You can get from San Jose to Corcovado by bus, private transfer, rental car, or flight.
I’ve journeyed between San Jose and Corcovado countless times, gaining firsthand knowledge of the best routes and tips.
Quick Answer:
The cheapest way to get from San Jose to Corcovado is by bus (USD 20, around 9 hours). The most popular option is a private transfer (USD 280–420, about 5 hours). The fastest way is by flight (about 1 hour, from USD 111).
Check out this guide to ensure a smooth and memorable travel experience between these iconic Costa Rican destinations!
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | 9 hrs | $20 |
| Private Transfer | ~5 hrs | $280 to 420 |
| Flight | ~1 hr | $111 to 155 |
| Rental Car | ~5 hrs | – |
How far is San Jose from Corcovado?
The distance to Corcovado from San Jose is 102 miles or 165 kilometers.
This content reflects my travel knowledge, double-checked by Jean Nájera of GuateGo.
1. Bus
Journey Duration: 9 hours
Via Puerto Jimenez, you can ride from the San Jose bus station to TUASA Terminal. Your landmark is a Coca-Cola distribution center located nearby.
Search for the San Carlos Bus Terminal (also called Terminal Atlantico Norte) from this terminal. Book a Blanco Lobo bus, which will take you to Puerto Jimenez. This two-bus trip takes nine hours and will cost you less than 20 USD.
Via Drake Bay, you can take a bus from the San Jose bus station with the TRACOPA bus company.
You can choose the San Jose to Sierpe route, which will take eight hours and thirty minutes of travel. From there, you can take a boat to Drake Bay and then Corcovado.
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: ~5 hours
Private transfers offer a tailored, direct route. With this option, travelers can enjoy the convenience of door-to-door service and a more personal experience, typically in a comfortable SUV or van.
The cost for private transfers can vary significantly based on the service provider and vehicle type, but you can expect prices to range from $280 to $420, depending on the number of passengers.
It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred travel dates and times!
Private transfer services generally don’t have fixed schedules like buses or shuttles. Instead, they operate based on your preferred departure time. This flexibility allows travelers to set their own pace, making desired stops.
Prices for a private transfer
- 1-4 passengers: USD 280
- 5-12 passengers: USD 420
3. Flight
Journey Duration: ~1 hour
Booking a flight to Corcovado from San Jose may be time-efficient, but it costs far more than the other public transport modes.
Via Puerto Jimenez, you can fly directly from Juan Santamaria International Airport. Skyway services this route. It takes 40 minutes to reach Puerto Jimenez and will cost you from 111 to 155 USD.
Via Drake Bay, you must go on a flight from Juan Santamaria International Airport to Palmar Sur, which takes one hour and ten minutes.
Sansa Air and Skyway service this route. The airfare ranges from 110 to 137 USD. From Palmar Sur, you must go on a 20-minute taxi ride to the town of Sierpe. From there, you’ll ride a boat to Drake Bay and Corcovado.
There is also an option of a direct flight from Juan Santamaria International Airport to Drake Bay. Skyway services this route. It takes a little over an hour to reach Drake Bay and costs between USD 111 and 155.
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: ~5 hours
You can rent a car at the Juan Santamaria International Airport.
The fastest route comes from Route 27 and then exits to Route 34. From here on, you can take the road to either Puerto Jimenez or Drake Bay.
Via Puerto Jimenez, continue towards the west to Route 245.
Via Drake Bay, continue to the town of Sierpe. From here, you can take a one-hour taxi boat to Corcovado.
The total driving time from San Jose to Corcovado is seven to nine hours. You will pass by tolls, so be ready for loose change.
With such long driving hours, it is better to stretch your travel to two days. Stay for the night in one of the scenic towns for a more comfortable ride.
My Recommendation:
If you’re on a budget and have time, the bus and boat combo is a great adventure. For comfort and convenience, a private transfer is ideal for groups or families. If you want to save time and enjoy spectacular aerial views, flying is by far the best choice!
Best day tours in Corcovado, 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 near Corcovado, Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct flights?
While there are no direct flights to Corcovado, travelers can fly to Drake Bay or Puerto Jimenez, which are close to Corcovado National Park. From there, local transportation can be arranged to the park.
Is the road in good condition?
The main highways are well-maintained, but the roads can become more rugged as you approach Corcovado, particularly in rainy conditions.
Are rental cars available for this route?
Yes, many travelers rent a car in San Jose and drive to Corcovado. If you choose this option, a 4×4 is recommended due to the varying road conditions.
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