Question 1

What is the "Express Kidnapping by Taxi" scam in San José?

Accepted Answer

A rare but serious risk: passengers in unlicensed taxis are driven to ATMs and forced to make cash withdrawals before being released. This occurs most often at night in poorly lit areas. Never get into an unlicensed taxi. Use pre-booked official transfers or the Uber/DiDi apps. Share your location with someone you trust when traveling alone at night.

Question 2

What is the "Airport Taxi Overcharge from Juan Santamaría" scam in San José?

Accepted Answer

Unofficial taxi drivers outside Juan Santamaría Airport offer flat rates 3x above the official metered orange taxi rate. The official meter rate from the airport to San José center should be approximately ₡8,000–12,000. Use only official orange TAXI AEROPUERTO (airport taxis) from the authorized rank outside arrivals. These use meters. Alternatively, book a reputable shuttle service from the many hotel desks inside the terminal.

Question 3

What is the "Airport Red Zone Taxi Overcharge" scam in San José?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed taxis (piratas) outside Juan Santamaría Airport quote flat rates far above the official metered fare, targeting tourists unfamiliar with typical Costa Rican fares. Some official-looking orange taxis are also unmetered pirate cabs. Use only orange official TAXI (with the official Ministry of Public Works logo) or pre-booked hotel shuttles. Ask for the meter to be running.

Taxi & Transport Scams in San José

Express Kidnapping by Taxi

Airport Taxi Overcharge from Juan Santamaría

Airport Red Zone Taxi Overcharge

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