You can get from San Jose to Quepos by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, taxi, or flight!
The cheapest transportation option from San Jose to Quepos is by public bus, which costs only USD 8. The journey takes about 5 hours.
The most popular option is the shared shuttle, which offers convenience and affordable direct transfer.
The fastest way to travel to Quepos from San Jose is by flight, which takes about 17 minutes.
I’ve traveled across Costa Rica more times than I can count, collecting local secrets each step of the way.
Join me in this guide, where I’ll reveal the optimal travel options and tips on how to get from San Jose to Quepos that promise a journey as thrilling as the destination itself.
Here, you can find more information about Costa Rica transportation.
Transportation Options from San Jose to Quepos
The following table outlines all transportation options from San Jose to Quepos:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Public Bus from San Jose to Quepos | ~4.5 hrs | ~$8 |
| Shuttle from San Jose to Quepos | 4 hrs | $54 |
| San Jose to Quepos Private Transfer | 3 hrs | $131 to 246 |
| Taxi from San Jose to Quepos | 3 hrs | $150 |
| Flight from San Jose to Quepos | 17 min | ~$111 |
| Rental Car | 3 hrs | – |
How far is Quepos from San Jose
The distance from San Jose to Quepos is about 164 kilometers or 102 miles by car.
Getting to Quepos from San Jose
1. Public Bus from San Jose to Quepos
Journey Duration: Around 4.5 hours
There are daily direct buses from San Jose to Quepos, Costa Rica, with Terminal Transportes.
This company offers direct connections and a Colectivo, which means the bus will make many stops from San Jose to Quepos.
The prices are about 5.000 Costa Rican Colones, depending on your chosen connection.
Busses depart from the terminal at Calle 5, Ave 18/20.
Schedule direct connection:
- 06:00 AM
- 09:00 AM (Monday to Saturday)
- 12:00 PM
- 02:30 PM (Monday to Saturday)
- 06:00 PM
- 07:30 PM
Schedule Colectivo:
- 07:00 AM
- 10:00 AM
- 02:00 PM
- 04:00 PM
- 05:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
2. San Jose to Quepos Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 4 hours
The shared shuttle service is a popular and convenient option for travelers heading from San Jose to Quepos.
Operating multiple times a day, these shuttles are an efficient way to make the journey without the hassles of driving or navigating public transport.
Price-wise, shared shuttles are economical, with fares typically priced around USD 54 per person, depending on the provider.
This cost includes a comfortable seat in an air-conditioned vehicle and, often, complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you connected during the journey.
Regarding schedules, most shared shuttle services have morning and afternoon departures. It’s always advisable to book in advance, particularly during Costa Rica’s high tourist season, to ensure a spot on your preferred day and time!
The journey from San Jose to Quepos usually takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
3. Private Transfer from San Jose to Quepos
Journey Duration: 3 hours
If you are traveling in a group and want to be more flexible regarding the departure time, a private transfer may be the best option!
Unlike shared shuttles, private transfers offer the luxury of setting your schedule, ensuring you travel precisely when convenient.
Private transfers tend to be pricier in terms of cost, often ranging from $131 to $246, depending on the vehicle type and number of passengers.
The higher cost, however, brings the advantage of privacy, direct routes without multiple stops, and, often, more upscale and comfortable vehicles.
The drive between the two destinations takes around 3 hours. However, with a private transfer, you can request breaks, whether to take photos, grab a bite, or simply stretch your legs.
Vehicles used for private transfers vary but are typically modern cars, SUVs, or vans in impeccable condition.
Drivers are professionals, well-acquainted with the route, and often provide added insights or recommendations about the area if prompted!
You can book shuttles for up to 14 persons on Bookaway.
Prices for a private shuttle from San Jose to Quepos
- Up to 5 passengers: USD 131
- Up to 14 passengers: USD 246
4. Driving with a Rental Car from San Jose to Quepos
Journey Duration: 3 hours
A rental car may be an excellent option to travel independently to Quepos. The travel distance from San Jose is 164 kilometers or 102 miles.
Renting a car for the journey from San Jose to Quepos gives travelers an unmatched level of independence. It allows for a self-paced trip, with the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path sites.
Cost-wise, renting a car can vary significantly based on the type of vehicle and the rental duration.
The drive from San Jose to Quepos takes approximately 3 hours, which can vary depending on the chosen route and driving speed.
The roads are generally in good condition, but it’s crucial to be cautious, especially during rainy seasons when conditions can be less predictable.
5. Uber or Taxi from San Jose to Quepos
Journey Duration: 1 hour
Uber is available in Costa Rica, and a trip from San Jose to Quepos costs around 37.000 Costa Rican Colones (about USD 60) outside peak times.
Note, however, that the price can increase drastically due to traffic.
A taxi from San Jose to Quepos costs around USD 150.
6. Flight from San Jose to Quepos
Journey Duration: 17 minutes
Flying from San Jose to Quepos is the swiftest mode of transportation between the two destinations. A short flight can be an attractive option for those looking to save time and maximize their stay.
Ticket prices for these domestic flights can vary, but travelers should expect to pay around $111 one way, depending on the airline and how far in advance the booking is made.
Sansa Air offers daily flights between San Jose Juan SantamarÃa International Airport (SJO) and Quepos Airport.
The average flight time is just 17 minutes!
Best day tours in Quepos, 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 Quepos, Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a car in San Jose and drop it off in Santa Teresa?
As of the last update in 2023, dropping off a rental car in Santa Teresa is impossible. Travelers who rent a car in San Jose must return it to San Jose or another major city with rental car facilities.
Is it safe to drive from San Jose to Santa Teresa?
Yes, it is generally safe to drive from San Jose to Santa Teresa. However, it is advisable to start your journey early to avoid driving at night and to be cautious of unpredictable road conditions, especially during the rainy season.
Is there an airport near Santa Teresa for a quicker travel option?
The nearest airport to Santa Teresa is the Tambor Airport, located on the Nicoya Peninsula. From Tambor, it’s about a 45-minute drive to Santa Teresa. You can take a short domestic flight from San Jose to Tambor and hire a taxi or arrange a shuttle to Santa Teresa.
What is the cheapest way to travel from San Jose to Santa Teresa?
The cheapest way to travel from San Jose to Santa Teresa is by coach bus, with the most affordable tickets priced at only USD 25!
What is the fastest way to travel from San Jose to Santa Teresa?
The fastest way to travel to Santa Teresa from San Jose is by flight, which takes about 1 hour.
More Routes from San Jose, Costa Rica
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AnaMaria is a dedicated SEO specialist and content strategist with profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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Jean Nájera is the CEO of GuateGo, an online marketplace to buy transportation tickets in more than 200 cities. He has profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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