You can get from San Jose to Los Chiles by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, or flight.
Having traversed these paths, I know the ins and outs like no other!
In short:
The cheapest way to get from San Jose to Los Chiles is by public bus (USD 6, approximately 3.5 hours). The most popular option is the shared shuttle (USD 55, around 3 hours). The fastest way is by flight (20 minutes to La Fortuna, plus a 2-hour drive to Los Chiles).
Here you can find more information about Costa Rica transportation.
I’ve compiled this based on my trips and had it fact-checked by GuateGo CEO Jean Nájera.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | 3.5 hrs | ~$6 |
| Shuttle | 3 hrs | $55 |
| Private Transfer | ~2 hrs | $250+ |
| Flight | 20 min | $75 |
| Rental Car | ~3 hrs | $170 |
How far is Los Chiles from San Jose?
The distance between San Jose, Costa Rica, and Los Chiles, Costa Rica, is 129 miles or 209 kilometers.
Getting to Los Chiles from San Jose
1. Bus
Journey Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Coming from Upala in San Jose, you can take a bus going to San Carlos or Ciudad Quesada. Transfers will be made in Ciudad Quesada before you arrive at your final destination in Los Chiles.
Traveling by bus takes three and a half hours. The trip costs less than six USD. Transportes San Carlos, Transporte de Upala, and Chilsaca service these routes.
If you come from Juan Santamaria International Airport, you must travel by bus to the Tica Bus Office at Terminal 7-10. As discussed above, it will take about 40 minutes to reach this place to board a bus going to Ciudad Quesada.
2. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 3 hours
The shared shuttle service starts at 55 USD, depending on which transport company you choose. Traveling from San Jose to Los Chiles takes at least three hours.
Not many vans are going to Los Chiles from this side of Costa Rica, so it is wise to research this option. One alternative way is to look for a shared shuttle servicing Caño Negro. From there, you are just 30 minutes away from Los Chiles.
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: ~2 hours
Companies like Interbus provide private shuttles. The price starts at 250 USD, and at this rate, you get to enjoy the convenience of a door-to-door service that follows your schedule, your choice of stops, and your number of guests (up to six passengers.)
It takes approximately two hours to arrive in Los Chiles by private shuttle. This depends on the length of stops you will take along the way.
4. Flight
Journey Duration: 20 minutes
It does not seem efficient to book a flight to Los Chiles. First of all, there is no airport in Los Chiles. You can only catch a flight en route to Los Chiles by coming from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) to Fortuna Airport (FOT.)
This will be a 20-minute flight, which will cost about 75 USD. You must continue your journey from La Fortuna in Ciudad Quesada to Los Chiles via other transport modes. If by bus, it’s another two hours from there.
5. Rental Car
Journey Duration: ~3 hours
Driving from San Jose to Los Chiles takes three hours. This is the best option for traveling between the two destinations.
It is cheaper than flying and more time-efficient than taking a bus. You can also maximize the use of your vehicle, whether your own or rented.
The fastest route from Juan Santamaria International Airport is Route 35. It is connected to Avenida 7, which will take you directly to Los Chiles, Costa Rica.
The price to rent a car for this drive starts at 170 USD for a round trip. Pick-up points in the Alajuela Province are nowhere near Los Chiles, making booking a one-way rental car challenging.
My Tip:
The bus is unbeatable for budget travelers. But a private transfer is worth the investment if you’re short on time or traveling with family. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a car and make a road trip out of it!
Best day tours in Los Chiles, 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 Los Chiles, Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Los Chiles from San Jose?
Los Chiles is approximately 129 miles or 209 kilometers north of San Jose, near the border with Nicaragua.
Is it safe to drive?
Yes, many tourists and locals drive this route. However, it’s always essential to be cautious, follow local driving regulations, and be updated on road conditions, especially during the rainy season.
Is there public transportation available in Los Chile to get around?
Yes, local buses and taxis are available in Los Chiles for easy movement within the town.
Linking to these travel tips? Please mention:
Universal Traveller — How to Get from San Jose to Los Chiles
Leave a Reply