Travelling between San Jose and Tamarindo is possible by Flight, bus, van and taxi. Flight guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Taxi+van is the slowest option.
The most expensive ticket will cost you USD 647.35 if you go by taxi; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a bus which will set you back mere USD 19.00.
It can take you anywhere between 1 and 6 hours to travel between San Jose and Tamarindo depending on the means of transport you choose.
Flight is the fastest way to travel between San Jose and Tamarindo. Flight will bring you to your destination in 50m. Taxi+van does a much slower job and take about 5h 30m to reach Tamarindo.
Travelling between San Jose and Tamarindo can be as cheap as USD 19.00 if you opt for a Tralapa bus and as expensive as USD 647.35 if you buy a Marvi taxi ticket.
Here is the list of how much you can expect to pay travelling by each means of transport available for this route.
Check above for a bus, train, flight and ferry timetable from San Jose to Tamarindo.
Flying is the fastest and often the most expensive way to travel from San Jose to Tamarindo, but with a bit of luck you can score very good deals for as little as USD 104.00.
Things to remember: Note that some of the airlines may have restrictions on checked luggage weight or require paying extra for check-in, choosing seats or transportation of oversized luggage.
If opting for a flight, calculate the time you will spend getting to and from the airports as well as the waiting time before your flight, getting through immigration in case of an international flight and recovering your checked luggage.
In certain cases all these procedures can add no less than 5 hours to your total travel time.
Sansa Airlines
Travelling from San Jose to Tamarindo overland will inevitably take longer but in many cases it is the cheapest option if you opt for a bus.
Things to remember: For a more comfortable ride opt for a higher-class bus wherever possible. These buses usually have soft reclining seats and are equipped with air-conditioning and on-board toilets.
They often include water, snacks or a light lunch into your ticket price and make bathroom stops en-route.
Tralapa
Some travellers consider taxi to be the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.
Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.
Coach Costa Rica, Jacamar Naturalist Tour, Marvi
Vans are a great alternative - or, in many cases - your only option - if you need to travel overland within one and the same province or neighbouring provinces or states. Vans ply the roads between San Jose and Tamarindo, too.
Things to remember: When travelling by van with huge luggage buying a separate seat for your suitcase or backpack is a good idea. Do not expect there is a roomy luggage compartment in a van - there is actually none and your fellow passengers are unlikely to appreciate your luggage stuck under their feet, alas.
Easy Ride, Paradise Shuttle Costa Rica
There is a choice of transportation means any time of the day with Bus remaining the most popular option due to their reasonable pricing and comfort.
Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route