How to get to Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos?
- Esteban Acedo
- Mar 11, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Jun 18
Costa Rica's stunning landscapes beckon travelers to explore its natural beauty, from the tranquil town of Sierpe to the breathtaking beaches of Manuel Antonio or Quepos. If you're planning a journey from Manuel Antonio to Sierpe, options like group shuttles, private transportation, taxis, or rental cars are recommended for this 2-hour, 121-kilometer trip.
If Drake Bay is your destinate, it's likely that your journey will include a boat taxi from Sierpe to Drake Bay. Even with a car, the boat ride may be preferable due to the lengthy and rugged overland drive, which requires a 4x4 vehicle. This guide provides information on various travel options, including directions to catch boats departing from Sierpe to Drake Bay twice daily (at 11:30 and 14:00) from Donde Jorge Restaurant in Sierpe.
Whether you’re looking for the freedom of driving yourself or the ease of a door-to-door transfer, here’s everything you need to know to choose the best option.
What is the best way to get to Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Air plane, Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by private shuttle
Best for Groups - 2 hrs - $210 (1-6 passengers)
For a more personalized and exclusive experience, consider hiring a private shuttle. Although pricier than shared shuttles, private transfers offer privacy, flexibility, and the ability to customize your itinerary. We recommend this travel option for any group of 4 or more passengers. The drive is quick, easy, and incredibly beautiful with a ton of great ocean-view vistas to stop at along the journey.
Writers Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see; your driver should know the area well.
Stop for a meal break in Dominical or Uvita. The Farmers Market on Fridays in Dominical is incredible!
Click here for detailed information about shared and private shuttle service in Costa Rica.
For more information, check out our blog article: How to get to Drake Bay from Sierpe: the complete guide.
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by shared shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 2hrs - $50
Shared shuttles provide a balance between convenience and affordability, making them a popular choice among travelers. These shuttles operate scheduled services between major tourist destinations, including Sierpe and Manuel Antonio with regular morning routes almost always available. 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 Manuel Antonio to Sierpe are normally only scheduled to leave in the morning.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
For more information, check out our blog article: How to get to Drake Bay from Sierpe: the complete guide.
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by car or taxi
Easiest - 2hrs - $180 (1-4 passengers)
Renting a car or hiring a taxi provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The distance from Sierpe to Manuel Antonio is approximately 115 kilometers, and the journey takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions. Even if you have a car, traveling to Sierpe and taking riverboat to Drake Bay is most recommended. There isn't a lot of need for a vehicle in Drake Bay and the riverboat adventure is part of what makes this journey so special. For more information, check out our blog article: How to get to Drake Bay from Sierpe: the complete guide.
Writers tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Get 4x4 if you want to get close to nature or if you plan to drive to Drake Bay.
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 Sierpe or Drake Bay from Manuel Antonio or Quepos by bus
Cheapest - 3 hrs - $12
The most affordable and convenient option is to take buses from Manuel Antonio to Sierpe. When traveling from Quepos or Manuel Antonio to Sierpe, you will need to take a direct bus from Quepos central station to Sierpe.
Bus company: Tracopa
Departure time: Mon-Sun 11:30 am, 6:30pm
Lenght: 3hours
We always recommend catching the first-morning bus available.
There's no bus to Drake Bay as the road access is very limited, so most of you will be taking a boat from Sierpe. From Sierpe, the river boat leave twice a day to Drake bay at 11:30 am and 4 pm. You don't need to buy or book tickets in advance, although you may through website.
Price: $40
Ride Duration: 1h 30m
For more information about this boat taxi, find our blog post: How to get to Drake Bay from Sierpe.
Writers Tips:
When loading your luggage, make sure to give your bag to the driver only and make sure you see the bag go into the bus storage area.
Drivers will typically give you a luggage ticket that corresponds to your bag. Better to keep any expensive or cherished items on you, in your carry-on, or within arm's length.
To Sierpe or Drake Bay from Quepos Airport by Plane
Fastest - 45 min - $80-$240
While Quepos and Drake Bay both have an adequate airport for domestic flights, it may be challenging to find flights for this route. The distance to not too far, and most people choose to make this journey by car, making flights less popular and therefore also less prevalent. If time is of the essence and you really want to fly, look to see if there's a direct seasonal flight available. Alternatively, you could fly to SJO and then take a direct flight to Drake Bay.
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. For this journey, travelers can reserve a private charter airplane from Quepos airport to Drake Bay airport, making this the fastest travel option available.
Writers Tips:
Always buy your tickets from the airline directly and avoid using any type of third party as scams for air travel within Costa Rica do exist.
Make sure you read their policies surrounding luggage as you may often be charged additional luggage fees, especially if your luggage is heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What's the best way to get from Manuel Antonio to Sierpe?
The best option is to drive or take a private or shared shuttle. It's only 2 hrs away and the drive down the coast is a beautiful experience.
Do I need 4x4 vehicle to get to Sierpe or Drake Bay?
You don't need a 4x4 to drive to Sierpe. You do need 4x4 to drive to Drake Bay.
What time is the bus from Sierpe to Palmar Norte?
There a normally 2 busses from Quepos to Palma Norte. One at 7am and another at 11am.
How much is the boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay?
The Sierpe to Drake Bay boat taxi should run $20 per person. It may be less for residence or locals.
Is it easy to get around Drake Bay without a car?
Yes, Drake Bay is tiny and can normally be navigated on foot.
How do you get to Drake Bay Costa Rica?
Catch a flight from San Jose. Drive all the way with a 4x4 vehicle. Drive to Sierpe and take a boat taxi the rest of the way if you don't have 4x4.
Why Visit Drake Bay?
Drake Bay serves as the gateway to the renowned Corcovado National Park, celebrated for its rich biodiversity. A journey to Costa Rica would be incomplete without venturing into this enchanting destination. Drake Bay enchants visitors with its welcoming atmosphere, captivating sunsets, and exciting adventures such as snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife encounters.
Can i Park my car in Sierpe while visiting Drake Bay?
Yes, There is private parking lots in Drake Bay that charge around $5 per day to leave your car there overnight. You can also park on the street in Sierpe but it is not as safe as the private lots.
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