5 Ways to Get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

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

San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, is home to the main international airport. Puerto Viejo, located on the Caribbean coast, is a vibrant town known for its stunning beaches, rich Afro-Caribbean culture, and lush rainforests.

The journey from San Jose to Puerto Viejo is always an adventure, and I don’t necessarily mean that in a negative way. You’ll get a blend of landscapes to see along the journey from urban landscapes, misty mountains, banana and pineapple plantations, and coastal views.

To get between these two locations, there are multiple transportation options, including rental cars, private shuttles, public buses, shared shuttles, and domestic flights. Each option has its pros and cons and is best suited for different types of travelers.

We live in San Jose and frequently travel to Puerto Viejo to enjoy the Caribbean coastal charm. This guide is based on all of our experiences throughout the years.

You’ll find detailed information on the best transportation options based on your needs, what to expect when driving, our recommendations for shuttles, and interesting places to stop 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 what is known as the Central Valley region.

The Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is the largest in Costa Rica. It is located just west of San Jose next to the city of Alahuela.

After a long flight, we suggest that you consider spending the night near the airport and heading to Puerto Viejo in the morning.

This mostly applies if you are renting a car and driving yourself.

Traffic around the airport can be heavy, and downtown San Jose is about 30 minutes to an hour away depending on traffic.

Stay in Downtown San Jose or Near Airport?

• If you are renting a car we suggest spending your first night near the airport in the city of Alajuela.
• If you are taking a domestic flight, spend the night near airport.
• If you are taking a private shuttle, spend the night near the airport.
• If you are taking the public bus to Puerto Viejo, spend the night in downtown San Jose (the bus terminal is in the downtown area)
• If you are taking a shared shuttle, it is best to stay downtown because they only pick up from a selected list of 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

If you’re eager to get to the beach, Puerto Viejo 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. This part of the drive is very congested with city traffic (especially during rush hour) and then you will be entering an area that is notoriously foggy. It can be very difficult to see in the evening.

At the latest, I suggest departing by 2pm. The very end of your drive night be in the dark, but the coastal road from Limon to Puerto Viejo is pretty 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 Puerto Viejo?

Puerto Viejo is a lively beach town located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, approximately 135 miles east of San Jose.

Puerto Viejo is famous for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and rich Afro-Caribbean culture. The area offers plenty of activities, from surfing and snorkeling to wildlife spotting in the two nearby national parks.

It’s a great place to visit all year round, but we especially suggest coming here between July and November. The Pacific Coast of the country will be experiencing heavy rain, but Puerto Viejo should be almost rain free and sunny!

Check Out:

• Complete Guide to Visiting Puerto Viejo
• The 6 Best Beaches Near Puerto Viejo

Option #1: Renting a Car

Renting a car is the best option for travelers who want flexibility and the ability to explore at their own pace.

The drive from San Jose to Puerto Viejo takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Costa Rica, including lush rainforests and coastal views.

Why Rent a Car?

• Flexibility: You can start your journey whenever you’re ready and make as many stops as you like along the way.
• Independence: Explore the surrounding areas of Puerto Viejo, including Cahuita National Park, Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, and lesser-known beaches.
• Comfort: Travel in the comfort of your own vehicle, with control over the environment, stops, and pace.

We suggest renting a car if you are:

• Independent Travelers: Enjoy exploring at your own pace and making spontaneous stops.
• Families: With children who may need frequent breaks or those traveling with a lot of luggage.
• Adventure Seekers: Interested in exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, such as remote beaches and jungle trails.
• Groups: Sharing the cost of the rental makes it more economical.
• Onward Travel: Planning to visit multiple destinations after Puerto Viejo, such as Tortuguero or Arenal.

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

• Budget Travelers: Car rental might not fit a tight budget.
• Short-Term Visitors: If you’re staying for a short time, consider a domestic flight to Limon.
• Solo Travelers: Car rental costs can be too high for solo travelers.
• Nervous Drivers: Driving in Costa Rica can be challenging, especially on unfamiliar roads.
• Staying in a Resort: If you plan to stay within the resort, a 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.

