Transfers Countries Costa Rica QueposQuepos to San Jose

Private car transfer from Quepos to San Jose

Door-to-door
in 2 h 40 min

From €31
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 Quepos.

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

164 km2 h 40 min

Overview: car trip from Quepos to San Jose

The Quepos to San Jose transfer takes 2 hours and 40 minutes to cover the 102 miles (164 km). With Daytrip you can choose between either a private car service or a group shuttle. Either way, you can look forward to a stress-free ride with a vetted, English-speaking driver.

If you go with a private car service, you have the option to stop along the way and sightsee parts of Costa Rica that you'd miss with a bus or taxi. You can visit the incredible Rainmaker Forest, a lesser-known hiking trail that weaves its way through a pristine jungle that’s home to over half of Costa Rica’s native species. There is even a restaurant where you can order lunch before your hike to have the meal fresh and ready for your return!

Or, your drive from Quepos to San Jose can include an adventure to Los Chorros Waterfalls, with its series of powerful jets plunging over a 131-foot cliff, to get one last taste of Costa Rica's wild side before you arrive in the capital.

About San Jose

Your Quepos to San Jose transfer will transport you to the heart of Costa Rica’s bustling capital city. San Jose is known for its lively atmosphere and hosts world-class attractions such as museums and parks. The city is also the perfect gateway to the luscious countryside, with ample transportation to the nearby jungles, beaches, and incredible mountainous landscapes.

The historic city was founded in the early 18th century and has since found its foothold as a diverse metropolis, home to a range of architectural styles and exciting international cuisine. San Jose is a great home base to explore the rest of Costa Rica’s cities and natural wonders, including remarkable volcanic hikes or visits to the endangered turtle population at Tortuguero.

While here, you can also shop for traditionally made Jade jewelry and decorative objects. You can spend a day learning more about the history of this rich green gemstone and its use in Costa Rican arts at the San Jose Jade Museum, or look for something special to bring home with the master craftsmen in Galería Namu.

San Jose is perhaps best known for its exciting and sometimes rambunctious nightlife, which is worth experiencing while you’re here. There is a collection of bars and restaurants throughout the city, as well as clubs hosting rock music nights and plenty of dance floors for those drawn to the reggaeton or salsa beats. Check out the central El Pueblo neighborhood for a more concentrated nightlife experience with different venue options for every traveler’s taste.

From Quepos to San Jose: travel tips

On your journey from Quepos to San Jose, there are a few things to keep in mind that will best prepare you for the trip.

Stay budget-friendly with a shuttle

Daytrip offers a group shuttle service along this route that can save you time and money in comparison to relying on public transport. The shuttle leaves 5 times a day and can carry up to 8 people, with seats starting at only $28. This is a safe and comfortable option for budget-focused travelers who still want the convenience of door-to-door service in under 3 hours. It also tends to be easier to bring your luggage on a small group shuttle than to hope there will be enough undercarriage space on the long-haul public buses.

Work with your driver

If you do choose a private driving transfer with Daytrip, you have control over your itinerary and can choose to add sightseeing stops en route to San Jose, so plan ahead and book your stops. Your friendly English-speaking driver will be eager to provide you with local guidance along the way, so feel free to communicate with them throughout the trip to ensure you have the best time possible!

How to get from Quepos to San Jose

There are a few different options for the Quepos to San Jose transfer, including bus routes as well as private transfers, and group shuttle services, both offered by Daytrip. The bus route may be your cheapest option, but the shuttle or private transfers offered by Daytrip grant you increased flexibility for booking around flights, and still get you door-to-door in well under 3 hours.

Bus from Quepos to San Jose

There is a direct bus route from Quepos to San Jose, which takes just under 2 hours and costs about $5-9. This only departs once a day. There is also another Tracopa bus that departs every two hours, but the ride takes 5.5 hours.

Shuttle from Quepos to San Jose

If you can't catch that fast bus, the group shuttle service from Daytrip offers a fantastic, affordable transportation option for those seeking seamless door-to-door transit in just 2 hours and 40 minutes. The shuttle service can drop you off in downtown San Jose, or at San Jose Airport if your journey is a return trip to catch a flight.

Private car from Quepos to San Jose

The best option for maximum comfort and convenience is a private car transfer with Daytrip. You get a completely flexible booking, a friendly English-speaking driver, and luggage assistance on either end of your journey.

