Transportation in Costa Rica
Your complete guide to buses, taxis, domestic flights, driving laws, and getting around as an expat living in Costa Rica.
Quick Guide to Transportation in Costa Rica
Everything a foreigner needs to know about getting around Costa Rica — buses, taxis, ferries, flights & more.
Ground Transportation
The most common way to explore Costa Rica — buses, taxis, trains, rentals, shuttles & ride-apps.
The most economical and common option for travel.
- DescriptionExtensive network connecting most cities, towns, and even rural areas.
- TypesUrban (within cities) and intercity (between destinations).
- PaymentCash accepted. SINPE-TP (card/phone) works on most GAM routes and is expanding nationwide.
- TipsSchedules can be flexible. Ask locals for directions — route signage can be limited.
Readily available in urban and tourist areas.
- TypesOfficial red taxis with a taximeter, and informal taxis (use with caution).
- Key TipAlways insist on the taximeter being used. Verify the driver's ID for safety.
Passenger train service in the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM).
- CoverageConnects San José with nearby cities — useful alternative to avoid traffic.
- PaymentPrimarily SINPE-TP (contactless card/phone) since 2025. Cash also accepted at stations.
- NoteSpecific routes and schedules — check INCOFER's site for current timetables.
Independence and freedom to explore at your own pace.
- RequirementsValid driver's license, credit card, and minimum age requirement.
- Road TipA 4x4 is recommended for rural areas. Use Waze for navigation — it's essential.
Convenient door-to-door transport between hotels and tourist destinations.
- TypesShared (more economical) or private (greater flexibility).
- Key TipBook in advance — especially during high season.
Available mainly in the GAM and key tourist areas.
- PricingFares are pre-set in the app. On inDrive, you can negotiate the fare directly.
- SafetyAlways verify the driver's ID and license plate before getting in.
Water Transportation
Ferries, water taxis, boat tours and cruises connecting islands, peninsulas, and coastal destinations.
- Main RoutePuntarenas → Nicoya Peninsula (Paquera & Naranjo terminals).
- TipCheck schedules in advance. Arrive early — especially with a vehicle.
- Common RoutesTortuguero (Caribbean coast), remote beaches on the Osa Peninsula.
- NotePrices can vary and are often negotiated. Safety is paramount.
- ActivitiesWhale & dolphin watching, snorkeling, diving, river tours.
- WherePacific and Caribbean coastal areas.
- TipChoose reputable tour operators with adequate safety measures.
- PortsLimón (Caribbean) and Puntarenas / Caldera (Pacific).
- NoteFor tourists on multi-destination cruises with limited time in port.
Air Transportation
International airports, domestic flights, and charter aviation across Costa Rica.
- AirportsJuan Santamaría (SJO) near San José · Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR) in Liberia, Guanacaste.
- AirlinesWide variety of international airlines operate at both airports.
- AirlinesPrimarily Sansa Airlines and private charter services.
- DestinationsDrake Bay, Tortuguero, La Fortuna, Tamarindo, and more.
- AdvantagesSignificant time savings vs. ground transport.
- CautionMore expensive, stricter luggage limits, susceptible to weather delays.
- DescriptionPrivate flights and air taxis for personalized transfers.
- UsageExclusive tourism and airstrips not served by regular flights.
Alternative Transportation
Bikes, motorcycles, horses, and more — especially in rural and coastal areas.
Popular in flat coastal and rural areas. Some cities are developing cycling infrastructure.
Agile and economical. Widely used for commuting in urban areas and small towns.
Modified 4x4 vehicles used in mountainous rural areas with unpaved or poorly maintained roads.
Used in rural areas for tourism (horseback riding) and in some cases for personal or cargo transport in areas with difficult access.
Laws, Regulations & Tips
Essential knowledge for foreigners: driving licenses, road rules, safety, and payment methods.
- TouristsCan drive with a valid foreign license for up to 90 days.
- ResidentsMust obtain a Costa Rican driver's license after obtaining residency.
- DocumentsAlways carry your passport/DIMEX and license while driving.
- Drive SideRight-hand traffic (same as USA, most of Europe).
- SeatbeltsMandatory for all passengers. Child seats required for children under 12.
