You can get from San Jose to Monteverde Cloud Forest by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.
Having journeyed through Costa Rica countless times, I’ve gathered some invaluable tips and tricks that I will share with you!
This article is based on my own travel experiences and reviewed by Jean Nájera, CEO of GuateGo, for accuracy.
My Must-Share Tip:
The cheapest way to get from San Jose to Monteverde is by bus (USD 15, approx. 4.5 hours). The most popular option is the shared shuttle (USD 50, approx. 3.5 hours). The fastest way is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi (around 3 hours).
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | 4.5 hrs | $15 |
| Shuttle | 3.5 hrs | $50 |
| Private Transfer | ~3 hrs | $195 to 330 |
| Taxi | 3 hrs | – |
| Rental Car | 3 hrs | – |
How far is Monteverde from San Jose?
The distance from San Jose to Monteverde, Costa Rica, is about 140 kilometers or 87 miles.
1. Public Bus
Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
The public bus is the most economical option.
There are two daily direct buses, and the journey takes around 4.5 hours.
Transmonteverde offers the route from the San Jose downtown bus station at Terminal 7 – 10. A one-way ticket costs about 15 USD.
Bus Schedule
Buses depart daily at 06:30 AM and 02:30 PM from the bus terminal in San Jose.
2. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
If you want a bit more comfort, you may want to book a shared shuttle. The driver will pick you up at your hotel or the airport in San Jose.
Shuttles depart daily from San Jose at 8 AM and 2:30 PM and from San Jose Airport at 08:30 AM and 3 PM.
The trip takes about 3.5 hours, depending on your pick-up location, and costs a bit more than 50 USD per person.
Below is the current shared shuttle schedule with departure times, trip durations, and prices.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02:00pm | 05:30pm | 3h 30m | $62 |  |
| 07:00am | 10:00am | 3h | $62 | |
| 02:00pm | 05:00pm | 3h | $62 | |
| 07:00am | 11:30am | 4h 30m | $65 | |
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
A private transfer might be the best option if you travel in a big group or want to be more flexible.
You can decide when you want to depart and the driving time is only three hours. The prices vary depending on the vehicle and number of passengers, ranging between USD 195 and 330.
- 1-4 passengers: USD 195
- 1-13 passengers: USD 245
- 7-9 passengers: USD 290
- 5-12 passengers: USD 330
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 3 hours
If you don’t want to depend on bus schedules or a transfer, you can also get to Monteverde by rental car.
The driving time is approximately three hours, and the distance is around 140 kilometers.
Please be aware that the last 20 kilometers are not paved.
What I’d do:
If I travel on a budget and have time, I’d opt for the public bus. It’s affordable and offers a scenic journey through Costa Rica’s landscapes. However, if I prefer more comfort and a shorter travel time, I’d choose a shared shuttle service for its convenience and reasonable price.
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.
Here, you can find some of the best tours in Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct bus service?
Yes, there are direct bus services. These buses are usually economical and comfortable, though the journey can take 4 to 5 hours due to the challenging road conditions.
Is it safe to drive by car?
Yes, it’s generally safe to drive. However, caution is essential, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the roads. It’s recommended to go during daylight hours and be prepared for unpaved roads and possible weather disruptions, particularly during the rainy season.
Can I book my transportation in advance?
Yes, whether you’re looking to book a shuttle, bus ticket, or rental car, booking in advance is generally advisable, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates.
Want to pass this on? You can credit this resource:
Universal Traveller — How to get from San Jose to Monteverde Cloud Forest
Leave a Reply