How to get to Uvita from San Jose or SJO Airport?
- Esteban Acedo
- Apr 29, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Jun 6
Embarking on a journey from the vibrant city of San Jose or SJO Airport to the serene coastal town of Uvita in Costa Rica offers a gateway to breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're seeking convenience, privacy, or adventure, there are various transportation options to suit your preferences for this 223-kilometer, 4.5-hour journey. Let's explore each method in detail to help you plan your trip seamlessly.
Need other useful information? We have a complete travel guide dedicated to Uvita: the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in the area.
What is the best way to get to Uvita from San Jose or SJO Airport?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Uvita from San Jose by private shuttle
Perfect for groups <> 3-4hrs <> $373
For those prioritizing privacy and flexibility, private shuttles offer a personalized transportation experience. With a private shuttle, you have the freedom to choose your departure time and customize your itinerary according to your preferences. Enjoy the comfort of traveling in a private vehicle with experienced drivers who can provide valuable insights and recommendations along the way.
Writer tips:
Be sure to inform the carrier if you have a surfboard or several large suitcases.
If you take a private shuttle, stop along the way to buy souvenirs and fresh fruit.
Private shuttles are normally priced for1-6 passengers ($15 extra per additional person you add).
Click here for detailed information on shared and private shuttle services in Costa Rica.
To Uvita from San Jose by shared shuttle
Solo travelers or couples <> 3-4hrs <> $65
Shared shuttles provide a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelers heading to Uvita from San Jose or the San Jose airport (SJO). These shuttle services offer door-to-door transportation, making stops at major hotels and accommodations along the way. Expect comfortable seating and air-conditioned vehicles, along with the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and share the journey.
Writer tips:
Book in advance as these shuttles can fill up.
Be aware of baggage restrictions. Surfboards and additional suitcases may cost extra.
Click here for more information on group and private shuttles
To Uvita from San Jose by car or taxi
Easiest <> 3-4hrs <> $280
Renting a car or hiring a taxi provides travelers with the freedom to explore Uvita at their own pace. From San Jose, you can embark on a scenic road trip along the Pacific coast, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Alternatively, taxis are readily available at the airport and offer direct transportation to Uvita for those seeking convenience.
Writer tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Opt for a 4x4 if you want to get closer to nature!
Book well in advance to save money.
Be sure to add a quick stop on the Tarcoles River to check out the famous Crocodile Bridge - you don't want to miss it!
Make sure to negotiate with airport taxis as they can be more expensive.
Contact your credit card company to see if your car is insured as a benefit on your card (this is very common)
To easily bypass highway tolls, be prepared and have a few Colones with you, or use the tap to pay with your credit card or phone.
To Uvita from San Jose by public bus
The cheapest <> 4-5hrs <> $12 - $18
If you're traveling by bus, it might seem a little more confusing. Don't worry, it's much simpler than it seems. When you land at San Jose Airport, you're not quite in San Jose yet; the airport is in a nearby town called Alajuela. That being said, the bus you will need to take to get to Dominical leaves from the Tracopa Bus Terminal, which is in the actual city of San Jose. So, you will have to commute from the airport to get there.
To get to the Tracopa bus station in San José, you can either take a local bus from the airport, a taxi, or an Uber. We recommend taking an Uber; it's more cost-effective than a taxi (which can cost you $15-20 more) and much easier than taking the bus after a day of flying. An Uber will usually cost less than $10.
If you decide to take a local bus to Tracopa, you will need to find the bus stop (which is on the street below the terminal as you leave the airport) and board the correct bus. You will need to ask the driver if they are heading to San Jose to ensure you get on the correct bus. You can pay the bus driver directly in colones or USD – it costs around 665 colones. The drive to San Jose will take approximately 30-45 minutes. However, when you get off the bus, you still won't be at the Tracopa bus terminal and will probably want to take an Uber to get there if you have luggage. Taking an Uber directly from the airport will save you time and hassle for a slightly higher cost - it will take, depending on traffic, around 25-45 minutes and will drop you off directly at the Tracopa bus terminal.
The easiest way to get to Uvita is to catch one of the two busses headed to Uvita at 6am or 3pm from the Tracopa bus station in San Jose. Alternatively, you can grab one of the several buses from San José to Quepos, and from Quepos switch to the bus headed to Uvita. See the bus schedule below.
To Uvita from San Jose by plane
The fastest <> 30min <> $180
Flying the the fastest and easiest way to get from San Jose to Uvita. While you can't fly directly to Uvita (there is no domestic airport), you can fly to Quepos Airport (XQP) and then drive the additional 50 minutes to Uvita. Flights typically cost around $100, and the flight duration is approximately 30 minutes.
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.
Writer's Tips:
Please note that flying with extra or heavy luggage may incur an additional cost.
Be at the airport for check-in at least 1 hour before your flight, or you may not be allowed to fly.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best way to get from San Jose to Uvita?
We recommend driving to Uvita from San Jose. The 4-hour coastal highway route has many beautiful viewpoints and cities to see along the way. We recommend a shared shuttle for singles or couples. We recommend a private shuttle for groups of 10 or more.
Is it okay to travel between San Jose and Uvita at night?
Although possible, it is not recommended to travel in Costa Rica at night. If something happens to your car late at night, you may be stuck on the highway until morning.
How easy is it to drive from San Jose to Uvita?
The drive from San Jose to Uvita takes approximately 3-4 hours without traffic or stops. Although the distance is not great, the roads are generally one lane, so you can only go as fast as traffic allows. You don't need 4x4.
How much does a shuttle cost from San Jose to Uvita?
A private shuttle should cost around $350 for 1-6 passengers. A shared shuttle should cost around $69 per person.
Is the drive from San Jose to Uvita a good experience?
The landscape and jungle are absolutely incredible with multiple coastal viewpoints worth stopping for. It is recommended to stop to see crocodiles at Tarcoles Bridge or stop at Jaco for a meal.
How much does the bus from San José to Uvita cost?
The bus from San Jose to Uvita should cost around US$12.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle to get from San Jose to Uvita?
No, any type of vehicle will work.
What airport do you fly into for Uvita Costa Rica?
The closest international airport to Uvita is San Jose (SJO). The closest domestic airport to Uivta is the Quepos Airport, a 50 minute drive from Uvita.
Is Uvita worth visiting?
The area is teeming with diverse wildlife, beckoning travelers to explore its verdant rainforests, where encounters with monkeys, sloths, and colorful tropical birds await. Uvita stands as a haven for thrill-seekers, offering an array of exhilarating adventures like zip-lining, waterfall rappelling, and hiking through breathtaking landscapes.
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