Transportation in Costa Rica
BUSES
Buses are the most widely used means of public transportation in Costa Rica. They are used to travel within big cities as well as to reach coastal and countryside areas, and there are several bus companies operating throughout the country. The bus stations are easily accessible, and the fares are relatively cheap.
In San Jose, the capital city, you will find different bus stations that connect the city with the rest of the country, including destinations such as Alajuela (airport), Heredia, Cartago, Jaco, Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, Monte Verde, La Fortuna, and many others. It would be impossible to mention all the routes in this article, but please let us know if you need information about a specific route, such as travel times or ticket prices.
Here are some links to the major bus terminals where you can find more information:
● Terminal 710 (Guanacaste, Monteverde, San Carlos, Jaco, etc)
● TransMonteverde (Monteverde)
● Terminal Tuasa (Alajuela, Aeropuerto)
TAXIS
Taxis are widely available in urban areas and are a convenient mode of transport, especially for shorter distances or when traveling with heavy luggage. Cabs can be hailed on the street or booked through a mobile app or phone call. However, they are not recommended for long-distance travel as the fares can be quite expensive. Still, they remain a practical option for getting around the city.
Here are some phone numbers you can use to request a taxi, depending on the city you are in:
● San Jose: +506 2226-3131
● Heredia: +506 2262-6262
● Airport: +506 2221-6865
● Santa Ana: +506 2282-2364
● Escazu: +506 2588-0026
RIDE-HAILING APPS
In Costa Rica, the use of apps and platforms like Uber and Didi has become increasingly popular as alternative transportation options. These apps allow users to request rides through their mobile devices, providing a convenient and often more affordable alternative to traditional taxis. Uber and Didi are primarily available in major urban areas such as San José, Alajuela, Heredia, and other popular tourist destinations.
It is important to mention that the presence of Uber and other ride-hailing platforms has been met with legal challenges and resistance from traditional taxi firms in Costa Rica. In the past, protests and occasional clashes between taxi drivers and Uber drivers have occurred. As a result, the local government has periodically enforced regulations and conducted crackdowns on these companies. However, they have generally continued to operate despite these challenges.
TRAIN
Costa Rica’s train system, known as the ‘Tren Urbano’, provides a unique and scenic mode of transportation in the country. The primary train route in Costa Rica runs between San José, the capital city, and the nearby cities of Alajuela, Heredia, and Cartago.
It’s important to note that the train system in Costa Rica has experienced intermittent disruptions and temporary closures due to maintenance, upgrades, and other operational considerations. Therefore, we recommend you check the current status and availability of the train service before planning your trip.
The company responsible for providing the train service throughout the country is Incofer. You can find more information about their routes, prices, and schedules through the following link:
● Incofer
FERRIES
Costa Rica’s coastal regions and islands are connected by ferry services, which offer transportation for both passengers and vehicles, allowing travelers to explore different coastal areas or reach destinations such as the Nicoya Peninsula.
If you are planning to visit areas like Santa Teresa, Tambor, Montezuma, Playa Naranjo, and others, the easiest and fastest way to reach them (and in some cases, the only option) is by taking a ferry from Puntarenas. This option is available for both bus and car travelers.
For more information about the cost and schedules of the ferry service, please follow this link:
● Naviera Tambor
Even though public transportation is a great way of traveling or getting around on a budget, it might not be the best option for you if you are traveling with luggage, kids, or planning to go to a more remote part of the country.
Bearing this in mind, here are some alternatives:
CAR RENTAL
Renting a car is a popular choice for tourists who want to explore Costa Rica at their own pace, with several international and local car rental companies operating throughout the country. It’s important to note that driving conditions in some areas of Costa Rica, particularly in rural and mountainous regions, can be challenging due to narrow roads and steep terrain.
The price to rent a car ranges from 40 to 150 USD per day, depending on your needs and the duration of the rental.
Here are some popular car rental companies for you to check out:
● Adobe Rent a Car
● Alamo
● Economy Rent a Car
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
This is undoubtedly the best option if you’re planning to travel long distances, as it is by far the quickest mode of transport. Costa Rica has several regional airports that offer flights between major cities and popular tourist destinations such as Limon, La Fortuna, Liberia, Tamarindo, Tambor, Nosara, and Bahia Drake. These flights are especially useful when traveling from one end of the country to the other.
The price for flying to different coastal areas ranges from 113 to 160 USD, and the travel time can range between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the destination.
Here are some recognized companies‘ websites, where you can take a look at the different available routes, prices, and travel times.
● Sansa
● Costa Rica Green Airways
It’s important to note that the recommendations provided in this article are based on our experience in tourist areas, the country itself, and personal experience. However, the best option for you may depend on your own circumstances, preferences, and needs. The availability and convenience of these transportation options may vary depending on the location and infrastructure of specific areas in Costa Rica. Additionally, certain regions, such as national parks or remote areas, may have limited transportation options, which might require specialized services or guided tours.
Feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions about transport!
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