San José Travel Forum

My husband and I are taking our young children for a 2 week holiday in costa rica. We have rented a 4WD truck and are travling from San Jose to Manuel Antonio, then to Monteverde and then to Guanacaste before returning to San Jose. We were on the fence about renteing a car and have finally decided to to for a rental instead of private transfers. I would welcome any any all advise, thoughts, suggestions on driving in costa rica. Also, can anyone recommend a really good highway map?

For a great map of Costa Rica go to www.mapcr.com
You can download free maps or order a great waterproof map of the country and the roads.

I think renting the car is the best way to go. Except for in San Jose traffic is quite light and you'll frequently have the road to yourself. Most 'highways' are of the two-lane variety so just be aware of people passing with on-coming traffic in the other lane, etc. A good free map of the whole country was given to us when we rented the car, which is also available form the Costa Rican Tourism Istitute.
I really would recommend going thru the towns of Sarchi(handicrafts and oxcart factories) and Zarcero (amazing little town square and picturesque hillsides) and a stop in Arenal.

The national geographic map is very detailed-Have fun

If traveling during the rainy season, bring a packet of Rain-X glass treatment wipes to apply to the glass of your rental vehicle. I would recommend Bernsdton & Berndston laminated Costa Rica roadmap, available at Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble.

We use National Geographics map - it was dead on. Just remember - there are potholes that could swallow a car so it can be a little daunting but it's part of the experience so enjoy it. I passed the time by just looking at the landscape while my husband drove. By the way - your itenerary looks perfect - my only suggestion, go to Guanacaste and then Monteverde as it's closer to San Jose.