How to get to Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica?
- Esteban Acedo
- 4 days ago
- 8 min read
Traveling from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, on the Caribbean coast, to Quepos and Manuel Antonio on the Central Pacific coast is a journey that spans almost the entire width of Costa Rica. While the two towns are incredibly different in atmosphere and geography, both are favorites among travelers exploring the country. Spanning approximately 380 kilometers, the trip can be an adventure in itself, and several transportation options are available to consider, depending on your time, budget, and travel style.
What is the best way to get to Quepos from Puerto Viejo?
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 Quepos from Puerto Viejo by private shuttle
Perfect for groups - 7 hrs - $488
For the most comfortable door-to-door experience, a private shuttle is a top-tier option. This service can be tailored to your schedule, includes room for luggage, and allows you to stop along the way for meals or sightseeing. The drive will still take about 7 hours, depending on traffic and stops, but without the delays common in shared services.
Private shuttle prices start from $488 per group, making it an excellent value for families or groups of 4 to 6 people traveling together. It offers the comfort of a personal driver and vehicle while removing the stress of self-driving.
Writer's Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people. Shuttles are priced for 1-6 passengers. Plan to pay an additional $15 per extra passenger.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see; your driver should know the area well.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Quepos from Puerto Viejo by shared shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 10 hrs - $122
Shared shuttles are a convenient and popular option for tourists who want a stress-free journey without the hassle of driving. These air-conditioned vans typically pick you up directly from your hotel in Puerto Viejo and drop you off in Quepos & Manuel Antonio; however, a change of shuttle is required in San José.
The journey can take between 9 and 11 hours, depending on the route and waiting time for other passengers. Prices usually are around $122 per person. Shared shuttles offer a comfortable and efficient solution for those who want to relax and avoid worrying about logistics. However, seats should be booked in advance, especially during high season.
Writer's Tips:
Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
Kids under ten years old might get a discount.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles.
To Quepos from Puerto Viejo by public bus
cost-effective - 10 hrs - $23 US - 1 bus transfer
Traveling by public bus is the most budget-friendly way to reach Quepos from Puerto Viejo, though it’s also the most time-consuming and requires at least one transfer, usually in San José. The first leg of the journey involves taking a MEPE bus from Puerto Viejo to San José, which takes around 5 to 6 hours. Once in San José, you need to catch a Transportes Tracopa bus from the Tracopa Terminal to Quepos, which adds another 3.5 to 4.5 hours to the journey.
Combined, the trip can take anywhere from 10 to 11 hours, depending on waiting times between connections. The total cost is typically around $23. While inexpensive, this option is best suited for travelers on a tight budget and those who don’t mind long travel days with minimal comfort.
Here's a full breakdown:
Puerto Viejo to San Jose (5.5 hrs)($12.5)
Mon to Sun: 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM,10:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM
San Jose to Quepos(4 hrs)($10.5)
Mon to Sun: 4:00 AM, 6:00 AM, 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM
Writer's Tips:
Most companies in Costa Rica provide services from early morning to late afternoon.
Leave as early as possible to make all your connecting bus transfers.
While taking a bus to Quepos is the most cost-effective, it is also the longest. Consider taking a shared shuttle or flight for this trip to significantly reduce your travel time.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus, and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Quepos from Puerto Viejo by car or taxi
Fast and Easy - 8 hrs - $400
Driving from Puerto Viejo to Quepos offers the most flexibility and the opportunity to see more of Costa Rica along the way. The route takes approximately 7 to 9 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and weather. The most direct path is via Route 32 through San José, continuing onto Route 27 and then Route 34 down the Pacific coast.
Car rental costs can range from $50 to $90 per day, not including fuel, insurance, or possible tolls on Route 27. This option is ideal for those comfortable navigating Costa Rican roads and who want to stop at points of interest along the way, such as Braulio Carrillo National Park, the capital city of San José, or beaches like Playa Herradura or Jacó.
While taxis are not recommended for this long-distance journey due to their high cost, potentially over $400 one way, private ride apps or organized drivers could be arranged with local agencies, particularly if you're looking for door-to-door service with less planning on your part.
Writer's Tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Always check with your credit card company to see if international car insurance is an added cardholder benefit. This can save you some money on your rental.
Waze is the most-used direction application in Costa Rica, so it normally has the most up-to-date road conditions.
To Quepos from Puerto Viejo by airplane
No viable option - 7 hrs - $130
Though there are no direct flights from Puerto Viejo, you can take a domestic flight from San José to Quepos. To do this, you must first get from Puerto Viejo to San José, which takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours by shuttle or bus. Once in San José, you can fly from Juan Santamaría International SJO Airport to La Managua Airport XQP near Quepos. The flight itself is quick, around 25 minutes.
