Tips for Driving in Costa Rica During the Rainy Season

• 29/04/2025 11:15 pm
• Rent a car in SJO, Car Rental, Rent a Car
• no comment

The rainy season in Costa Rica, which typically runs from May to November, transforms the landscape into a verdant paradise, but also presents challenges for drivers. Roads can become slippery, visibility is reduced, and some rural areas may experience flooding or landslides. In this guide, we share key tips for driving safely during this time of year.

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Condition Before You Depart: Before starting your trip, make sure your vehicle is in good condition:

• Check the condition of the tires.
• Check that the windshield wipers are working properly.
• Make sure the headlights and taillights are working.
• Confirm that the brakes respond properly.

2. Drive Cautiously and at a Moderate Speed: Rain reduces the vehicle’s grip on the road, which increases the risk of skidding.

• Reduce your speed, especially on curves and downhill slopes.
• Avoid sudden braking and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.

3. Avoid Driving in Flooded Areas or in Poor Conditions: During heavy rains, some rural or mountain roads may be affected.

• Check road conditions before leaving (you can use apps like Waze).
• If you encounter a flooded road, it is best not to cross until it is safe.

4. Use Low Beams and Maintain Adequate Visibility:

• Turn on your low beams when it rains, even during the day.
• Prevent fogging by turning on the air conditioning or opening a window slightly.

5. Obey Traffic Signs and Drive Defensively

• Be cautious of pedestrians and motorcyclists, who may be harder to see in the rain.
• Anticipate maneuvers and be alert to any changes in the road.

6. Consider Renting a 4×4 Vehicle if Going to Rural or Mountain Areas. Some routes can become more complicated during the rainy season.

• A four-wheel-drive vehicle provides greater stability and control.

Driving in Costa Rica during the rainy season requires extra attention and good planning, but with the proper precautions, your experience will still be unforgettable. Follow these tips and enjoy your trip safely.

Ready to drive worry-free? Book with Rioja Rent A Car and enjoy your trip with the best protection. We have a large fleet of late-model 4×4 vehicles! You can book by writing to our WhatsApp https://wa.me/50683780479

Tags:alquiler de autos en Costa Rica, Car Rental, Costa Rica, rent a car