What Are the Roads Like In Costa Rica?
The roads in Costa Rica vary significantly depending on the route that you are traveling. Roads between most destinations are two-lane, paved roads that wind up and around the mountainous terrain throughout the country.
If you find yourself driving in the country, it is best to drive defensively and avoid driving at night, since the reflective paint that outlines the roads is faded or non-existent, making the curves extremely dangerous for unfamiliar drivers. Lots of hotels or smaller destinations are without a paved road or entrance, so chances are good that at some point you will find yourself along a dirt road during your trip to Costa Rica. Many bridges narrow to a single lane, so drivers must be ready to yield (ceda) to the direction with the right of way.
For your first visit to Costa Rica we generally recommend taking private transports or shuttles to get a feel for the driving conditions. This way, the next time that you visit you will already understand the driving conditions and can decide whether or not to rent a car.
The roads of Costa Rica are no doubt navigable, but the terrain prohibits a freeway system throughout most of the country, and without street signs it is very easy to get lost. Vehicles equipped with GPS devices have significantly improved visitors' ability to tour the country at their own pace. Should you decide to drive, we strongly suggest equipping the vehicle with a GPS unit.
Related Questions
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Renting a Car and Driving in Costa Rica
Please note: Blockout dates for any car type from December 15th, 2021 to January 15th,2022. No availability. For travelers who prefer independence and flexibility or simply better access to hidden beaches, a rental car may be a good option for either the whole trip or just part of it. In general, rental cars are only a good option for adventure-minded travelers, who do not mind a few challenges along the way. Rental cars are generally not recommended for first time visitors to Costa Rica, because Costa Rica driving conditions can be intimidating and directional road signs are often missing. Nevertheless, with a positive, resilient, and adventurous outlook, as well as a good road map/GPS, first time visitors can successfully navigate the country. We offer rental choices that include compact cars, full-size cars, compact 4WDs, full-size 4WDs, and vans. It is very important to have an idea of what destinations you plan on visiting in order to choose the best vehicle for your travel needs. Compact 4WD vehicles are the most popular rentals in Costa Rica, because they are economical, and they enable travelers to navigate the entire country. But depending on the number of passengers, travel destinations, and amount of luggage, a full-size 4WD or one of the other vehicle types may be more appropriate. We work with multiple rental car providers so that we can offer a wide selection of vehicle models and pickup locations. Pickup locations include the San Jose and Liberia International Airports as well as dozens of destinations throughout Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Shuttle Transportation Service
Shuttle service is a shared transportation option in an air-conditioned minibus (or coaster) between popular destinations. Shuttle routes operate daily, and in some cases there are multiple departure times throughout the day. However, shuttles are by no means a public bus. They are subject to availability and must be reserved in advance.
Destinations: Where to Go in Costa Rica
Deciding where to go in Costa Rica can be a bit overwhelming, because the country’s incredible biodiversity and variable climate offers a multitude of places to explore and enjoy. Nature enthusiasts will be in heaven as they walk through cloud forests, and wildlife havens such as the Caño Negro Refuge wetlands. Adventurers will get their adrenaline fix whitewater rafting over roaring rapids, zooming through evergreen forests on a zip line, and braving the jungle after dark on rainforest night tours. The beauty of Costa Rica is that the answer to the question “Where to Visit in Costa Rica?” is: everywhere! You can’t go wrong, because the country offers something for every traveller. Going with the family? You'll enjoy wildlife and adventure tours in the Arenal Volcano region of La Fortuna. Planning a couple's getaway? Treat yourselves to the beaches of Tamarindo. The magic and beauty of Costa Rica is that you can plan almost any type of holiday. So, whether you're in search of rest and relaxation, a place to stay near the airport when you’re in-country on business, or the chance to see a volcano or toucan up-close, we have the solutions for all of your Costa Rica travel needs.
Costa Rica Hotels
Costa Rica is all you've heard and more — from adventure vacations to romantic getaways, and family trips to solo travel, part of the magic of Costa Rica is that it almost seems to transform itself based on your travel needs. You can explore mountains, cloud forests, beaches, and more. In each of these unique destinations, you'll find hotels to match your activities and personality. Enjoy a honeymoon or anniversary of romance and indulgence when you stay in Uvita or Dominical, or a sustainable adventure for two when you find yourselves in Sarapiqui or Drake Bay. Perhaps the person you're celebrating and learning to love again is yourself; Costa Rica can accommodate your inner journey. Choose a hotel that offers yoga courses or a full-fledged yoga retreat — you can find them all over the country, from Tamarindo to Arenal. Want to take the family on a vacation where everyone can unplug? How about lodgings that double as working farms? Costa Rica's farm hotels will have you in the heart of the country — explore destinations including Arenal, Monteverde, and San Isidro General. Not only will you enjoy peace and quiet, you can even teach the children about sustainability and where their food comes from. The best part? Most farms offer an opportunity to assist with some of the chores, so you'll get to know the animals and harvest some of the produce you've been enjoying! Wherever you choose to stay, you won't be too far from adventures such as zip lining through rainforests, observing amazing wildlife in cloud forests, trekking across mountains and volcanoes, and napping on beaches. Your perfect vacation begins with the perfect hotel, and both are waiting for you in beautiful Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Private Transport & Booking Service
Private transport service offers a safe, convenient, and flexible way to travel anywhere within Costa Rica. Private transport can be scheduled anytime you wish and from any airport, hotel, private home or identifiable landmark in Costa Rica. All the vehicles used for private transportation are air conditioned, well-maintained minibuses (passenger vans) driven by reliable and punctual Costa Rican professionals, who are eager to help your group move safely about the country.