- Speed Limits60 km/h in cities · 80 km/h secondary roads · 100–120 km/h highways.
- AlcoholLegal limit: 0.5 g/L blood alcohol. DUI penalties are severe.
- Cell PhoneProhibited while driving unless using hands-free.
- At NightAvoid driving on unfamiliar rural roads at night — limited lighting and road hazards.
- ParkingUse guarded lots (parqueos) when possible. Do not leave valuables visible.
- Rain SeasonMay–Nov: roads can flood. Check conditions before long trips. 4x4 strongly recommended.
- What is it?Costa Rica's national contactless payment system for public transport.
- WhereBuses (most GAM routes), INCOFER train (fully since 2025), expanding nationally.
- HowTap your contactless debit/credit card or phone at the reader. Cash still accepted.
Ground Transportation
In Costa Rica, ground transportation is the most common way to get around and explore the country. It offers a variety of options, from public buses to private vehicles, connecting cities, towns, and rural areas.
Buses (Public and Private)
- Description: The bus network is extensive and connects most cities, towns, and even rural areas.
- Types: Urban (within cities) and intercity (between destinations).
- Payment: Cash accepted. SINPE-TP (card/phone) works on most GAM routes and is expanding nationwide.
Taxis
- Types: Official (red with a meter) and informal (use with caution).
- Considerations: Insist on the meter being used. For safety, verify the driver's identification.
Red = official taxi. If it's not red, negotiate the fare upfront and always verify ID before getting in.
Train (INCOFER)
- Description: Connects San José with nearby cities in the GAM — a useful alternative to avoid traffic.
- Payment: Primarily via SINPE-TP (fully implemented since 2025). Cash also accepted at stations.
Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber, DiDi, inDrive)
- Coverage: Primarily available in the GAM and key tourist areas.
- Tip: Fares are pre-set in the app (on inDrive, you can negotiate). Always verify driver ID before boarding.
For rural areas, a 4x4 rental is strongly recommended. Download Waze before driving — it's the most reliable navigation tool in Costa Rica.
Water Transportation
Water transportation is crucial for connecting certain regions, especially islands and coastal areas, and is heavily used for tourism.
Passenger and Vehicle Ferries
- Main Route: Puntarenas → Nicoya Peninsula (Paquera and Naranjo terminals).
- Tip: Check schedules in advance and arrive early — especially with a vehicle.
Passenger Launches (Water Taxis)
- Common Routes: Tortuguero (Caribbean coast), remote beaches on the Osa Peninsula.
- Note: Prices can vary and are often negotiated. Safety is paramount.
Boat Tours, Excursions and Cruises
- Activities: Whale & dolphin watching, snorkeling, diving, and river tours.
- Cruise Ports: Limón (Caribbean) and Puntarenas/Caldera (Pacific).
- Tip: Always choose reputable tour operators with adequate safety measures.
Air Transportation
Air transportation plays a significant role in connecting Costa Rica with the world and with remote domestic regions, saving a great deal of travel time.
International Flights
- Main Airports: Juan Santamaría (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR) in Liberia, Guanacaste.
- Airlines: A wide variety of international airlines operate at both airports.
Domestic Flights
- Airlines: Primarily Sansa Airlines and private charter services.
- Destinations: Drake Bay, Tortuguero, La Fortuna, Tamarindo, and more.
- Advantages: Significant time savings vs. ground transport.
- Considerations: More expensive, stricter luggage limits, susceptible to weather delays.
Charter & General Aviation
- Description: Private flights and air taxis for personalized transfers.
- Usage: Exclusive tourism and airstrips not served by regular flights.
Other Types of Transportation
Beyond the major categories, other forms of transportation are common in Costa Rica, especially in rural and urban areas for local commuting and recreation.
Private Shuttles
Shared or private vans that offer direct transportation between hotels and major tourist destinations. Book in advance, especially during high season.
Bicycles and Motorcycles
- Bicycles: Popular in flat coastal and rural areas. Some cities are developing cycling infrastructure.
- Motorcycles & Scooters: Agile and economical, widely used for commuting in urban areas and small towns.
