Getting Around in Costa Rica

Road Network and Traffic

While the main road network between major cities isn’t bad, it’s often quite congested. Secondary roads, which are mostly unpaved or poorly maintained, require careful and slow driving. Additionally, during the rainy season, some routes may be cut off due to flooding or landslides. As in many countries, road rules can be somewhat unpredictable for some drivers. Outside urban areas, it’s best to avoid driving at night.

Car Rental

While not essential for exploring the country, renting a vehicle is an option some choose when traveling in a group or seeking total freedom. You can rent a car if you’re 21 or older, using your national driver’s license if the rental is for less than three months. With many rental companies available, there’s some price competition, though you should also pay attention to additional insurance, its coverage, and deductibles. Expect to pay roughly $40–50 USD per day for a basic car and at least double that for a 4x4.

Practically speaking, a 4x4 isn’t really necessary unless you plan to drive on unpaved roads, even during the rainy season (though opinions vary on this). In any case, for safety reasons, it’s highly recommended to avoid driving at night and to use guarded parking lots. As for crossing borders with a rental vehicle, very few companies allow it, and if they do, it’s best to get written confirmation from the agency permitting it.

Also, if you plan to visit Costa Rica during high season (end-of-year holidays, Easter), it’s wise to book your rental car before arriving to ensure you get the vehicle you want. The downside is that you might miss out on smaller local rental companies with competitive rates.

Buses and Shared Vehicles

Note: During Holy Week, it’s nearly impossible to travel by public transport from Thursday afternoon until Saturday.

Buses

Buses are well-developed and very affordable in Costa Rica (around $3 USD per 100 km). They reach almost everywhere thanks to numerous companies and frequent services, making them an excellent way to explore the country. However, there’s no guarantee of a seat on main routes unless you board at the starting point and arrive early. Most buses are punctual.

As in many countries, there are two categories of buses: the "basic" ones, which are the cheapest but slowest, and the "express" or similar services, which offer better comfort for a slightly higher price. Generally, you’ll find both direct routes (relatively fast) and those requiring transfers (and thus more time), with many north-south or east-west connections passing through the capital. Most cities have only one bus station, except for the capital, which has several depending on the direction.

"Shuttles"

or "agency vehicles." To fill gaps in public transport or capitalize on a profitable business, many agencies and tourism professionals offer minibuses for routes between tourist destinations. Among the best-known companies are Costa Rica Shuttle and Interbus.

These shuttles provide comfortable transport tailored to tourists (few locals use them), with convenient schedules and hotel pickup, offering direct, non-stop service between points. You can book them through any agency or hotel, or board if space is available. Many companies and agencies operate locally.

Their fares are fixed and posted, often significantly higher than local buses (sometimes excessively so). The shortest or most popular routes are proportionally—and logically—the most expensive. Shuttles can be a good option for quick, comfortable travel if you’re not strictly looking for the cheapest transport. However, they do keep travelers in a bubble somewhat disconnected from local life.

Two Wheels

As in other countries in the region, cycling isn’t ideal for travel due to elevation changes, climate, traffic, and other challenges. This mode of transport is best suited for the most motivated travelers, especially along the coasts, or for short local rides.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is more common in rural areas than in cities and can sometimes be a paid service. While tourists might consider it for getting around, the low cost of public transport makes hitchhiking less appealing except for the chance to meet locals. That said, it’s a viable option for reaching or returning from remote or poorly served parks.

Trains

After many setbacks and long periods of disuse, trains have (somewhat) returned to Costa Rica in recent years. Though an attempt to connect the capital to the Pacific coast lasted only briefly, there are now a few Incofer lines in the Central Valley around the capital, serving destinations like Cartago and Heredia (roughly $2 USD per trip). These resemble commuter rail lines and should be considered as such, even if authorities aim to expand the network in the future.

Boats

Apart from a few specific routes, boats aren’t a widely used mode of transport in Costa Rica, though you can always charter a vessel if needed.

Lakes and Rivers

For river travel, small motorboats (called "lanchas") are primarily used to reach Tortuguero (2–3 boats from Cariari; 1.5 hours) or Nicaragua from Los Chiles. They’re also used to cross Lake Arenal near the volcano of the same name.

Sea

On the Pacific side, the two peninsulas of Nicoya and Osa have regular connections to more continental ports.

In the north, from Puntarenas, three routes serve the Nicoya coast (Playa Naranjo and Paquera) or Isla de Chira, with several daily crossings (about an hour). In the far south, the Osa Peninsula has a route between Puerto Jimenez and Golfito (5–6 crossings/day; 1.5 hours), as well as a daily river connection (1.5 hours) between Sierpe and Drake Bay.

Domestic Flights

Local airlines operate domestic routes with small aircraft, often limiting baggage to 15 kg. Most flights connect to and from the capital, though some cross-country routes exist, serving around fifteen airports across the country. Generally, flights aren’t overly expensive, and you can reach any part of Costa Rica from San José for around $60–80 USD one way. A surf transport package is also available for about $30 USD per flight.

That said, flying isn’t always the best option in a country this size. For the shortest routes, buses or cars may be more practical. However, for accessing remote or distant areas (like Tortuguero or Golfito), flying from the capital can be a good choice. Ultimately, the real appeal is the stunning aerial views of the landscapes.

Taxis in Cities

In addition to ride-hailing services, taxis are plentiful in cities and tourist areas, usually with working meters. Urban fares aren’t excessive.

As is common, you can also hire a taxi for a full-day excursion. However, daily rates are often high (though negotiable), making other options more cost-effective, especially if you’re traveling alone.

Choosing Your Mode of Transport

For most travelers, buses (but not the often expensive shuttles) are the best way to get around. However, if traveling in a group, renting a car isn’t much more expensive and offers more freedom.

Distances Between Cities

Distances (km) between the main cities in the country: