Is it scary driving in Costa Rica?

Driving in Costa Rica can be intimidating for a first- or even second- or third-time visitor. When we traveled to Costa Rica as tourists, we most often took the bus or shuttles. It took us several trips to gain the courage to finally get behind the wheel. But once we did, we never went back.

Is it safe to drive a car in Costa Rica?

Yes, driving in Costa Rica is safe and is the best way to travel around the country.

Is it easy to drive in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a tough place to drive in during the day. At night, it's even worse. Road signs (which are already shoddy in some places) can be difficult to see in the dark—it's common to pass by the road or hotel you were looking for several times.

What are Costa Rica roads like?

The roads in Costa Rica are mostly paved and form an extensive road system that provides access to most parts of the country. The highway system in the capital city of San José is comprised of modern freeways. Road rules are similar to those in other large cities around the world.

How good are roads in Costa Rica?

1) There Are Good Roads

The national highway in Costa Rica is a fine road. The roads out of the capital of San Jose compare favorably to roads in the U.S. They are primarily two-lane roads but there are not huge potholes, at least most of the time.

Here's What It's Really like Driving in Costa Rica

How long does it take to drive around Costa Rica?

it's about an eight hour drive so if you leave by 9a you should be fine. gps will take a lot of challenge and worry out of the drive.

Can you drink and drive in Costa Rica?

Drunk-Driving

Well, driving in Costa Rica under the influence of alcohol is not allowed. If you are caught with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of more than 0.05%, you will be liable to a fine of up to $410 or imprisonment for up to three (3) years. All road users are obliged to make driving in Costa Rica safe.

How are the driving roads in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica's highways are paved and in good condition, however the country is also covered in back roads. Lots of dirt roads, and many are not in great shape. Muddy, potholes, etc. If you plan on driving off the beaten path in Costa Rica, I highly recommend renting a four-wheel drive SUV.

Will my cell phone work in Costa Rica?

The type of phone doesn't matter. It can be an iPhone or Android, Samsung, HTC, Blackberry, whichever, as long as it fits those three requirements. Make sure you call your home provider to see if your phone it unlocked and can accept international SIM cards before you leave.

Can I drive in Costa Rica with a US driver's license?

Foreigners can drive in Costa Rica with a valid original driver's license and their original passport with a valid tourist stamp. Tourists must have their original passport and valid original driver's license with them when they drive. They can only drive for as long as their tourist visa is valid.

What is the best way to get around 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).

Do they have uber in Costa Rica?

NOTE: As of April 2022, the license plate based driving restrictions that were making it difficult/impossible to find an uber even in the city have been lifted. Availability is back to the normal limited service area.

Can you turn right on red in Costa Rica?

Road signs are similar to those in North America. Alto means stop and ceda means yield; right turns on red lights are illegal in Costa Rica.

What should I avoid in Costa Rica?

Is Costa Rica safer than Mexico?

Is Costa Rica safer than Mexico? Yes, Costa Rica is statistically safer than Mexico. The US State Department considers Costa Rica among the safest countries for US nationals. As per its safety ranking, Costa Rica is Level One whereas Mexico is Level Two.

What side do they drive on in Costa Rica?

Costa Ricans drive on the right side of the road with traffic rules and signs approximating those of the United States and Canada. However, the country's challenging terrain and sometimes subpar road infrastructure means drivers should expect to maintain a high level of concentration behind the wheel.

Can you use dollars in Costa Rica?

U.S. Dollars are Accepted in Costa Rica

For visitors from the U.S. there's no reason to change money in advance because dollars are commonly used in Costa Rica. The taxis out in front of the airport, the restaurants and hotels all accept dollars.

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.

Do you pull over for emergency vehicles in Costa Rica?

If you live in Costa Rica, nothing. Pulling over to let emergency vehicles pass is not the law here. People will try when possible.

Can you drive on beaches in Costa Rica?

In general, driving on the beach in Costa Rica is not allowed. Plus we do not recommend it as it can severely damage the beach and potentially wildlife.

Is Costa Rica expensive?

Costa Rica can be expensive. At least, it can feel expensive to Westerners who expect to be able to have the same buying power as in places like India or Thailand. Costa Rica is ranked as the most expensive country in Central America and the sixth most expensive in North America and the Caribbean (2015).

Are drugs legal in Costa Rica?

In contrast to other Central American countries, the possession of drugs for immediate personal use is not a criminal offence in Costa Rica.

What is the speed limit in Costa Rica?

Speed limits in Costa Rica

The maximum allowed speed on highways is usually 80 km/h. There are some highways where you are allowed to drive 90 or even 100 km/h. At sections where the highway passes villages the speed limit is 60 km/h. In areas of hospitals the speed limit is 25 km/h.

Can you drink on beaches in Costa Rica?

It IS legal, and you can drink all the booze in public that you want, Las Vegas style. You should absolutely fill a cooler full of beer and bring it to the beach, or even if you want to stroll down a sidewalk with a wine cooler in hand—all is good.