Mountain Buses, Tractors, and Horses
- Mountain Buses (Adapted 4x4s): Modified 4x4 vehicles for mountainous rural areas with unpaved or poorly maintained roads.
- Tractors and Carts: Still seen in some rural communities for agricultural work and short local transfers.
- Horses: Used in rural areas for tourism (horseback riding) and personal or cargo transport in areas with difficult access.
Driver's Licenses for Foreign Residents
Validity of Foreign Licenses
- Tourists: Valid for the full duration of your legal stay — up to 90 days, or 180 days if your visa allows it. Keep your passport with the entry stamp available.
- Residents / Pending DIMEX: May drive legally with their foreign license while the homologation process is completed. The 90-day waiting period has been eliminated (MOPT, 2026).
- Obligation to Homologate: Once you obtain your DIMEX, proceed with the homologation. There is no automatic permanent extension.
Requirements for Exchange (Homologation)
- Original and valid foreign license (not expired).
- Certificate of Authenticity from your country's traffic authority — apostilled and officially translated into Spanish.
- Original Passport and Copy (plus DIMEX if you have it).
- Digital Medical Certificate issued by a doctor authorized by the MOPT.
- No Theoretical Exam required for B-category licenses (B-1, B-2, B-3).
- Payment: ₡6,000 total (₡4,000 processing fee + ₡2,000 BCR commission). Paid when picking up your license at the BCR.
Schedule your appointment at the DGEV through the SAC system at servicios.educacionvial.go.cr. Slots open during the last 5 business days of each month and fill up quickly. Pick up your license at the BCR — initial validity is 3 years.
Vehicle Registration
Registering a vehicle in Costa Rica is a key step for any foreign resident who owns or plans to own a car, motorcycle, or other vehicle.
New Vehicle (Locally Purchased)
- Dealer Procedures: The dealer registers the vehicle for the first time under the buyer's name at the National Registry.
- Document Delivery: You will receive the Tarjeta de Propiedad and Certificado de Inscripción. Review your information carefully.
Used Vehicle
- Transfer of Ownership: Managed through a lawyer or authorized agent (gestor) in the National Registry.
- Current RTV Required: The vehicle must have a valid technical inspection to complete the transfer.
- Free of Liens: Verify no outstanding debts (liens, fines) before signing.
Imported Vehicles
- Customs Broker: Highly recommended to assist with tariff classification and tax payments.
- Import Taxes: Subject to IVA, selective consumption tax, and tariffs. Costs can be significant.
- Age Restrictions: Costa Rica has restrictions on the age of vehicles that can be imported.
For both local purchases and imports, seek advice from a lawyer or agent (gestor) experienced in vehicle procedures to avoid costly mistakes.
El Marchamo and the RTV (DEKRA)
El Marchamo (Circulation Right)
- What is it? Annual tax all motor vehicle owners must pay. Indispensable to drive legally.
- Payment Period: Early November to December 31. From 2026, penalties apply from January 1 — no grace period.
- Where to pay: Banking institutions, online at marchamo.ins-cr.com, or via WhatsApp to 2287-6100, option 4. RTV must be current first.
- Late penalties: ~₡60,831 per month of delay plus inability to perform vehicle procedures and risk of vehicle retention.
Vehicle Technical Inspection (RTV) — Operated by DEKRA
- What is it? Mandatory inspection to verify minimum safety and emissions standards. Formerly known as 'RITEVE' — now exclusively operated by DEKRA.
- Frequency: New vehicles: exempt for first 3 years, then every 2 years. Vehicles over 6 years: annual.
- Where: Appointments exclusively through DEKRA Costa Rica's official website or call center.
- Inspected items: Brakes, steering, suspension, lights, tires, emissions, seatbelts, windshield, body, and mandatory equipment.
In 2025, RTV inspection fees were reduced by 5% to 53% depending on vehicle category (Resolution RE-0006-IT-2025). Always schedule through DEKRA — do not use old RITEVE links or phone numbers.
Roads, Speed Limits & Useful Resources
Types of Public Roads
- National Routes (RN): Primary highways, one or two-digit numbers (e.g., RN 1, RN 27, RN 32).
- Secondary Routes: Three-digit numbers. Quality varies from paved to gravel (lastre).
