking about four hours to get from one place to another.
Where should I stay in Costa Rica for the first time?
Places for First-Time Visitors to Go in Costa Rica
- Santa Elena Nat.
- Corcovado National Park Sunset.
- Palm thatched roof in front of the surf break at Santa Teresa.
- Palms on Montezuma Beach.
- Beautiful Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste.
- Chairs & umbrella on a empty beach in Tamarindo.
- Beautiful Jaco Beach from the sky.
