Welcome to the Costa Rica Motorcycle Travel Guide. Everything you need to ride a motorcycle in Costa Rica is included in this extensive handbook for adventure bike riders.
How come motorcycling is popular in Costa Rica?
The beautiful, secure, and peaceful country of Costa Rica. And it’s the perfect place because we love motorcycles! You may ride at sea level and eat lunch 2,500 meters above the ocean in a matter of hours, starting with your morning coffee. Additionally, you can easily switch between various backdrops because our volcanic mountain range is close to the ocean. With its diverse landscape, topography, and weather, riding around Costa Rica is truly fascinating.
All within one breathtaking country, there are numerous rivers to cross, peaceful and hospitable rural communities that welcome environmentally conscious tourists, mountains to explore, gravel and dirt roads to ride, and a plethora of other attractions, such as volcanoes, beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, rain forests and jungles, dry areas, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.
Paperwork
- Visas: No need for a visa for citizens of 95 countries, who can enter for a stay of 180, 90, or 30 days. In order to enter other nations, you must apply for a passport. Check out this page to see what your nation requires.
- Driver’s license: In Costa Rica riding a bike requires an updated motorbike license.
- International Driver’s License : If your license was issued in a language other than English such Mandarin or Arabic you must have an IDP.
- Motorcycle insurance: Most tourists who are renting a motorbike or going on a Costa Rican tour have to contact the rental company. Usually the cost of the rental includes insurance.
Getting in and out
Land borders:
The main border crossing points for motorcyclists traveling overland are:
- Nicaragua: Peñas Blancas
- Panama: Paso Canoas or Sixaola
Flights:
If you plan to rent a bike or go on a motorbike trip, it is recommended to fly into SJO Airport. Note that there is an additional fee for renting bikes to be picked up and dropped off at Liberia Airport. Europeans have direct flight options, and there are connections via Panama or the USA if needed.
When to go?
November through May is the ideal season for motorcycling in Costa Rica, with a higher chance of dry weather. Each year varies slightly, but expect rain at any time due to the country’s tropical climate, essential for its lush landscapes.
Costa Rican lodging and expenses
Hotels:
There are many different places to stay in Costa Rica including hotels hostels guesthouses and cottages. Popular holidays such as Easter and New Year’s should have reservations made well in advance. There are many reasonably priced hotel alternatives accessible outside of the Christmas season.
Food and fuel:
A typical meal at local eateries (“sodas”) costs between $6 to $8. Prices can be higher in upscale or popular establishments.
Fuel costs approximately $1 per liter. A full tank for a bike costing between $13 to $20 can cover 250–350 kilometers. Gas stations are widespread, even in rural areas.
Safety and security in Costa Rica
Tourists find Costa Rica to be a friendly and secure place to visit. As you would anyplace else go with caution and pay attention to your possessions. Motorcycle theft is uncommon when renting adventure motorcycles.
Police are generally trustworthy and do not frequently solicit bribes from travelers. However, fines for traffic violations may sometimes be negotiated, typically exceeding $50. Police patrols are common; motorcycles and cars are occasionally stopped, but adherence to traffic laws should prevent any issues.
Motorcycle Riding conditions
Costa Rica is entirely accessible by motorcycle, with the Pacific Coast and its adjacent mountain ranges offering exceptional riding opportunities. This region boasts diverse landscapes, including rivers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and wildlife.
Scenic routes along the Pacific Coast, through mountain ranges, and volcanic areas offer rewarding rides, passing through charming villages that welcome international visitors.
Off-road:
While major highways are generally in good condition, motorcycle enthusiasts can explore rural settlements via gravel and dirt roads between towns. For those seeking less rugged routes, paved roads crisscross the country, ensuring accessibility even in remote areas.
Riding gear:
In Costa Rica’s warm climate, consider enduro or motocross-style gear. Most riders opt for adventure jackets and lightweight pants for comfort. Prepare for changing terrain and weather conditions, ensuring flexibility in your gear selection.
Top tips
Enjoy Costa Rica’s safe and friendly environment. Take your time exploring; a 200-kilometer ride may take 3 to 5 hours, allowing ample opportunity to appreciate the scenery.
Consider using a smaller motorcycle for greater agility and ease of travel, even if accustomed to larger models. Smaller bikes like 250ccs are often sufficient and can handle varied terrain with ease.
Begin your adventure upon landing; Costa Rica’s central valley offers diverse attractions accessible as soon as you pick up your bike.
