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5 Best Ways to get from Tamarindo to Monteverde, Costa Rica

You can get from Tamarindo to Monteverde by public bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Tamarindo to Monteverde is by public bus, which costs USD 11. The journey takes about 10 hours.

The most popular option is the shared shuttle, offering direct transport and convenience at a very affordable price.

The fastest way to travel to Monteverde from Tamarindo is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes about 4 hours.

Taking the winding roads from the beachside haven of Tamarindo to the cloud-kissed heights of Monteverde has been a journey I’ve cherished and perfected.

Allow me to guide you through this transition from golden coasts to green forests, ensuring a smooth adventure with expert insights!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Tamarindo to Monteverde, Costa Rica, and here you can find more information about getting around in Costa Rica.

Transportation Options from Tamarindo to Monteverde

The following table outlines all transportation options from Tamarindo to Monteverde:

MethodTimePrice
Shuttle from Tamarindo to Monteverde4.5 hrs$55
Tamarindo to Monteverde Public Bus10 hrs$11
Tamarindo to Monteverde Private Transfer3 hrs$260
Taxi from Tamarindo to Monteverde3 hrs$160
Rental Car from Tamarindo to Monteverde3 hrs

How far is Tamarindo from Monteverde?

The distance from Tamarindo to Monteverde, Costa Rica, is 100.8 miles or 162.3 kilometers. The travel time to Monteverde can range from three to five hours, depending on your transportation model.

Getting to Monteverde from Tamarindo

1. Shared Shuttle from Tamarindo to Monteverde

Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

One of the best ways to travel from Tamarindo to Monteverde is by shared shuttle. The driver will pick you up at your Tamarindo hotel and take you to your destination.

This is an excellent option for the budget-conscious traveler who still wants to avoid the trouble of public transportation! A one-way ticket costs only USD 55, and the journey lasts about 4.5 hours.

Shuttles are an economical and convenient way to get between major destinations in Costa Rica.

You can book most shuttles online in advance.

Tamarindo to Monteverde Shared Shuttle Schedule:

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

DEPETADURPX
02:30pm07:00pm5h 30m$55Book Now 3 E1661788865313
How To Get From Tamarindo To Monteverde, Costa Rica

2. Public Bus from Tamarindo to Monteverde

Journey Duration: 10 hours

Public transportation is the cheapest method of getting from Tamarindo to Monteverde; however, it is not the easiest. Although the ticket costs only USD 11, be prepared to embark on an adventure!

To get to La Irma, you must leave Tamarindo as early as possible on a bus that will take between 5 and 6 hours to reach the destination.

After that, expect to wait between 2 and 3 hours at La Irma. You must take another bus from La Irma to Monteverde, which will take 1 hour and 30 minutes.

You will spend between 10 and 11 hours traveling from Tamarindo to Monteverde using the public transportation system. It can be challenging to switch buses if you do not speak Spanish well.

In conclusion, taking the bus from Tamarindo to Monteverde might be the cheapest way to get there, but also the most inconvenient. For that reason, it’s only recommended if budget travel is your primary concern!

3. Private Transfer from Tamarindo to Monteverde

Journey Duration: Custom Time

A private transfer is the most convenient option for those who want to skip the hassle of finding a bus and getting comfortable in their seat!

Arrive at your hotel in Monteverde quickly and easily with direct pick-up from your Tamarindo hotel. This option is perfect for traveling with a group as you can split costs.

Choosing a private shuttle will save time while taking in the scenery without worrying about driving! The drivers are friendly and informative, ensuring a stress-free ride to your destination.

Prices for a private transfer from Tamarindo to Monteverde:

  • 7-9 passengers: USD 260

Do you need help arranging your transportation?

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Complete this form and one of our transportation specialists will be in touch!

We specialize in arranging transportation across Guatemala, Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, Panama, Brazil, Thailand, and Colombia!

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4. Driving with a Rental Car from Tamarindo to Monteverde

Journey Duration: 3 hours

Costa Rica is a great place to rent a car. It’s the most convenient option if you have a place to park it at your destination. You can take advantage of visiting many attractions or beaches along your way!

You can compare prices and availability and book online!

5. Uber or Taxi from Tamarindo to Monteverde

Journey Duration: 3 hours

The last option to get to Monteverde is taking a taxi or an Uber.  Because it is a car ride, you will arrive there faster, it is more comfortable, and available 24/7.

The travel time by taxi is around 3 hours and costs around USD 160, which is not very cheap considering the other options.

However, the prices and travel time aren’t fixed, and it will depend on traffic and your final destination in Monteverde. 

So, agree on a price before departure to avoid being ripped off.

Best day tours in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Best Tours In Monteverde 2

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 Monteverde, Costa Rica.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the cloud forest from Tamarindo?

There are 114 kilometers between Tamarindo and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The driving distance is 158.5 kilometers.

How do you get around in Monteverde, Costa Rica?

Monteverde offers multiple transportation options! To get to the attractions, you can ride a taxi or take an Uber, walk if you are near Santa Elena or Cerro Plano, take public buses, or book tours that include transportation.

Is Monteverde Road paved?

As of October 2021, the roads leading to Monteverde are in the following condition: 
Route 605 is unpaved.
Route 145 is partially paved. 
Route 606 is completely paved.

What is the cheapest way to get from Tamarindo to Monteverde?

The most affordable option to travel from Tamarindo to Monteverde is by public bus, which costs USD 11.

What is the fastest way to get from Tamarindo to Monteverde?

The fastest way to travel to Monteverde from Tamarindo is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes about 4 hours.

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