- Toll Highways: RN 27 San José–Caldera. As of January 1, 2026: Escazú ₡420, Atenas ₡830.
Speed Limits
- Urban Areas: Maximum 40 km/h. Near schools/hospitals: 25–30 km/h.
- National & Secondary Highways: 80 km/h general maximum. Two or more lanes may allow 90–100 km/h.
- Toll Highways: 80–100 km/h — always follow posted signs.
Essential Apps & Resources
- Waze: The #1 navigation app in Costa Rica — real-time traffic, police, and alternative routes.
- SINPE-TP Pasajero app: Register cards, review trip history, and check balance for public transport payment.
- INCOFER website: Official train routes, schedules, and fares in the GAM.
- DEKRA Costa Rica website: Schedule your RTV appointment exclusively here.
- Naviera Tambor: Ferry schedules and tickets between Puntarenas and the Nicoya Peninsula.
Expat groups on Facebook and forums dedicated to life in Costa Rica are an excellent source of firsthand transportation information. Don't hesitate to ask locals — they often have the most up-to-date knowledge.
Transport Updates 2026
Latest news on air, ground, rail, and maritime transport in Costa Rica — Click the + sign to expand each update
Air Updates
Spirit Airlines — All Flights to Costa Rica Cancelled (May 2, 2026)
Spirit Airlines permanently ceased all operations on May 2, 2026, cancelling every flight to and from Costa Rica with immediate effect. AERIS (Juan Santamaría Airport) confirmed the closure and advised passengers not to go to the airport.
What this means for expats:
- Spirit operated SJO–Orlando daily and SJO–Fort Lauderdale 3x/week — both routes are now gone.
- Refunds are processed automatically to the original credit/debit card. If you booked through a travel agency, contact them directly.
- Tickets paid with credits, vouchers or Free Spirit points will be resolved within the bankruptcy process.
- American Airlines and United Airlines announced rescue fares on Spirit's former routes. Avianca offered free return flights for passengers already on their outbound leg.
- Industry experts warn that Spirit's exit will push airfares higher on Florida–Costa Rica routes due to reduced competition.
Source: El Financiero CR, May 2, 2026 · La Nación, May 2, 2026 · The Tico Times
Volaris — All Central American Routes Suspended (Apr 12, 2026)
Volaris has indefinitely suspended all direct routes within Central America as of April 12, 2026, affecting connections between Costa Rica and Guatemala City, San Salvador, Tegucigalpa, and Miami. The airline cited high taxes on airline tickets (up to 57–70% of the final price) and fleet optimization due to Pratt & Whitney engine recalls as the primary reasons.
What this means for expats:
- No more direct budget flights from SJO to Guatemala City, San Salvador, or Tegucigalpa. Travelers must now connect through Panama City or Mexico City.
- The SJO–Miami route (launched mid-2025) was also cancelled — reducing low-cost options to South Florida.
- Combined with Spirit's closure (May 2), two budget airlines have now exited Costa Rica in 2026, likely pushing regional fares higher.
- Volaris continues operating routes to Mexico City, Cancún, Guadalajara, and Orlando — these are unaffected.
- Passengers with bookings after April 12 should contact Volaris for refunds or rebooking.
Source: The Tico Times, February 19, 2026 · Infobae, February 20, 2026 · AM Prensa, April 12, 2026
Porter Airlines — Toronto to San José (4x/week from Dec 2, 2026)
Porter Airlines announced a new direct seasonal route between Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and Juan Santamaría (SJO), starting December 2, 2026 and running through April 30, 2027. This is Costa Rica's second nonstop link with Canada's largest city.
Why this matters for expats & Canadian residents:
- Canada is Costa Rica's second-largest source of tourists — 146,841 Canadian visitors arrived by air in Q1 2026 alone, up 27.5% year-over-year.
- Travelers from Ontario and eastern Canada can now fly direct to the Central Valley — no connection through Liberia or a U.S. hub needed.
- Porter adds a 4th direct option from Toronto alongside Air Canada, WestJet and Copa — likely putting downward pressure on fares during peak winter season.
- Aircraft: Embraer E195-E2, 132 seats, no middle seats, free Wi-Fi, complimentary beer and wine.
