6 Best Ways to get from San Jose to Quepos, Costa Rica

You can get from San Jose to Quepos by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, taxi, or flight!

The cheapest transportation option from San Jose to Quepos is by public bus, which costs only USD 8. The journey takes about 5 hours.

The most popular option is the shared shuttle, which offers convenience and affordable direct transfer.

The fastest way to travel to Quepos from San Jose is by flight, which takes about 17 minutes.

I’ve traveled across Costa Rica more times than I can count, collecting local secrets each step of the way.

Join me in this guide, where I’ll reveal the optimal travel options and tips on how to get from San Jose to Quepos that promise a journey as thrilling as the destination itself.

Here, you can find more information about Costa Rica transportation.

Transportation Options from San Jose to Quepos

The following table outlines all transportation options from San Jose to Quepos:

Method	Time	Price
Public Bus from San Jose to Quepos	~4.5 hrs	~$8
Shuttle from San Jose to Quepos	4 hrs	$54
San Jose to Quepos Private Transfer	3 hrs	$131 to 246
Taxi from San Jose to Quepos	3 hrs	$150
Flight from San Jose to Quepos	17 min	~$111
Rental Car	3 hrs	–

How far is Quepos from San Jose

The distance from San Jose to Quepos is about 164 kilometers or 102 miles by car.

Getting to Quepos from San Jose

1. Public Bus from San Jose to Quepos

Journey Duration: Around 4.5 hours

There are daily direct buses from San Jose to Quepos, Costa Rica, with Terminal Transportes.

This company offers direct connections and a Colectivo, which means the bus will make many stops from San Jose to Quepos.

The prices are about 5.000 Costa Rican Colones, depending on your chosen connection.

Busses depart from the terminal at Calle 5, Ave 18/20.

Schedule direct connection:

• 06:00 AM
• 09:00 AM (Monday to Saturday)
• 12:00 PM
• 02:30 PM (Monday to Saturday)
• 06:00 PM
• 07:30 PM

Schedule Colectivo:

• 07:00 AM
• 10:00 AM
• 02:00 PM
• 04:00 PM
• 05:00 PM (Monday to Friday)

2. San Jose to Quepos Shared Shuttle

Journey Duration: 4 hours

The shared shuttle service is a popular and convenient option for travelers heading from San Jose to Quepos.

Operating multiple times a day, these shuttles are an efficient way to make the journey without the hassles of driving or navigating public transport.

Price-wise, shared shuttles are economical, with fares typically priced around USD 54 per person, depending on the provider.

This cost includes a comfortable seat in an air-conditioned vehicle and, often, complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you connected during the journey.

Regarding schedules, most shared shuttle services have morning and afternoon departures. It’s always advisable to book in advance, particularly during Costa Rica’s high tourist season, to ensure a spot on your preferred day and time!

The journey from San Jose to Quepos usually takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

3. Private Transfer from San Jose to Quepos

Journey Duration: 3 hours

If you are traveling in a group and want to be more flexible regarding the departure time, a private transfer may be the best option!

Unlike shared shuttles, private transfers offer the luxury of setting your schedule, ensuring you travel precisely when convenient.

Private transfers tend to be pricier in terms of cost, often ranging from $131 to $246, depending on the vehicle type and number of passengers.

The higher cost, however, brings the advantage of privacy, direct routes without multiple stops, and, often, more upscale and comfortable vehicles.

The drive between the two destinations takes around 3 hours. However, with a private transfer, you can request breaks, whether to take photos, grab a bite, or simply stretch your legs.

Vehicles used for private transfers vary but are typically modern cars, SUVs, or vans in impeccable condition.

Drivers are professionals, well-acquainted with the route, and often provide added insights or recommendations about the area if prompted!

You can book shuttles for up to 14 persons on Bookaway.

Prices for a private shuttle from San Jose to Quepos

• Up to 5 passengers: USD 131
• Up to 14 passengers: USD 246

4. Driving with a Rental Car from San Jose to Quepos

Journey Duration: 3 hours

A rental car may be an excellent option to travel independently to Quepos. The travel distance from San Jose is 164 kilometers or 102 miles.

Renting a car for the journey from San Jose to Quepos gives travelers an unmatched level of independence. It allows for a self-paced trip, with the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path sites.

Cost-wise, renting a car can vary significantly based on the type of vehicle and the rental duration.

The drive from San Jose to Quepos takes approximately 3 hours, which can vary depending on the chosen route and driving speed.

The roads are generally in good condition, but it’s crucial to be cautious, especially during rainy seasons when conditions can be less predictable.

5. Uber or Taxi from San Jose to Quepos

Journey Duration: 1 hour

Uber is available in Costa Rica, and a trip from San Jose to Quepos costs around 37.000 Costa Rican Colones (about USD 60) outside peak times.

Note, however, that the price can increase drastically due to traffic.

A taxi from San Jose to Quepos costs around USD 150.

6. Flight from San Jose to Quepos

Journey Duration: 17 minutes

Flying from San Jose to Quepos is the swiftest mode of transportation between the two destinations. A short flight can be an attractive option for those looking to save time and maximize their stay.

Ticket prices for these domestic flights can vary, but travelers should expect to pay around $111 one way, depending on the airline and how far in advance the booking is made.

Sansa Air offers daily flights between San Jose Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and Quepos Airport.

The average flight time is just 17 minutes!

Best day tours in Quepos, 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 Quepos, Costa Rica.

Frequently Asked Questions