Semana Santa—Holy Week or Easter Week—is one of the most important and busiest times of the year in Costa Rica. For visitors, it can be a wonderful period to experience the country’s beaches, sunshine, cultural traditions, and relaxed Pura Vida lifestyle. However, if you are traveling to Costa Rica during Semana Santa and planning to rent a car, there is one very important message you must take seriously:
Obey the traffic laws. Do not speed.
Failing to do so can turn what should be a joyful vacation into a stressful and expensive experience.
What Is Semana Santa in Costa Rica?
Semana Santa is deeply rooted in Costa Rican culture and religious tradition. As a predominantly Catholic country, Costa Rica observes Holy Week with religious processions, family gatherings, and national holidays.
During this week:
- Most government offices close for the entire week
- Many private businesses close or operate limited hours
- Schools are closed
- Costa Ricans travel en masse to the beaches and countryside
It is the single busiest travel week of the year within the country.
Why Traffic Enforcement Increases During Semana Santa
Because millions of Costa Ricans hit the road during Semana Santa, the government dramatically increases traffic enforcement to reduce accidents and fatalities.
You will notice:
- A large presence of highway patrol officers
- Frequent speed checkpoints
- Sobriety checkpoints
- Strict enforcement on major highways
The most heavily patrolled routes include:
- Highway 1 (The Inter-American Highway)
- Routes leading to the Pacific beaches
- Roads toward popular destinations such as Guanacaste, Jacó, Manuel Antonio, and the Nicoya Peninsula
If you are used to more relaxed enforcement in your home country, do not assume the same applies during Semana Santa.
Speeding in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know
Speed limits in Costa Rica are clearly posted, but many visitors underestimate how strictly they are enforced—especially during holiday periods.
Key Points to Remember:
- Speeding tickets can cost hundreds of dollars
- Fines are often much higher than in North America or Europe
- There is zero tolerance during Semana Santa
- Radar guns and checkpoints are common
Even driving just a little over the speed limit can result in a ticket.
Documents You Must Carry When Driving
If you are stopped by highway patrol, you must present:
- Your valid North American or international driver’s license
- Your passport
- Rental car paperwork proving the vehicle is legally rented
Failure to present any of these documents can complicate the situation and potentially result in additional penalties.
Do NOT Pay a Ticket on the Roadside
This is extremely important.
If you receive a traffic ticket:
- Do not pay the officer at the scene
- Even if the officer suggests it
- Even if it seems like the “easy solution”
Paying fines on the roadside is not legal and can create serious problems.
What You Should Do Instead:
- Accept the ticket politely
- Keep the paperwork
- Take it back to your rental car company
- They will guide you through the proper process
Rental agencies in Costa Rica deal with traffic tickets frequently and know exactly how to handle them correctly and legally.
Drinking and Driving: Zero Tolerance
Costa Rica has significantly strengthened its drinking-and-driving laws in recent years.
Penalties Include:
- Very high fines
- Immediate suspension of your driver’s license
- Vehicle impoundment
- Possible jail time depending on severity
During Semana Santa, police conduct sobriety checkpoints throughout the country, especially near beach areas and nightlife zones.
Even one drink can put you over the legal limit.
If you plan to drink, do not drive. Use taxis, shuttles, or designated drivers.
Semana Santa Traffic Reality: Expect Delays
Semana Santa is Costa Ricans’ favorite time to go to the beach, and this year—like many years—all government employees receive the entire week off.
What does that mean for travelers?
- Heavy congestion leaving San José
- Long lines of cars heading toward Guanacaste and the Pacific coast
- Traffic jams lasting several hours
- Limited alternative routes
It is common for a normally four-hour drive to take six or even eight hours during peak travel days.
Best Tips for Driving During Semana Santa
To reduce stress and stay safe, consider the following tips:
1. Travel Early in the Morning
Leaving before sunrise can help you avoid the worst traffic congestion.
2. Be Patient
Aggressive driving will only make things worse—and increase your chances of getting a ticket.
3. Follow Speed Limits Strictly
Even if locals seem to drive faster, do not follow their lead.
4. Plan Fuel Stops
Gas stations can be crowded or closed in remote areas during holidays.
5. Use GPS Carefully
Some GPS routes may send you onto unpaved or unsafe roads.
Should You Rent a Car During Semana Santa?
Renting a car offers freedom and flexibility, but it is not always the best choice during Semana Santa.
Consider Alternatives:
- Private transfers
- Shared shuttle services
- Domestic flights
- Staying in one location instead of moving around
If you do rent a car, choose a reputable company and review their insurance and roadside assistance policies carefully.
Beach Destinations Will Be Crowded
Expect packed beaches, especially:
- Tamarindo
- Playa Flamingo
- Jacó
- Manuel Antonio
- Playa Hermosa
Hotels book far in advance, restaurants fill quickly, and parking can be difficult.
Despite the crowds, the atmosphere is festive, friendly, and uniquely Costa Rican.
Why Semana Santa Is Still Worth It
Even with the traffic and strict enforcement, Semana Santa is a beautiful time to visit Costa Rica.
You will experience:
- Cultural traditions
- Family-centered celebrations
- Lively beach towns
- Stunning sunsets
- The true rhythm of Costa Rican life
You simply need to plan ahead and drive responsibly.
Final Words of Advice
Costa Rica is a peaceful and welcoming country, but traffic laws are taken very seriously—especially during Semana Santa.
If you remember only one thing from this article, let it be this:
Slow down. Obey the laws. Do not drink and drive.
By doing so, you protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone else sharing the road.
Enjoy the sun, the beaches, the culture—and return home with memories, not traffic fines.
Pura Vida—and drive safely.