Taxi Cabs - beware of the fake yellow cabs in Tamarindo

Costa Rica has over 7,000 taxis, and they provide a cheap and efficient way to get around San Jose as well as just about all other populated areas around Costa Rica including Tamarindo. They are red (and sometimes orange) and are easily spotted. Unless you really know your way around, take a cab.

Tamarindo also has a LOT or pirate taxis called piratas. These are usually yellow cars and the owners are very pushy. They don't have meters and they will do everything to rip you off. A friend of mine was charged USD$10 for a 5 minute ride. Most are not insured, and you are taking your life into your hands with them.

And they don't pay the fees to the government, meaning that they are cheating the system.

Your best bet is to ask the hotel front desk to call you a red cab or a mini van (Tourismos I call them).