How to get to Manuel Antonio or Quepos from La Fortuna, Arenal?
- Esteban Acedo
- Dec 21, 2023
- 7 min read
Updated: Jun 22
Costa Rica, with its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for many travelers. If your adventure starts in La Fortuna and your final destination is the captivating beach town of Manuel Antonio, you're in for an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we'll explore all the options available for traveling from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio, providing you with valuable information and analysis to help you make an informed decision for navigating this 218km trip.
Need other useful information? We have a complete travel guide dedicated to the town of Manuel Antonio & Quepos: the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in the area.
What is the best way to get to Manuel Antonio or Quepos from La Fortuna, Arenal?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Airplane, Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Manuel Antonio from La Fortuna by Private Shuttle
Best for Groups - 4-6hrs - $334
A private shuttle service is a popular choice among travelers seeking convenience and comfort. These private shuttles offer direct transportation from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic journey. The distance between La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio is approximately 218 kilometers (135 miles). The travel time for shuttle services typically ranges from 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Click here for detailed information about shared and private shuttle service in Costa Rica.
Writers Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 5-12 people.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see, and your driver should know the area well.
To Manuel Antonio from La Fortuna by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 5-6hrs - $69
If you enjoy the company of fellow travelers, a group shuttle might be the perfect choice. Shared shuttles operate on set schedules and pick up passengers from various locations. While you may have less control over the schedule, group shuttles are a cost-effective and social way to reach Manuel Antonio. Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
Writers Tips:
Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
Shared shuttles from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio are typically scheduled to depart in the morning.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases may incur additional costs.
To Manuel Antonio from La Fortuna
By Car or taxi
Easiest - 4-5hrs - $250
The easiest way to travel from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio is by renting a private car or hiring a private taxi. The distance is approximately 218 kilometers, and the drive can take between 5 and 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The highways are well-kept and relatively easy to navigate. We recommend using Waze to navigate in Costa Rica as it is the most locally used app and therefore should be the most accurate. If you do drive yourself, make sure to add a quick stop by the Tarcoles River to check out the famous crocodile bridge - you don’t wanna miss it!
Writers tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Get a 4x4 if you want to get close to nature!
Plan to make longer voyages during daylight hours, as driving at night can be more dangerous.
Book rental cars well in advance to save some money.
Contact your credit card company to see if your car is insured as a benefit to your card (this is very common).
To Manuel Antonio from La Fortuna by Public Bus
Cheapest - 7hr 28min - $35-$45
Traveling by bus in Costa Rica can be pretty straightforward as long as you have a plan and know what you're doing. Buses are typically air-conditioned and have assigned seats. Tickets can normally be purchased in advance, and we recommend doing so whenever possible. Bus travel is safe, but we always recommend being cautious with your luggage. When loading your luggage, ensure that you hand it directly to the driver and confirm that it is placed in the bus storage area. Drivers will typically give you a luggage ticket that corresponds to your bag. It's better to keep any expensive or cherished items with you, in your carry-on, or within arm's reach.
Traveling by bus from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio and Quepos is pretty straightforward. You will first travel from La Fortuna to San Ramon. Then take a bus from San Ramon to Puntarenas. Then take a bus from Puntarenas to Manuel Antonio and Quepos.
Traveling by bus from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio and Quepos
La Fortuna to San Ramon (2hrs) (74.6km)
Parada de autobuses 702 Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna Costa Rica
Bus times: 4:30 am, 5:30 am, 9:00 am, 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm
San Ramon to Puntarenas (1hr20min) (53.7km)
Empresarios Unidos Provincia de Alajuela, San Ramón Costa Rica
Bus times: Hourly
Puntarenas to Manuel Antonio and Quepos (2hr30min) (136.9km)
Terminal de buses de Puntarenas - San José C. 2 Provincia de Puntarenas, Puntarenas Costa Rica
4:30am, 5:00am, 7:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm
Writers Tips:
Leave La Fortuna in the morning on the first bus so that when you arrive at the next leg of the journey, you can be assured that you can catch the next bus you need.
To Quepos Airport from La Fortuna
by Air
Fastest - 45 min - $80-$240
La Fortuna Airport, also known as Aureopuerto Areanal, is located in El Tanque, just 10 minutes east of the town of La Fortuna. Quepos is the closest airport to Manuel Antonio and is a 15-minute drive away. Depending on the time of year, flights may be available from Arenal Airport to Quepos. Embarking on a journey from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica by plane is a swift and exhilarating experience, offering travelers the luxury of both convenience and breathtaking aerial views of the country's diverse landscapes. Departing from La Fortuna, the short flight to Manuel Antonio provides a seamless transition from the inland beauty to the stunning Pacific coastline.
Private charter flights
If you're short on time and don’t mind splurging, private charter flights offer one of the most convenient and scenic ways to travel from La Fortuna to Quepos. You can charter a single-engine plane (typically seating up to 12 passengers) between any domestic airports in the country. These flights often feel like a private aerial tour, offering incredible views of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes—from coastlines to volcanoes—all in under 45 minutes. It’s a fast, effortless, and unforgettable way to get from one destination to another.
Writers Tips:
Be sure to read their policies regarding luggage, as you may be charged additional fees for excess baggage, especially if it is heavy.
Writer’s Tip:
Travelers, be aware that Uber is not fully legal in Costa Rica. While we recommend using Uber as a transportation option in this blog, you must use it with caution, as Uber has been a controversial issue in the country, with the legality of using it coming into play regularly. Both drivers and passengers could face fines or penalties for using UBER.
If you plan to stay in Costa Rica for an extended period, purchasing a SIM card at the airport may facilitate your trip. The prepaid SIM card they sell costs 10,000 colones (or $20 USD) for 30 days, and the Claro stand is located in the baggage claim area of the SJO airport. This is the only place where you can obtain a SIM card at the airport; once you leave baggage claim, you cannot return. They will switch out your SIM card, activate your new number, and you will be all set up with a new phone number within 2 minutes - the process is surprisingly efficient. This plan includes 5 GB of data, Unlimited WhatsApp (excluding calls and video calls), and 85 minutes of phone calls to Costa Rica, Central America, the USA, or Canada. Your internet package can also be used in the rest of Central America if you travel outside Costa Rica afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What's the best way to get from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio?
If you can afford it and the flights align well with your schedule, then flying is the most convenient way to travel from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio. The other best option is to take a private or shared shuttle.
Do I need a 4x4 to travel between La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio?
No, roads are well paved and maintained well.
How to get from Manuel Antonio to Fortuna?
The information in this blog post can serve as a guide on how to get from Manuel Antonio to La Fortuna. This post should have all the information you need.
What is the best driving route from La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio?
Head out of town on 702, and stay on this road for 1.5 hours until you get to the town of San Ramon. Here, you'll get on Route 1 west for another 1.5 hours. Merge on to Route 23, then Route 27, and finally Route 34.
Is it easy to get around La Fortuna without a car?
The primary bus station is situated downtown, adjacent to Mega Super. Bus tickets can be purchased at the Red Lava stand nearby. Nevertheless, if your accommodation is not in downtown La Fortuna, opting to rent a car is the most convenient way to explore the various attractions in the Arenal area at your own pace, as they are widely dispersed.
Is it better to go to La Fortuna or Monteverde?
If you seek a destination with extensive tourist activities, a variety of hotels, and numerous dining options, La Fortuna is the perfect choice. Here's a bit more information: Monteverde is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate activities like bird watching, hiking, and exploring the cloud forest.
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