How to Get from San Jose to Jaco, Costa Rica (4 Best Ways)
You can get from San Jose to Jaco by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, or rental car.
Check out this guide, which breaks down all the travel options. Benefit from my first-hand experience and have a smooth journey!
Quick Answer:
The cheapest way to get from San Jose to Jaco is by public bus (USD 13, around 2.5 hours). The most popular option is the shared shuttle (USD 47, about 2 hours, hotel pickup included). The fastest way is by private transfer or rental car (about 1.5 hours).
After numerous trips across Costa Rica, I’ve learned all the shortcuts and highlights.
I’ve gathered these travel tips from experience and validated them with Jean Nájera, CEO of GuateGo.
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Coach Bus | 2.5 hrs | $13 |
| Shuttle | ~2 hrs | $47 |
| Private Transfer | ~1.5 hrs | – |
| Rental Car | ~1.5 hrs | ~$30 |
How far is Jaco from San Jose?
Jaco is a three-hour journey from Juan Santa Maria International Airport in San Jose. Their distance from each other is a little less than 100 kilometers.
1. Coach Bus
Journey Duration: ~2 hours
Terminal 7-10 buses go to many parts of Costa Rica, including Jaco. They operate daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and all schedules have two-hour intervals.
The bus ticket costs about 13 US dollars, but elderly people are offered a discounted rate of about three dollars.
If you are traveling during the peak season, like December, allot at least one hour to purchase a ticket at Terminal 7-10.
The hub tends to get jam-packed, so it is best to come early. There is a waiting area on the second floor for travelers waiting for their bus to depart.
If you choose this option, you should be at the station 15 minutes before departure because the buses leave on time.
Coach Bus Schedule:
The table below displays the coach bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00am | 09:30am | 2h 30m | $13 |  |
| 09:00am | 11:30am | 2h 30m | $13 | |
| 11:00am | 01:30pm | 2h 30m | $13 | |
| 01:00pm | 03:30pm | 2h 30m | $13 | |
| 03:00pm | 05:30pm | 2h 30m | $13 | |
| 05:00pm | 07:30pm | 2h 30m | $13 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:30pm | 2h 30m | $13 | |
2. Shuttle
Journey Duration: ~2 hours
Shuttle buses offer a more convenient way to reach your destination. Transport companies like Interbus pick you up from your hotel lobby at your preferred departure time.
They have two schedules throughout the day: one in the morning at 8:00 and another in the afternoon at 2:30.
If you want to travel by shuttle, it is essential to book a seat. Depending on your hotel’s location in San Jose, the company will contact you regarding your exact pickup time.
One trip costs 47 dollars for adults and half-price for children. Shuttles from Jaco to San Jose operate similarly and at the same price.
Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00am | 09:00am | 2h | $40 | |
| 02:00pm | 04:00pm | 2h | $40 | |
| 07:00am | 09:30am | 2h 30m | $42 | |
| 07:50am | 10:30am | 2h 40m | $55 | |
3. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Private Transfers offer a door-to-door service, allowing travelers to move directly from their location in San Jose to their destination in Jaco without the fuss of multiple stops or navigating public transport.
For those prioritizing speed and comfort, private transfers are often equipped with modern, air-conditioned vehicles ranging from sedans to larger vans, accommodating individuals and larger groups.
Given the tailored nature of this service, travelers can usually specify pick-up times to fit their schedules, making it ideal for those on a tight timeline or preferring to avoid waiting.
Private transfers typically cost between $150 and $210 for a one-way trip. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during Costa Rica’s peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates.
Prices for a private transfer:
- 1-4 passengers: USD 150
- 7-9 passengers: USD 200
- 5-12 passengers: USD 210
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Rent a car if you wish to travel at your own pace. This option costs around 30 dollars a day.
There are two routes to Jaco. The first one is Aguacate Road, a two-hour drive.
This road takes you to the famous Tarcoles River Bridge, where alligators swim below.
The second route available is the “new” highway. For a five-dollar toll fee, you can cut your travel time to about one hour.
When renting a car from San Jose to Jaco, it is best to choose a car with a GPS or be ready with your GPS mobile phone application.
Driving here tends to be tricky, as road signs and street names are almost nonexistent.
A note for the surfers: Transport modes may charge you extra should you bring your surfboards on your ride to Jaco Beach.
Best day tours in Jaco, 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.
The following widget shows some of the best tours in Jaco, Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I prefer public transportation, is there a bus service available?
Yes, there is a public bus option, and the main article provides details about its frequency, pricing, and other relevant information.
Are rental cars a good option for this route?
Rental cars offer flexibility for those comfortable with driving in Costa Rica. The article provides insights into considerations when choosing this mode.
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Universal Traveller — How to Get from San Jose to Jaco
- About the Author
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Tim Kroeger is a luxury wellness travel specialist, endurance athlete, and the creator of The Restorative Index. He is the official brand ambassador for Healthi Life in Bangkok and the inventor of Luxury Bikepacking. He reviews luxury wellness hotels at tim-kroeger.com and publishes adventure travel content at Universal Traveller. Follow him on Instagram.
We are trying to find out about transportation from the SanJose airport to the Marriott Los Suenos property. We are arriving on April 7th. Muchas Gracias
gittinspk@comcast.net
@George & Peggy Gittins, I am working with a local travel agency. If you want I can send you an offer for a private transportation from the San Jose airport to the Marriott Los Suenos property.
@Tim Kroeger,