5 Common Mistakes Tourists Make When Getting Around Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that attracts millions of visitors every year. However, getting around the country can be challenging if you don't know the particularities of local transportation. After years of helping travelers explore this beautiful country, we've identified the most common mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Underestimating Distances and Travel Times

Costa Rica may look small on a map, but mountain roads, unpaved paths, and weather conditions can make a 150 km trip take over 4 hours. Google Maps often shows shorter times that don't account for real driving conditions.

• San Jose to La Fortuna: 3-3.5 hours (not 2 as Google Maps suggests)
• San Jose to Manuel Antonio: 3-3.5 hours under normal conditions
• La Fortuna to Monteverde: 3 hours by road
• Liberia to Tamarindo: 1.5 hours, longer during high season

This is why many travelers prefer to let an experienced local driver handle the journey—someone who knows the roads, the shortcuts, and can get you there safely while you enjoy the scenery.

2. Renting a Car Without Knowing What to Expect

Many tourists rent a vehicle thinking it will be economical and flexible. But they often don't anticipate: unpaved roads requiring 4x4, poor signage, expensive mandatory insurance, the stress of driving in unfamiliar mountain terrain, and difficulty finding safe parking.

For travelers who want to relax and truly enjoy their vacation—especially after a long flight—having someone else handle the driving makes a significant difference. You arrive refreshed and ready to explore, not exhausted from navigating unfamiliar roads.

3. Relying Only on Public Transportation

Public buses in Costa Rica are economical but come with significant limitations: restricted schedules, routes that don't directly connect tourist destinations, multiple transfers, and no service to remote hotels or lodges.

• Buses don't reach many hotels or lodges
• No night service on most routes
• Large luggage can be problematic
• Connections often require going through San Jose

For families with children or groups with luggage, public transport can turn a vacation into an exhausting logistics exercise. Door-to-door service eliminates these headaches entirely.

4. Not Booking Transportation in Advance

During high season (December-April), waiting until arrival to organize transportation often means limited options or inflated prices. This is especially true for flights arriving late at night, when public transportation isn't available.

Pro tip: Book your airport transfer before you arrive. Having someone waiting for you with your name on a sign after a long flight is priceless—you can head straight to your destination without any stress.

5. Choosing Price Over Experience

The cheapest option isn't always the best value. Unregulated services, inexperienced drivers, or uncomfortable vehicles can turn your transfer into a stressful experience. What you save in dollars, you often pay in comfort and peace of mind.

A professional transportation service with licensed drivers, comfortable vehicles, and local knowledge transforms a simple transfer into part of your Costa Rica experience. Many travelers tell us the drive itself—with stunning views and insider tips from the driver—becomes a highlight of their trip.