The 5 Ways to Get From San Jose to Cahuita, Costa Rica

Are you looking for the best ways to get from San Jose, Costa Rica to Cahuita?

San José, the bustling capital city of Costa Rica, is home to the country’s primary international airport. Cahuita, nestled on the Caribbean coast, is a charming village renowned for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, and the stunning Cahuita National Park.

The journey from San Jose to Cahuita is an adventure, filled with diverse landscapes ranging from urban sprawl to misty mountains, expansive banana and pineapple plantations, and finally, views of the Caribbean coast.

There are several transportation options available to make this journey, including rental cars, private shuttles, public buses, shared shuttles, and even domestic flights. Each of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type of traveler you are.

As frequent travelers from San Jose to Cahuita, we have compiled this guide based on our personal experiences over the years. It offers detailed information on the best transportation options tailored to your needs, what to expect when driving, our shuttle recommendations, and highlights some interesting stops along the way.

Let’s get started!

Where is San Jose?

San Jose is the capital city of Costa Rica,. It is centrally located in the Central Valley region and is a valley surrounded by mountains, volcanoes, and coffee farms.

The Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is the largest airport in the country. This airport is located just west of San Jose near the city of Alajuela.

After a long flight, we suggest that you spend the night near the airport and head to Cahuita the following morning.

Stay in Downtown San Jose or Near the Airport?

• Renting a car: Stay near the airport in Alajuela.
• Taking a domestic flight: Stay near the airport.
• Taking a private shuttle: Stay near the airport.
• Taking the public bus to Cahuita: Stay in downtown San Jose (the bus terminal is in the downtown area).
• Taking a shared shuttle: It’s best to stay downtown as they only pick up from selected places.

Hotels near SJO Airport:

• High-End Hotel: AC Hotel by Marriott Heredia Belen
• Mid-Range Hotel: Casa Garitas
• Budget-Friendly Hotel: Lajuela B&B

Cahuita is about a five-hour drive from San Jose. We don’t recommend driving after dark (the sun sets around 6 PM), especially for the first half of the drive due to city traffic and potential fog in the mountains.

At the latest, consider departing by 2 PM. You may finish your drive in the dark but, the coastal road from Limon to Cahuita is relatively easy to navigate.

Check Out:

• San Jose International Airport Arrivals and Departures Guide
• Costa Rica Entry Guide: Visas, Vaccines etc.
• The Best Hotels Near the San Jose International Airport
• Ground Transportation Options from the Airport

Where is Cahuita?

Cahuita is a peaceful village located on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. It is approximately 133 miles southeast of San Jose.

This small town is famed for its laid-back atmosphere, gorgeous beaches, and the Cahuita National Park. This is our favorite national park in the country, so we definitely suggest visiting.

This area is a fantastic place to visit year-round, but the best time to go is between July and November. While the Pacific Coast is experiencing its rainy season, Cahuita enjoys sunny days with little to no rain.

Check Out:

• Complete Guide to Cahuita (Hotels, Restaurants, Things to Do)
• Cahuita National Park Visitors Guide

Option #1: Renting a Car

Renting a car is the best transportation choice, in our opinion. This option allows you to explore at your own pace, make spontaneous stops, and truly experience the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica.

The drive from San Jose to Cahuita takes you through some of the most scenic regions in the country, from the lush greenery of Braulio Carrillo National Park to the coastal views along the Caribbean.

Along the way, you’ll pass through bustling towns, peaceful fruit plantations, and winding mountain roads that feel a bit like entering Jurassic Park.

We suggest renting a car if you are:

• Independent Travelers: If you enjoy setting your own schedule and making spontaneous stops, renting a car is the way to go.
• Families: For those traveling with children or with a lot of luggage, having a car can make the journey much more convenient.
• Adventure Seekers: If you’re interested in exploring remote areas and less touristy spots, a car allows you to reach places that are otherwise inaccessible.
• Groups: When sharing the cost of a rental car, it can become a more economical option for groups of friends or families.
• Onward Travel: If you plan to visit multiple destinations after Cahuita, such as Tortuguero or the Arenal area, having a rental car will make these additional travels much easier.

