Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
If you are driving and see oncoming cars with headlights flashing, it often means that
there is a road problem or a radar speed trap ahead. Slow down immediately.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is never entirely safe in any country and Lonely Planet doesn't recommend it.
Travelers who hitchhike should understand that they are taking a small but potentially seri-
ous risk. People who do hitchhike will be safer if they travel in pairs and let someone know
where they are planning to go. Solo women should use even greater caution.
Hitchhiking in Costa Rica is unusual on main roads that have frequent buses. On minor
rural roads, hitchhiking is more common. To get picked up, most locals wave down passing
cars. If you get a ride, offer to pay when you arrive by saying
'¿Cuánto le debo?'
(How
much do I owe you?). Your offer may be waved aside, or you may be asked to help with
money for gas.
USING TAXIS IN REMOTE AREAS
Taxis are considered a form of public transportation in remote areas. They can be hired
by the hour, half-day or full day, or you can arrange a flat fee for a trip. Meters are not
used on long trips, so arrange the fare ahead of time. Fares can fluctuate due to worse-
than-expected road conditions and bad weather in tough-to-reach places.
The condition of taxis varies from basic sedans held together by rust to fully equipped
4WDs with air-con. In some cases, taxis are pick-up trucks with seats built into the back.
Most towns will have at least one licensed taxi, but in some remote villages you may have
to get rides from whomever is offering - ask atpulperías(corner stores).
Local Transportation
Bus
Local buses operate chiefly in San José, Puntarenas, San Isidro de El General, Golfito and
Puerto Limón, connecting urban and suburban areas. Most local buses pick up passengers
on the street and on main roads. For years, these buses were converted school buses im-
ported from the USA, but they have slowly been upgraded and now include coaches.
