Your driver will meet you at your address in La Fortuna.
Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage
Trip
Youâll travel in comfort for 2 h 50 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 Monteverde.
Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage
In total
111 km2 h 50 min
Questions & Answers about Traveling from La Fortuna to Monteverde
Is there a direct bus from La Fortuna to Monteverde?
No, there isnât a direct bus from La Fortuna to Monteverde. First, you must take the bus from La Fortuna to Tilaran, and then another bus from Tilaran to Monteverde. Because there are only a few buses a day, expect the whole trip to take up to eight hours.
What is the fastest way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde?
The fastest way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde is by going through El Castilo. This route shaves off a decent amount of time and goes through Caño Negro, RĂo Chiquito, Candelaria, and El Dos de Tilaran (San Ramon).
What should I pack for the trip from La Fortuna to Monteverde?
Packing for the trip from La Fortuna to Monteverde should include waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, and basic travel necessities. The weather can be unpredictable, and the forest terrain requires appropriate gear to ensure youâre comfortable. This may also include clothing items that protect your skin from mosquitoes.
How long does it take to drive from La Fortuna to Monteverde?
Driving from La Fortuna to Monteverde takes about two hours and 45 minutes to up to 4 hours. This all really depends on your desired route and how much time youâd like to spend exploring between. Varying road conditions and winding roads may add some extra time.
What is the easiest way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde?
The easiest way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde is by using a private car service like Daytrip. You'll ride door-to-door in a well-maintained vehicle, and no matter how far youâd like to go out of the way, you can customize your trip to include your desired sightseeing stops.
How do I get from La Fortuna to Monteverde?
There are several ways to travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde. You can drive a rental car, pay for a taxi, take a bus, or get a private driver with Daytrip. Thereâs also an option to mix modes of transportation by taking a ferry across Lake Arenal and then driving again.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,600+ cities around the world.
Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries theyâre 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.
Taking a transfer from La Fortuna to Monteverde will give you a unique opportunity to explore Costa Rica. There are two different routes you can take to get there. The first route, according to Google Maps, takes about three hours and 20 minutes and spans a distance of 81 miles (130 km). The amount of time it takes via the second route is about three hours and 40 minutes covering 114 miles (183 km).
As you kick off your trip youâll encounter various landscapes, from bird-filled forests to lush farmlands. On top of this, there are several noteworthy stops that can enhance your journey. For starters, La Fortuna Waterfall is a perfect appetizer for Costa Rica's famous waterfalls. From there, you can visit Centro de Rescate Las Pumas to see five of Costa Ricaâs six wild cat species and help support their cause. Finally, get your first taste of the cloud forest by walking through the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.
While the roads can be winding and require careful navigation, the scenery and biodiversity that exist in Costa Rica will allow you to travel and become one with nature.
About Monteverde
Going from La Fortuna to Monteverde is not just a day trip between two points; it is a voyage into the heart of Costa Rica's ecological and cultural richness.
Monteverde is a small community that sits tucked away in the Puntarenas province of Costa Rica. Itâs home to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, which is probably why youâre going!
The Quaker influence
The history of Monteverde is deeply rooted in the mid-20th century when a group of Quakers from the United States settled here in the 1950s to avoid military conscription. Most of these Quakers were from Alabama and were drawn by Costa Rica's abolition of its army and its emphasis on peace and sustainability. \
The Quakers played a significant role in shaping Monteverdeâs identity, establishing dairy farms, and contributing to the area's development while maintaining a focus on conservation.
Over time, Monteverde became a hub for biological research and eco-tourism, attracting scientists and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, established in 1972, is a testament to these efforts, protecting a vast expanse of biodiverse forest and offering educational opportunities for visitors.
### Monteverde wildlife
The biodiversity of Monteverde is pretty staggering. Within the park there are more than
3,200 kinds of plants
120 types of mammals
150 types of reptiles and amphibians
400 species of birds
* 2,000 species of insects
Zooming in on what kinds of birds you can observe, hummingbirds play a crucial role in its ecosystem. They come in various patterns, colors, and sizes making it a bird watcher's paradise.
From La Fortuna to Monteverde: travel tips
The drive from La Fortuna to Monteverde requires a little bit of preparation to make sure that everything goes according to plan. Here are a few travel tips.
Pack appropriately
Monteverdeâs climate is not the easiest to predict. With rain showers that can come from left field, we recommend bringing waterproof clothing. And where thereâs rainforest, there are also mosquitoes. So, donât forget to also carry insect repellent. Packing long-sleeved shirts, hats, long pants, and sturdy boots will help keep you comfortable and protected while hiking through the cloud forest.
### Drive with caution
The roads can sometimes be narrow and winding with occasional potholes and rough patches. Additionally, the drive involves traversing mountainous terrain, so having a well-maintained car or van is essential. The easiest time to drive is during the dry season, from December to April when the roads are most accessible. Of course, you donât have to worry about this when you ride with Daytrip.
Safety is another important aspect to consider. Although Costa Rica is generally safe, petty theft can occur. Keep your valuables secure and avoid leaving belongings in your car unattended.
How to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde
So, how exactly should you get from La Fortuna to Monteverde?
Letâs take a look at popular routes that travelers take as well as several modes of transportation to suit your preferences and budget.
