Nicaragua - Costa Rica border crossing on the Pacific coast?

[Peter Bodtke]

I am fascinated by Nicaraguan coastal roads, in particular south of San Juan del Sur to the Costa Rica boarder. In the winter of 2009 I drove down this road in a car, seeking the road along the Nica/Tica border, from the Pacific to Sapoa. At the time I didn't have travel companions with sufficient passion to brave the dirt roads and we turned back after getting to Playa El Naranjo, Nicaragua. Next time I plan to travel alone! And on a motorcycle..

Google Maps shows a "Tourist Border Crossing" icon between Nicaragua and Costa Rica on the Pacific coast. Has anyone crossed at that point, imported a motorcycle, clear immigrations, the works, without a hitch? The worst I can imagine is being turned back and having to making the crossing at Sapoa. I did the crossing at Sapoa (both directions) in winter of 2008-09 on a motorcycle and will do it again if a more fun alternative is not available on the coast.

Here is a link to the border icon:
Playa El Naranjo, Rivas, Nicaragua - Google Maps

[pdjamesjr]

At this time (Sept 2011) the border at El Naranjo is control by the Nicaragua military on one side and the Costa Rica Police on the other. As foreign guest, you are allowed to cross only for a medical emergency. Two years ago, when I was there there was no authority at this crossing.

Acording to del sur news online Tourism – Nicaragua | delsurnewsonline.com "the Department of Rivas will have a reception center and improved border crossing at El Naranjo in anticipation of the improved coastal tourist route from San Juan del Sur to La Cruz, Costa Rica."

Here are some snaps of recent improvements:

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1qo8IyHZ8s...%252520094.JPG

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJ_2qJNaj9...%252520111.JPG