Traveling from Liberia or Liberia Airport (LIR) to the picturesque destinations of Montezuma and Tambor on the Nicoya Peninsula can be a delightful journey through Costa Rica's diverse landscapes. Whether you prefer the independence of driving, the convenience of flying, or the cost-effectiveness of public transport, there are several ways to reach these tropical paradises. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision for this 193-kilometer, 4-hour journey to Montezuma or Tambor from Liberia or LIR Airport.
What is the best way to get to Montezuma or Tambor from Liberia or LIR Airport?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Public Buses, Shared Shuttle
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Public Bus, Shared Shuttle, Taxi or Rental Car
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Montezuma from Liberia by Private Shuttle
Recommended for groups <> 4-5hrs <> $400
For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private shuttle. This option offers door-to-door service, making traveling with family or a group convenient. Private shuttles can be arranged directly from Liberia Airport to Montezuma or Tambor, with the journey taking around 4-5 hours. Prices range from $375 to $450 depending on the size of the group and the type of vehicle. Private shuttles allow stopping for sightseeing, meals, or breaks.
Writers Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see; your driver should know the area well.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles.
To Montezuma from Liberia by Group Shuttle
solo travelers or small groups <> 4--5hrs <> $60
Shared shuttles are a popular and affordable choice for many travelers. Companies offer daily services from Liberia Airport to Montezuma and Tambor. The journey takes 5-6 hours, including a ferry crossing from Puntarenas to Paquera. Shuttles are comfortable and air-conditioned, with prices around $60 per person. This option is ideal for those who want a hassle-free ride with the opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
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 Montezuma from Liberia by Public Bus
Most cost-effective <> 5-7hrs <> $ 15US
Bus travel is the most economical option, though it requires more time and many transfers. There are a few ways to get to Montezuma by bus, but here is the recommended route.
Liberia Airport to Liberia Municipal Station ($1) (15min)
To get to the Liberia Station, wait at the bus stop in front of the airport, and if the bus says Liberia on it, it will head to the station. This bus will pass every 30 minutes and cost about $1.
The first leg of your trip is to get to Liberia from Tamarindo. For this trip, you will use Transporte La Pampa, you will pay the bus driver directly, and the bus leaves from in front of the plaza in Tamarindo.
Liberia to Puntarenas ($6) (3 hrs)
The next step is to make it to Puntarenas. Ten daily buses are from Liberia to Puntarenas between 5 am and 5 pm.
Puntarenas to Paquera by Ferry ($4) (2hrs)
From Puntarenas bus station, walk or taxi to the Puntarenas ferry (5-10-minute walk). You can buy a ferry ticket at the ticket window or in advance on their website. Puntarenas to Paquera ferry times: 4:00am, 6:30am, 9:00am, 12:00pm, 2:30pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm, 10:00pm
Paquera to Cóbano ($1) (25min)
From Paquera, take the next bus to Cóbano. Paquera to Cóbano bus times: 6:15am, 8:15am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:15pm, 6:15pm
Cóbano to Montezuma ($2) (45min)
Your last bus will go from Cóbano to Santa Teresa. Cóbano to Montezuma bus times: 5:30 am, 7:30 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:50 pm, 7:45 pm
Writers Tips:
This is a complicated bus journey to make. We recommend group transport for this route.
Consider joining this Costa Rica by bus Facebook group for updated and helpful information.
To Montezuma from Liberia by Airplane
Liberia to Tambor <> 1.5hrs <> $150
Flying is the fastest and most convenient option, especially if you want to avoid a long drive. Domestic flights operated by Sansa Airlines or Nature Air are available from Liberia to Tambor Airport. The flight takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of Costa Rica's coastline. Upon arrival in Tambor, Montezuma is just a 30-minute taxi ride away. This option is more expensive than ground transportation, with flights costing between $100 and $150 per person, but it saves considerable time and provides a unique perspective of the region.
To Montezuma from Liberia by Car or Taxi
Fast and fun <> 4-5hrs <> $330
Renting a car from Liberia Airport provides the most flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace. The drive to Montezuma or Tambor takes approximately 4-5 hours and offers scenic views of the Nicoya Peninsula. Head south on Route 21 towards Nicoya from Liberia, then continue through Paquera directly to Montezuma. Roads are generally well-maintained, but a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season. Alternatively, taking a taxi is comfortable if you prefer not to drive. Taxi rides can be arranged directly from the airport, but they can be quite costly, ranging from $280 to $350, depending on your negotiation skills and destination.
Writers Tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Liberia airport taxis are normally a bit more expensive, but they should be willing to negotiate a fair price.
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 Montezuma from Liberia 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.
For more information, check our article: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Writers. Tips:
Give yourself time to resell the vehicle. It can be fast and easy, but in Costa Rica, there always tend to be delays.
The car buyer is normally responsible for paying lawyers' fees for the transfer of ownership.
Buying a new scooter or motorcycle is fast and easy and you can normally resell easily and only lose a few hundred dollars in resell value.
Conclusion : choosing the ideal route
Whether you choose the freedom of driving, the speed of flying, the convenience of shuttles, or the cost-effectiveness of buses, getting to Montezuma or Tambor from Liberia Airport can be an adventure. Each option offers unique advantages, so consider your budget, time, and personal preferences when planning your trip. Regardless of how you travel, you're sure to be rewarded with the breathtaking beauty and tranquil charm of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Montezuma closer to Liberia or San Jose airport?
The nearest international airport to Montezuma is San Jose's Juan Santamaría International Airport, Alajuela Province, approximately a 5-hour drive that includes a ferry crossing.
Is there a shuttle from Liberia to Montezuma?
Is it easy to get around Montezuma without a car?
Is it cheaper to fly into San Jose or Liberia, Costa Rica?
How long is the drive from Liberia Airport to Montezuma?
Can you fly into Montezuma?
How much is the shuttle from Liberia Airport to Montezuma?
Is Monteverde worth it?