La Fortuna to Monteverde with Daytrip
If you want upfront prices, reliable transport, communication, and an unforgettable overall travel experience then take a ride with Daytrip's private care service. You'll travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde with an English-speaking driver in a clean, well-maintained vehicle (with air conditioning!).
Along with being able to chat about local culture and get insider tips, you can add sightseeing stops on the way so you can experience as much of Costa Rica as possible. And you can get all this for as little as $30 per person!
### La Fortuna to Monteverde by bus
Taking the bus is always a budget-friendly option and a great option for solo travelers who donât always want to travel alone. There isnât a direct public bus from La Fortuna to Monteverde. Instead you need to travel from La Fortuna to Tilaran, and then take another bus from Tilaran to Monteverde. The combined price is only $8.50, but the whole trip can take up to eight hours!
There are also private bus companies that offer direct buses, which can do the trip in just an hour, but their prices range from $45 (23,628 CRC) to $310 (162,771 CRC). You can get an on-demand private driver with Daytrip for less.
### La Fortuna to Monteverde by ferry and taxi
If youâd like you can also combine different forms of transportation to customize a unique journey. From La Fortuna, you can take a taxi to the Arenal Lake Dam. Then once you arrive you can take a 30-minute ferry to Rio Chiquito Pier. This boat ride boasts scenic views of Arenal Volcano and once you hit land itâs a 90-minute minibus ride to your destination. This option is more for adventure than convenience.
### La Fortuna to Monteverde by car
Driving a car is one of the most flexible means of transportation. On Google Maps, when you add El Castillo (Alajuela Province) as a stop in the middle it shortens the ride to about two hours and 45 minutes. The distance then changes to 52 miles (83 km). Every route, at some point, will take you along Lake Arenalâ and youâll have the freedom to stop wherever you want.
Things to do when you get to Monteverde
Once you get from La Fortuna to Monteverde itâll be time to put on your exploring hat.
Exploring the cloud forest
Monteverde is renowned for its lush cloud forest reserves. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve are must-visit locations. The distance between these two locations is roughly 7 miles (11.5 km).
Youâll be able to find extensive hiking trails and impressive views from canopy walkways. Donât forget to bring your binoculars! This way you can spot the wildlife from far away.
Love birdwatching? Get ready to have the chance to see one of Costa Ricaâs most famous birds, the quetzal. \
### Experience food culture up close
For those interested in cultural experiences, Monteverde has several options. HeladerĂa y FĂĄbrica de Quesos Monteverde also known as The Monteverde Cheese Factory sells rich ice cream for hot days. Beware of conflicting information regarding this site as many travelers point out that there are no tours available. Cabure - Restaurante & ChocolaterĂa has chocolate tours for anyone with a sweet tooth. In the final part of the tour, youâll have the chance to make your own chocolate.
Monteverde has a variety of dining options from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants. Here are our top picks:
Herbario
Tierra Mia Restaurante
Rain Forest
Harmony Food Restaurant
Bamboo Gardens Restaurant
### Adventure and recreation
Need a slight adrenaline rush to complete your day?
In the surrounding area, there are at least a dozen different zip-lining attractions that are exhilarating and let you see Costa Rica from a birds-eye view. Here are a few places you can look up:
The Original Canopy Tour Monteverde
Tree Top Canopy Tour.
Treetopia Park Selvatura Adventure Park
100% Aventura
TreeTop Climbing Monteverde
AirTime Zipline Adventure
For a different perspective, consider a guided night walk to observe nocturnal wildlife. If you prefer a slower pace, horseback riding tours offer a peaceful way to explore the countryside.
When is the best to visit Monteverde
When you plan your trip from La Fortuna to Monteverde be sure to pick the best time based on your preferences. While you can enjoy Costa Rica year-round some seasons are more pleasant than others.
Visit during the dry season
From December to April, you can enjoy the dry season, which for many travelers is considered the best time to visit. During these months the weather is sunny, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining, horseback riding, and forest exploration. At the same time, everyone wants to experience Monteverdeâs sun, so this is the most popular and expensive time to visit.
Visit these sights on the way
La Fortuna Waterfall
One of Costa Ricaâs most iconic waterfalls paints a postcard-perfect picture of jungle beauty. A Jungle GemÂ
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
Discover the plants and animals of Costa Ricaâs lush rainforest as you move from floor to canopy. Suspended ScenesÂ
Centro de Rescate Las Pumas
This rescue center rehabilitates wild cats and many other animals in large, natural enclosures. Pouncing for ProtectionÂ
âI 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.â
âWe 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, weâd 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.â
Reviewed by Tripadvisor
traveler Daydream20046758137
âWe 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. Itâs worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. Itâs 5 star rating is well deserved.â
âWe 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 comfortableâ
âGonzalo 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.â
âWe 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.â
âUsed 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.â
âUsed 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.â
âWe 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.â
âWe 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.â
Reviewed by Tripadvisor
traveler Omar
Good to know
Children
If youâre 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 isnât 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 youâre 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!
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! Donât worry if you donât know your exact address at the time of booking - youâll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select âReturnâ 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 âOne Wayâ or âReturnâ to change the type of trip you need. Itâs a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you donât 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.
