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Roads
Roads in Costa Rica
When you drive in Costa Rica.
The Highway system in the capital city of San Jose is comprised of modern multi-lane freeways that look very much like freeways in other large cities around the world.
You will find the rules of the road are similar, but you may find driving etiquette to be somewhat different. For instance, merging and changing lanes are often accompanied by a quick honk of the horn. It is like saying "Yoo-Hoo, I'm here !" You will hear beep beep quite often. It appears to be an extension of the locals voice.
By far, the majority of roads in Costa Rica are rural dirt roads. Dirt roads are dirt, which becomes mud in the rainy season. While you are driving in Costa Rica, the best way to make sure of the road conditions along the route you intend to travel is to stop often and ask the locals for information on whether the road has problems or is passable with 4WD.
During the dry season, road conditions are generally pretty good, with creeks and rivers dry or low. But during the rainy season, flash floods have been known to wash out entire roads and bridges, and usually without any warning signs. So stop often to inquire about road conditions ahead, keep a full tank of gas, and be sure to rent a 4WD.
Driving defensively takes on a whole new meaning in Costa Rica. Some of the standard driving courtesies you normally expect from drivers are often absent. Double yellow lines, although mean do not pass, are often ignored. Use caution when driving around curves, up hills and in general always expect that the other motorist may not have the experience level you are accustomed to.
When you drive in Costa Rica.
The Highway system in the capital city of San Jose is comprised of modern multi-lane freeways that look very much like freeways in other large cities around the world.
You will find the rules of the road are similar, but you may find driving etiquette to be somewhat different. For instance, merging and changing lanes are often accompanied by a quick honk of the horn. It is like saying "Yoo-Hoo, I'm here !" You will hear beep beep quite often. It appears to be an extension of the locals voice.
By far, the majority of roads in Costa Rica are rural dirt roads. Dirt roads are dirt, which becomes mud in the rainy season. While you are driving in Costa Rica, the best way to make sure of the road conditions along the route you intend to travel is to stop often and ask the locals for information on whether the road has problems or is passable with 4WD.
During the dry season, road conditions are generally pretty good, with creeks and rivers dry or low. But during the rainy season, flash floods have been known to wash out entire roads and bridges, and usually without any warning signs. So stop often to inquire about road conditions ahead, keep a full tank of gas, and be sure to rent a 4WD.
Driving defensively takes on a whole new meaning in Costa Rica. Some of the standard driving courtesies you normally expect from drivers are often absent. Double yellow lines, although mean do not pass, are often ignored. Use caution when driving around curves, up hills and in general always expect that the other motorist may not have the experience level you are accustomed to.
