You can get from Montezuma to Santa Teresa by bus, private transfer, taxi, or rental car!
Having made numerous trips across Costa Rica, I’ve learned all the secrets and ways to get around.
This guide pools together that knowledge, offering a detailed overview of the best travel options for a smooth ride along this beautiful Costa Rican coastline!
The simple Answer:
The cheapest way from Montezuma to Santa Teresa is by public bus (USD 3, about 1.5 hours with a bus change in Cobano). The most popular option is a private transfer or taxi (USD 60, around 30 minutes). The fastest way is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi (about 30 minutes).
The information in this article combines my travel experience and verification by GuateGo CEO Jean Nájera.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | 30 min | $60 |
| Public Bus | ~1.5 hrs | ~$3 |
| Rental Car | 30 min | |
| Taxi | 30 min |
How far is Santa Teresa from Montezuma?
The distance between Montezuma and Santa Teresa is 15 kilometers or 9.3 miles.
Depending on your transportation type, this journey will take approximately 30 to 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Getting to Santa Teresa from Montezuma
1. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom time
A private is the best option if you’re not a huge fan of group tours and would rather have a more relaxed experience.
A private transfer to Santa Teresa from Montezuma is comfortable and convenient. Your driver can even make stops when needed.
This way, you won’t have to worry about schedules and have a carefree trip.
Prices for a private transfer:
- 1 to 5 passengers: USD 60
2. Public Bus
Journey Duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Public buses are the most common and cheapest transportation used by locals and tourists in Costa Rica.
To get to Santa Teresa from Montezuma, you must take two buses. First, you take the Cobano bus from Montezuma to Cobano, and then you take the Malpais bus from Cobano to Santa Teresa. They run daily.
Montezuma to Cobano Public Bus Schedule:
The table below displays the public bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06:30am | 07:10am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 08:00am | 08:40am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 10:30am | 11:10am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 01:00pm | 01:40pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 03:10pm | 03:50pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 06:00pm | 06:40pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 09:00pm | 09:40pm | 40m | $1.6 |
Public Bus Schedule from Cobano to Santa Teresa:
The table below displays the public bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02:30am | 03:10am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 04:45am | 05:25am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 06:00am | 06:40am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 07:00am | 07:40am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 08:45am | 09:25am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 10:45am | 11:25am | 40m | $1.6 |
| 12:00pm | 12:40pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 12:45pm | 01:25pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 03:15pm | 03:55pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 05:00pm | 05:40pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 06:00pm | 06:40pm | 40m | $1.6 |
| 08:45pm | 09:25pm | 40m | $1.6 |
3. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 30 minutes
Renting a car is one way to explore Costa Rica. Many travelers enjoy the freedom and flexibility of scouting their vacation routes in a car.
I especially like this option, as a rented car lets you set your pace and stop whenever you see something interesting.
There are great options when it comes to picking a rental. And the best part? They are all at a great price! Check them out now!
4. Taxi
Journey Duration: 30 minutes
Taxis run throughout the day and can be hired at any time, allowing you to arrive in Santa Teresa whenever you please.
Since it is a relatively short trip, the fares are also quite reasonable, and it can be very convenient; just make sure to negotiate the price beforehand so you don’t get ripped off.
My Tip:
If you’re on a budget and have time, take the public bus for the local experience. Book a private transfer or taxi if you value comfort and want to avoid transfers. And if you love freedom and exploration, rent a car and enjoy the scenic drive at your own pace!
Best day tours in Santa Teresa, 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
Where is the closest airport to Santa Teresa?
The nearest airport is San Jose International Airport (SJO). It is 168 kilometers or 104 miles from Santa Teresa Beach, which has no airport. This route includes a ferry.
Is there an Uber in Montezuma?
Uber is available in Montezuma, Costa Rica. Get an Uber within minutes, wherever you are. You’ll travel with a professional driver at the push of a button.
What’s your personal favorite way to travel between the two?
I like booking a private transfer if I’m with friends. It’s quick, comfortable, and no stress. But if I’m solo and not in a rush, the public bus has its charm and saves money.
Is the public bus easy to use?
Honestly, yes! You just need to take the first bus to Cobano and then hop on the next one to Santa Teresa. It’s super cheap and a nice way to see a bit of local life. Just be ready for a longer trip and a bit of waiting.
Would you recommend renting a car for this short trip?
Why not if you’re already renting one for your Costa Rica trip? It gives you full flexibility, and you can stop if something catches your eye. But just for this short distance, it’s not necessary unless you prefer full freedom.
Adding this to your list? Cite the guide:
Universal Traveller — How to Get from Montezuma to Santa Teresa
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