Transportation in Costa Rica

Public Transportation

Costa Rica’s population distribution determines the workings of the country’s public transportation system. Nearly one quarter of Costa Rica’s population lives in the San José area, and about two thirds of Costa Rica’s 4 million inhabitants live in the Central Valley, one of Central America’s most densely populated areas.

All of this translates into the fact that there are plenty of roads, busses, and transportation options in the center of the country. However, there are generally fewer roads (especially paved ones) and fewer public transportation options as you travel the outskirts of Costa Rica.

In addition, many travelers have found that it is easier to begin your travels from San José, then go to one region and return to San José before going to the next area of your journey. Since San José is the main center of public transport, you will be sure to find routes to many more areas than if you were to attempt traveling from a less populated area to another.

Most Costa Ricans do not own cars, so their public transportation system is very well developed and you can catch a bus to nearly every part of the country. Although remote or smaller towns are often served by only one bus per day, you can surely find your way with a decent amount of planning.