Driving in Costa Rica: Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors

You collect your rental car, enter the vacation home’s location into your phone and see a route you have never driven before. A little preparation at that moment can make the day much easier.

For your first drive in Costa Rica, plan a manageable route and leave room for changing conditions. Your navigation app is useful, but your host’s access instructions and your rental company’s guidance belong in the plan too.

Check the route before leaving

Ask your host for a location pin and recommended approach. Check the destinations and stops before you begin, especially if the accommodation has rural access. A route that appears shorter on a map may not match the approach your host recommends.

Save essential instructions for offline access and arrange a suitable data connection. Keep the rental assistance number accessible independently of an app. For the airport journey, see how to get to La Fortuna.

Choose timing that suits your energy and visibility

As a practical recommendation, consider making unfamiliar drives in daylight when your itinerary allows. Fatigue after a flight, rain and reduced visibility can make a first journey more demanding. An overnight stay or transfer may suit your arrival better.

Use posted speed limits and adjust your driving to the conditions. If visibility or road conditions make you uncomfortable, stop in a suitable safe place and reassess. An arrival target should not force the drive.

Get comfortable with the vehicle before you move

• Adjust mirrors and the driving position.
• Find the headlights, wipers and hazard controls.
• Confirm the correct fuel with the rental agent.
• Understand parking and transmission controls.
• Check the supplied safety equipment and assistance instructions.

Seat belts are a legal requirement for drivers and passengers, not an optional precaution for short trips. MOPT’s current enforcement information confirms that both the driver and accompanying passengers matter. (MOPT — seat belt enforcement, August 2026)

Plan parking and luggage stops

The ICT recommends avoiding unattended valuables in the car and using parking with surveillance. It also advises travelers to contact the rental company or emergency services for mechanical trouble rather than accept unsolicited help. (Instituto Costarricense de Turismo — traveler safety tips)

Build your arrival day around putting bags at your accommodation or another agreed secure place before an independent outing. Do not interpret a closed trunk as a guarantee that belongings are safe.

Know what to do if something happens

For an emergency, call 9-1-1. Notify the rental provider promptly and follow instructions from emergency responders, the authorities and the provider regarding the scene, vehicle movement and required reports. Alamo’s published accident procedure includes calling the insurer, traffic police and rental company. (Alamo Costa Rica — FAQ and policies)

For a breakdown, flat tire, lost key or fuel mistake, ask the rental company for its assistance procedure. Confirm whether towing or other service is included or charged; do not arrange repairs and assume reimbursement.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use navigation apps?

Yes, as a planning aid. Compare the route with accommodation instructions and keep an offline backup.

Is it illegal to drive at night?

This article’s daylight suggestion is a practical recommendation. Plan according to your confidence, visibility and the route rather than treating it as a blanket night-driving ban.

Can I stop for an activity while carrying all our luggage?

Consider changing the sequence so bags are stored securely first. Plan your stops without depending on the car for unattended valuables.

Does roadside assistance mean every expense is free?

No. Ask what services are included, what situations are excluded and how to request authorized help.

Use our vehicle selection guide and pickup checklist to prepare the car itself. Our main rental guide connects the planning steps.

If you have questions about reaching your La Fortuna vacation home, send us your arrival plan. Ask our local team, and share your dates, group size and itinerary so we can help you consider suitable options.