What side of the road do you 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.

Is driving hard 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 rent a car and drive in Costa Rica?

Should I rent a car and drive in Costa Rica? We would definitely recommend renting a car and driving in Costa Rica! Not only is it safe to drive in Costa Rica, but it's a beautiful country and you will get to see more of it if you rent a car.

Is Costa Rica left hand drive?

Costa Ricans drive on the right side of the road and generally obey the same traffic rules as in the United States. If you enter the country on a tourist visa, your national driver's license is valid for the duration of your stay. Road signs are generally white, and not always in logical places.

How long does it take to drive from one side of Costa Rica to the other?

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.

Driving in Costa Rica and What to expect!

Which side of Costa Rica is better?

Most travelers visiting Costa Rica think the Pacific side of the country is the better coast to visit. The remote Osa Peninsula, the monkey-filled area of Manuel Antonio, the surfing near Santa Theres, and the touristy Nicoya coast make it the superior choice.

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).

Can you drink beer in car Costa Rica?

Costa Rica: One for the road

Have a Beer While Driving in Costa Rica. No brown-bagging needed while driving in Costa Rica — it's legal to drink and drive, but not to be drunk behind the wheel.

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.

Will a US drivers license work in Costa Rica?

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.

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.

Do you need an SUV to drive in Costa Rica?

The answer to the question “is 4WD necessary in Costa Rica?” is nearly always no. Since renting an SUV can be twice as expensive as choosing a standard car it's worth considering whether the extra capability is needed.

Do you flush toilet paper in Costa Rica?

Except in exclusive hotels and gated communities that are constructed with advanced plumbing, flushing toilet paper in Costa Rica is a no-no. The simple reason for the request is that Costa Rica's small and antiquated septic systems can't accommodate discarded toilet paper without clogging.

Are car accidents common in Costa Rica?

The facts, data, and statistics will tell you straight up that Costa Rica has a disproportionate number of traffic accidents per capita/vehicle, as well as frequent car damage and an inordinate number of road deaths per capita/vehicle. Traffic accidents are the number one killer of foreign tourists.

Can you drink water in Costa Rica?

The short answer is yes. You can drink the tap water in Costa Rica safely in most every part of the country. In some rural areas, including the Caribbean and in non-touristy places, you may want to stick with bottled water.

Can you smoke in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is now part of the mounting list of Latin American countries taking a stance against the tobacco industry. The anti-smoking law requires all public places to be 100% smoke free; this includes workplaces, public institutions, bars, restaurants, bus stops and taxi stands.

What is the penalty for drunk driving 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.

What should I avoid in Costa Rica?

Do gas stations take credit cards in Costa Rica?

Most gas stations in Costa Rica take AMEX and credit cards like Visa and Mastercard.

What are popular foods in Costa Rica?

Are roads in Costa Rica safe?

Costa Rican roads

Road conditions are poor around the country, with huge potholes and other road hazards are common. Many travelers rent vehicles, cause damage to them and have to pay exorbitant fines.

How do tourist get around in Costa Rica?

Buses are the most common way of getting around Costa Rica, and the public bus system is excellent, inexpensive and relatively frequent, even in remote areas. Privately run shuttle buses offer quicker but pricier transfers, while taxis are decent value for groups.

Which part of Costa Rica is the best to stay?