Bursting with exciting attractions and phenomenal scenery, Costa Rica is a country full of vibrance and adventure. With so much to see and do, this Central American country is just waiting to be explored. An abundance of transportation options are available, making traveling around Costa Rica a breeze. Whether you navigate the country by car, private taxi, or public transportation, getting around Costa Rica is quick, easy, and convenient.

The quickest way to explore the length of Costa Rica is by air and if you’re short of time, domestic flights are a great option. There are numerous domestic airports scattered across the country and two leading regional airlines with frequent flight schedules. Flights are typically reasonably priced and are also beneficial for accessing the most remote corners of the country. Costa Rica also offers affordable air-charter taxis and are an ideal option for groups. Sansa and other Air charter flights and provide 5-18 seater planes

Taxis have a legal requirement to use meters but some taxi fares tend to be agreed in advance of travel. Some towns also offer shared taxis for transportation from one end of town to the other, although this is becoming increasingly more rare. Rural and regional taxis are also available for traveling across the country and to remote areas. They can be hired for full days, half days or by the hour with a fare agreed in advance. In rural areas, 4×4’s are often used for taxi hire, particularly in surfing destinations such as Jaco and Tamarindo. Also plenty of transportation companies are available around the country with large passenger vans for any size group.

Costa Rica has an exceptional public transportation system with local, regional, and shuttle buses. Navigating Costa Rica by bus is the most affordable option for exploring the island.  San José is the central bus transportation hub for the country with both local, direct, and connecting services. Regional services typically have both a direct route and colectivos, a longer route with multiple stops. Bus schedules change on a very regular basis so it is advised to confirm your departure time when purchasing your ticket. Shuttle transportation is also available to Costa Rica’s most popular tourist destinations with collections from most hotels, however, they do come at a premium rate.

Costa Rica has frequent ferry services connecting some of the country’s coastal destinations. Across the Golfo de Nicoya, there is a route from Puntarenas to Playa Naranjo and another from Puntarenas to Paquera. On the Golfo Dulce, there is a route connecting Golfito and Puerto Jimenez. Other boat services and water taxis also provide transportation in Costa Rica. Tickets for boat transportation can be purchased online or at the port’s ticket counter (highly recommended to purchase them online before your trip).

Driving is a highly convenient way to explore Costa Rica providing you with the freedom to go at your own pace. Road conditions vary throughout the country and if you are thoroughly exploring Costa Rica, it is likely you will encounter river crossings. It is worth noting that water damage to rental cars is not covered under any insurance in Costa Rica. Foreign drivers need a valid driver’s license and a passport with a valid tourist visa to be eligible to drive in the country. The legal driving age in Costa Rica is 18 and the age for car hire varies by company but is often between 21-23 years of age. Car hire is available at both international airports and is easily found in major cities. All road signs are in Spanish and it is best to familiarize yourself with road signs and traffic rules prior to driving in Costa Rica. If you are looking to rent a car in Costa Rica you can check availability here.

Cycling is growing at a rapid rate in Costa Rica and many visitors choose to explore Costa Rica on two wheels. The country has some of the most exciting and beautiful cycling routes in the region and is becoming one of Central America’s most popular tourist destinations for cyclists.