Taxis in Costa Rica

Costa Rica taxis provide an inexpensive and efficient way to get around all populated areas around Costa Rica.  Taxis or cabs in Costa Rica are red with a yellow upside-down diamond on the car’s  door, and are easily spotted.  They are either organized in groups of semi-independent owners known as ‘Cooperativas’ or they are privately owned.

When taking a taxi in Costa Rica, make sure the driver starts the meter, which is nicknamed the ‘María’.   Currently the meter starts at around 530 colones (about US$1.00). For each kilometer beyond, it costs approximately 230 colones, or 50 cents. The 4WD taxis in mountain and beach towns charge a little more for the extra mileage. If you get a private taxi that has no meter, it’s recommendable to settle on a price before you begin your trip. 

Most cab drivers know all the major attractions, malls, hotels and other important locations.   Unless you are heading to a private residence, you probably won’t even need to provide the driver with a specific address.
Costa Rica also has a lot of ‘pirate taxis’ that work at the edge of regulations.  These are usually red cars and can confuse you – so be careful and always look for the taxi emblem on the door.   Taxis traveling to and from the international airport in San José are orange, and are authorized to charge a flat, government rate.