One would think that transportation in Costa Rica would be easy since it is such a small country. But with dense rainforests and many unpaved roads Costa Rica transportation can be difficult for those who don't know the area. When planning your vacation to Costa Rica it is best to consider your transportation needs early.

Costa Rica International Airports

Most visitors fly to Costa Rica. There are two main airports Costa Rica. The in Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO) is located close to the cities Alajuela, Heredia and the capital San José and is serviced by the majority of international airlines from the US and Canada. The Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is near Liberia in the Guanacaste province, it is much smaller than SJO but it too is serviced by the majority of international airlines from the US.

Although it is possible to get to Costa Rica by car it will be a long and difficult drive. The shortest distance to Costa Rica from Brownsville, TX is about 2250 miles, at a speed of 60 miles per hour it would take approximately 37.5 hours to drive. But with the six borders, mountain roads, political turmoil and poor road conditions in many areas driving to Costa Rica can make for quite an adventure.

Upon arriving in Costa Rica you may be some distance away from your final destination. There are two domestic airlines, NatureAir and SANSA, both of which are out of the main Costa Rica airports and connect to the major tourist towns.

Rental Car in Costa Rica

Those feeling adventurous have the option of getting a rental car in Costa Rica upon arrival and can drive to their destination. It is recommended that if you do decide on a rental car in Costa Rica that you select a four wheel drive vehicle and be sure to get the maximum insurance. Driving in Costa Rica by American standards is dangerous due to the poor road qualities and drivers who are inexperienced in navigating around Costa Rica. If driving seems a bit daunting it is possible to rent a car with a driver from a local tour company.

Airport shuttles are available to pick you up at the airport and transport you to your destination. Most shuttle services have modern, and air conditioned, mini-vans or buses to make your ride comfortable. Private shuttles and public shuttles are also available.

Transportation in Costa Rica

The majority of Costa Ricans don't own cars therefore the public transportation in Costa Rica is highly developed. The bus system in Costa Rica is by far the most popular choice in public transportation. Buses run to practically every town and city, and buses that serve main tourist destinations are high quality and inexpensive, even the longest rides are around $9USD. Keep in mind that even though these buses may seem to run on a relaxed schedule they do leave on time to the minute and they will leave you behind even if you bought a ticket in advance.

Taxis, like buses, are an excellent method of transpiration in Costa Rica and when traveling within the town they are much cheaper than in other countries. As can be expected taxis charge more if they leave the city or town. All taxis in the cities should have a meter, which you must make sure is turned on when you enter the cab. If you happen to hail a private taxi without a meter always settle on a price before you begin your trip. When traveling by taxi be prepared to speak Spanish, or have something written in Spanish, as most drivers do not speak any English.