How to get to Uvita from San Jose or SJO Airport?
- Esteban Acedo
- Apr 29, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 19
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-$600
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 - $70
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
Budget-friendly - 3.5–4.5 hrs - ~$10–22 USD
Uvita, a laid-back coastal town known for Marino Ballena National Park, is easily accessible from San José by bus. Two companies operate this route, offering direct service with multiple daily departures. Whether you're headed for the beach or the jungle, this trip is one of the easiest ways to reach Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast.
Option A: Grupo Blanco Lobo ($10) (3 hr 45 min)
San José to Uvita (direct)
Operated by: Autotransportes Blanco Lobo
This is a convenient direct ride, but only one departure per day.
Daily departure (Mon–Sun): 12:00 PM
Advance ticket required? Not required; arrive early to get a seat.
Option B: Tracopa ($11–22) (3.5–4.5 hrs)
San José to Uvita (direct)
Operated by: Tracopa
This company offers both regular and express buses throughout the day.
Daily departures (Mon–Sun):6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:15 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:05 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:40 PM
Advance ticket required? Not required, but recommended for morning and weekend departures.
Price note: Regular service ~$11 USD; Express service with fewer stops costs ~$22 USD.
Writer's Tips:
Buy tickets early if traveling on weekends or holidays, as Uvita is a popular getaway spot.
Sit on the right side of the bus for beautiful ocean views as you head down the coast.
Pack snacks and water, especially if you take the midday Blanco Lobo bus, it runs without planned food stops.
To Uvita from San Jose by Plane
The fastest - 30min - $180
Flying is 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.
To Uvita from San Jose by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visit - Purchase and resell
If you plan to spend an extended visit in Costa Rica and want to travel the entire country in the comfort of a private vehicle, consider renting a car or van upon arrival and returning 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 on time before leaving the country. However, this hassle could end up being worth it if you can recoup most of your investment before departure.
Do not hesitate to read our specific article on this subject: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Writer's Tips:
Give yourself time to resell the vehicle. It can be fast and easy, but in Costa Rica, there always tend to be delays.
The car buyer is normally responsible for paying lawyers' fees for the transfer of ownership
Buying a new scooter or motorcycle is fast and easy, and you can normally resell it easily and only lose a few hundred dollars in resale value.
Choosing your ideal route
Getting from San José to Uvita by bus is simple, scenic, and affordable, whether you choose the frequent departures of Tracopa or the quieter midday option with Blanco Lobo. With just one direct ride, you’ll be on the Pacific coast in a few hours, ready to explore Uvita’s beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife. Just pick the schedule that works best for you, and enjoy the journey south.
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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