We don’t suggest renting a car if you are:

• Budget Travelers: If you’re on a tight budget, the cost of a rental car and fuel might be more than you’re willing to spend.
• Solo Travelers: The cost of renting a car can be high for solo travelers, especially compared to other transportation options like buses or shared shuttles.
• Nervous Drivers: Driving in Costa Rica can be challenging, particularly if you’re not used to the local driving conditions, which include winding roads, occasional heavy traffic, and varying road quality.
• Staying in a Resort: If you plan to stay within a resort or a specific area without much traveling around, a rental car may not be necessary.

Recommendations on Best Car Rental Agencies

We recommend Adobe Rent-a-Car for all your car rentals in Costa Rica.

They are a reliable local company with excellent customer service and well-maintained vehicles.

Plus, we’ve partnered with them to offer a 10% exclusive discount for Costa Rica Vibes readers, along with other perks such as a free second driver and 0% deductible on liability insurance.

#1 Car Rental Pick

Adobe Rent-a-Car

• 10% discount for Costa Rica Vibes readers
• Free second driver
• 0% deductible on Liability Protection Insurance
• Excellent customer service
• New fleet of well-maintained vehicles

Check Prices and Availability!

Picking Up Your Rental Car

• At the Airport: When you land at the San Jose Airport, you’ll exit the airport and see an Adobe employee holding an Adobe sign. They will take you on a comfortable shuttle to their office across the street. From there, you can pick up your vehicle and be on your way!
• Downtown San Jose: Adobe also has an office in downtown San Jose if you prefer to stay in the city before heading out.

Which Car to Rent

If you are just going between San Jose and Cahuita you will be fine with any SUV. You would probably even be fine in a sedan, but an SUV will definitely be more comfortable for the clearance level.

You typically do not need a 4×4 in this area. However, if you plan on really getting off the beaten path once in Cahuita you might want one. There are some remote jungle roads that are not paved.

Travel Tip: Before booking your car it is a good idea to ask at your hotel in Cahuita if you will need a 4×4 to get to the hotel. Some places are located on steep side roads.

Things to Note:

• Adobe offers free delivery within 12 miles of any of their offices. That means you can always opt to take a hotel shuttle to your hotel for the first night and have Adobe deliver your car to you in the morning.
• Adobe has offices throughout the country including one in Puerto Viejo (the town just south of Cahuita). That means you can always pick up a car at the airport or in downtown San Jose and return it in Puerto Viejo.
• Alternatively, you could always take a different transportation option to Cahuita if you feel overwhelmed by the drive. Then, you can rent a car for a few days once in the area to explore. Again, Adobe will deliver your car to you for free within 12 miles of their office. If it is beyond 12 miles they will charge a small fee. In other words, they can bring the rental car straight to your hotel in Cahuita.
• You can not bring rental cars across the border into Panama. If that is your next stop after Cahuita, you will need to return your car at the Puerto Viejo office and then take a bus or shuttle to the border. Check out our border crossing guide for all the info on that.

The Driving Route

• The most common route is via Route 32 through Braulio Carrillo National Park. This is the most direct and fastest way, taking about 4 to 5 hours. Keep in mind this has also taken us up to 7 hours when there has been road work.
• Travel Tip: If Google Maps tells you to take Route 10 through Turrialba, try to find more info before beginning your drive. This route is sometimes best if Route 32 is closed, but it will be the adventure of a lifetime and we strongly suggest avoiding it if at all possible.
• The drive starts with urban scenery as you leave San José. Be careful in this part of the drive because you will have to drive down city streets. From the airport, there isn’t a highway to bypass the city.
• After getting out of the city the drive will transition into mountainous terrain on Route 32 with lush rainforests. Keep in mind there is one toll just after you exit the city along with the one driving tunnel I know of in the country.
• You will then drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park. You might encounter fog and rain in this area, so drive carefully​. This is a highway but it is very curvy in spots. It switches between one lane in each direction to two lanes throughout. Be very careful when passing when it becomes two lanes, the signs that the road is going back to one lane in each direction can come at the last minute.
• Expect heavy truck traffic on Route 32, especially during peak hours. The road is mostly two lanes, and there can be slow-moving vehicles. Plus, it seems like there is constant roadwork here.
• After descending from the mountains, you’ll pass through small towns with banana and pineapple plantations on the way to Limón. Traffic can get backed up with 18-wheeler trucks filed with fruit heading to the port in Limón.
• From Limón, you will turn right and follow Route 36 south along the Caribbean coast to Cahuita. This part of the drive is straight and offers occasional glimpses of the coast​. It’s an overly pleasant stretch of the drive that you should feel very comfortable driving.

