You can get from La Fortuna to Monteverde by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, boat, or rental car.
This travel advice is drawn from my experience and reviewed by Jean Nájera, CEO of GuateGo.
In short:
The cheapest way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde is by public bus (USD 10, approx. 8 hours). For speed and convenience, the most popular choice is the shared shuttle (USD 33, 4 hours). The fastest option is by private transfer or rental car, taking about 3 hours.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | 8 hrs | $10 |
| Shuttle | 4 hrs | $33 to 55 |
| Private Transfer | ~3 hrs | $245 |
| Boat | ~3 hrs | $25.75 |
| Rental Car | ~3 hrs | $75+ |
How far is Monteverde Costa Rica from Arenal Costa Rica?
The distance from La Fortuna to Monteverde is 66 miles or 106 kilometers. Here, you can find more information about transportation in Costa Rica.
1. Bus
Journey Duration: 8 hours
It is possible to take a bus. As you board the bus by the Megasuper parking lot, feel the anticipation build, knowing that the lush cloud forests of Monteverde await!
You need to catch the one going to Tilaran, where you must transfer to another bus to Monteverde.
Buses from Fortuna depart at the bus station next to the Megasuper parking lot. Contact your bus service providers beforehand to know the bus timings for the day. The first trip usually departs at 7 AM.
It takes eight hours to travel by bus from La Fortuna to Monteverde. A one-way fare costs $10. While this proves to be the cheapest option, it also involves the longest travel time.
2. Boat
Journey Duration: ~3 hours
Because a massive lake separates Arenal Volcano and Monteverde, a taxi boat is perhaps the most efficient way. Roads will have you going around, making your trip longer than usual.
You can arrange for the transport company to pick you up from your La Fortuna hotel accommodation. Once you arrive at the Lake Arenal dock, a passenger boat will bring you across the lake. The boat trip takes about thirty minutes.
Afterward, your boat will dock at Rio Chiquito, where another van awaits your arrival. The driver will drive you to Monteverde, which takes about one and a half hours.
This travel option is often referred to as van-boat-van, taxi-boat-taxi, or jeep-boat-jeep, mentioning the several transfers you must make.
In total, it takes two and a half to three hours to get from Arenal Volcano to Monteverde by taxi, boat, and van transfers, depending on how far your La Fortuna and Monteverde hotels are from the respective docks.
The price starts at USD 25.75 per person. You can take the 08:30 AM or the 02:30 PM trip, which runs daily, year-round.
3. Shuttle
Journey Duration: 4 hours
If comfort and convenience are top priorities, a Shared Van Shuttle service is an excellent choice.
These shuttles typically seat 8 to 12 passengers and provide a more direct and time-efficient journey than the public bus.
The plush interiors, air-conditioning, and ample luggage space offer a hassle-free travel experience that will leave you rejuvenated upon arrival.
Shared Van Shuttles usually operate on a fixed schedule with at least one or two departures daily.
While the cost of a shared shuttle is higher than the bus fare, usually between USD 33 and USD 55, the convenience and reduced travel time, which is approximately 3 to 4 hours, make it an attractive option for many travelers!
The shuttle may also make occasional stops at picturesque locations, offering a chance to capture the natural beauty that unfolds along the route.
In summary, the Shared Van Shuttle is a fantastic choice for those willing to spend a little extra for comfort, time efficiency, and a taste of the breathtaking vistas that line the journey from La Fortuna to Monteverde.
Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00am | 11:30am | 3h 30m | $41 |  |
| 08:00am | 11:30am | 3h 30m | $33 | |
| 08:00am | 11:00am | 3h | $37 | |
| 02:00pm | 05:00pm | 3h | $37 | |
| 08:00am | 11:30am | 3h 30m | $45 | |
| 02:00pm | 05:30pm | 3h 30m | $45 | |
| 08:00am | 12:00pm | 4h | $55 | |
4. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
For those seeking convenience and flexibility, a Private Transfer is the ultimate choice!
With this option, you can customize your travel schedule and make unscheduled stops at your own pace.
Whether it’s a spontaneous detour to relish the view of Arenal Lake or a pit stop to snap some pictures, the journey becomes as much a part of the adventure as the destination!
Private Transfers are usually conducted in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles ranging from sedans to larger vans or SUVs, depending on your group size.
This option is ideal for families, groups of friends, or travelers with special requirements, as it offers privacy and personalized service.
While the Private Transfer is the most luxurious and convenient way to travel between La Fortuna and Monteverde, it is also the most expensive.
The cost is usually around USD 245, depending on the vehicle and any additional services you may require.
However, if comfort, flexibility, and a personalized experience are what you’re after, this investment in your travel adventure is well worth the splurge.
Prices for a private transfer
- 1-13 passengers: USD 245
5. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 3-4 hours
Going from Arenal to Monteverde by car is not an easy option. A 4×4 vehicle is needed to brave the rough roads.
While road conditions are excellent in many parts, there are some that aren’t. Adding to that is the lack of signage on Costa Rican roads.
Remember the season you are driving in, as the roads get more challenging when the rain pours down.
Depending on the weather conditions and vehicle, driving from Arenal Volcano to Monteverde, passing by Tilaran, takes four to five hours.
Take Route 142 from Arenal to Tilaran until you reach the connection to Route 145. Drive through the dirt road until it reaches Route 606.
La Fortuna taxi companies can also take you to Monteverde for about $130. This price is for four passengers. Make sure that the vehicle you’re booking is a 4×4.
Renting a car starts at $75 per day.
My Tip:
If you’re on a budget and don’t mind a long journey, the public bus is the way to go. But if time and comfort matter more, I highly recommend the taxi-boat-taxi option or a shared shuttle for the best balance of speed and scenery.
Best day tours in Monteverde, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to drive by renting a car?
Yes, renting a car is an option. It allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. However, it’s advisable to rent a 4×4 vehicle, as some roads might be rough or unpaved.
Are there any taxi services available for this route?
Yes, taxis are available, but they can be expensive. It’s essential to agree on a fare before starting the journey. Some travelers also use a “Taxi-Boat-Taxi” service, which combines a taxi, a boat ride across Arenal Lake, and another taxi to Monteverde, shortening the travel time.
How reliable is the public bus service for this route?
While generally reliable, bus service can sometimes be affected by weather conditions or other unforeseen events. Therefore, it’s a good idea to have some flexibility in your travel plans.
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Universal Traveller — How to Get from La Fortuna to Monteverde
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