How to choose between two international airports, what to watch out for when renting a car, and how to get around rainforest areas — all explained in one guide.
Arrival and Airport Transfers
| Airport | Location and Getting into Town | Time/Price |
|---|
| Juan Santamaría (SJO) | Located in Alajuela, take a taxi or airport shuttle to San José | About 20–40 minutes, taxi fare around 8,000–15,000 colones |
| Daniel Oduber (LIR) | Located in Liberia, close to Pacific Coast resort areas | About 20–40 minutes, ideal for direct access to beaches |
For destinations like Arenal Volcano and Monteverde, it’s recommended to book a shuttle or rent a car in advance. To reach Tortuguero on the Caribbean side, most travelers need to go to a designated dock first and then take a boat.
Getting Around in Cities
- Taxis: Licensed taxis are red, have meters and license plate numbers. Fares may be higher at night or during rainy weather.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Available in the capital and larger cities, but restricted at airports and some scenic spots. You must pick up rides in designated areas.
- Public Buses: Cheap fares but with limited schedules and average comfort. Suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
Car Rental and Driving
- It’s recommended to rent a 4×4 vehicle due to challenging road conditions in mountains, on gravel roads, and during the rainy season.
- You’ll need a valid driver’s license. Traffic drives on the right. Some rental companies require an international driving permit or a translated license.
- GPS signals may be unreliable in mountainous areas. It’s advisable to download offline maps in advance.
- Fueling is often done manually. Be sure to distinguish between gasoline and diesel, and confirm the fuel type with the rental company.
Inter-City and Scenic Area Transfers
- Shuttles: Door-to-door service, suitable for travelers who prefer not to drive. Book in advance.
- Domestic Small Planes: Connect San José, Liberia, and coastal towns, significantly reducing long-distance travel time.
- Public Long-Distance Buses: Cover major towns, with low prices but long travel times and transfers required at hubs.
- Jungle and island trips often include guides and transport. Please confirm whether pickup and drop-off services are included when booking.