Your driver will meet you at your address in La Fortuna.
Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage
Trip
You’ll travel in comfort for 2 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
131 km2 h 40 min
Questions & Answers about Traveling from La Fortuna to San Jose
How many days should I stay in San Jose?
San Jose is Costa Rica’s largest city; however, most of the excitement and activities for visitors are found on the coast or in national parks. For most travelers, one day is enough to see everything they have scheduled in San Jose.
What is the cheapest way to get from La Fortuna to San Jose?
Traveling on public buses is the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica; however, information for booking ahead of time is few and far between. Bus conditions depend on which company operates the route. Some have air conditioning and wifi, but most do not.
In which time zone is San Jose?
All of Costa Rica is in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone and does not observe daylight saving time. It is in the same time zone as Texas and Chicago. Keep this in mind when you are booking your flights in and out of San Jose.
Is tap water safe to drink in San Jose?
Yes! In most parts of Costa Rica, tap water is safe to drink, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. However, in some rural areas, it’s better to drink bottled water to avoid any potential stomach issues.
How much is a taxi from La Fortuna to San Jose?
Taxis cost $130 to $160. You must pay in cash and have enough small bills to make exact change. It is always best to arrange your transfer ahead of time, especially if you have a flight to catch. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your ride.
How do you get from La Fortuna to San Jose?
You can travel between La Fortuna and San Jose by shuttle bus, taxi, private car, flight, or public bus. Each option has advantages and disadvantages and a range of price points to fit every budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.
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.
The drive from La Fortuna to San Jose spans 80 miles (130 km) and takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes by car, weaving through Costa Rica's lush jungles. It is most often done by shuttle bus or private car.
If you’d prefer a more customized and flexible experience, use a private car service. This allows you to enhance your trip with personalized excursions, such as the Britt Coffee Tour, to learn more about one of Costa Rica’s major exports.
One unique stop Daytrip offers is the chance to volunteer with Proyecto Asis, a wildlife reserve a short distance from the Arenal Volcano. Volunteering at the reserve allows for meaningful interactions with the animals and a deeper connection to their mission. This stop is great for families and can turn your transfer into a memorable day trip.
About San Jose
San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica, a small Central American nation sandwiched between Nicaragua and Panama. Costa Rica has a population of 5 million, and nearly 2 million people reside in the San Jose metropolitan area. It is the largest city in the country and is located in the _Valle Central _region.
San Jose’s History
Initially, under Spanish colonial rule in the 1730s, San Jose emerged as a hub for tobacco trading. As global trade expanded, it grew into the nation's capital and a key center for coffee production. Today, San Jose is still Costa Rica’s center for commerce, education, and medical care. Like many Costa Rican cities, it is named for an important person in Catholic tradition, Joseph of Nazareth.
Visiting San Jose
San Jose consistently ranks on lists of the safest capitals to visit in Latin America and has two of Costa Rica’s international airports. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for day trips across the country and a convenient gateway to coastal towns and resorts. The city center is laid out on a grid pattern for easy navigation, and you can learn about Costa Rican history and art at its many museums before your flight back home.
From La Fortuna to San Jose: travel tips
Don't risk missing your flight or getting on the wrong side of the law! As you prepare for your La Fortuna to San Jose transfer, keep this important law in mind:
Nature needs to remain in nature
While it is tempting to take a piece of Costa Rica home with you, it is illegal to remove sand, seashells, volcanic rock, regular rock, feathers, bones, or animals from the country. These items will be confiscated at the airport, so save yourself the hassle (and the potential of missing your flight!) by leaving nature where it belongs.
Taking these items harms the delicate ecosystem that makes Costa Rica such a special destination. They can also transmit diseases to other parts of the world. Remember the golden rule when interacting with nature: take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints.
Instead of taking items from the shores and volcanos, support the local economy by purchasing handmade wooden crafts or a bag of Costa Rican coffee beans. Switching to these souvenirs will not only help keep Costa Rica’s wildlife healthy, but you’ll also be supporting Costa Rican entrepreneurs.
Use a reliable transportation company
Missing your flight is no joke! If you are heading to the San Jose airport, you need reliable transportation you can trust. Research the transit company online before booking your transfer and only choose highly rated services for the ultimate peace of mind.
