Costa Rica Ground Transportation
 

I am trying to figure out the best way to get from the San Jose Airport to Manuel Antonio. The hotel I am staying at can arrange a van for $150 to take me and my girlfriend directly to the hotel from the airport. But, I heard that you can get a taxi for about $60. My flight gets in late (9:30PM) and I want to make it to Manuel Antonio that same night. Do any buses run that late?? Any help is greatly appreciated. regards

I really don't think you will be able to find a taxi for $60.00. With some bargaining, you should be able to get one for about $100.00. And even if you could get a taxi for $60 - I doubt if you could at that time of night.

The last public bus from SJ to Manuel Antonio is at 7.30 PM.

If you land at 9.30 PM, you probably won't be out of the airport till sometimes after 10.00 PM. Since the ride is close to 3 hours, that would put you in at about 1.00 AM - and that is only if everything goes smoothly - flights on time etc..

Given the time of your arrival, I would seriously consider spending the night either in Alajuela - in a hotel or B and B near the airport, or even in San Jose and heading to MA the next morning.

Pura vida
raquel

Definitely agree with Raquel. IF you can find a taxi driver at that hour, he'll probably want a pretty good price for the late night service! And I would be surprised if you make it out of the airport by 10:00--depends.

It's a scenic drive to Manuel Antonio--I'd hate for you to miss it! Do consider resting up that evening and getting an early start the next a.m. A good place to stay for not much $$ is Hotel Villa Bonita--5 min. from airport. Very nice breakfast, excellent management--Humberto and Carmen Brenes. www.hotelvillabonita.com

By the way, when are you going? AND if you absolutely insist on transportation that night, you might want to consider hiring a private driver. Several have been recommended on this board, but I don't know if any of them would nod their heads to starting out for MA at that time of night! Maybe for a price. . .!

thank you raquelz and shillmac for the tips. so, i guess taking a private van for $150 isnt a bad deal considering the timing. I am definitely going to go directly to MA from the airport, so I will have to take in the scenic ride on the way back. shillmac, I am going this Friday 12/29 through 1/3. Anyone know of any good New Year's events in MA?

thanks

Nope, but Prospero Ano Nuevo! Have a great trip--buen viaje!