Taxis & Rideshare in Costa Rica (2026) - Grab, Uber & More

Costa Rica's on-demand transport scene is dominated by licensed red taxis (taxis rojos) in every town and at every airport. Simply look for the official red paint and yellow triangle on the door, then wave one down on the street, queue at marked taxi stands outside hotels, bus terminals and malls, or ask your accommodation to call a radio-dispatched cab. Fares are metered (the "maría" device must be visible and running), and receipts can be requested. In rural areas or beach towns you may also see informal "pirata" taxis, private cars without meters, offering rides. These are technically illegal and best avoided. For a more predictable experience, many travelers use the official airport taxi cooperative desks on arrival, or book through hotel concierges who can vouch for the driver. For added convenience and upfront pricing, Uber operates in the Central Valley (San José, Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago) and has limited coverage in Manuel Antonio and Liberia. Download the app before you travel, set up a payment method, and order as you would anywhere else. Because Uber cars are unmarked, arrange a specific pickup point, often just outside the main entrance of malls or hotels, to avoid confusion with regular taxis. Choose red taxis for short hops within towns or when you need immediate street pickup. Pick Uber when you want to know the fare in advance, are traveling longer distances across the metro area, or prefer cash-free payment. Always check live rates in the app or with the driver before confirming your ride.