How to get from La Fortuna to San Jose
You can take a flight or a vehicle on your Costa Rican journey. Daytrip offers two private transportation options from La Fortuna to San Jose: private cars and shared shuttles. Both services can accommodate children's seats, mobility aids, and extra luggage. English-speaking drivers in air-conditioned, insured vehicles handle all of the luggage.
Shuttle buses from La Fortuna to San Jose
Daytrip's shuttle buses are a popular choice for this route. They offer the convenience and security of a reputable private transportation company while sharing the cost of your ride to the airport or your hotel in San Jose. With a variety of ticket types to fit all budgets, there is an option for every type of traveler. Secure your seat for $28.
Private car Services from La Fortuna to San Jose
Daytrip’s private car service offers a customizable travel experience that's more than just a ride. Your private driver will pick you up from La Fortuna at a time that suits your schedule, and you can easily add local experiences, like sightseeing excursions and volunteering on a wildlife reserve, before reaching San Jose. Ride in a comfy sedan that seats three guests for just $61 per person.
Flights from La Fortuna to San Jose
La Fortuna has a small airport that operates local flights. SANSA has daily departures of flights from La Fortuna (FON) to San Jose (SJO) for $107 to $139 per passenger. You’ll be in the air for 30 minutes before reaching San Jose, making this the fastest way to travel by far.
Things to do when you get to San Jose
San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, is the country's largest city. Once you’ve walked the streets full of shops and restaurants, a great way to escape the heat and sun is to take a museum tour. After your drive from La Fortuna to San Jose, make sure to visit these notable spots:
The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Costa Rica, known as "the rich coast," earned its name from the early European explorers who were struck by the abundance of gold-adorned indigenous people they encountered. They weren't mistaken—Costa Rica's land is rich in gold, and for over 1,500 years, locals have been creating intricate jewelry and statues.
The National Bank houses the underground Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and presents history from the indigenous perspective.
The Jade Museum
Costa Rica's lush greenery extends above ground and below the surface, too! Jade, a semi-precious green gemstone used for jewelry and figurines, is plentiful here. At the Jade Museum in San Jose, you can see the traditional jade handicrafts of Costa Rica and marvel at an extensive collection of ancient jade artifacts.
The National Museum of Costa Rica
The National Museum of Costa Rica has changed locations several times since its founding in 1887, but it is currently housed in the historic Bellavista Fortress. It features a butterfly garden, historical displays, and collections of indigenous art and archaeological finds. Exhibits detail Costa Rica's natural landscapes, colonial past, and journey to independence.
Parque Nacional (National Park)
This shaded urban park also offers a pleasant escape from the bustling and hot streets of San Jose. It's a great place to enjoy lunch, relax with a book, or let the kids expend some energy, all a short distance from your hotel.
When is the best time to visit San Jose
Costa Rica's dry season spans from December to April. This is the ideal window of time to enjoy San Jose's tropical climate without rain disrupting your plans. During the dry season, daytime highs are around 85°F (29°C), and the pleasantly warm evenings range from the mid-60s (15-19°C).
The rainy season is from May to November and presents challenges for visitors. The forecasts can change hourly due to high tropical winds, and you run the risk of a storm canceling your plans. However, the rainy season is when Costa Rica is at its most lush. If you choose to visit during the rainy season, have a flexible approach when making your schedule.
Visit these sights on the way
La Fortuna Waterfall
One of Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfalls paints a postcard-perfect picture of jungle beauty. A Jungle Gem
Proyecto Asis
This nonprofit helps preserve wildlife and lets you lend a hand in their rehabilitation. Wild Assistance
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
“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.”
“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
“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.”
“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”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“Really great site, I highly recommend it if you’re looking for long transport. You’re paying for convenience and being able to book on your own time, in advance and not have to wait for public transit. We booked 3 rides in Costa Rica: San Jose to La Fortuna, La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio to San Jose. The communication before and during the trip was great, very easy process. Our driver for the first and last ride was Cesar Matamoros, he was great! He spoke English and Spanish and was very knowledgeable about the country. We learned a lot from him! Our other driver for the second trip was named Jason and he mainly spoke Spanish. We added a stop during the ride at a beautiful garden and he waited for us while we explored. And he added a bonus stop for us to the crocodile bridge!”
Reviewed by Tripadvisor
traveler Jlj1397
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!
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.
