Driving in Costa Rica: Essential tips from a local driver

Costa Rica has multiple attractions for tourists such as rainforests, mountains, beaches and wildlife. However, navigating its roads can be a different kind of adventure. Driving in Costa Rica has unique challenges and rewards, therefore we will share some essential tips to help you prepare better to make the experience more enjoyable and hopefully stress-free. This article has been carefully composed with perspectives from a local driver who drives in the country daily.

Why Drive in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is not very famous for its public transportation, even if it has improved throughout the last few years, it’s usually slower and disordered from what you may be used to. Taxis are not always reliable in remote areas and transport-apps – even if existing – have certain legal blockers, and they mostly work in city central areas. Having your rented car helps you to explore the path towards your destination at your own pace. It is important to understand that driving in Costa Rica is different from other parts of the world. The road, traffic and even weather conditions can throw surprises your way.

Preparing to Drive in Costa Rica

Before you drive in Costa Rica, here are a couple of things to consider:

Choosing the right car

It will be important to know the destinations in your itinerary to choose the proper car for the adventure. As a tropical country, and also as part of the whole challenging experience, not all roads are paved. You’ll find gravel, dirt and mud on your way.

City experience: If your plan is to stay in the Metropolitan Area and maybe visit some of the Central Valley volcanoes, a small compact car is good enough as the roads are mostly paved and well-maintained. If you plan to drive outside town – it is better to have a 4-cylinder vehicle. This is because Costa Rica is highly mountainous even in the cities, and therefore you might need some engine strength to feel more comfortable.

SUVs & 4x4s: If your plan is to explore the mountains, national parks and specific beaches, a 4×4 will be required. Take into consideration that most of Costa Rica’s hidden gems are separated by bumpy roads which are also part of the natural surroundings

Choosing the Right Conditions for the Right Car

When renting a car, make sure to be selective and be aware of the following:

Insurance: Most of the rental cars in Costa Rica include basic insurance as it’s mandatory by local law, but it is recommended to upgrade to full coverage for any undesired event. Remember to inspect the car before leaving the rental lot, check for any scratches or damage, check the spare tire and take photos; this will help prevent disputes when returning the car.

GPS or Offline Maps: Many places of interest in Costa Rica are remote, so internet coverage is not reliable. It is recommended to have a reliable and updated GPS if the Rental offers it, or download offline maps on Google Maps. From one essential point to another, and for the sake of having proper and updated traffic information, Waze is strongly recommended and a key tool for navigating in Costa Rica with best accuracy.

Costa Rican Traffic Laws

Costa Rica’s traffic laws are similar to most countries, but it is good to be familiar with some local specifications:

• Side: Cars in Costa Rica drive on the right side of the road
• Speed: Limit varies from 40 km/h in urban areas to 100km/h on highways. You will see signs of speed limit everywhere, so be attentive as they can change abruptly.
• Seat belts: Mandatory for every passenger in the vehicle
• Alcohol: The legal limit for alcohol in the blood is 0.05%. If you drive in Costa Rica, do not consume alcohol.

Navigating the Roads

There are four different type of roads, each possesses their challenges. Here is what to be aware of when you are entering various roads in the country

Highways: Commonly known as “carreteras”, are different from other countries. Even if they are multiple, long and mostly well-maintained, they don’t have multi-lane highways and traffic can slow down quickly due to slow-moving trucks, weather conditions or unexpected roadwork.

Secondary Roads: Once leaving main highways, you’ll see narrow roads, mostly paved. These roads have sharp turns, steep inclines, limited visibility and people crossing, so it’s important to drive cautiously.

Mountain Roads: These roads are often unpaved and dirty. Drive slowly and be ready to give way to larger vehicles

Rural Roads: Some rural areas have dirt of gravel in rainy seasons. This makes roads become muddy and washed out. For these areas, a 4×4 is recommended.

Local Driving Habits & Traffic Peculiarities

Driving in Costa Rica has another important aspect, and that is the local people. They are generally polite, however, the communication among them is quite special.

Driving Style: Costa Ricans follow the “Pura Vida” also in the driving style, meaning they are relaxed and occasionally unpredictable. Scenes like a driver stopping suddenly in the middle of the road to let a pedestrian cross, are very common.

Driving Language: Local drivers communicate with each other by hand signs and lights, don’t be surprised to see a driver wave you through at an intersection even if it’s your turn to yield

Motorcycles: Motorcycles are common, specifically in metropolitan areas; and the drivers often weave through traffic. It’s important to keep an eye on your mirrors while changing lanes or making a turn and to use your turning lights, especially when stuck in traffic.

Pedestrians and wildlife: In the cities, as in rural areas, it’s common to find pedestrians, cyclists or even wildlife crossing the road. Always stay alert and drive within the speed limit, especially at night when visibility is reduced.

Tolls

Costa Rican highways have multiple toll booths. They are not very expensive, costing between ₡100 and ₡800 (approximately $0.20 to $1.30 USD). Not all booths accept credit cards, and not all booths accept the QuickPass options that some Rental Cars offer, therefore it is better to have small bills or coins handy.

Important Items for Driving in Costa Rica

Considering Costa Rica has so many remote areas, having the right equipment can make a huge difference in your experience

A good spare tire: As we mentioned above, make sure your car has a good spare tire. In case of use, remember to stop in the first gas station to fix the damaged tire. It’s important to have a fifth tire always available.

Emergency kit: Include a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables and basic tools. Most of the rental cars offer the emergency kit, in case they don’t, you can buy a complete kit in any supermarket or gas station with a shop. Price for the whole pack is between ₡5,000.00 and ₡9,000.00 (approximately $10.00 to $18.00 USD).

Water & Snacks: If you’re driving long distances, especially in remote areas, always carry water and snacks. You will not struggle with shops and markets as Costa Rica has quite a lot of them all around the country, however on some specific days you might be surprised to see them closed after early hours – especially on Sundays

Conclusion

Driving in Costa Rica is an incredible adventure and offers you the chance to explore some of the country’s most beautiful and hidden places. With the right preparation, mindset and local tips, you’ll have a positive experience. Remember to always review the traffic apps to be updated about the road conditions. As mentioned, the “Pura Vida” also applies to the driving culture, so make sure you relax, be attentive, respect the traffic signs and enjoy your journey.

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