You can get from Tamarindo to La Fortuna by public bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, or rental car.
Traveling from the sunny shores of Tamarindo to La Fortuna has been one of my favorite routes.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the steps to make this scenic journey as easy and enjoyable as possible, with tips only experience can teach!
Quick travel tip:
The cheapest way to get from Tamarindo to La Fortuna is by public bus (USD 11, around 7 hours with multiple transfers). The most popular option is the shared shuttle (USD 55, about 5.5 hours). The fastest way is by private transfer or rental car (around 4 hours).
Transportation Options
This post reflects my travel experience and has been fact-checked by GuateGo CEO Jean Nájera to ensure accuracy.
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle | 5.5 hrs | $55 |
| Public Bus | 7 hrs | $11 |
| Private Transfer | ~4 hrs | $305 |
| Rental Car | ~4 hrs |
How far is Tamarindo from La Fortuna?
The distance fromTamarindo to La Fortuna is 129.3 miles or 208.1 kilometers. Depending on your chosen vehicle, it can take 4 to 5 hours.
Getting to La Fortuna from Tamarindo
1. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
Taking a shared shuttle is an excellent option for reaching La Fortuna. Thanks to bilingual drivers and door-to-door service, your trip will be smooth.
Multiple companies provide shared shuttles in the morning and afternoon. This option makes traveling easy, as it offers clean and comfortable transportation.
Some downsides might be having to wait for others to be picked up, which can take up some time, and being unable to stop whenever you want, for bathroom or lunch breaks.
Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
2. Public Bus
Journey Duration: 7 hours
If you don’t mind several bus transfers and have plenty of time, you can take the public bus!
With this option, you will travel for 7 hours, including all the stops and transits.
From Tamarindo, you first have to take a public bus to Liberia. Next, you take a bus to Canas, then from Canas to Tilaran, and finally, from Tilaran to La Fortuna.
If you plan to take the public bus, you must leave Tamarindo early in the morning. You want to have plenty of time to make all your connections. Remember that the last bus from Tilaran to La Fortuna departs at 5:00 PM.
This is an extremely cheap option; you’ll only pay USD 11 for the entire tour, including all buses! Just make sure to check out all the schedules in advance.
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
Cars or private transfers are the best way to reach the Volcanoes of Arenal from the surf and sunsets in Tamarindo.
A private transfer is the best choice if traveling with your family or in a group!
Take a break and consider stopping for lunch at a roadside soda, where you can sample typical Costa Rican food! In addition to making stops along the route, the driver will be happy to answer all your questions about the area!
Prices for a private transfer:
- 7-9 passengers: USD 305
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
If you are daring and want to embark on an adventure between the two locations, renting a car and exploring on your own is best!
Depending on your comfort level, renting a car and driving yourself may be a better option. It should be no problem to drive during the dry season when you have good, paved roads the entire way, so long as you follow some safety precautions.
Due to the unlit and winding roads, it is recommended to drive during daylight hours. Driving in Costa Rica in the rainy season may be problematic for first-time visitors, as heavy and sudden rains can obstruct roads and reduce visibility.
Otherwise, if you are ready, grab a map and head to one of the car rental companies in Tamarindo or book online!
My Tip:
The public bus is a good adventure if you travel solo on a budget and have time. But if you value comfort and want to get there with less hassle, the shared shuttle is your best bet. For families or small groups, I’d definitely recommend a private transfer. It’s fast and stress-free, and you can stop for great local meals! And if you’re up for a bit of adventure, renting a car allows you to explore hidden gems.
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
How many days do you need in La Fortuna?
I recommend staying at least three nights for a complete experience in La Fortuna.
Do I need a car in La Fortuna?
If you’re staying right in town, not really. But if you plan on exploring further out or staying near the volcano, having a rental car can be super handy.
Can you swim in the La Fortuna waterfall?
La Fortuna Waterfall, which towers over 230 feet high and is located inside a rainforest, is a must-see attraction. The waterfall’s abundant wildlife is situated in the Arenal-Monteverde protected area. It is allowed to swim in the river, but not near the waterfall’s base.
How far is La Fortuna from the beach?
La Fortuna’s all about volcanoes and rainforests, not beaches. The closest beaches are around three hours away, with Puntarenas being one of the nearest.
Highlighting these travel tips? Don’t forget to credit:
Universal Traveller — How to Get from Tamarindo to La Fortuna
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