I had one of my more entertaining experiences when I was riding in a taxi during my last vacations. Here in the states I rarely ride a taxi at all, and even if you do see them, I don’t typically wave at them as they drive by.
However, I guess the locals in Costa Rica enjoy the tourists and they know when they see a red car with a little triangle emblem on the side that this would probably have a tourist in it. I find myself entertained by the fact that the locals often wave at the taxi’s that have tourists in the back. Always remember that a legitimate taxi will be the color of red (instead of yellow) and will have that triangle emblem on the side. They also will typically have a sign on top of the vehicle as well. This is just a good way to distinguish what a taxi looks like there so that you stay safe and find someone who can understand where you need to go as most will have basic understanding of English.
Costa Rica Taxi Transport
The rates for taxis in Costa Rica are fairly inexpensive especially if you are going a short distance. You will be looking at about 405 colones which is less than $1.00 starting out. Then, for each kilometer you go they will charge about 230 colones, which equals about to be 50 cents. This means it is about a $1.00 per mile throughout San Jose. The good news is that tipping in San Jose is fairly limited. You pretty much just pay the amount you are required and beyond that you are not expected to pay any more than that.
We did run into a small situation with one taxi we were in though. When we entered into the taxi the meter, according to the driver, was broken. I was a little bit perplexed about it but he just proposed that we shoot out a negotiable price for the trip. I think we agreed on something roughly about $15.00 and he took us to our destination. Just always remember that if someone says it is broken though, that you agree on a set price before you ever let them take you even five feet.
To find a taxi is a little different than in the States. You generally will have to stand on the side of the corner unless there are terminals (like at the airport) nearby. Otherwise, while standing at the corner you will point your index finder down to the street then wiggle it up and down. This is the local signal for needing a taxi.
Also, while riding in the taxi, it is custom for you to sit up front with the taxi driver. They will generally ask you to even if you have more than one person. The good news, not everyone is required to squish themselves into the back seat!
Enjoy your next vacations with reliable taxi services in Costa Rica!