San Jose is Costa Ricaâs 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, itâs 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.
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 youâd 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 Ricaâs 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 Joseâs 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 Ricaâs 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 Ricaâs 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 Ricaâs wildlife healthy, but youâll 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
Daytripâs 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. Youâll 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 youâve 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 mistakenâCosta 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.
Visitez ces sites en chemin
La Fortuna Waterfall
One of Costa Ricaâs most iconic waterfalls paints a postcard-perfect picture of jungle beauty. A Jungle GemÂ
Proyecto Asis
This nonprofit helps preserve wildlife and lets you lend a hand in their rehabilitation. Wild AssistanceÂ
Else Kientzler Garden
This lush botanical garden is home to tropical plants from around the world. Transnational Tropical TreatsÂ
Los Chorros Waterfalls
Feel the rush of these two powerful cascades roaring in the lush jungle. The JetsÂ
Museo Historico Cultural Juan Santamaria
Costa Ricaâs history, and especially the life of its national hero, is detailed in this fascinating free museum. A Heroâs HistoryÂ
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 FruitÂ
