How we rate each road
Every route on Costa Rica Transit is rated on the minimum car you need in normal dry-season conditions:
- Any car — paved all the way. An economy car or sedan is fine.
- SUV recommended — potholes, steep grades or short gravel sections. Ground clearance matters more than 4WD.
- 4×4 required — rough dirt, steep loose climbs or river crossings.
Rainy season rule: From September to November, go one level up on any route with gravel sections.
Planning several stops? Use the road trip planner to see total drive time and the toughest road on your itinerary, or browse all routes and read do you really need a 4×4?