Are you planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering if you can road trip around the country? The answer is yes, you can definitely go on a road trip in Costa Rica and explore the stunning landscapes, beaches, and national parks at your own pace. However, before hitting the road, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.
Driving in Costa Rica
If you are used to driving on well-paved roads with clear signage, driving in Costa Rica may come as a bit of a shock. The roads here are often narrow and winding, with steep inclines and declines.
Additionally, signs can be hard to find or outdated. That being said, renting a car is still one of the best ways to explore Costa Rica as it gives you the freedom to go wherever you want.
Choosing the Right Car
When renting a car for your Costa Rican road trip adventure, it’s important to choose the right vehicle for your needs. A 4×4 SUV or an off-road vehicle is highly recommended as many of the roads outside of major cities are unpaved and can be quite challenging to navigate without one.
Navigation
While GPS systems work well in most parts of Costa Rica, it’s always good to have a backup plan. Download offline maps or carry physical maps with you just in case your GPS fails or loses signal.
What to Expect on Your Road Trip
Traffic
Expect traffic congestion during peak tourist season (December through April). You might encounter slow-moving traffic on popular routes like San Jose – Manuel Antonio – Quepos – Dominical – Uvita – Ojochal – Palmar Norte.
Toll Roads
Costa Rica has various toll roads that are well-maintained and offer scenic views. Keep some cash handy as some tolls don’t accept credit cards.
Rules of the Road
The speed limit on Costa Rican highways is 80 km/h (50 mph), while in urban areas it is 40 km/h (25 mph). Always wear a seatbelt, and don’t drink and drive. Costa Rica has strict laws for DUI, and it’s not worth risking an accident or legal trouble.
Places to Visit on Your Road Trip
Arenal Volcano National Park
Located in the northern region of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano National Park offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, hiking trails, hot springs, and waterfalls.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a nature lover’s paradise with over 500 species of birds, 100 species of mammals and reptiles, and thousands of plant species.
Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero National Park is located on the Caribbean coast and is known for its sea turtles that come ashore to nest from July through October. The park also offers boat tours through its winding canals where you can spot monkeys, sloths, and a variety of bird species.
In Conclusion
Road tripping in Costa Rica can be a thrilling adventure that allows you to explore the country’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. Just make sure to choose the right vehicle for your needs, carry backup navigation options like maps offline or physical maps just in case GPS fails or loses signal, drive safely following rules of the road even if you’re an experienced driver. With these tips in mind and plenty of destinations to choose from, you’re sure to have a memorable road trip experience in Costa Rica.