Costa Rica's efficient and well organized bus system provides the most inexpensive and popular method of travel throughout the country. The vast road system makes virtually every region of Costa Rica accessible by bus. Recently, several transportation companies have acquired more modern, air conditioned buses for use on long trips, or for the most frequently traveled routes. Most local bus service, however, relies on older more conventional style school buses.

For the most accurate bus information, visit the ICT office in San Jose or Liberia, as detailed bus schedules and maps are readily available. From major cities, all buses depart either from terminals or from streetside. In Potrero, the bus can be picked up at the central square near the supermarket, or at the main crossroad between Surfside and Flamingo. Any of the locals can give directions and approximate times.

Depending on your destination and time of travel, we recommend that you arrive early to purchase your tickets, particularly during weekend travel. The most popular destinations have hourly departures.

As always, travel lightly and keep an eye on your belongings, especially during rest stops and scheduled stops. Generally speaking, the bus system is quite organized and runs close to schedule. However, expect cramped seats, frequent manoeuvres to avoid pot-holes, dusty dirt roads and the unanticipated breakdown.

The drive from San Jose is remarkably scenic and takes approximately 4-5 hours depending on traffic and construction. For group bookings or transport we recommend the following operators:

Interbus Phone: 506-2283-5573 Fax: 506-2283-7655

Car rentals are available at the airport but reservations are recommended especially during peak season (mid Dec - mid January, Easter week). Car rentals are available from a number of car rental agencies. Most offer small cars but we recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle if you plan to do a lot of traveling.

The main highways in Costa Rica are usually kept in good repair and have significantly improved over the past few years. Many have been resurfaced and widened; some even have reflectors installed in the center line markers. For the most part, Costa Rican roads deteriorate as you get closer to the beach areas, and many are  noted for their grande huacos or large pot holes. Other hazards to be wary of especially a night are cattle, dogs and the occasional cyclist.

Mandatory personal liability insurance is usually included in the rental price however additional collision insurance is recommended, mainly for piece of mind. Minimum age for renting a car is 18 for foreign visitors, however, the policy of individual car rental agencies may vary. Speed limits are 100km/hr on the highway and 40-60km/hr within urban areas. Many highways are monitored by roadside police with radar. In general, allow extra time for any planned excursions, and slow down. After all, you're here to take in the scenery as well as the fun...

There are a number of airlines servicing routes in and around Costa Rica, most offering daily flights to San Jose from Liberia or from Tamarindo.

The main regional carrier servicing this area is Sansa, although LACSA does have daily flights to and from San Jose. Both carriers now operate under the Grupo Taca banner.

Tamarindo is about 30 minutes by car from Potrero and Liberia about 45-60 minutes. Mini-vans provide the easiest means of transportation to Potrero from the airport, and are available upon arrival at the airport.

Potrero is about 45-60 minutes from Costa Rica's newest international airport, the Daniel Oduber International Airport just outside Liberia. Up until 2004, international flights were largely via charter flights or via connecting flights through San Jose.

The popularity of the area and the rapid development of hotels and resorts have resulted in the introduction of regularly scheduled flights from Miami, Houston, Dallas and Atlanta and now Toronto, Canada.

Some of the airlines offering international flights to Costa Rica are Grupo Taca, Continental, United, American, and Delta. Charter flights to Liberia are available during the high season through Skyservice from Canada. Air Canada also has flights to Liberia as part of a vacation package only, through Air Canada Vacations.