- Porter already flies Toronto and Ottawa to Liberia (LIR) year-round after strong demand pushed frequencies from 2 to 6 flights/week.
Flight details:
- Route: Toronto Pearson (YYZ) → Juan Santamaría (SJO)
- Frequency: 4 flights per week | Season: Dec 2, 2026 – Apr 30, 2027
Source: The Tico Times, May 3, 2026 · La Nación, April 30, 2026
Southwest Airlines — Las Vegas - San José (Daily from Oct 1, 2026)
Southwest Airlines has announced its first-ever daily nonstop flight between Las Vegas (LAS) and San José, Costa Rica (SJO), starting October 1, 2026. This is also the airline's first international red-eye flight — a major milestone for Southwest.
Why this matters for expats & West Coast residents:
- Travelers from California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah and surrounding states no longer need to connect through Miami or Houston.
- Las Vegas becomes a direct western gateway to Costa Rica.
- For Ticos living in the western U.S., a direct route home is now available.
- Two free checked bags included — Southwest's signature policy.
- New assigned seating available as part of Southwest 2.0 (launched January 2026).
Flight details:
- Departs Las Vegas (LAS): 11:20 PM → Arrives SJO: 6:00 AM (+1 day)
- Departs San José (SJO): 12:15 PM → Arrives Las Vegas: 5:05 PM
- Aircraft: Boeing 737-700 | Frequency: Daily (7 days a week)
- Southwest marks 10+ uninterrupted years of service to Costa Rica.
Source: The Tico Times, February 12, 2026 · AeroRoutes · Observador CR
Breeze Airways — Tampa - San José (Nonstop from Oct 3, 2026)
Breeze Airways has announced the first direct nonstop flight between Tampa, Florida (TPA) and San José, Costa Rica (SJO) in over 25 years, starting October 3, 2026. Fares start from $129* one way.
Why this matters for expats & Florida residents:
- First Tampa–San José nonstop in more than 25 years.
- Affordable premium product — no change or cancel fees.
- Free family seating, fast onboard WiFi, and preferred seat options included.
- Flies on a brand-new Airbus A220-300 — one of the most modern and fuel-efficient aircraft in the world.
- Ideal for expats in Florida, Georgia, and the Southeast U.S.
Flight details:
- Departs Tampa (TPA): 6:40 AM → Arrives SJO: 7:55 AM
- Departs San José (SJO): 8:55 AM → Arrives Tampa (TPA)
- Frequency: Wednesdays and Saturdays starting October 3, 2026
- Breeze is named Best Major Airline in North America by APEX (2025) and one of Fast Company's World's Most Innovative Companies 2025.
*$129 No Flex Fare promotion available only when booking March 17–23, 2026, for travel Oct 3, 2026 – Jan 12, 2027 (Wednesdays only). Taxes and fees included. Subject to change.
Source: Breeze Airways Official Press Release, March 17, 2026
Ground & Rail Updates
Costa Rica Surpasses 2 Million Vehicles — Congestion at Record Levels (2026)
Costa Rica's vehicle fleet reached 2,087,356 insured units at the close of 2025, an increase of 174,000 vehicles (+9.1%) over the previous year. The fleet has tripled in the last 25 years, from 632,000 in 2000, and now grows six times faster than the population.
What this means for expats:
- Over 470 new vehicles per day hit Costa Rican roads — commute times in the GAM continue to worsen.
- Cars alone surpassed 1.25 million (up 80,897 from 2024). If growth continues at 9% annually, Costa Rica would reach one vehicle per person by 2036.
- Plan your daily routes carefully. Waze is essential for real-time traffic. Consider living near your workplace or along INCOFER train lines.
Source: La Nación, March 12, 2026 · The Tico Times, February 18, 2026
107 Bus Routes Abandoned — 23 Communities Completely Cut Off (2026)
Costa Rica's public bus system is in crisis. Over 100 routes have been abandoned in the last decade, and the number of operators fell from 240 (2018) to 182 (2025). The bus fleet lost 42% of its passengers in that same period, according to the Estado de la Nación 2025 report.
Key facts:
- 107 routes abandoned out of ~500 total. 95% are in rural areas — Huetar Norte, Chorotega, Brunca, and Huetar Atlántica are hardest hit.