Picking Up Your Rental Car

• At the Airport: When you land at the San Jose Airort, 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 Puerto Viejo 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 Puerto Viejo 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 Puerto Viejo 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. 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 Puerto Viejo if you feel overwhelmed by the drive. Then, you can rent a car for a few days once in Puerto Viejo to explore. Again, Adobe will deliver your car to you for free within 12 miles of their office, so they can bring the rental car straight to your hotel in Puerto Viejo.
• You can not bring rental cars across the border into Panama. If that is your next stop after Puerto Viejo, you will need to return your car at the Puerto Viejo office. 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 Puerto Viejo. 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 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 hit 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 about 15 miles before Puerto Viejo. 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.

Restaurant Pura Vida, Restaurante donde Ceci, Sol y Luna

If you would like fast food options, I suggest stopping when you get to the town of Guapiles. There is a Subway, McDonalds, and Burger King here. This is a little before the half way point of your drive.

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

Option #2: Private Shuttle to Puerto Viejo

A private shuttle is an excellent option if you want to travel in comfort and avoid the hassle of driving.

Private shuttles are typically air-conditioned vans driven by experienced local drivers who know the best routes.

Pros of a Private Shuttle:

• Private Transportation: You and your group have the shuttle to yourselves, making the journey more comfortable and personalized.
• Flexible Scheduling: You can schedule the shuttle based on your arrival time. The driver will typically meet you at the airport or your hotel.
• Custom Stops: Your driver can make stops along the way for sightseeing, meals, or bathroom breaks.

Cons of a Private Shuttle:

• Cost: Private shuttles can be expensive, especially for smaller groups. However, for families or larger groups, this option can be economical.

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 Puerto Viejo

Shared shuttles are a popular and cost-effective way to travel between San Jose and Puerto Viejo. These shuttles operate from the San Jose airport, nearby hotels, and downtown San Jose.

Pros of a Shared Shuttle:

• Cost-Effective: Shared shuttles are cheaper than private shuttles and offer a comfortable ride.
• Convenience: These shuttles have a hotel list, so they can pick you up directly from your hotel if it is on their list.

Cons of a Shared Shuttle:

• Less Flexibility: Departure times and routes are fixed, so you’ll need to plan around the shuttle’s schedule.

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

From San Jose to Puerto Viejo we recommend the companies Interbus or My Pink Bus.

• Interbus departs twice daily at 7:00AM and 1:30PM. It typically costs about $60 for a one way trip. They have an extensive list of hotels they pick up and drop off from.
• My Pink Bus departs once daily at 7:30 AM. It typically costs about $50 for a one way trip. They also have an extensive list of hotels they pick up and drop off from.

Check All Shared Shuttle Options from San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Option #4: Public Bus to Puerto Viejo

Taking a public bus is the most economical way to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo. This option is ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind a bit of adventure.

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 Puerto Viejo 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, Cahuita, and then Puerto Viejo before going 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.

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 Puerto Viejo

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 Puerto Viejo.

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 Puerto Viejo 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

Our Opinion on Getting from San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Typically, we suggest renting a car for the journey from San Jose to Puerto Viejo. This option offers the most flexibility, allowing you to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.

However, this drive can definitely be one of the more interesting drives in the country. I really hate driving through San Jose, and although this drive doesn’t take you directly through the city center, you will still need to go on some roads that can be very confusing and congested. Definitely keep that in mind.

There are for sure times when renting a car might not be ideal. Such as if you’re on a tight budget, staying at a resort, or nervous about driving in Costa Rica.

Pro Tip: You can also rent a car for just a few days to explore the area around Puerto Viejo. Adobe Rent-a-Car has an office in Puerto Viejo and can deliver the car to your hotel. Book your car here.

Conclusion: Getting to Puerto Viejo

In conclusion, there are multiple ways to get to Puerto Viejo depending on your particular needs. Whether you choose the flexibility of a rental car, the comfort of a private shuttle, the affordability of a public bus, or the speed of a domestic flight, each option has its pros and cons.

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

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