Uber arrived at Costa Rica in roughly 2015 but the rideshare is in a gray area legally. It offers a convenient method for locals and tourists to navigate their way around, widely accessible and accepted, but technically illegal.

Still, the system operates in various locations including the San Jose metropolitan area along with Quepos, Jaco, La Fortuna, Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and Grecia. It continues to gain popularity with competitive pricing and a simple, straightforward process.

Because of the legal conundrum, the availability can be inconsistent in some areas, however. The recommendation is to avoid relying on it as a sole source of transportation despite its convenience. The suggestion is to research to have an alternative.

The region offers many options including private shuttles, rental cars, public buses, ferries, trains, taxis, and domestic flights for varying travel requirements.

Facts About Uber That Travelers Should Know

Costa Rica offers varied transportation methods for locals and tourists looking to navigate the country but can you use Uber in Costa Rica?

Uber is among the most convenient options, but the legal gray area sometimes makes the mode of transportation inconsistent, with travelers needing to have another choice in case the drivers are unable to make it to the location.

Fortunately, plenty of choices are available, including taxis, rental cars, and public buses to suit each budget and specific needs. Still, many travelers will first use Uber as their preferred transport, so let’s look at some facts you should know before traveling to the country.

Is Uber illegal

You wouldn’t believe that you could use Uber at all if it were illegal. In many areas where rideshare is banned, the app just doesn’t work. But with Costa Rica, the app functions fine and in places like San Jose travelers will find many drivers.

In answering the question, however, Uber is illegal at Costa Rica. Like many countries, Costa Rica wants to keep the taxi industry happy as this group is incredibly vocal with their opinions on Uber.

The government has, therefore, never permitted any unlicensed taxi services or ride sharing in legislation. In that same vein, however, the app works normally, and the government collects tax from the system.

This keeps the rideshare in a gray legal area with hundreds of rides occurring every day. It may be illegal, but no one is enforcing the law. Visit https://mytanfeet.com/costa-rica-travel-tips/tips-for-using-uber-in-costa-rica/ for tips on using Uber within the country of Costa Rica.

The safety

Uber’s safety within Costa Rica is comparable to that of virtually any other country as long as there’s no incident or accident. The drivers strive to maintain an excellent reputation to keep their livelihood with fares. The passengers rate the experience which incentivizes the driver to offer optimal satisfaction.

If they provide poor service, it can impact their employment. The thing to be wary of is the fact that it’s illegal at Costa Rica. If there’s an accident where you become hurt, your travel insurance carrier is unlikely to compensate medical debt. This is a major downside if the service is, in fact, viewed as illegal.

The front seat

Uber drivers within the country of Costa Rica will request that passengers sit in the front seat which might seem a little odd since most times, they would sit in the back. This makes the driver feel more comfortable and makes it look less like you’re riding in an Uber, which would be the case if you were to sit in the back.

Unfortunately, if the authorities stopped the car for some reason, the truth would come out since you weren’t really acquainted and, being a tourist, didn’t speak the language. The fortunate part is that thus far the laws have yet to be enforced.

Again, the government is collecting tax from the services and is aware that the rideshares are in operation.

Pay attention to the reviews

You want to avoid being scammed as much as possible. For one thing, it’s important to always pay by card through the app. Never use any other form of payment, especially cash on demand. Refuse the ride and wait on another driver if this is the request.

When booking a ride pay attention to the reviews. There are plenty of five-star drivers; it’s unnecessary to go below a 4.9 and risk poor services or being scammed. The drivers with high ratings will give you a safe, uneventful, high-quality ride.

If you have a ride accepted only to find the score is less than anticipated, cancel the ride and wait for another driver. You won’t receive charges or penalties for this.

Plan ahead

An excellent feature is checking the routes and costs before arriving in the country, allowing an estimate for your journey while still at home. You can see if the rideshare will operate in the region you’re visiting and if it’s a better price point than a shuttle or taxi.

Remember, the rides can be somewhat inconsistent with the legalities. Always research to have a backup plan in line. Click here to find out if Uber is available at Costa Rica.

Final Thought

When arriving in the country, don’t expect your Uber to be a luxury automobile. These cars are relatively small, older autos without air or modern conveniences.

The driver will likely not be in a rush, like the taxi drivers. Still, the rideshare offers tremendous convenience above most public transportation methods and boasts incredible affordability. Sometimes, you give a little to get a little.