Flight prices typically range from $100 to $150, depending on the season and how early you book. While flying is the fastest way to reach Quepos once you're in San José, the total travel time, including the transfer, can still be 6 to 8 hours. It's a good choice if you're looking to reduce the wear and tear of a long road trip, but it requires more coordination and may involve an overnight stay in San José, depending on the timing.
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 around Costa Rica. 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. If you want to book a private charter flight, you will need to follow the same process as for a domestic flight, first going to San José and then taking a private flight to Quepos.
Writer's Tips:
Be aware that flying with extra or heavy luggage could come with an additional cost.
Be at the airport check-in at least 1 hour before your flight, or they won't allow you to fly.
To Quepos from Puerto Viejo by private vehicle
Best for extended visit - Purchase and resell
If you are planning an extended visit to Costa Rica and want to travel the entire country in the luxury of a private vehicle, consider buying a car or van when you arrive and selling it when you leave. Buying a vehicle is both legal for tourists and pretty easy to do. You would have to pay the initial lawyer's fees to transfer ownership, and then you would have to sell the vehicle in time before leaving the country, but this hassle could end up being worth the hassle if you can get most of your investment back before you go.
For more information, check our article: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Choosing your ideal route
Getting from Puerto Viejo to Quepos requires planning, as the journey spans nearly the full breadth of Costa Rica. If you're seeking comfort and convenience, a private shuttle or a flight via San José is your best bet. Shared shuttles strike a balance between price and ease, while driving offers full freedom for those up to the challenge. For backpackers and budget travelers, the public bus system is reliable but slow. Whichever method you choose, the journey is part of the adventure, and Quepos, home to stunning beaches and the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, will make the trip worthwhile.
What is the best way to get to from ?
0%By Private Shuttle
0%By Shared Shuttle
0%By Air Plane (domestic flight)
0%By Taxi or Rental Car
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Shuttle from Puerto Viejo to Quepos?
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Puerto Viejo to Quepos?
A taxi for 1 to 4 passengers should cost around $400
How much does it cost to fly from Puerto Viejo to Quepos?
If you can find a direct flight, it should cost around $130. Most domestic airlines will make you change plans in San Jose.
Is Puerto Viejo closer to Liberia or San Jose?
Puerto Viejo is much closer to San José. If you’re flying into Costa Rica and heading to Puerto Viejo, it’s best to arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José rather than Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia.
What airport should I fly into for Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica?
The nearest airport to Puerto Viejo is Limón International Airport (LIO). However, this airport has limited flights, so most travelers fly into San José (SJO) and then take a shuttle, bus, or rental car to Puerto Viejo.
How far is it from Puerto Viejo to Quepos?
The distance between Puerto Viejo and Quepos is approximately 380 kilometers.
Is Puerto Viejo or Quepos better?
Puerto Viejo is better for a laid-back Caribbean vibe and surf culture, while Quepos is ideal for wildlife lovers and access to Manuel Antonio National Park.
Is Puerto Viejo close to Quepos?
The distance between Puerto Viejo and Quepos is not great (380 kilometers). The route involves multiple mountainous roads that make the journey last longer.
Why is Puerto Viejo so popular?
Puerto Viejo is famous for its beautiful beaches, Afro-Caribbean culture, excellent surfing, and lively nightlife. It’s also close to Cahuita National Park and the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
What is the best bus route to take from Puerto Viejo to Quepos?
We recommend the following route:
Puerto Viejo to San Jose
San Jose to Quepos
Are the Beaches Free in Puerto Viejo?
Yes, the beaches in Puerto Viejo are public and free to access. Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Punta Uva are some of the most popular spots.
Is there a national park near Puerto Viejo?
Yes, Cahuita National Park is about 15 km (9 miles) north of Puerto Viejo and is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse parks in Costa Rica. It’s unique because it combines rainforest, coral reefs, and stunning beaches, making it a paradise for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Is Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, worth visiting?
Yes, Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, is worth visiting for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, beautiful beaches, lush jungle surroundings, excellent surfing, and relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
How many days do you need in Puerto Viejo?
A minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to explore the beaches, national parks, and nearby towns. If you love a relaxed vibe, you could easily stay a week or more.
Do you need a car in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica?
Not necessarily. Biking and walking are popular ways to get around, and taxis or tuk-tuks are available. However, if you want to explore nearby areas like Cahuita or Manzanillo, renting a car can be convenient.
Comments