How to get to Montezuma from Manuel Antonio or Quepos, Costa Rica?
- Shajeeha Mehdi
- Mar 26
- 8 min read
Montezuma, a bohemian beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, is a stunning destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere. If you're traveling from Manuel Antonio or Quepos, several transportation options are available, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or affordability, here’s what you need to know about getting to Montezuma.
What is the best way to get to Montezuma from Manuel Antonio?
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: Shared Shuttle
To Montezuma from Manuel Antonio by Private Shuttle
Groups and Families - 5-6hrs - $427
Private shuttles are a comfortable and efficient way to reach Montezuma. This door-to-door service allows for direct transportation, cutting down on travel time compared to shared options. The journey typically takes about five to six hours, and the cost ranges from $427 to $726, depending on the number of passengers and vehicle size. Private shuttles are ideal for families or groups, providing comfort, flexibility, and the convenience of tailored departure times. The only drawback is the higher cost, but for many, the benefits of privacy and convenience justify the expense.
To Montezuma from Manuel Antonio by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 4hrs - $80
A shared shuttle provides a comfortable and relatively affordable way to reach Montezuma for just around $80. These shuttles operate daily and include hotel pick-up in Manuel Antonio, transportation to the boat docks near Jaco Beach and a direct boat ride to Montezuma Beach.
The total travel time is four hours, including the boat ride. This option eliminates the stress of navigating on your own, but departure times are fixed, and you may need to book in advance to secure a seat.
Writer's Tips:
Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
Kids under ten years old have a discounted rate.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles.Â
To Montezuma from Manuel Antonio by Public Bus
cost-effective - 8hrs - $13 US - 4 bus transfers 1 Ferry
Traveling by bus is the most budget-friendly way to get from Manuel Antonio to Montezuma, but it requires multiple transfers. The journey includes four different bus rides and a ferry crossing, adding up to approximately eight to ten hours of travel time.
Manuel Antonio to Quepos ($1)(20min)
The first leg of the journey is a short ride from Manuel Antonio to Quepos. Local buses run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to catch one without much waiting.
Bus Schedule: 5:50 AM - 9:50 PM (every 20 minutes)
Quepos to Puntarenas ($5.34)(3hr)
From Quepos, the next step is a longer bus ride to Puntarenas with the company Transportes Quepos-Puntarenas (TQP). The buses are less frequent, so it's important to time your departure to avoid long waits at the terminal.
Bus Schedule: 4:35 AM, 5:30 AM, 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM
Ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera ($1.6)(1hr)
Once in Puntarenas, travelers board the ferry to Paquera. The ferry ride is a scenic break in the journey, offering beautiful views of the Gulf of Nicoya. Tickets can be purchased at the terminal, and reservations are not required. For more information, read our blog article:Â Taking the Ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera, Costa Rica: the complete guide.
Ferry Schedule: 5:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM
Paquera to Cóbano ($3)(1hr 30min)
After arriving in Paquera, the next step is a bus ride to Cóbano. This leg of the trip is relatively smooth, but departure times are spaced out, so planning is key.
Bus Schedule: 6:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:30 PM
Cóbano to Montezuma ($2)(40min)
The final stretch is a short bus ride from Cóbano to Montezuma. These buses run regularly and will take you straight to the heart of Montezuma.
Bus Schedule: 5:45 AM, 8:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:30 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 Montezuma is the most cost-effective, it is also the longest option. Consider taking a shared shuttle or flight for this trip to cut your travel time down significantly.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus, and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Montezuma from Manuel Antonio by Car or Taxi
Fast and Easy - 6hrs - $250
Driving from Manuel Antonio to Montezuma takes approximately five to six hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route involves driving north along the coastal highway, taking a ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera, and then continuing by road to Montezuma. A rental car offers flexibility, allowing stops along the way, while a taxi provides a hassle-free but more expensive alternative.
Car rentals typically range from $50 to $100 per day, plus fuel and insurance costs. A taxi for the entire journey can cost around $250 or more. The ferry ride is an additional expense but remains affordable at approximately $1.50 per pedestrian and $25 per vehicle. While driving offers scenic views and independence, it requires navigating local roads, some of which can be rough near Montezuma.
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 Montezuma from Manuel Antonio by Airplane
The fun and fast option - 45 mins - $150
For those looking for the fastest route, flying is the best option. Though Montezuma doesn’t have its own airport, travelers can take a domestic flight from Quepos to Cóbano, which is just 15 minutes from Montezuma by taxi. The flight itself takes around 30 minutes, making it a time-saving alternative to the long road journey.
Flights typically cost around $135 per person, depending on the season and availability. Upon arrival in Cóbano, a short taxi ride to Montezuma costs around $20. While flying significantly reduces travel time, it requires advance booking and luggage restrictions may apply.
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 Montezuma from Manuel Antonio by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visits - 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
The best way to get from Manuel Antonio to Montezuma comes down to your budget, schedule, and travel style. If you’re short on time and don’t mind spending more, flying is the fastest option. Driving allows you to explore at your own pace, but you’ll need to be comfortable with the roads. Shared and private shuttles make the trip easier, with private ones offering more flexibility and shared ones being more budget-friendly. If you're up for an adventure and want to save money, the bus is the cheapest option, though it takes the longest. No matter how you get there, Montezuma’s beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe make the journey totally worth it.
What is the best way to get to Montezuma from Manuel Antonio?
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 Manuel Antonio to Montezuma?
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Manuel Antonio to Montezuma?
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