Driving in Costa Rica: Understanding Local Road Rules

In this post, we'll cover everything from speed limits to roundabout etiquette to ensure you're well-prepared for your Costa Rican driving experience.

Hola, FlynCar amigos! Buckle up, as we're about to embark on a journey to the tropical paradise known as Costa Rica. Renting a car and exploring the lush jungles, pristine beaches, and active volcanoes is an epic adventure you won't want to miss. But let's not dive into the wild without knowing the local road rules first, shall we?

Driving in Costa Rica is like dancing salsa - vibrant, thrilling, but it requires certain steps and rhythm to get it right!

License to Drive:

Don't worry, you won't need to take a driving test amidst the capuchin monkeys and toucans! All you need is your valid foreign driver's license, a passport, and, of course, a sense of adventure.

Stay Right:

Just like salsa, the basic step of Costa Rican driving is simple - stick to the right. Remember, cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. If you're used to left-side driving, it might feel like dancing on your non-dominant foot at first, but you'll get the hang of it!

Speed Matters:

Don't let the pura vida lifestyle fool you. Costa Rica might be laid back, but they take their speed limits seriously. Stick to the 40-60km/h (25-37mph) limit in urban areas and 80-100km/h (50-62mph) on highways. Keep your eyes peeled for posted signs as they can vary.

Off-roading:

Costa Rica's beauty often lies off the beaten path. Whether it's the rugged terrain to reach a secluded beach or the bumpy road leading to a hidden waterfall, you'll find yourself off-roading. Fear not! With FlynCar, you can filter and select the perfect 4x4 to handle your adventure.

Mandatory Insurance:

Every vehicle in Costa Rica needs mandatory liability insurance, known as "Marchamo". On FlynCar we check every car to be sure they are in order.

Watch out for Wandering Wildlife:

In Costa Rica, it's not uncommon to find a sloth chilling on the road or a herd of cows causing a casual traffic jam. Embrace these wild encounters but remember, safety first!

Watch for Blinking Amber Light:

The blinking amber light is as famous as the Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica! Unlike other countries, here it means 'Proceed with Caution.' So, when you see one, don't stop, but tread lightly like a shy iguana.

Rain, Rain, Don't Go Away:

During rainy season (May - November), roads can become slippery, and rivers may swell, making some roads impassable. So, always check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

Embracing the Driving Culture

While it's crucial to know the official rules, understanding the driving habits of locals, or "Ticos," as Costa Ricans often refer to themselves, can give you additional insight and confidence on the road:

• Right of Way: By law, the right of way is given to vehicles on the right. Also, vehicles already on a roundabout have the right of way over those entering. However, in practice, drivers often negotiate right of way informally through signals and vehicle positioning.

• Use of Horns and Lights: Honking is common in Costa Rica and is typically used to alert other drivers. However, it's best to use your horn sparingly and only when necessary. Flashing headlights often mean the driver is giving way to you.

• Passing Etiquette: Technically, overtaking or passing should be done to the left. However, it's not uncommon to see Ticos overtaking from the right on highways. While it's not recommended or legal, being aware of this practice can help you anticipate such moves and stay safe.

• Speeding: The posted speed limits range from 40 km/h in residential areas to 80 km/h on national roads and highways. However, you'll often see drivers going 20 km/h above the limit. While this is technically illegal and can result in fines, it is often tolerated. As a visitor, it's safer to stick to the speed limit and be aware that others might not.

We hope this guide helps you navigate Costa Rica's roads like a local Tico! Remember, FlynCar is here to make your journey as smooth as Costa Rican coffee. With our user-friendly app, choosing the perfect ride for your adventure is just a few taps away.

Before we say adios, remember - wherever the road leads you, FlynCar has got your back. So why wait? Download the FlynCar app now and start your Costa Rican adventure today!

Find us on the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Safe travels, amigos!