private transport in CR--am I getting ripped off?
 

I am planning to go from Alajuela to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, and I wanted to avoid having to bus in and out of San Jose completely. The people at the place in Alajuela where I am staying said that they could arrange a private driver to take my fiance and me to PV Sarapiqui from Alajuela, and that it would cost $100. This seems a bit steep to me, but as I've never been to CR, I don't know if this is just what it should cost.

Thanks!

Maybe $80.00 is better!! take in consideration that fuel prices are sky high!!

R.A Luis

Just buckle up and enjoy the ride in paradise!!

100% costarican and proud of it!!

I recently had a transfer (1 person) from SJO airport to Selva Verde, which is in the area you're going. The transfer was set up by Selva Verde and cost $85 so your quote sounds about right. It takes about 2 hours.

I agree. That sounds correct. This is about what our transportation people charge us.

Figure that it is a four hour round trip for the driver. Add another hour for picking up, wait time, etc. and the driver is tied up for five hours. His day is done. So don't forget to tip him! Plus the vehicle itself is tied up for the day.

We have been seeing some of our transportation costs going up due to the cost of fuel. When we operated our own vehicles in Costa Rica, and fuel was by far our biggest expense. And that was before the latest increases.

Hope this helps! Let me know if I can offer more advice.

Warm Regards,
Pat Hewitt
(Travel professional)

I paid $100.00 3 years ago, so your quoted price has to be in the right ballpark!!

Percy

Pat ( or anyone else who knows),

How much should I tip the driver???

I would say that $10.00 would be a decent tip. Also if you stop for lunch, you should spring for the driver.

Hope this helps! Let me know if I can offer more advice.

Warm Regards,
Pat Hewitt
(Travel professional)