How to get around Costa Rica
Navigating Costa Rica is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
Traveling between cities in Costa Rica offers several options based on budget and preference. Public buses are the most economical choice, with long journeys typically costing between $5 and $15 USD. While affordable, these buses often involve multiple stops and longer travel times due to indirect routes.
Shared shuttles provide a mid-range alternative, offering hotel-to-hotel service in air-conditioned minibuses. These typically cost $50 to $88 USD per person for major routes like San Jose to La Fortuna.
Private transfers offer the most comfort and flexibility, with direct, customized routes. Prices for private transfers vary significantly, from approximately $70-$320 USD or more per trip, depending on distance and vehicle type.
For quicker travel over long distances, domestic flights are available. One-way fares can range from $40 to $180 USD, and flight times are generally under an hour. Rental cars provide maximum flexibility, with daily rates for a small SUV with insurance around $35-$55 USD.
Travel Within Cities
Within cities, local public buses are the most budget-friendly option, with fares typically ranging from $0.30 to $3 USD. These buses run frequently, often every 15 to 30 minutes in larger areas.
Official red taxis with yellow triangles are readily available and operate using meters. Prices for taxis start around $1.50 USD, with an additional $1.50-$1.84 USD per mile.
Rideshare applications like Uber, Didi, and InDriver are also commonly used, especially in major cities such as San Jose. Uber is widely available, Didi can be a cheaper alternative, and InDriver allows users to propose their own fares.
