overview
Costa
Rica is Central America's most popular tourist destaination, known for
it's tropical cloud forests, swanky beach resorts and eco get-aways.
For cyclists, biking Costa Rica is a chance to enjoy some
creature comforts, climb some steep mountain passes for who choose to
explore the interior, or simply pedal past long stretches of beach for
those who stick to the coast. cycling routes and roads in costa rica
As the richest country in Central America, you'd expect Costa Rica's roads to be in mint condition--they're NOT. Many highways are narrow two lane death traps without a proper shoulder suitable for riding. Traffic is heavy on most of Costa Rica's roads and you'll have to deal with impatient bus and lorry drivers who nearly graze you as they whiz by.If you're following the coastal road, conditions improve greatly after Puntraarenas, where the road has been newly refurbished with a wide shoulder.
Fellow cyclists have recommended the Nicoya Peneinsula for those looking for a backroads off-the-beaten path adventure--beware of sand traps!
maps
We used Reise Know-How's detailed, waterproof Costa Rica-Panama map.finding a safe place to sleep during your bike tour
If
you're trying to stick to a budget, Costa Rica isn't a country where
you'll want to be checking into many hotels. $15 per night is probably
the cheapest lodgings you'll find. Fortunately, with a little bit
of effort you'll be able to find plenty of nice spots to pitch your
tent. Beaches are an obvious choice, and popular with locals and
tourists alike. But safety will be a concern and theft in
friendly Costa Rica is more common than you might think.We had great luck asking at churches, which normally have lush green lawns perfect for pitching a tent and convenient toilet facilities with showers. Schools are another option, but you'll have to convince the caretaker and that takes a bit of persuading.
cost of bike touring in belize
Bike touring in Costa Rica could quickly become very expensive if you indulge in many tourist temptations. Don't even think of dining out if you want to stick to a budget of $10 a day. Checking into a hotel will blow your entire daily budget.Even supermarkets are more expensive than in other Central American countries, some food items costing up to 50% more.
We spent an average of $10 per person per day, never staying in hotels and self-catering almost all meals.
safety issues
Costa Rica is generally viewed as a safe country. Local expats, however, claim that petty theft is becoming more common and foreigners are seen as easy targets for muggings. Better not to let your guard down just yet.Any advice or questions about Biking in Costa Rica?
Please send us an email or share in the comments section below.
Tour Update
Cycling
Around the World: Biking Costa Rica
Country Info
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