You can get from Jaco to Montezuma by taxi boat + shared shuttle, private transfer, or taxi.
After making this trip myself, I’ve gathered plenty of helpful tips and little tricks that make the journey smoother.
In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned to help you travel stress-free from Jaco’s lively beaches to Montezuma’s peaceful waterfalls.
All you really need to know:
The cheapest way to get from Jaco to Montezuma is by shared shuttle and taxi boat (USD 53, about 1.5 hours). The most popular option is the shared shuttle + boat combo. The fastest way is by private transfer or taxi + taxi boat (around 1 hour).
Transportation Options
I used my travel knowledge for this guide and confirmed all information with GuateGo CEO Jean Nájera.
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle and Boat | 1.5 hrs | $53 |
| Private Transfer/ Taxi and Boat | ~1 hr | – |
How far is Montezuma from Jaco?
The air distance fromJaco to Montezuma is 30 miles or 48 kilometers.
However, the driving distance is 147 kilometers or 91 miles, and you must combine a road trip and a water taxi to get there in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes!
Getting to Montezuma from Jaco
1. Shuttle and Taxi Boat
Journey Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Traveling by shuttle and boat is very easy! You must book one ticket with all the transportation methods to get to Montezuma!
Your whole trip is organized by booking the shuttle + taxi boat ticket!
You’ll take a 30-minute shuttle from Jaco to Playa Herradura, a port town 10 kilometers north.
After this, you’ll get on a boat to Montezuma’s main beach. The boat trip takes about one hour. Both trips cost USD 53, and you will arrive in Montezuma in one hour and thirty minutes!
Transportation services operated by Zuma Tours are available along this route. Buying your tickets in advance is the best way to ensure a seat on the date and time of your choice.
Shared Shuttle + Boat Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle + boat timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:30am | 11:00am | 1h 30m | $53 |  |
2. Private Transfer/Taxi and Taxi Boat
Journey Duration: ~1 hour
Another way to travel is to organize your trip and purchase your boat and ride tickets separately.
Since taking the taxi boat from Jaco to Montezuma is always mandatory, the only variation you can make in your trip is figuring out how to get to Playa Herradura.
And you can do that easily by booking and organizing a private transfer or taking a regular taxi.
This option is for those traveling with a group or a lot of luggage. So, if you want comfort and tons of luggage space, pick a reliable taxi company or traveling agency and get to Herradura Beach in 15 minutes!
The fare shouldn’t be too expensive since it’s a short drive.
After you get to Playa Herradura, you can catch the taxi boat that will take you directly to Montezuma! The crossing takes around 1 hour, and 10 to 18 people can fit on standard taxi boats.
Besides that, private taxi boat services can also depart whenever you choose and can accommodate up to 5 people!
My Tip:
If traveling solo or on a budget, go for the shared shuttle and taxi boat combo. It’s hassle-free and great value. If you’re traveling with family or with lots of luggage, book a private transfer to Herradura and enjoy a smooth, flexible journey to Montezuma.
Best day tours in Montezuma, 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 there a ferry to Jaco?
A taxi boat departs from Herradura Beach, 15 minutes away from Jaco, arriving directly at Montezuma.
How long is the taxi boat trip?
The taxi boat travels between Herradura Beach and Montezuma ports for about 1 hour.
How do I get from Jaco to the taxi boat departure point?
Either by shared shuttle or a short taxi ride (about 15 minutes) to Herradura Beach.
Can I bring luggage on the taxi boat?
Yes! Most boats allow small to medium luggage and backpacks. For larger suitcases, confirm with the boat company in advance.
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