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Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge
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The Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge spans the Tempisque River in the Guanacaste province and serves as one of the country's most critical infrastructure links. Opened in April 2003, the bridge significantly reduced travel time between San José and the Nicoya Peninsula. The structure was a generous gift from the government of Taiwan, costing approximately 27 million USD. Measuring 780 meters in length, it is a hybrid design featuring both a cable-stayed section and a traditional beam bridge structure. Before its construction, travelers had to rely on a slow ferry service to cross the river, which often caused major delays. The bridge's completion boosted tourism in the Guanacaste region and improved the economic integration of the peninsula with the rest of the country. Despite subsequent shifts in diplomatic relations, the bridge remains an essential asset for Costa Rican transportation and commerce.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Nearby: Mal País (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 14 | 8 | 10 | 48 | 198 | 190 | 150 | 186 | 259 | 288 | 132 | 34 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge is a road bridge that can be crossed at any time. A brief stop on the shoulder is possible to enjoy the view.
Typical hours
The bridge is open around the clock for traffic, with no admission times. It is especially worthwhile at sunrise or sunset.
Photography
Photos of the bridge and the Tempisque River are possible anytime, but watch out for traffic. A wide-angle lens works well for panoramic shots.
Time needed
A photo stop takes about 10 to 15 minutes. If you want to explore the surroundings, plan for half an hour.
Combine with
The bridge connects the Nicoya Peninsula to the mainland - handy for combining with beaches like Playa Hermosa. Barra Honda National Park is also nearby.
Getting there
The bridge is on Route 21, about 20 minutes north of Liberia. Best reached by rental car or a tour taxi.
Insider tip
Stop on the eastern side of the bridge for the best river view. Watch out for oncoming traffic when you get out.
Geography
Facts
- The bridge was officially opened to traffic on April 10, 2003.
- The total length of the structure is exactly 780 meters.
- The 27 million dollar funding was entirely provided by Taiwan.
- It replaced the former ferry service that operated at the 'La Amistad' crossing.
- In 2024, the bridge underwent major structural repairs and temporary closure.
- The bridge is located near the ecologically significant Palo Verde National Park.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which river does the bridge cross?
The bridge crosses the Tempisque River.
Where is the bridge located?
In the Guanacaste province, connecting the cantons of Cañas and Nicoya.
Is there a toll to cross the bridge?
No, crossing the bridge is currently free.
Why is it called the 'Friendship Bridge'?
It was a gift from the government of Taiwan to Costa Rica.
Is it allowed to stop on the bridge for photos?
For safety reasons, stopping on the roadway is prohibited.
Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge: where is it located?
Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge is located in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge spans the Tempisque River in the Guanacaste province and serves as one of the country's most critical infrastructure links.
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