The Ultimate Guide to shuttle Costa Rica Transportation (2026)

Traveling around Costa Rica doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re landing at San José Airport or Liberia Airport, heading to the jungle, the beach, or anywhere in between, a shuttle service is one of the easiest ways to move around Costa Rica. In this complete guide, we’ll explain how shuttles work, the difference between private and shared services, tips for booking, and why choosing a reliable shuttle provider will make your trip better from start to finish.

What Is a Shuttle Service in Costa Rica?

A shuttle service is a private or shared vehicle that transports you between destinations, often from airports, towns, and lodges. Unlike public buses, shuttle vans provide door-to-door transportation, are air-conditioned, comfortable, and designed for travelers with luggage.

Most shuttle vans are licensed, insured, and carry passengers in groups of 1–16, depending on the route and vehicle size.

Want to book your shuttle in Costa Rica directly? Visit our booking page to see available transfers and prices.

Private vs. Shared Shuttle Services

Understanding the difference between private and shared shuttle options will help you choose the right transportation for your trip:

Private Shuttle Costa Rica

• Exclusive service for your group

• Flexible pickup times based on your schedule

• Direct routes with no stops for other passengers

• Ideal for families, groups, or travelers with lots of luggage

Private shuttles are perfect if you value time, flexibility, and convenience. They can be slightly more expensive than shared options, but they’re often worth it — especially for larger groups.

Shared Shuttle Costa Rica

• More affordable option

• Scheduled pickup and drop-off times

• Multiple stops for other passengers

Shared shuttles are a great choice for budget-conscious travelers or solo travelers. Because these shuttles stop to pick up or drop off other travelers, travel times can be longer than private shuttles.

Book your private or shared shuttle

Popular Shuttle Costa Rica Routes

Here are some of the most common and convenient shuttle Costa Rica routes that travelers book:

• San José (SJO) Airport → Manuel Antonio / Quepos

• Liberia (LIR) Airport → Tamarindo

• Liberia (LIR) Airport → La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano

• Manuel Antonio → Monteverde

• Tamarindo → San José / Arenal

These routes cover major hubs and activity areas, connecting airports to beaches, volcano zones, rainforests, and popular resorts. Most shuttle companies can also tailor routes to less common travel plans — just ask!

See all routes and book your shuttle Costa Rica transfer here.

Why choose a shuttle over a rental car?

Costa Rica is a relatively small country, but its roads — especially those through the jungle and the mountains — can be narrow, winding, and slower than expected.

For many travelers, hiring a Costa Rica shuttle service eliminates the stress of:

• Navigating unfamiliar roads

• Driving in rainy and rural conditions

• Parking and traffic in busy destination areas

• Handling tolls, car insurance, and rental contracts

Shuttles also give you the freedom to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery with a professional driver who knows the routes.

How much does a shuttle in Costa Rica cost?

Shuttle prices vary by route, service type, and group size. As a general guide:

• Shared shuttles: ~$40–$90 per person for most routes

• Private transfers: Starting around $120–$250+ per vehicle, depending on distance

Private shuttles may be more cost-effective for groups of 4 or more, since the price is per vehicle rather than per person.

Booking tips for shuttle in Costa Rica

Here are some expert tips to make sure your shuttle experience goes smoothly:

• Book early: Especially during high season (December–April) when demand is high.

• Confirm pickup details: Double-check pickup time and location before your travel date.

• Ask about stops: Some private shuttles allow scenic or restroom stops.

• Check luggage limits: Shared shuttles often limit luggage size more than private ones.

Is a shuttle safe and reliable in Costa Rica?

Yes — shuttle services in Costa Rica are widely used by tourists and are known for safety and reliability. Vehicles are usually modern, drivers are experienced with Costa Rican roads, and most services include insurance and English-speaking drivers.

Travelers often prefer shuttles to buses because they are more comfortable, direct, and stress-free. Shared shuttles have set schedules, while private shuttles offer flexible timing tailored to your itinerary.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica and want a comfortable, stress-free way to get between airports, beaches, volcanoes, and rainforest lodges, then a shuttle Costa Rica service should be at the top of your travel planning list.

Ready to book? Visit our shuttle booking page to check all available routes, prices, and schedule options — and secure your transportation today!