|
Driving in Costa Rica
 Costa Rica is a beautiful place to visit,
nature everywhere, breathtaking landscapes, wild life and stoning vegetation to
appreciate all over, but there are important things that you have to know about
driving in Costa Rica, Believe us, is an adventure and the roads are not the
best ones, that’s why we prepare this special page for your knowledge and
security.
For us is important that you have a great
time in our country, so please read carefully to avoid any bad moment.
- We do not recommend renting a car during the
time you are in San José. That means if you arrive in Costa Rica late time
around 4 pm, we recommend to stay the first night in a hotel close to the
airport, why? Traffic and parking can be difficult and finding your way around
is almost impossible as most buildings don't have addresses. We suggest you
pick up your rental car (or have it delivered) on the day you will be leaving
San José for your next destination, so you save 1 day rent and also you can
rest from your flight trip. Driving outside of San José is considerably less
problematic.
- Driving at
night is not recommended—Unless you know well the country it is dangerous
because of the high percentage of other drivers who have been drinking,
the inability to see potholes in the dark, precipitous drop-offs without
guardrails, and because you will miss all of the scenery. After arriving
in Costa Rica you may be tired and the lack of signs especially on rustic
roads can be a headachy.
- Driving on beaches is strictly prohibited
everywhere, except when there is no other path between two towns.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or
drugs is strictly prohibited. The law enables police officers to perform
alcohol test on drivers. Also the police can take away your car and license.
- Be particularly careful of motorcycles. They obey NO
rules and can come out of nowhere.
- People and animals use or cross the highways everywhere; even where
the speed limit is 80 kilometers/hour, pedestrians, bus riders, cyclists are to
be found on the highways. The highways around San Jose are notorious for people
crossing the road anywhere.
- Always carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in
the safety deposit box of your hotel, along with money, jewelry and
valuable objects.
- If you are lost and in need of checking your map, look for
public and safe place to do it, or recur to the police authorities for
help.
- While driving or parking car, lock the doors and keep the
windows closed. Do not leave your personal belongings inside the vehicle.
- If you get a flat tire, if you are suspiciously warned of a
damage, if you are suspiciously hit from behind or if you are being
followed while driving, do not stop and immediately look for the closer
gas station or police or dial 911 when possible.
- Avoid stopping when a stranger asks you for a ride.
- If you are involved in an accident, always wait
until a police officer arrives. Do not move your vehicle. The officer will
prepare a report. You may also report the accident by calling 9111 or your car rental
emergency number (on the contract).
- Do not drive through or park your car in poorly
lit areas. Never leave your car on the street; always park it in a safe parking
lot. Do not leave any belongings in the car where they might be spotted by
passersby.
- Drive slowly and be alert, enjoy the landscapes and if you stop
for a picture, buy souvenirs or any reason be sure to close your car
doors.
- Having a GPS is a good idea to travel in Costa Rica. Rent it
from $8.00 to $10.00.
Have a great trip and come back soon. |
