You can get from La Fortuna Arenal to San Jose by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, taxi, or a guided tour!
Having journeyed multiple times between the two cities, I’ve gathered several tips.
Let me guide you through the most scenic and efficient paths to ensure your travel is memorable and hassle-free!
Here, you can find more information about transportation in Costa Rica.
Quick Answer:
The cheapest way to get from La Fortuna Arenal to San Jose is by public bus (USD 5, around 4 hours).
The most popular option is the guided shuttle tour (USD 101+, 6–8 hours with activities).
The fastest way is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi (about 3 hours).
My travel tips are reviewed by transportation expert Jean Nájera of GuateGo.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Public Bus | 4 hrs | $5 |
| Shuttle | 4 hrs | $65 |
| Private Transfer | ~3 hrs | $208 |
| Taxi from | 3 hrs | – |
| Transport and Tour | 6-8 hrs | $101 to 166 |
| Rental Car | 3 hrs | – |
How far is San Jose from La Fortuna Arenal?
The distance from La Fortuna Arenal to San Jose is 98.3 miles or 158.2 kilometers.
Depending on your transportation choice, getting there will take 3 to 8 hours.
1. Bus
Journey Duration: 4 hours
The bus is the cheapest option at $5. Although it isn’t quite as comfortable as the minivan or private transfer, the cost is hard to beat. Minivans are 10x more expensive than the cheapest ones!
The only direct bus leaves at 14:45. The indirect bus via Ciudad Quesada is an option if it doesn’t fit your schedule.
Additionally, combined rates cost around $5. If you travel by bus (direct or indirect), you can expect to travel between four and six hours, depending on traffic.
2. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 4 hours
A shared shuttle service is one of the most popular and cost-effective ways. I prefer these shuttles because they combine the convenience of door-to-door service with the affordability of public transportation.
Interbus offers daily shared shuttles at 12:15 PM. A one-way ticket costs USD 65 per person.
It’s always advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. The journey usually takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
The vehicles used for these services are usually modern vans or minibusses equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seating. Most can accommodate 10 to 20 passengers, ensuring a relatively intimate travel experience.
We recommend purchasing your ticket online to ensure availability on your preferred travel date.
Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the Interbus shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:15pm | 04:30pm | 4h 15m | $65 |  |
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom time
San Jose can be reached most comfortably by private transfer. Your driver can even make stops en route if you’d like. Therefore, you’ll not need to worry about bus or shuttle schedules.
We recommend this option, especially for groups and families. Depending on the number of people joining the trip, the price per person may not be much higher than for a shared shuttle.
Prices for a private transfer:
- 1 to 13 passengers: USD 208
4. Desafio Shuttle + Activity
Journey Duration: 6-8 hours
Another option is to combine your shared shuttle to San Jose with an activity like Rafting or Canyoning.
Desafio offers daily shared shuttles starting at USD 101.
Shuttle + Activity Schedule
- 07:00 AM to 01:00 PM: Shared shuttle to San José, including Ziplining and Lunch on the road. Total price: USD 101
- 08:30 AM to 04:30 PM: Shared shuttle + Lunch, Safari boat at Sarapiquí River, and tour guide. Total price: USD 114
- 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM: Shared shuttle + Lunch and snacks, Rafting in Balsa River (2-3), and tour guide. Total price: USD 115
- 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM: Shared shuttle + Lunch and snacks, Rafting in Balsa River (2-3), and tour guide. Total price: USD 124
- 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM: Shared shuttle + Lunch and snack, Rafting in Sarapiqui River, and a tour guide. Total price: USD 127
- 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM: Shared shuttle, Canyoning / Rappel at Lost Canyon, and Lunch included. Total price: USD 166
This is an incredible way to turn travel time into an experience, combining transfers with white-water rafting, ziplining, canyoning, or wildlife safaris.
5. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 2 hours 57 minutes
The distance from La Fortuna to San Jose is only 98.3 miles or 158.2 kilometers, so traveling there by rental car is also a great option.
I really like traveling by rental car in Costa Rica as it allows you to visit places along the way, stop for Lunch, and not worry about luggage limitations (as long as it fits in your vehicle).
The trip takes about 3 hours, making this one of the fastest transportation options.
6. Taxi
Journey Duration: 2 hours 57 minutes
Taxis are also available to take you to San Jose. From my own experience, make sure to agree on a fixed price before you take the ride!
My Tip:
If you’re on a budget and not in a rush, the public bus is a steal. But if you’re looking to turn your transfer into an adventure, Desafio’s shuttle and activity combos are amazing! And for ultimate comfort with family or lots of luggage, private transfers are worth every penny.
Best day tours in San Jose, 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
How many airports are in San Jose?
Costa Rica’s capital has two airports: the Juan Santamaría International Airport, the main airport, and the Tobías Bolaños International Airport in the Pavas district.
How far is the airport from the city center?
The Airport is 12 miles or 20 kilometers from San José.
Using these travel facts? Mention the source:
Universal Traveller — How to Get from La Fortuna to San Jose
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