Getting around in Costa Rica, be it by way of driving or public transport, can be a frustrating endeavour. Streets aren’t always named, signposting tends to be limited, and in most cases, locals will give directions using landmarks as references instead of street names. For this reason, expats should keep a map on hand until they’ve found their bearings.
Although Costa Rica’s public transport infrastructure is underdeveloped, getting around by bus is fairly easy, and most expats report not needing a car. Although there are a handful of commuter train lines still in operation, buses are the main mode of public transport. Journeys by bus can be long and can be uncomfortable, but the network is extensive.
Taxis are relatively inexpensive and are often the least stressful way to get around in Costa Rican cities. Driving in Costa Rica is also something that will take expats a while to get used to.
Public transport in Costa Rica
Buses
Buses are a cheap mode of transport, and Costa Rica’s bus network is extensive. Long-distance routes can be time consuming, though, due to frequent stops and slow driving.
Bus services in Costa Rica are operated by private companies that determine their own routes, schedules, and fares. Only a few bus services allow travellers to reserve tickets in advance, so during peak season, it’s best to get to the bus terminal early to secure a seat.
Another frustrating element of bus travel is that schedules can change frequently, so expats should ensure they monitor their bus routes’ schedules prior to setting off.
Trains
Railway services in Costa Rica are overseen by the Costa Rican Railways Institute (Incofer). Costa Rica’s railway system is still largely underdeveloped, but a few lines are in use.
While trains are largely clean and comfortable, they tend to be infrequent and unreliable. Adventurous expats looking to take a commuter train in Costa will find first class more comfortable, while tourist class is more affordable but lacks air conditioning.
Taxis in Costa Rica
Taxis are a good transport option in Costa Rica and are available in most large cities. They are inexpensive, but expats should always be sure to ask the driver to put the meter on when getting into the vehicle. Alternatively, if outside the capital city, agree on a fixed price before starting a journey.
Official taxis in Costa Rica are red vehicles with a yellow triangle on the side. These taxis are regulated and required to use the meter. Unlicensed taxis are prevalent in many Costa Rican cities, and expats should avoid taking taxis other than the official ones.
While the ride-hailing service Uber is technically illegal in Costa Rica, it is available across the country. Alternatives to Uber include Easy Taxi and Didi, both of which are widely available.
Driving in Costa Rica
Expats in Costa Rica are allowed to drive with their existing driver’s licence issued in their home country for the first three months, after which they’ll need to convert it to a local licence. Some countries have reciprocal agreements with Costa Rica that allow their nationals to keep their driver’s licence in the country for longer.
Temporary or permanent residents who need a local Costa Rican driver’s licence must secure a medical certificate from a licensed doctor affirming their fitness to drive. They must also attend a local driving school to obtain a certificate of approval. Expats can then submit all of these documents to the Council for Road Safety (COSEVI) and take a written test. If they pass this test, they will be eligible to receive a Costa Rican driver’s licence.
Expats who do not have a driver’s licence from their home country will need to complete both a written and practical driving test in Spanish. The local COSEVI branch will have reference materials expats can use to prepare for their written test.
Driving your own vehicle is a convenient way to get around Costa Rica, as it allows you to explore far and wide on your own time. That said, those who decide to drive should do so with caution. Road infrastructure in many parts of Costa Rica has been poorly developed. Roads are often unpaved, and potholes are common. Streets tend to be narrow, and signage isn’t always clear. Local driving behaviour can be erratic, so it’s important to be alert at all times and drive defensively.
Domestic flights in Costa Rica
By far the quickest and easiest way to travel in Costa Rica is by flight, but domestic airlines tend only to service major tourist hubs, so the network is somewhat limited. Expats travelling to these destinations will find that domestic flights are fairly cheap, especially when booking in advance.