This option also takes 2 hours and 40 minutes, unless you select sightseeing stops along the way to elevate your travel experience and cram in as much Costa Rica as possible.

Taxi from Quepos to San Jose

Taxi companies operating between Quepos and San Jose vary in cost, but quotes generally start around $130. The driving time is just over 2.5 hours, but you should keep in mind that you will not be able to stop en route for sightseeing detours. Different taxi operators may also have varied restrictions on luggage capacity, which is something those with excess baggage (or surfboards) should be mindful of.

Things to do when you get to San Jose

Once you complete your Quepo to San Jose transfer, you are poised to enjoy everything this busy capital city has to offer. There are a range of attractions offering insight into Costa Rica’s history and culture, as well as plenty of options for journeying further into the country’s lush wilderness.

Visit the central market

This buzzing market serves locals daily with a collection of food shops and restaurants and offers an authentic taste of San Jose. The market also happens to be home to Costa Rica’s first-ever ice cream shop, making it a delicious destination for any traveler to the city.

Explore the National Theater

The National Theater is an elaborately decorated feat of architecture, and is open to visitors during the weekdays. Typically there’s even a musical performance around lunchtime. To fund the construction of the impressive building, a tax was placed on Costa Rica’s main export: coffee. As a result, one of the most notable artworks in this space is Aleardo Villa’s “Allegory of Coffee and Bananas”, a celebration of the country’s coffee farmers without whom the beautiful space could not exist.

Go to the Parque de Diversiones

This unique amusement park boasts a range of rollercoasters with an admirable mission, to help fundraising efforts for seriously ill children. The tagline of the park’s mission is “Healthy children help sick children,” and part of the proceeds of every visit go to the Costa Rica Children’s Hospital.

Take a Poas Volcano and Coffee Farm tour

Many adventure tours leave from San Jose, including those that combine a tour of a traditional coffee farm with a trip to the incredible Poas Volcano to view its iconic icy blue crater. The views here are truly otherworldly and are a great complement to time spent visiting a local coffee farm where you’ll be able to learn more about the growing and processing of your favorite morning beverage.

When is the best time to visit San Jose?

As you prepare for your Quepos to San Jose transfer, you should keep in mind the best time of year to visit. As with other destinations in Costa Rica, the dry season in San Jose is from January to April. This is both the sunniest and busiest time to visit.

For the best bargains on flights and accommodations, try to time your visit earlier in the peak season. January and February will offer slightly lower prices after the winter holidays and before the spike of visitors in the early spring. You will still have plenty of sun for days on the beach.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Quepos to San Jose

How long is the drive from Quepos to San Jose airport?

The journey from Quepos to San Jose airport takes just over 2.5 hours door-to-door, whether you opt for a private driving transfer or a small group shuttle service.

Is Quepos Costa Rica worth visiting?

Quepos Costa Rica is worth a visit for its incredible access to Costa Rica’s natural beauty, with ample seafront attractions as well as the surrounding mountains and jungles. The town is also known for its world-class whale watching.

How much is the bus from Quepos to San Jose?

The bus from Quepos to San Jose is $5-9. There’s a single “fast” bus a day that takes around 2 hours, while other buses vary in cost and take up to 5.5 hours for the same cost.

How do I get to Quepos from San Jose?

The best way to get from Quepos to San Jose is with either a private car transfer or a more affordable group shuttle service, both offered by Daytrip for stress-free service. If you’re on a budget, there’s the public bus.

Is there a train from Quepos to San Jose?

There is not a train from Quepos to San Jose, but there are public bus routes available between the two cities as well as private car services and group shuttles with Daytrip.

How much is a taxi from Quepos to San Jose?

A taxi from Quepos to San Jose can vary in cost, but quotes start at about $130 for most companies operating along this route. A private car transfer is slightly more, but allows you to book in advance, pay online with a credit card, add sightseeing stops, and guarantees the quality of service.

Visit these sights on the way

Rainmaker Forest

A winding hiking trail complete with rope suspension bridges works through this pristine mountain forest, which is home to over half of Costa Rica’s indigenous species. Wet and Wild

Mirador de Jaco

An unmissable sign with unmissable views. Colors of the Coast

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

1,129 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.