Central Valley

The Central Valley, home to Costa Rica's capital San José, is the most developed region in the country. While accessibility has improved in recent years, it still lags behind many Western countries. San José has made efforts to enhance accessibility, but smaller towns in the region may present more challenges for travelers with disabilities.

Costa Rica has laws mandating accessibility, including Law 7600 on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. However, implementation is inconsistent. Many newer buildings in San José have ramps and accessible facilities, but older structures and areas outside the capital often lack these features. Sidewalks, where they exist, are frequently uneven or obstructed.

San José's public bus system is not fully accessible, with few low-floor buses. Taxis are more reliable for accessibility; official red taxis with yellow triangles are required to accept service animals. Some tour companies offer accessible vans with wheelchair lifts, but these should be booked in advance. Juan Santamaría International Airport provides wheelchair assistance upon request.

Several museums in San José, including the Gold Museum and the National Museum, have improved accessibility with ramps and elevators. La Sabana Metropolitan Park offers paved paths suitable for wheelchairs. The Irazú Volcano National Park has an accessible viewpoint, though assistance may be needed on some paths. Many coffee plantations in the region offer tours, but accessibility varies; inquire in advance about specific accommodations.

Major international hotel chains in San José, such as Marriott and Hilton, offer accessible rooms with features like roll-in showers and grab bars. However, the number of such rooms is limited. Smaller hotels and accommodations in rural areas of the Central Valley may have limited or no accessibility features. It's essential to contact hotels directly to confirm specific accessibility provisions.

Plan ahead and communicate your needs clearly when booking accommodations or tours. Consider hiring a local guide familiar with accessibility issues. Bring any essential medical supplies, as availability may be limited. Be prepared for uneven terrain, especially outside of San José. Learn basic Spanish phrases related to accessibility to facilitate communication. During the rainy season (May to November), extra caution is needed due to slippery surfaces and potential flooding.