Popular Shared & Private Shuttle Routes in Costa Rica (Including Cross-Border)

Here are some of the most popular shuttle routes used by international travellers. Many operators offer both shared and private options, depending on your budget and travel preferences.

San José ↔ La Fortuna (Arenal)
Frequent shared and private options. Great connection from airport or city hotels.
Approx. duration: 3–4 hours

San José ↔ Manuel Antonio / Quepos
Door-to-door service from city to beach. Shared and private vans available.
Approx. duration: 3–4 hours

Liberia Airport ↔ Tamarindo / Nosara / Papagayo
Great for beach-bound travellers. Shared shuttles or private rides for groups.
Approx. duration: 2–4 hours

La Fortuna ↔ Monteverde
Often includes scenic travel via van and boat. Popular cloud forest connection.
Approx. duration: 3–5 hours

Puerto Viejo / Cahuita ↔ San José / Arenal
Good options between the Caribbean coast and central Costa Rica.
Approx. duration: 4–6 hours

Cross-Border Shuttle Connections

International shuttles offer a stress-free way to travel between Costa Rica and its neighbours. Many services assist with border formalities and include all transport legs.

San José / Puerto Viejo → Bocas del Toro (Panama)
Operators like Caribe Shuttle provide all-in-one service including van, border guidance, and boat transfer.
Via Sixaola/Guabito. Passport, proof of onward travel, and border fees required.

San José / Liberia / Pacific Coast → San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua)
Connections available via Peñas Blancas border. Super Shuttle CR and others operate this route.
Border formalities can add delays. Ensure documentation is in order.

Why International Travellers Choose Shuttles

• Convenience: Door-to-door service with no need to transfer between buses or taxis.

• Comfort: Modern, air-conditioned vans with space for luggage.

• Safety: Professional drivers familiar with local roads and conditions.

• Time Efficiency: More direct than public transport, less stress than driving.

• Border Assistance: Shuttle operators help guide you through border procedures.

• Flexibility: Private transfers allow custom pickup times and optional scenic stops.

Good to Know

• Shared shuttles run on fixed schedules and may require a minimum number of passengers.

• Private shuttles are more flexible and ideal for families, groups, or those with unique travel needs.

• Book early in high season (December–April, July–August) to ensure availability.

• Some routes combine transportation types (e.g., van + boat) for more efficient or scenic travel.

• Always check border crossing requirements before booking a cross-border route.

Why Use ShuttlesA2B

ShuttlesA2B connects travellers to trusted local shuttle and tour operators. We do not operate our own shuttles or take bookings — you book directly with the provider, with no added commission or fees.

• Easily compare operators and services in one place

• No booking fees or third-party markups

• Supports local, independent operators across Costa Rica and neighbouring countries