How to get from San Jose to La Fortuna

Have you discovered all there is to see in San Jose? San Jose’s bustling streets, beautiful architecture, and cultural impact are what make this capital city lively. But now, you’re ready to explore the rainforest and see what natural treasures Costa Rica has to offer, and what better place than La Fortuna, a natural haven at the foot of the Arenal Volcano volcanoes, surrounded by rainforests, and dotted with hot springs! Plus, there’s the famous La Fortuna Waterfall! But how do you get from San Jose to La Fortuna? 

How Do I Get From San Jose to La Fortuna?

San Jose and La Fortuna are about 130 km apart and driving time is about 2 hours and 40 minutes. 

There are a couple ways to get from San Jose to La Fortuna, while there is no train, nor a local airport in La Fortuna, you have the option of taking one of the local bus companies or using a private car service. For travelers on a budget, the cheapest way to travel from San Jose to La Fortuna is by bus. But a private car is both the fastest way to travel from San Jose to La Fortuna and the best way to travel from San Jose to La Fortuna because it’s so convenient.

San Jose to La Fortuna by Bus

When taking one of the local bus companies, it is important to note that even direct buses will stop along the way to drop off and pick up other passengers. This can lengthen the journey from 2 hours and 40 minutes to about 4 hours. There are between three and five buses that depart San Jose throughout the day, we recommend checking the bus schedule online if your itinerary is not very flexible. To buy your ticket, we recommend buying in advance, or you will need to go to the bus station (Terminal 7-10) and go to the ticket office. The company you will be looking for is AutoTransporte San Jose-Venecia with the first bus leaving at 5:00 AM and the last bus leaving at 11:50 AM and the tickets cost about 5 EUR. 

Time Intervals	Operating on intervals from about 5:00 AM, and the last bus is at 11:50 AM
First/Last Departure	5:00 AM/11:50 AM
Average Price	€5
Distance	~130 km
Duration	~4 hr
Operating Companies	AutoTransporte San Jose-Venecia

San Jose to La Fortuna by Taxi

Taking a private car is recommended if you prefer a convenient and comfortable option for traveling from place to place. You will be picked up at your accommodation in San Jose and be driven to your destination in La Fortuna, no bus stops, no crowding, no confusion. Daytrip is a great option because they even let you choose to stop and see some sites along the way! A trip from San Jose to La Fortuna can include stops at…

• Museo Historico Cultural Juan Santamaria
  
• Los Chorros waterfalls
  
• Else Kientzler Garden
  
• Proyecto Asis
  
• La Fortuna waterfall
  

With comfort, convenience, and adventure, it is clear that a private transfer is the best option! To book a private transfer from San Jose to La Fortuna, click here!