My Travel Optimizer

I have driven in Costa Rica from one end of the country to the other. Conditions have definitely improved over the years. Some highways are narrow and filled with potholes. Others are as roomy and well maintained as any we have in the States. Overall the driving experience is pleasant. Costa Rica is building many new and modern roads, particularly in areas frequented by tourists or that have become retirement havens for expatriates.

Their driving rules are basically the same as ours (that doesn’t mean they obey them all the time). The lights are the same and the stop signs are easy to spot. You can turn right on red and left on a green and all that jazz. You’ll find traffic to be a little “wilder” than you will in the United States. Its nothing to worry about as long as you are a careful and alert driver. There are GPS maps available for Costa Rica. Learn about it here.

I urge caution when driving on windy roads, particularly in the mountains. Mudslides and rockslides are not infrequent so its best to use caution. This is especially true when its raining.

Costa Rican police are not allowed to take cash for a speeding fine. Bribes are not unknown here but I leave that to your discretion. I personally do not bribe cops.

There are speed traps in Costa Rica like on the highway to Liberia from San Jose. You’re better off just keeping up with the general speed of the traffic around you than trying to win the Gran Prix on the way to the beach. Its a lovely country. Slow down. Relax.

Avoid driving at night. Potholes are harder to see and if you break down its better to do so during the day.

Many Costa Rican streets are not marked so make sure you have a good map or GPS. Its best to have both but at least travel with a map.

I recommend reading my post on renting a car in Costa Rica.

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Tags: bribing cops, Costa Rica, driving