The road ahead is often bittersweet in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is infamous for its treacherous roads and crazy drivers. Some say if you can drive in San José, you can drive just about anywhere else. Here are a few tips to make your driving experience a little less stressful.

Avoid rush hour.
If you plan on going somewhere in the city, avoid rush hours as there are daily traffic jams everywhere. If you must go to town to run an errand, take a bus or taxi and enjoy the scenery.

Carry a compass & map.
Since most streets don’t have signs, most directions are given based on a point of reference (e.g. 100 m. West from Such and Such Church).

Ask for directions.
Swallow your pride and just ask for help if you’re unsure. Be sure to ask at least two different people before you head off or you may be heading in the wrong direction. It has been said that Ticos are so nice they will answer your question even if they don’t know the correct response.

Road-Trip Gear

If you’re planning on driving to one of Costa Rica’s famous beaches or heading to the mountains, be prepared. In some cases, the road to where you’re heading may be unpaved, foggy, flooded, unmarked or plagued by some other hazard. The Costa Rican government seems to think this adds charm to the place and I must say it certainly adds a sense of adventure to any road trip. Nonetheless, bring a few essentials on your next trip so you can get to your destination in one piece.

Extra water.
You can drink it if you’re stuck somewhere or add it to the radiator.

Flashlight.
If you break down at night this will come in handy.

Can of ‘Fix-a-Flat’.
You’re better off using this than trying to wrestle with your spare tire. There have been instances of people getting robbed by a friendly roadside helper so be wary.

Extra set of car keys.
These can be hidden in an inconspicuous place on the car using black electrical tape.

Compass.
Which way is North? Aha!

Multi-tool.
These may come in handy for minor repairs (or to peel some fresh fruit you buy on the side of the road).

Snacks.
We all know what these are good for.

Map.
Maps in Costa Rica a map won’t do you much good in terms of finding where you are, but bring it along mainly to give you some perspective of where you are.

RTV – Auto Inspection

If you own or are planning on buying a car or motorcycle in Costa Rica, you must be aware that all motor vehicles must pass a yearly inspection. This inspection is conducted by RTV and they check gas emissions, brakes, lights, basic safety gear, etc. Basically they make sure your car is in proper working condition so it’s not a hazard to you, other drivers or the environment.

Driving without your up-to-date RTV sticker could cost you if a traffic cop catches you. The initial inspection costs about 10,000 colones. If your vehicle does not pass the first test, you’ll need to repair the fault and go back for reinspection at 5,000 colones per visit. To avoid having to go back for reinspection make sure you take your car to your trusted mechanic for a general check up and tune up before you go. Check your RTV sticker on your windshield to see on which month you are required to test your car.

You can request an appointment at www.rtv.co.cr/cita.htm or by calling 905-788-0000.

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John D. Kloninger is a online marketer Living in Costa Rica. Born in California, he grew up in San Jose and then went on to University in Honolulu, HI and Boston, MA. You can contact him at jkloninger@gmail.com.

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Filed under: Travel on March 6th, 2008