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Traveling to Costa Rica and wondering if there is Uber in Costa Rica? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves asking this question after booking their flights and not wanting to rent a car (not to mention maneuvering the local bus systems at 7 am) in need of reliable transportation.
So what’s the answer? The answer in short is yes, Uber does work in Costa Rica. But—like everything in paradise—there are some caveats.
Here’s the scoop.
Does Uber Work in Costa Rica?
Kind of. You can open your app and request a ride just like you would anywhere else. No need to download a local version or set anything special up.
But here’s the twist: Uber is not completely legalized in Costa Rica, either. It runs on a sort of loophole—it’s allowed but not entirely approved. This means that some taxi drivers don’t like it and that your potential Uber driver might ask you to sit in the front so it doesn’t look so “Uber-ish.”
However, it’s an extremely common practice—especially in larger cities and tourist-laden hot spots.
Where You Can Use Uber in Costa Rica (And Where It Gets Tricky)
You’ll have the best luck with Uber in:
- San José and the Central Valley
- Heredia, Alajuela, Cartago
- Some areas of Guanacaste (Liberia, Tamarindo – limited)
- Occasionally in La Fortuna or Jacó, but coverage is hit or miss
Don’t count on it in:
- The Caribbean side (Puerto Viejo – no Uber here)
- Most of the Osa Peninsula
- Remote mountain or beach towns
Pro tip: Always check the app while you’re still on Wi-Fi to see if there are cars nearby. Nothing like trying to request a ride with zero signal and a toddler melting down in the sun.
Cost of Uber in Costa Rica: Cheaper Than Taxis?
Generally, yes.
The cost of Uber in Costa Rica is usually lower than regular red taxis, sometimes by quite a bit. In San José, a 15-minute Uber might cost $4–6 USD, while a taxi could be $8–10 for the same route.
Airport rides are another story. Official airport taxis are regulated (and priced accordingly), while Uber can’t technically pick you up directly in front of the terminal. Some travelers walk a block or two away to get around this, but it’s not always ideal—especially with luggage or kids.
Is It Safe to Use Uber in Costa Rica?
Mostly, yes. I’ve used Uber in Costa Rica many times and never had a problem. Just like anywhere else, check the driver’s rating, confirm the license plate, and trust your gut.
One little note: Some drivers might ask you to say you’re “friends” if stopped by a transit officer. It’s rare, but it happens. That’s part of the gray area. Most trips are uneventful, fast, and cheaper than the alternatives.
What to Do When Uber’s Not an Option
No Uber? No panic. Costa Rica has plenty of other ways to get around:
- Red taxis – Official, metered, and safe (just make sure the meter is on)
- Illegal taxis – yeah… if you like eye patches and parrots on your shoulder, these pirates are for you (not recommended).
- Private shuttles – Good for longer transfers between towns
- Public buses – Cheap and reliable if you don’t mind slow and scenic
- Car rentals – Worth considering if you’re exploring remote areas
Still not sure what’s best? That’s where we come in…
Make It Easy – Book Your Costa Rica Adventure with Us
Not into figuring out transportation on your own? We totally get it. On GoExploreWith.me, you can book incredible tours all over Costa Rica—with transportation included. No stress, no haggling with drivers, just pure adventure.
Waterfalls, volcanoes, wildlife, jungle hikes—we’ve got the good stuff, and you can book it all directly, in one place. Easy, smooth, pura vida.
Want to Go Beyond the Main Roads?
If you love discovering spots off the usual tourist trail (and want ideas beyond San José and Uber rides), check out our free eBook: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
It’s full of quiet beaches, secret trails, and local favorites that don’t show up on the glossy maps. Download it now, and start planning your trip with a little more curiosity.
