Traveling from Monteverde or Santa Elena to Manuel Antonio or Quepos offers a variety of transport options, each catering to different needs and budgets for this 191-kilometer 4-hour journey. Whether you prefer the independence of a rental car, the convenience of a shuttle, or the affordability of the bus, here’s how to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Need other useful information? We have a complete travel guide dedicated to the town of Manuel Antonio & Quepos : the best hotels, restaurants, things to do in the area.
What is the best way to get to Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Monteverde?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos From Monteverde by Private Shuttle
Fast and Safe <> 4hrs <> $280
For a more personalized and direct service, consider booking a private shuttle. This option allows you to set your own schedule and enjoy a direct, non-stop ride from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. Private shuttles can accommodate groups or families and offer a more comfortable and flexible travel experience. The cost for a private shuttle ranges from $250 to $350, depending on the number of passengers and the specific services requested. While more expensive, this option provides the convenience of door-to-door service and the ability to travel at your own pace.
Writers Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people.
Private shuttles charge by number of passengers. Plan to pay an extra $15 per person over six.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see and your driver should know the area well.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos From Monteverde by Group Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples <> 4-5hrs <> $60
Shared shuttles provide a balance between cost and convenience, making them a popular choice among travelers. Several companies operate daily shuttle services between Monteverde and Manuel Antonio/Quepos. The journey takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, with the shuttle picking you up directly from your accommodation in Monteverde and dropping you off at your destination. The cost is generally around $60-$70 per person. Shared shuttles offer comfort, air conditioning, and the chance to meet fellow travelers, although they typically make a few stops along the way to pick up and drop off passengers.
Writers Tips:
Reserve in advance as these shuttles can fill up.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos from Monteverde by public bus
Cost-effective <> 6-7hrs <> $10 US <> 2 bus transfers
Traveling by bus is the most economical way to reach Manuel Antonio from Monteverde, though it requires some patience and multiple transfers. The total travel time by bus can exceed 8 hours, but the cost is significantly lower, usually around $10-$15 in total. This option is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind the longer travel time and multiple transfers.
Monteverde to Puntarenas ($4) (3hrs)
There are 2 or 3 daily buses with the company TransMonteverde from Monteverde to Puntarenas. There is 4:20am and a 3:00pm with a 5:30am option that may also exists but it's not on their schedule and does not run on Sunday's. You can buy tickets in advance through their website.
Puntarenas to Quepos ($5) (2.5-hours)
When you arrive in Puntarenas, you may have to change bus terminals to the terminal for buses going to Quepos. Puntarenas has multiple bus stations all within a block or two in Puntarenas. You can easily walk from one to the other. Catch the next bus from Puntarenas to Quepos. These buses go pretty frequently. They leave Puntarenas every hour or two starting at 4:30am with the last bus leaving Puntarenas at 6pm.
Quepos to Manuel Antonio ($1) (10-minutes)
If your final destination is in Manuel Antonio and the Puntarenas bus leaves you in Quepos, then you will need one last bus from Quepos to Manuel Antonio. The Manuel Antonio Quepos buses leave the Quepos bus terminal every 15-30 minutes. You will pay the bus driver directly.
Writers Tips:
Leave as early as possible to make sure you make all your connecting bus transfers.
While taking a bus to Manuel Antonio is the most cost-effective, it is also the longest option. Consider taking a shared shuttle for this trip to cut your travel time down significantly.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos From Monteverde by air plane
Not a good option <> 4 hr <> $175
There are no direct flights from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. There also aren't any worth while flight options that work for this trip. We recommend traveling by shuttle or private vehicle for this trip. If your committed to flying, you can travel to San Jose's (SJO) and then take a flight to Quepos from there.
Writers Tips:
Be aware that flying with extra luggage or heavy luggage could come with an additional cost.
Be at the airport check-in at least 1 hour before your flight or they won't allow you to fly.
To Manuel Antonio or Quepos From Monteverde by car or taxi
Fast and fun <> 4-5 hrs <> $250
Driving from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio or Quepos is an adventure in itself, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. The drive takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, covering around 190 kilometers. The road conditions can vary, with some parts being unpaved and requiring careful navigation, especially in the rainy season. Renting a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended to handle the rough patches. The route typically involves taking Route 606 out of Monteverde, connecting to Route 1, and then heading south on Route 34 (Costanera Sur) towards Quepos. Renting a car offers flexibility, but be prepared for the occasional bumpy ride and stunning scenic views. Alternatively, a taxi can be arranged for those who prefer not to drive, although it can be quite costly, often exceeding $250 for the trip.
Writers Tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Always check with your credit card company to see if international car insurance is an added cardholder benefit. This can save you some money on your rental.
Waze is the most used direction application in Costa Rica so it normally has the most up-to-date road conditions.
To Manuel Antonio From Monteverde by private vehicle
Best for extended visit <> Purchase and resell
If you are planning an extended visit to Costa Rica and want to travel the entire country in the luxury of a private vehicle, consider buying a car or van when you arrive and selling it when you leave. Buying a vehicle is both legal for tourists and pretty easy to do. You would have to pay the initial lawyer's fees to transfer ownership and then you would have to sell the vehicle in time before leaving the country but this hassle could end up being worth the hassle if you can get most of your investment back before you leave.
Do not hesitate to read our specific article on this subject: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Conclusion : choosing your ideal route
Each travel option from Monteverde or Santa Elena to Manuel Antonio or Quepos has its own advantages and considerations. Whether you choose the flexibility of a rental car, the speed of flying, the convenience of a shuttle, or the affordability of the bus, you’ll find a way to suit your travel style and budget. Manuel Antonio awaits with its stunning beaches, lush national park, and vibrant wildlife, making the journey well worth the effort. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Shuttle from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio?
Yes, private or shared shuttles can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Monteverde Manuel Antonio?
How much does it cost to fly from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio?
Is Monteverde closer to Liberia or San Jose?
What airport should I fly into for Monteverde Costa Rica?
How far is it from Manuel Antonio to Monteverde?
Is Monteverde or Manuel Antonio better?
Is Manuel Antonio close to Monteverde?
Why is Monteverde so popular?
Why is Manuel Antonio so popular?
What is the best route to take for getting to Manuel Antonio from Monteverde?
What is the best bus route to take for getting to Manuel Antonio from Monteverde?