Transfers Countries Costa Rica JacoJaco to San Jose

Private car transfer from Jaco to San Jose

Door-to-door
in 1 h 40 min

From €20
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Jaco.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 1 h 40 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in San Jose.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

98 km1 h 40 min

Overview: car trip from Jaco to San Jose

A car trip from Jaco to San Jose covers a distance of 60 miles (100 km) and takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Leaving Jaco and the Pacific coast behind, you'll travel through the lush jungle until you reach Costa Rica’s bustling capital.

With Daytrip's private car service, you can add excursions to your trip, transforming your travel day into an adventure. Take the Britt Coffee Tour to learn how coffee is made, or stop by the Los Chorros waterfalls to immerse yourself in the Costa Rican jungle. You have complete control of your trip, right up to when your driver delivers you to your destination in San Jose.

About San Jose

San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica. This small, Central American country has about 5 million people, and 2 million of them live in the San Jose metro area. It consistently ranks high on lists of the safest capitals to visit in Latin America.

San Jose first developed as a center for trading tobacco under Spanish colonization. As international trade developed, it eventually became the country’s capital and a center for coffee production as well. Its central location makes it a good jumping-off point for day trips around the country and for getting to the beach towns from its international airport.

From Jaco to San Jose: travel tips

The trip from Jaco to San Jose is pretty easy, but there are two important travel tips to ensure you have the best time possible in Costa Rica.

Stop for sightseeing

Costa Rica is filled with natural beauty and friendly people. Experience as much of the country as possible by adding sightseeing stops to your trip. You don't want to get back home and regret not doing more!

Leave the shells and sand on the beach

Everyone wants a souvenir from their time in Costa Rica, but it is illegal to take sand and seashells home with you. They will most likely be confiscated at the airport, so avoid the trouble (and possibly miss your flight!) by leaving all wildlife where you found it.

Removing sand and shells disrupts the environment that makes Costa Rica such a unique place to visit, so remember the golden rule of interacting with nature: take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints. If you want souvenirs, buy some handmade wooden items or a bag of coffee beans to support the local economy.

How to get from Jaco to San Jose

Daytrip offers two private transportation options from Jaco to San Jose: private cars and shared shuttles. Both options can accommodate children’s seats, mobility aids, and extra luggage. They are operated by an English-speaking driver with air-conditioned, insured vehicles.

Shuttle buses from Jaco to San Jose

Daytrip shared shuttle buses run from Jaco to San Jose in the winter, from December until the end of April. Shuttles depart downtown Jaco in the morning and afternoon and can drop you off in downtown San Jose or the San Jose Airport. Daytrip shuttles offer superior service to the regular bus. You can look forward to help with your luggage and the ability to chat with your friendly English-speaking driver. Prices start at $20 per person, making this a great balance of cost and convenience.

Private car services from Jaco to San Jose

Daytrip's private car service is the most convenient, comfortable, and flexible way to get from Jaco to San Jose. You can set your own departure time, and since it's a door-to-door ride, choose an exact drop-off location, be it at your accommodation in San Jose or the airport terminal. The car trip is only about 1.5 hours, making this the fastest way to travel.

The other major perk is the ability to stop for sightseeing, so you can experience as much of Costa Rica as possible. If you never took a coffee farm tour, or need to see some more waterfalls before you go, Daytrip's got you covered.

Buses from Jaco to San Jose

The public bus is usually the most affordable way to get from Jaco to San Jose. Tickets cost between 8 and 20 USD depending on the season and if you book in advance. Make sure to take the direct bus, which will get you to San Jose in about 2 hours. Tickets should be bought ahead of time to avoid having to wait at the bus station for the next bus with empty seats.

Things to do when you get to San Jose

As the capital and largest city in Costa Rica, you'll find no shortage of things to do when you get to San Jose. After your drive from Jaco to San Jose, stop by these key spots:

Head underground at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Costa Rica (or “the rich coast”) got its name from the initial impressions of Europeans when they first arrived and saw the indigenous people wearing lots of gold. They were certainly right, the Costa Rican earth has plenty of gold and locals have been crafting jewelry and statues for at least 1,500 years. Beneath the National Bank, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum exhibits Pre-Columbian art made from gold and the indigenous perspective on history.

Visit the Jade Museum

Costa Rica is so green, it’s even found underground! Jade is a semi-precious green gemstone that is used for jewelry and figurines. At the Jade Museum in San Jose, you can learn about Costa Rica's traditional handicrafts made of jade and see a vast collection of ancient jade artifacts.

Have a stroll in Parque Nacional

This shady, urban park is a nice respite from the hot and crowded streets of San Jose. You can have lunch, read a book, and let the kids run around to blow off some steam just a short distance from your hotel.

When is the best time to visit San Jose

The best time to visit San Jose is in the dry season from December to April. It is the perfect time to experience San Jose’s tropical climate without worrying about the rain washing away your plans. Expect daytime highs of 85° F (29°C) and balmy evenings in the 60s F (15-19°C). This is also the most popular time to visit, so book your excursions and transportation ahead of time to avoid the disappointment of tickets selling out.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Jaco to San Jose

How long is the bus from Jaco to San Jose?

Traveling by bus to San Jose can take as little as 1 hour and 50 minutes, or as much as 3 hours. The length of your trip depends on if you choose a direct or regional bus. If you are concerned about catching a flight on time, account for delays and give yourself extra time for traffic.

How much is a taxi from Jaco to SJO?

A taxi to the San Jose Airport will cost $120 to $160 for the 60 mile (100 km) long distance. Taxis in Costa Rica rarely take credit cards, so always have cash on you in small bills to make exact change. They do accept USD though, and will often prefer it to the Costa Rica Colon (CRC).

Is there a bus from Jaco to San Jose?

Many bus companies operate routes from Jaco to San Jose and they range in price and quality. You can find buses for as little as 8 USD, but they take longer (about 3 hours) compared to a direct bus which should take about 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Visit these sights on the way

Mirador de Jaco

An unmissable sign with unmissable views. Colors of the Coast

Crocodile Bridge

Dozens of crocs congregate on sunny river banks right below one of Costa Rica’s main highways. The Croc Stop

Else Kientzler Garden

This lush botanical garden is home to tropical plants from around the world. Transnational Tropical Treats

Los Chorros Waterfalls

Feel the rush of these two powerful cascades roaring in the lush jungle. The Jets

Museo Historico Cultural Juan Santamaria

Costa Rica’s history, and especially the life of its national hero, is detailed in this fascinating free museum. A Hero’s History

Britt Coffee Tour

How is coffee made and why is Costa Rica's so delicious? Find out on a fun and informative tour at this eco-friendly plantation. The Magical Fruit

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

2,674 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.