Click here for the complete route on Google Maps

Driving Tips

• Use Waze: Waze is the best free app for driving directions in Costa Rica. It’s widely used by locals and provides real-time traffic updates, road conditions, and the best routes. Note: You might lose cell phone service will driving through Braulio Carillo National Park. It is a good idea to download offline maps.
• Need info on staying connected while in Costa Rica? Find out our SIM card suggestions here.
• Make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a backup cell phone power bank if possible. There is nothing worse than having your phone die in a foreign country and having no idea where to go.
• Addresses: I know it sounds crazy, but there are no addresses in Costa Rica. Instead, you will need to put in the name of the place you are intending to go to in your GPS. For example, you might enter your hotel name, an Airbnb name, a beach name, etc.
• Fuel Up: Make sure to start your journey with a full tank of gas. There are plenty of gas stations along Route 32, but through the Braulio Carillo National Park area it is pretty desolate. It’s always good to be prepared.
• Don’t Drive at Night: The sun sets around 6 PM year round. We suggest starting your trip at 2PM at the latest. You should not drive the first half of the route in the dark. To start, you will hot rush hour in San Jose which can be madness. And then, the fog in the Braulio Carillo stretch of the drive can be really bad. It’s just not safe.
• Keep Your Passports Up Front: There is a police checkpoint just before you get to Cahuita. You will likely have to stop and show your passport. This is just to prevent people from illegally traveling between Costa Rica and Panama.
• Don’t Leave Your Car Unattended: If you stop along the way we suggest choosing restaurants with views of the parking lot or places you feel very secure. Petty theft, such as breaking into cars, is the most common crime in Costa Rica.

Recommended Stops Along the Way

• Braulio Carrillo National Park: About 1.5 hours into your drive, you will pass through Braulio Carrillo National Park. It’s possible to stop and enjoy a short hike in the park. Get more info with our Braulio Carillo National Park guide.
• Banana and Pineapple Farms: I don’t know of any farms that you can actually explore, but you will certainly pass several banana and pineapple plantations on your drive. If you find a safe spot, pull over and catch a glimpse of where the bananas and pineapples you buy at your grocery store likely come from.

Restaurants Along the Way

If you need a meal, here are restaurant suggestions in order of which you will pass first from San Jose.

If you need a meal, here are some restaurant recommendations in the order you’ll pass them from San Jose:

• Restaurant Pura Vida
• Restaurante donde Ceci
• Sol y Luna

For fast food options, stop in Guapiles, about halfway through your journey, where you’ll find:

• Subway
• McDonald’s
• Burger King

If you need something small, your best bet is to buy snacks at a gas station.

Option #2: Private Shuttle to Cahuita

Taking a private shuttle from San Jose to Cahuita is a great choice if you want a stress-free journey without the hassle of driving.

Private shuttles are typically modern, air-conditioned vans driven by experienced local drivers. They are familiar with the best routes and can navigate any unexpected road conditions.

