Book your shuttle in Costa Rica
Your private or shared transportation service
*Solo travelers, couples, or small groups: choose shared shuttle. Families or large groups: choose private shuttle
If you have any questions about our transportation service, please read our FAQ just below.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pura Vida Traveling’s role in my transportation booking?
As a travel agency, we handle all your logistics by booking and organizing your ride with our transportation partners. We work with all transportation providers in Costa Rica to find the ride that fits your needs. This means we coordinate your trip for a smooth experience but are not the actual transportation providers.
Who provides the transportation services?
Pura Vida Traveling partners with trusted transportation providers in Costa Rica. While we coordinate your transportation, these companies operate the shuttles and are responsible for the rides.
Is booking with Pura Vida Traveling more expensive than going directly to transport providers?
Our prices come directly from our transportation providers and include a commission they pay us for booking. Typically, our prices match what you'd pay if you booked directly, though sometimes they may vary slightly. We aim to align our prices with our providers' rates whenever possible to avoid overcharging.
How do I know which shuttle service I’ll be using?
After booking with us, we will follow up with an email fully confirming your transportation. With this confirmation, we’ll inform you which shuttle company is scheduled for your trip and provide a contact phone number so you can contact the shuttle provider directly if needed. Each of our partners meets high safety and service standards to ensure a comfortable journey.
Can I request a specific shuttle company?
We try accommodating requests for specific shuttle providers based on availability, route, and timing. However, assignments depend on partner schedules, and we work to offer the best available option for your itinerary. Please email us and include your confirmation number to request a specific provider.
How far in advance should I book my transportation?
We recommend booking at least 72 hours in advance to secure your preferred schedule. Early bookings (5-7 days in advance) are highly recommended during peak season.
What are the shuttle departure times?
Shuttle times vary by provider and route. Shared shuttles have to pick up other passengers and can run 10-20 minutes late. We’ll confirm the available time options upon booking and email you your final schedule. Some popular routes operate several times daily, while others may have limited service. Most shuttles run in the morning and afternoon, with the latest shuttles leaving at around 5 PM. There are no shuttles with night-time departures.
When should I be ready for pick-up, and how will I know the exact time?
Pick-up times are approximate. Your confirmed pick-up time will be based on your pick-up location and provided with your confirmation email. We recommend being ready 10-15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. This helps ensure timely departure, as some routes operate on tight schedules.
Where will I be picked up and dropped off? Can I be picked up from a specific location?
Most shuttles offer door-to-door service (from and to any Hotel or Hostel), which we will confirm based on your pickup and drop-off locations. If door-to-door service is unavailable, we will arrange pickup at the nearest accessible location. Extra charges could apply for drop-off outside the designated areas (from an Airbnb, for example). We will notify you beforehand if your pick-up or drop-off location requires an additional cost.
Where can I meet the driver at Liberia LIR Airport?
If you are traveling from the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, your pick-up spot will be the Britt Cafe right outside the airport on the right side of the arrivals area. You will need to pass both immigration and customs (30-120 minutes) to get to the meeting point, so if you are requesting a pick-up, make sure to book a shuttle that picks you up 60-120 minutes after your plane is scheduled to land and always provide us with your flight information so that we can be aware of any delays or cancelations.
What is your cancellation policy?
Reservations that have not been fully confirmed by Pura Vida Traveling are fully refundable. Once a confirmation email has been sent, the following cancelation policy will be enforced: - All cancellations of fully confirmed travel will be charged a 10% cancelation fee. (10% of the total reservation being canceled) - All Pura Vida Traveling transportation reservations become fully non-refundable 72 hours before the scheduled pick-up time. - Cancelations made more than 72 hours before the service can be eligible for a partial refund, depending on the transportation provider used. (find policies for each provider below) Costa Rica Transportation Provider Policies - Easy Ride : Reservations confirmed with Easy Ride Costa Rica will be eligible for a 40% refund if canceled more than 72 hours before travel. Reservations become fully non-refundable 72 hours before the pick-up time. - Ride CR: Reservations confirmed with Ride CR are eligible for a refund if canceled more than 72 hours before travel. A 10% cancelation fee will be applied. - Tropical Tours: Reservations confirmed with Tropical Tours are eligible for a refund if canceled more than 72 hours before travel. A 10% cancelation fee will be applied. - Caribe Shuttle: Reservations confirmed with Carribe Shuttle are eligible for a refund if canceled more than 72 hours before travel. A 10% cancelation fee will be applied. - Interbus: Reservations confirmed with Interbus are eligible for a refund if canceled more than 72 hours before travel. A 10% cancelation fee will be applied. - Zuma Tours: Reservations confirmed with Zuma Tours are eligible for a refund if canceled more than 72 hours before travel. A 25% cancelation fee will be applied.
Where can I meet the driver at San José SJO Airport?
