You can get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio by public bus, shared shuttle, private transfers, rental car, or taxi.
Monteverde and Manuel Antonio are two popular travel destinations in Costa Rica, making it easy to travel between them.
Dive into this guide for a hassle-free trip packed with insights only experience can provide!
In a nutshell:
The cheapest way to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio is by bus (USD 8, around 6 hours with multiple transfers). The most popular option is the shared shuttle (USD 61–75, about 4–5 hours, with hotel pickup). The fastest way is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi (around 4 hours).
I rely on my journeys and insights from GuateGo CEO Jean Nájera to keep this information current.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | ~ 6 hrs | ~$8+ |
| Shuttle | ~ 5 hrs | $61 to 75 |
| Private Transfer | 4.5 hrs | $245 to 305 |
| Taxi | ~4 hrs | – |
| Rental Car | ~ 4 hrs | – |
How far is Monteverde from Manuel Antonio?
The distance from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio is about 185 kilometers or 115 miles by car. Here, you can find more information about transportation in Costa Rica.
Getting to Manuel Antonio from Monteverde
1. Bus
Journey Duration: ~6 hours
The cheapest way to travel is by public bus; however, as you can imagine, it is also the most extended trip.
The bus doesn’t depart from Monteverde itself but from its neighboring town, Santa Elena.
From Santa Elena, you will first have to take a bus to Puntarenas, where you will have to take another bus to Quepos. From Quepos, a third bus will take you to Manuel Antonio in around 20 minutes.
The whole trip will take slightly over 6 hours, so you must begin your journey from Monteverde early.
Securing your bus tickets a day or two in advance is essential. While the Transmonteverde website offers online purchasing options, be cautious as it may not always reflect up-to-date ticket availability.
The most reliable method is to obtain your tickets directly from the Transmonteverde Office.
Ensure you book tickets for Route 625 Monteverde – Guacimal – Puntarenas. Initiate your journey from Monteverde and set Puntarenas as your endpoint.
Multiple departure times will be available, but opting for the 5:30 am slot is advisable. Though it’s a very early start, it guarantees your timely arrival at Manuel Antonio.
On the day of your journey, make it a point to reach the bus terminal a minimum of 5 minutes before the departure. The bus adheres to its schedule and departs at 5:30 am sharp. You can find the exact location of the Bus Terminal in Monteverde online.
Your journey from Monteverde to Puntarenas will include brief halts in small towns like La Lindora, La Guaria, Fernandez, and Guacimal. Ensure you get off only at the final stop: the Monteverde Terminal in Puntarenas.
Once you reach Puntarenas around 8:00 am, as you exit the bus, kindly request the bus driver to guide you to the bus stop for Manuel Antonio. Once you reach the bus stop, be prepared to wait for an hour for the Quepos bus.
The bus service from Puntarenas to Quepos is scheduled for a 10 am departure and is priced around $5. While the ride is relatively direct with minimal stops, it spans about 2.5 hours, placing your arrival at the Quepos Terminal roughly at 12:30 pm.
Your final leg of the journey is from Quepos to Manuel Antonio. Conveniently, the Route Quepos – Manuel Antonio bus departs from the very terminal you alight at in Quepos.
The trip is budget-friendly at $1, and the travel time is brief approximately 15 to 20 minutes. If all goes as planned and you catch the 1 pm bus, you should find yourself in Manuel Antonio just before 1:30 pm!
2. Shared Van Shuttle
Journey Duration: ~5 hours
A popular choice among travelers, the shared shuttle service offers a balanced mix of affordability and comfort.
Unlike public buses, shared shuttles present a more streamlined experience, often picking up passengers directly from their hotels or designated pickup points in Monteverde and dropping them off in Manuel Antonio.
There are daily shared shuttles from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. The price for a one-way trip on a shared shuttle typically ranges between USD 61 and 75 per person.
Though more expensive than the public bus, this option saves transit time and offers added convenience. Shuttles usually operate twice daily.
The journey will last roughly 4 to 5 hours, with one or two short breaks en route for refreshments and restroom stops.
The shared shuttle is highly recommended for those keen on a hassle-free experience and who are willing to pay a bit more for added comfort.
Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Deprture | Departure | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00am | 01:00pm | 5h | $61 |  |
| 08:00am | 12:00pm | 4h | $75 | |
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
A private transfer might be the better option if you want to be more flexible regarding the departure time or travel with a big group or your family.
These services are perfect for those valuing privacy, flexibility, and a door-to-door experience.
A private transfer for up to 13 people costs 245 USD. If you travel with at least five people, you will save money if you book a private transfer!
You decide the pickup time from Monteverde and the preferred route, making it the fastest option with a travel time usually under 4 hours.
Vehicles used for private transfers are well-maintained, air-conditioned sedans or SUVs, offering a comfortable journey for small groups or families. Larger groups might find themselves in spacious vans, ensuring every passenger enjoys a comfortable ride.
Notably, private transfers also provide flexibility in terms of stops. Whether you wish to pause for a scenic photograph, a local meal, or a quick stretch, the choice is yours.
Prices for a private transfer
- 1-13 passengers: USD 245
- 7-9 passengers: USD 305
4. Flight
There are no flights. However, you could travel from Monteverde to San Jose and then take a flight to Quepos.
Flights from San Jose to Quepos start at 40 USD and take only seventeen minutes. Seventeen minutes with breathtaking views of Costa Rica’s fantastic landscape!
Another option is to travel from Monteverde to La Fortuna and take a flight from there.
5. Rental Car
Journey Duration: ~4 hours
If you have your car or are considering renting one, you can also drive to Manuel Antonio on your own. The journey takes around four hours, depending on the traffic.
Please note: The first few kilometers after leaving Monteverde town are not paved. Depending on the road conditions, you might need a four-wheel drive.
6. Uber or taxi
Journey Duration: ~4 hours
I recommend taking an Uber instead of a taxi. It is cheaper, the cars are usually way better, and your trip is GPS-tracked, so it’s safer. Plus, your driver cannot rip you off.
My advice:
The shared shuttle is your best bet if you want comfort without hassle. If you’re feeling adventurous and on a budget, go for the bus. Just be ready for multiple transfers and an early start!
Best day tours in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Here, you can find some of the best tours in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct bus service?
No, direct buses do not operate between these two destinations. You’ll typically have to change three different buses to get to Monteverde.
Is it safe to travel?
Yes, it’s generally safe. However, always follow travel advisories and use reputable transportation providers. If using a bus, keep your belongings close, especially in crowded terminals.
Should I book in advance, or can I get on-the-spot transportation?
While you might find on-the-spot options, especially for buses, booking shared shuttles and private transfers in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
Sharing these travel tips? Please cite:
Universal Traveller — How to Get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
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