How to Get from San Jose to Monteverde by Bus, Shuttle, Car
Are you looking for the best ways to get from San Jose to Monteverde, Costa Rica? Monteverde is a unique place, the perfect destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Getting to Monteverde may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are several ways to get there. You can easily get to Monteverde by shared and private transfer, taxi, bus, or rental car.
In this ultimate guide, you will find all the ways to get from San Jose to Monteverde, such as the cheapest and quickest way to travel, journey times, and how much a bus ticket or taxi will cost.
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How far is Monteverde from San Jose?
The distance between San Jose and Monteverde is about 140 km, which is 3-6 hours, depending on traffic and mode of transport.
Important note
Monteverde does not have an airport.
Scroll down for more information about which transport is the best for you, how long the journey takes, and how much a taxi or bus ticket will cost.
San Jose to Monteverde by Bus
The cheapest way to get to Monteverde is by bus. A bus ticket from San Jose to Monteverde costs around 3,885 colones (8 USD). The bus ride takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and multiple stops. There are two daily direct bus services to Monteverde at 6:30 AM and 2:30 PM. Buses depart from Terminal 7-10 in downtown San Jose to Santa Elena town center.
Terminal 7-10 is about 30-45 minutes from San Jose Airport, and you can get there by taxi, bus, or Uber. The local bus will take you to the main city bus terminal for about 1.50 USD, or you can take a taxi for 15-25 USD. You can buy your bus ticket online or at the terminal, but we recommend you arrive at least 1 hour before departure.
Get bus tickets via Bookaway or Transmonteverde.
Take care of your valuables, as minor thefts or pickpockets may occur on public transport!
San Jose to Monteverde by Shuttle Minivan
One of the best and most popular ways to get to Monteverde is by air-conditioned minivan. The journey time is 3.5-4.5 hours, depending on traffic.
A shuttle minivan from San Jose Airport/City to Monteverde (any hotel) starts from 55 USD.
San Jose to Monteverde by Car
The best way to get to Monteverde is by car. You can easily rent a car at San Jose Airport or pick up your pre-booked car. You don’t need a 4×4, but a car with a higher ground clearance is worth booking for your Costa Rica road trip. But if you plan to visit Costa Rica in the rainy season, especially around Monteverde, 4WD is recommended.
Book your car in advance to get the best price! Check car rental prices and availability HERE.
The best way to explore Costa Rica is by renting a car. Although public transport is cheap, travel time is long, and some places are not accessible by bus. Renting a car in Costa Rica provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit hidden gems or get off the beaten path.
We did our 2-week Costa Rica Itinerary by rental car and enjoyed exploring the sights at our own pace.
San Jose to Monteverde Driving
There are two paved roads to Monteverde, Route 606 and Route 145. From San Jose, take Route 27, 23, then Interamericana Highway 1, and continue on Route 606. There is a toll on this route. As these are small tolls, we recommend you bring local money.
Driving time is usually 3-3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Are you thinking of renting a car? Be sure to read our guide to renting a car in Costa Rica and driving tips.
Good to know
It always gets dark early in Costa Rica (between 5:30 PM and 6 PM). So we don’t recommend driving at night!
Read our → Monteverde Guide
San Jose to Monteverde Day Trip
You can’t leave Costa Rica without walking on the suspension bridges in Monteverde. A day trip to Monteverde is a great way to see the famous Cloud Forest and walk on the hanging bridges, so even if you can only take a short visit, it’s still worth it.
The tour price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned vehicle, a professional bilingual guide, lunch, and all entrance fees.
Book your day tour via Viator or GetYourGuide.
San Jose Airport to Monteverde by Taxi, Private Transfer
One of the most comfortable and fastest ways to get to Monteverde is by taxi. The journey time is 3 hours, depending on traffic.
A taxi from San Jose Airport to Monteverde starts from 160 USD, depending on the number of passengers, time of day, etc. If you are not traveling alone, the price is affordable.
TIP
The taxi drivers do not accept card payments, so you should bring local money!
Alternatively, you can book a private transfer from the airport to Monteverde for up to 6 people for 220 USD.
Where to Stay in Monteverde
We recommend staying in Santa Elena for at least 2-3 days to allow enough time to visit the best places in Monteverde.
If you don’t have a rental car or are looking for budget accommodation, you should stay in Santa Elena downtown. Because you’ll be close to the great restaurants and supermarkets and can easily book tours or shuttles to attractions.
Best hotels in Monteverde
- Mid-Range: Hotel Belmar or Chira Glamping
- Budget: Hotel Socialtel
We have a detailed post on the best areas and hotels in Monteverde.
Photo credit: Chira Glamping
More Travel Guides about Costa Rica
- How to Renting a Car in Costa Rica
- 13 Best Things to Do in La Fortuna
- Guide to Visiting Rio Celeste Waterfall
- Best Eco Lodges in Costa Rica
- Guide to Manuel Antonio National Park
We hope our post on how to get from San Jose to Monteverde will help you plan your next trip to Costa Rica. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
Travel Resources
Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
eSIM – Airalo
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Transfer – Bookaway
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