If you request pick-up from the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), your pick-up spot will be restaurante Malinche. Restaurante Malinche is located right outside the airport on the right side of the arrivals area. You must pass through immigration and customs (30-120 minutes) to get to the pick-up spot. Make sure to book a shuttle that picks you up 60-120 minutes after your plane is scheduled to land, and always provide us with your flight information so that we can be aware of any delays or cancelations.
What happens if my shuttle is delayed?
Shared shuttles have to pick up other passengers and can run 10-20 minutes late. Our providers strive to stay on schedule, but traffic, weather, or other factors can sometimes affect timing. If your shuttle is more than 20 minutes late, please contact the shuttle company directly to connect to the shuttle driver. We provide the shuttle companies WhatsApp number in your confirmation email.
How can I make changes to my booking?
You can contact us directly to modify your booking by sending us an email at support@puravidatraveling.com We’ll work with our partners to accommodate any schedule changes as best as possible. However, changes may be subject to provider availability and potential fees.
How do I contact customer support on the day of my ride?
Pura Vida Traveling’s support team is here for assistance, and we’ll coordinate with the shuttle provider if needed, but the best is always to reach out to the provider directly. We provide the shuttle company's direct contact information in your confirmation email.
How much luggage can I bring?
Each passenger is allowed 1 large suitcase and 1 carry-on. Additional luggage or oversized items (like a surfboard, 7 feet max) will be charged $15. You can add them when you make the reservation.
Can I travel with my pet?
Unfortunately no, our partner transport services do not accept to transport pets
Can I pay in cash?
No, for security reasons, we do not accept cash. All reservations must be paid before your service date only via our specific reservation website: Pura Vida Traveling Rezdy.
Is there an age requirement for children to travel alone?
Most providers require children under 18 to be accompanied by an adult. If you are planning travel for a minor, please contact us to discuss any special arrangements.
Our transport providers
We proudly work with all the most trusted and reliable transportation providers in Costa Rica to ensure a safe, smooth, and comfortable travel experience for our clients. We collaborate with well-established companies that have been carefully selected for their professionalism, punctuality, and commitment to excellent service.
Whether you're crossing the country or just need a ride between destinations, you can relax and enjoy your trip, knowing you're in good hands.
Caribe Shuttle
Caribe Shuttle is a top choice for travelers exploring the Caribbean coast or crossing the border into Panama. Known for its comfort, bilingual drivers, and great customer care.
Go Jaco Shuttle
Go Jaco Shuttle is one of Costa Rica’s most trusted transportation companies, offering private and shared shuttles across the country. With a strong base in Jaco, they provide door-to-door service, bilingual drivers, and flexible routes for airport transfers, surf trips, or cross-country adventures.
Ride CR
Ride CR is known for its spacious shuttles, great customer service, and routes that cover nearly every major destination in Costa Rica.
Tropical Tours Shuttle
Offering both shared and private transportation, Tropical Tours is popular among backpackers and families alike. Clean vehicles and professional drivers.
Easy Ride Costa Rica
Easy Ride offers daily shuttles to popular destinations all over Costa Rica. Their professional service and modern fleet make travel easy and enjoyable.
Interbus
Interbus has been serving Costa Rica since 1996 and offers daily shared shuttles across the country. Comfortable, air-conditioned vans and reliable service.
Santa Teresa Expeditions
Based on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa Expeditions specializes in safe, comfortable, and scenic transfers to and from Santa Teresa, Malpaís, and nearby surf towns. Their team focuses on personalized service, reliable scheduling, and clean, air-conditioned vehicles — ideal for groups heading to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast in style.
Zuma Tours
Zuma Tours specializes in transfers between Montezuma, Santa Teresa, and other Nicoya Peninsula destinations, including boat & shuttle combos for easy travel across the Gulf of Nicoya.
Exploradores Outdoors
More than just a shuttle—Exploradores Outdoors combines adventure with transport. They offer whitewater rafting trips that also connect La Fortuna, San José, Puerto Viejo, and more.
MyPinkBus
Travel with style with MyPinkBus, offering safe, comfortable, and empowering transport experiences throughout the country.
Transporzuma
Transporzuma connects travelers between the Nicoya Peninsula and the rest of Costa Rica with ease. Known for their efficient routes between Montezuma, Santa Teresa, and San José, they combine professionalism with local hospitality — ensuring a smooth, scenic ride every time.
Why choose our shuttle service in Costa Rica?
Convenience:
Seamless transportation from major airports to tourist destinations without the hassle of driving.
Safety
Reliable shuttle companies prioritize passenger safety with well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers.
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Sustainability
Reduce your carbon footprint by sharing rides, contributing to eco-friendly tourism.
Stress-Free planning
Simplify travel logistics by booking shuttle services in advance, leaving you to focus on enjoying your vacation.
Can't find the ride you need?
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Send us a message on Whatsapp:
+506 8826 3163
