5 Best Ways to get from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal, Costa Rica

You can get from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal is by public bus, which costs USD 10. However, the journey takes about 9 hours, and you must take 2 buses to get to La Fortuna.

The most popular option is the shared shuttle, offering direct transport and convenience for only USD 42.

The fastest way to travel to La Fortuna Arenal from Monteverde is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes about 3 hours.

The route from the misty heights of Monteverde to the majestic Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna has become a road well-traveled for me.

This guide is my way of sharing the best travel options and insights to make your journey between these natural wonders as reliable and scenic as the destinations themselves!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal. Here, you can find more information about transportation in Costa Rica.

Transportation Options from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal

The following table outlines all transportation options from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal:

Method	Time	Price
Public Bus from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal	9 hrs	$10
Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal Shuttle	+3 hrs	$42 to 55
Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal Private Transfer	3 hrs	–
Taxi from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal	3 hrs	–
Rental Car	3 hrs

How far is La Fortuna from Monteverde?

The distance from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal is 75 miles or 121 kilometers.

Getting to La Fortuna Arenal from Monteverde

1. Shared Shuttle from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal

Journey Duration: 3+ hours

A shared shuttle service provides a convenient and comfortable option for those looking to travel from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal.

This service lets you determine your pickup point, ensuring a tailored travel experience.

A shared shuttle is always a good option if you want to travel economically, as the cheapest tickets are priced at only USD 41!

You can choose between several providers and departure times. All provide direct transportation from and to your hotel!

Shared Shuttle from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal Schedule:

The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable for trips from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
08:00am	11:30am	3h 30m	$41
09:00am	01:00pm	4h	$55

2. Private Transfer from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal

Journey Duration: 3 hours

Another convenient but slightly more expensive option is to book a private transfer from Monteverde to La Fortuna.

This transport option is incredibly convenient for groups, families with kids, and anyone who wants to simply relax in a comfortable seat without worrying about road conditions and departure schedules.

By booking a private transfer, you get your vehicle and a dedicated driver who will take you directly to your destination.

The driver will pick you up at your hotel at your preferred departure time and drop you off at your hotel in La Fortuna.

The van provided has room for up to 13 passengers, so the more passengers you have, the better the price!

We recommend making a reservation in advance if you want to travel by private transfer.

3. Driving with a Rental Car from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal

Journey Duration: 3 hours

Traveling by rental car is also an excellent choice since La Fortuna is only 75 miles or 121 kilometers from Monteverde. The trip lasts only 3 hours if you drive directly.

However, by renting a car, you can stop for lunch and visit places on the way, all without worrying about the schedules and luggage limitations of public transport!

This is an excellent way to explore the area, and an especially suited option for adventurous travelers that like to travel on their own.

To ensure you get the best deal and secure your preferred vehicle, we recommend reserving your rental car online in advance!

4. Public Bus from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal

Journey Duration: 9 hours

The most economical way to reach La Fortuna is by public bus. The trip will only cost you USD 10; however, this option takes 9+ hours, and no direct bus exists!

From Monteverde, you must take a bus to Tilarán at 07:00 AM. From Tilarán departs at 12:30 PM, another bus to La Fortuna.

This is for the more adventurous travelers who want to taste local life and don’t mind spending a whole day traveling.

5. Taxi from Monteverde to La Fortuna Arenal

Journey Duration: 3 hours

If you’ve made last-minute travel plans, you can also hire a taxi to get to La Fortuna.

Taxis are always available and are a direct mode of transport that will get you from Monteverde to La Fortuna in just 3 hours.

However, they might be more expensive, especially if you’re traveling alone. It is important to note that taxis in the Monteverde area do not use meters – a list of set prices (according to destination) is displayed in each vehicle, though you should negotiate the price when you get in.

Best day tours in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Routes from Monteverde, Costa Rica