Driving in Costa Rica can be an adventure in itself—offering stunning landscapes, hidden beaches, and breathtaking mountain roads. But with unfamiliar traffic rules, varying road conditions, and unique driving customs, getting behind the wheel can feel a bit intimidating. Whether you're exploring remote jungles or cruising through busy city streets, knowing the essential dos and don’ts of driving in Costa Rica will help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to navigate the roads like a pro and avoid common mistakes that travelers often make. Let’s hit the road!
- Do Rent an SUV or 4x4
Many of Costa Rica's roads, especially in rural areas, are unpaved, uneven, or can flood during the rainy season. Getting stuck in a pothole is definitely a quick way to eat up 3-5 hours of your Costa Rican vacation, not to mention the damage that type of accident can do to an unfit rental car. Choosing an 4x4 or SUV will make not only handling these conditions much more comfortable, but your overall travel experience much more comfortable as well.
- Don’t Rely on Street Signs
Street names and signs can be inconsistent or even nonexistent, especially in on the Pacific coast region. You’ll find that most streets don’t have official names and homes or businesses don’t have official addresses so relying solely on signage may lead to confusion. We would completely recommend traveling with a map or GPS handy. When it comes to using GPS Apps our most reliable recommendation in all of Costa Rica is “Waze.”
- Do Follow Speed Limits
Speed limits are not as strictly enforced as they are in other countries like the United States, in fact you will not always see speed limit signs placed in the roads. That being said the general speed limit is 80 km/h (50 mph) on highways and 40-60 km/h (25-37 mph) in towns. It is important to respect these limits as the roads can be dangerous and include unforeseen speedbumps or potholes, making them tricky to navigate for foreigners. It is also worth mentioning traffic stops are incredibly common in the country, with speeding fines costing up to ¢248.000 or around $480.
- Don’t Leave Valuables in the Car
Theft from parked cars can happen, especially in tourist areas, however as long as you are not leaving valuables in your vehicle and locking it every time, there shouldn’t be a need to worry. If you must leave valuables in the car just make sure they're completely hidden (under the seat, in the glove box, etc.) just for the peace of mind.
- Do Carry a Valid Driver's License
As a foreigner, a valid driver's license from your home country is accepted in Costa Rica for up to 180 days or 6 months, so always make sure you have it with you when driving. If you go past the 180-day validity period you are vulnerable to receiving a fine of up to ¢61.000 or around $70, and risk of the license plate of your vehicle being confiscated under Article 151. It is also important to keep in mind that the insurance on most rental cars expires after 180 days, and driving an uninsured vehicle in a foreign country is a huge risk we don’t recommend taking.
- Don’t Underestimate Route Conditions
Always check weather and road reports before starting your journey; planning that little extra time for potential delays can save you hours in the long run. Landslides, road closures, or even unexpected rivers can derail and reroute your path, which can be easily avoidable by checking an app like Waze and Google Maps, or even asking a local.
Driving in Costa Rica is an adventure that offers the freedom to explore the country’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll not only stay safe on the road but also make the most of your journey, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches. While the roads may present some challenges, with the right preparation and awareness, you’ll discover that driving in Costa Rica can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience. So, buckle up, embrace the adventure, and enjoy the ride through one of the most beautiful countries in the world! Pura Vida!