Pros of a Private Shuttle:

• Private Transportation: With a private shuttle, you and your group will have the vehicle to yourselves. This makes the journey more comfortable, personalized, and direct, with no unnecessary stops.
• Flexible Scheduling: You can arrange the shuttle according to your travel schedule. Whether you’re arriving at the airport or staying in a hotel in San Jose, the driver will pick you up at a time that suits you best.
• Custom Stops: One of the biggest advantages of a private shuttle is the ability to make stops along the way. Whether you want to stop for a meal, take photos, or explore a point of interest, your driver can accommodate your requests.

Cons of a Private Shuttle:

• Cost: While private shuttles offer a high level of comfort and convenience, they can be more expensive than other options, especially for couples or solo travelers. However, if you’re traveling with family or a larger group, the cost can be quite reasonable when shared among several people.

Travel Tip: If you’re arriving in San Jose and heading directly to Cahuita, consider booking your shuttle to pick you up directly from the airport. This saves time and allows you to start your vacation as soon as you land.

Book Your Private Shuttle:

We recommend Adobe Rent-a-Car’s private shuttle service. They offer reliable, comfortable shuttles and are happy to make stops along the way.

They can pick you up from anywhere in the country and deliver you straight to your hotel.

Check Availability and Book Your Private Shuttle

Option #3: Shared Shuttle to Cahuita

Shared shuttles are a popular and budget-friendly option for travelers looking to get from San Jose to Cahuita comfortably and affordably.

These shuttles offer a middle ground between the convenience of a private shuttle and the cost-effectiveness of public transportation.

They’re an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a reliable and reasonably priced way to reach Cahuita without the need to drive.

Pros of a Shared Shuttle:

• Cost-Effective: Shared shuttles are significantly cheaper than private shuttles if you are a couple or solo traveler. You’ll share the ride with other passengers, which helps to keep the cost down while still enjoying a comfortable journey.
• Convenience: Shared shuttles often pick up passengers directly from their hotels in San Jose or nearby areas.
• Comfort: These shuttles are typically modern, air-conditioned vans that provide a comfortable ride. The journey usually includes a rest stop.

Cons of a Shared Shuttle:

• Less Flexibility: Unlike a private shuttle, shared shuttles operate on a fixed schedule. You’ll need to plan your travel around the shuttle’s departure times, and there’s less flexibility in terms of making stops along the way.
• Longer Travel Time: Since shared shuttles pick up and drop off multiple passengers, the travel time can be slightly longer than if you were traveling by private shuttle or rental car.

Our favorite website for finding shared shuttles in Costa Rica is called Bookaway. They curate a comprehensive list of all the best shuttle options.

When traveling from San Jose to Cahuita, we suggest Interbus or Caribe Shuttle.

• Interbus: Interbus offers shuttles with pickup from both the airport and downtown San Jose hotels.
  • From the San Jose Airport: Departures twice daily at 7:00 AM and 1:O0 PM. The cost is typically around $60 for a one-way trip. Check Availability and Book
  • From Downtown San Jose Hotels: Their shuttle departs once daily at 7:00AM. They offer an extensive list of pick-up and drop-off locations. Check Availability and Book
• Caribe Shuttle: Departs twice daily at 5:00AM and 2:00PM. Offers pickup from a long list of San Jose area hotels. Check Availability and Book

Travel Tips:

• Book in Advance: Shared shuttles can fill up quickly, especially during the high season.
• Hotel Pick-Ups: If you’re staying at a hotel, make sure it’s on the shuttle’s pick-up list. If not, you may need to arrange transportation to a nearby hotel that is on the list. This is something to consider when booking your accommodation in San Jose.

Check Out All Shared Shuttle Options to Cahuita

Option #4: Public Bus to Cahuita

Taking a public bus from San Jose to Cahuita is the most economical way to make the journey.

We have taken this bus several times and the journey can feel like it takes forever, but it actually isn’t too bad.

Bus Schedule and Booking

Buses to Cahuita from the company MEPE depart from the Gran Terminal del Caribe in downtown San Jose.

The bus departs daily at: 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:00PM

The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours and costs about $12 per person.

Note: You will take the bus bound for Sixaola. It will stop in Limon and then Cahuita. You could also take this bus one stop further to Puerto Viejo and then to the Panama border.