- 23 routes have no alternative service at all — leaving vulnerable communities effectively stranded (ARESEP study, February 2026).
- Main causes: tariffs unchanged for 15+ years, pandemic-era demand collapse, and poor road conditions in rural areas.
- Bill 25.404 proposes the State assume operation of abandoned routes. MOPT is also working on a new tariff model with ARESEP.
Source: La Nación, March 14, 2026 · ARESEP Study, February 6, 2026 · La Nación Editorial, April 17, 2026
Self-Drive Tourism Surges as Electric Vehicle Rentals Boom (2026)
Self-drive tourism is outpacing organized tours in Costa Rica, fueled by a rapid expansion of electric vehicle fleets at rental counters. Peak occupancy on rental vehicles now exceeds 85%, matching or surpassing every other market in Latin America.
Why this matters for expats:
- Rental fleets now include BYD Yuan Plus, Geometry C, MG ZS EV, and Volvo EX30 electric SUVs — many with AWD for volcano and back-country access.
- Costa Rica leads Latin America in EV adoption for the third consecutive year, with EVs claiming over 25% of new registrations in late 2025. The country has ~29,000 registered EVs and 70+ fast-charging stations.
- With 94% of electricity from renewable sources, driving an EV in Costa Rica is genuinely sustainable — a unique advantage vs. other destinations.
- DiDi also launched an EV leasing program for drivers in partnership with EVFlit, accelerating fleet electrification in ride-hailing.
Source: Breaking Travel News, April 27, 2026 · TicosLandia, October 2025
Electric Passenger Train & Freight Rail Advance Toward Construction (2026)
Two major rail projects are moving forward in 2026, marking the most significant advancement in Costa Rica's railway infrastructure in decades.
1. GAM Electric Passenger Train ($800 million):
- Fully financed by BCIE ($550M), European Investment Bank ($250M), and Green Climate Fund ($21M donation). Approved in first legislative debate on April 21, 2026.
- 51 km double track: Paraíso (Cartago) → San José → Alajuela. 30 stations, 28 new electric units, frequencies every 10 minutes.
- Expected to benefit 100,000+ daily users and reduce 6.54 million tCO₂ emissions. Construction could begin in 2027.
2. Tren Huetar Atlántico (Freight — Moín to San Carlos):
- Hybrid diesel-electric freight train connecting Moín (Limón) with Muelle de San Carlos (~260 km). Would rehabilitate 180 km of existing track and build 80 km of new line.
- Estimated cost: $820 million. Would decongest Route 32 and boost economic development in the Northern and Caribbean regions.
- INCOFER was reconfirmed under the new administration (May 2026) with rail projects as a top priority.
Source: INCOFER Official, September 26, 2025 · El Observador, May 6, 2026 · La República, July 2024
Maritime Updates
Ferry Puntarenas–Paquera: New Schedule in Effect Since April 20, 2026
Naviera Tambor has updated its ferry schedule between Puntarenas and Paquera effective April 20, 2026. The new timetable maintains 8 daily departures in each direction, running from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Current schedule (both directions):
- Departures: 4:00 AM, 6:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM, 10:00 PM
- Crossing time: approximately 70 minutes. Arrive at least 45 minutes early, especially with a vehicle.
- The Ferry Tambor 4 (launched October 2024) now operates alongside the Tambor 2, increasing capacity and reliability.
Source: Naviera Tambor Official Schedule
Tortuguero & Coastal Water Taxi Access — Rain Season Precautions (May–Nov 2026)
With the rainy season (May–November) underway, water taxi services to Tortuguero and other remote coastal destinations may face schedule changes due to river level fluctuations and weather conditions on the northern Caribbean canals.
Advice for expats:
- Tortuguero: The main boat services operate from La Pavona (Cariari) and Moín. During heavy rains, transit times can increase and departures may be suspended temporarily.
- Osa Peninsula: Water taxis to remote beaches (Drake Bay, Sirena) are also weather-dependent. Always confirm with your lodge or operator before departure.
- Always wear a life jacket, carry waterproof bags for electronics, and book through reputable operators with adequate safety equipment.