You can get from Santa Teresa to La Fortuna by shared shuttle, public bus, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.
After many trips, from the laid-back beaches of Santa Teresa to the lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes of La Fortuna, I’ve learned exactly what works when traveling between these two incredible places.
In this guide, I share personal tips and insights to help you travel smoothly and make the most of your journey. I’ve traveled through this region and double-checked all details with Jean Nájera from GuateGo.
Here’s the short version:
The cheapest way to get from Santa Teresa to La Fortuna is by public bus (USD 18, around 10 hours). The most popular option is the shared shuttle (USD 58–65, about 5 hours). The fastest way is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car (around 5.5 hours).
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle | 5 hrs | $58 to 65 |
| Public Bus | +10 hrs | $18 |
| Private Transfer | 5.5 hrs | $195 |
| Taxi | 5.5 hrs | $250+ |
| Rental Car | 5.5 hrs |
How far is La Fortuna from Santa Teresa?
The distance from Santa Teresa to La Fortuna is 175.5 miles or 282.5 kilometers. It takes about 5 to 6 hours to travel between these two places!
Getting to La Fortuna from Santa Teresa
1. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 5 hours
A trip to La Fortuna can be an adventure and a wonderful experience, but it’s also a long trip that takes you through some remote areas.
Most travelers opt for a shared van shuttle to get there. These shuttles are modern, well-equipped, and have air conditioning so that passengers can travel comfortably.
The routes are well planned so that you can travel with peace of mind and be sure to arrive safely and on time at your destination.
They are also really cost-effective and inexpensive!
Interbus Shared Shuttle Schedule:
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00am | 11:00am | 4h | $58 |  |
| 02:00pm | 06:00pm | 4h | $58 | |
| 07:00am | 11:00am | 4h | $62 | |
| 02:00pm | 06:00pm | 4h | $62 | |
| 07:50am | 11:50am | 4h | $65 | |
2. Public Bus
Journey Duration: 10 hours
Are you traveling around Costa Rica on a budget? Take the public bus, also known as a collective, to get to your destination cost-effectively!
If you are looking for a direct trip, this is not the option, as you have to change buses, so be prepared for some stop-offs along the way.
This is the cheapest option to La Fortuna, and it only costs USD 18, including all the bus tickets!
Expect this journey to take about 10 hours.
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 5 hours and 30 minutes
If you are traveling with your family or in a group and want to travel in style and comfort, a private transfer is the way to go!
You can take a private shuttle that will take you straight to your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb in La Fortuna. This allows you to be flexible when picking your departure time. The shuttle leaves when you want, without delays or waiting for other people.
It might be a bit pricey, but it’s worth every penny because you won’t have to worry about carrying your luggage, and you can just lay back and enjoy your surroundings. Plus, it’s the fastest way to get to reach your destination!
Sit back, relax, enjoy your trip in comfortable, modern vehicles, and arrive safely at your accommodation in La Fortuna!
Prices for a private transfer
- 1-4 passengers: USD 195
- 7-9 passengers: USD 255
- 5-12 passengers: USD 330
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 5 hours and 30 minutes
If you want to go to La Fortuna after your Surf trip in Santa Teresa and don’t want to go through the hassle of buses or other shared transport, renting a car is the best choice. You won’t have to worry about trying to catch a taxi or sharing a shuttle with other passengers.
This option is also great if you plan a more extended trip and don’t want to leave any unseen place. Explore Costa Rica on your schedule with a car rental from Santa Teresa!
While the travel time on this route is long, the drive is lovely and offers several stopping points.
You can easily reach La Fortuna by opening your GPS (or grabbing a map!).
It is strongly recommended to book your car in advance to guarantee availability.
5. Taxi or Uber
Journey Duration: 5 hours and 30 minutes
Taking a taxi is the most expensive option.
Prices for this transportation method vary by taxi company, the time of day, and the traffic you come across along the way. It might be best to try and agree on a fixed price from the start if possible.
Remember that most Costa Rican taxi drivers will overcharge tourists, so make sure you find a good one that is honest and reliable with the prices.
My Tip:
If you’re on a budget, take the public bus. It’s cheap but slow. For comfort without breaking the bank, go for the shared shuttle. Traveling with family or friends? Book a private transfer. And if you love freedom, rent a car and stop wherever you like!
Best day tours in La Fortuna, 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 La Fortuna worth visiting?
There’s no doubt that La Fortuna is worth the trip! While it is costly, certain activities can be undertaken on a budget.
Can I drive myself?
Yes! If you’re comfortable with Costa Rican roads (some are a bit rough), renting a car is a great way to explore at your own pace.
Is there Uber in La Fortuna?
There is! Uber works well around La Fortuna and is usually cheaper than local taxis.
How long does it take by car?
About 5.5 hours. And trust me, the scenery makes the drive fly by!
Relying on these details? Please cite:
Universal Traveller — How to Get from Santa Teresa to La Fortuna
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