It is not possible to book your ticket online. Instead, you will need to buy it in person at the MEPE terminal.

The bus stop in Cahuita is located right at the edge of the downtown area. I marked it on Google Maps here.

Travel Tips:

• Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially at the bus terminal and during stops. We recommend keeping your valuables on your person and placing larger luggage in the bus’s storage compartment. We have heard of people putting valuables above their seats, falling asleep, and waking up to their stuff stolen.
• Comfort: The buses are generally comfortable, but you never know. I was once on one of these buses and the AC was broken. The inside temperature was 96 F. It was miserable. On the other side, I’ve been on buses where they completely crank the AC. So, bring layers.
• Stops: The bus stops once for 10 minutes at the bus terminal in Limon. Here you can get some food and use the bathroom. Just note, you need to pay for the restrooms. They cost about 300 colones. This needs to be paid in cash.
• Taxis: Pirate taxis notoriously hang out at the MEPE terminal in San Jose. Only ever take official Costa Rican taxis. They will be red with yellow triangles on the doors and a green licence plate. Pirate taxi drivers will drastically overcharge you. Get more info in our guide to Costa Rican taxis.

Check Bus Schedule and Get More Info

Option #5: Domestic Flight to Limon and Shuttle to Cahuita

If you prefer to travel quickly and enjoy scenic views, a domestic flight is an excellent option. From San Jose, you can fly to Limon and then take a shuttle or taxi to Cahuita.

Booking a Flight

The main airline that flies between San Jose and Limon is Sansa. Prices vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book, typically ranging from $70 to $150 one-way.

Travel Time and Comfort

The flight to Limon takes about 30 minutes. From there, it’s approximately a 1.5-hour drive to Puerto Viejo.

The planes are small, usually seating around 12 passengers, offering stunning views of the coastline and mountains.

Recommendation: We don’t recommend this option if you’re afraid of small planes.

My Opinion

I think that in theory this is a faster way to travel, but when you consider that you will need to arrive at the domestic terminal at least an hour before your flight, I’m not sure if it is really worth the hassle.

Plus, a taxi from Limon to Cahuita won’t be cheap. I would guess that this will cost at least $60.

However, if you are in it for the amazing aerial views then definitely go for it!

Book Your Domestic Flight Here

Transportation Once in Cahuita

Once you are in Cahuita you will need to consider how to get around.

• If you will not have a rental car I suggest staying directly in the downtown area. From here you can easily walk to the national park entrance, a few beaches, and plenty of restaurants and grocery stores. If you want to take other trips you can book day tours.
• If you will have a rental car you have a bit more flexibility in where you book a hotel. You can also then easily take fun day trips like visiting all the beautiful beaches down the coast, visiting the Jaguar Rescue Center, and checking out the nearby town of Puerto Viejo.
• Another option is to take a shuttle or bus to Cahuita and then rent a car for a few days from the Adobe office in Puerto Viejo for exploring.

Our Opinion on Getting from San Jose to Cahuita

Our top recommendation for most travelers is to rent a car for the journey from San Jose to Cahuita. This option offers the most flexibility, allowing you to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace and make stops whenever you like.

However, this drive is not without its challenges. Navigating through San Jose can be tricky, with its busy streets and sometimes confusing traffic patterns.

While the drive doesn’t take you through the city center, you’ll still need to navigate some congested roads.

The scenic drive through Braulio Carrillo National Park, while beautiful, can be foggy and challenging at times.

If you prefer not to drive, a shuttle or bus is an excellent alternative.

Check out our complete guide to Cahuita for more info on visiting the area

Conclusion: Getting to Cahuita

In conclusion, there are several ways to get from San Jose to Cahuita. Each option has its own advantages depending on your travel style, budget, and preferences. Whether you choose the flexibility of a rental car, the comfort of a private shuttle, the affordability of the public bus, or the speed of a domestic flight, there’s an option that will suit your needs.

If you have any questions about planning your trip to Cahuita, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below. We’re always happy to help you plan!

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