Traveling from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to Uvita offers a journey across Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes, from the Caribbean coastline to the lush Pacific side. Whether you’re looking for the fastest, most comfortable, or most budget-friendly way to make the trip, there are several transportation options available. Here’s everything you need to know about getting from Puerto Viejo to Uvita.
What is the best way to get to Uvita from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Airplane, Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Uvita from Puerto Viejo by Private Shuttle
Perfect for groups - 12hrs - $599
For a hassle-free and comfortable experience, a private shuttle is a great choice. This service provides door-to-door transportation in an air-conditioned microbus. The trip takes approximately 8 hours and is priced per vehicle around $599 for 1 to 6 passengers.
Pick-up is available from any accommodation in Puerto Viejo & Cahuita, with drop-off at any location in Uvita. While this is one of the more expensive options, it offers convenience, privacy, and flexibility, making it ideal for families or groups traveling together.
Writer's Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people. Shuttles are priced for 1-6 passengers. Plan to pay an additional $15 per extra passenger.
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 Uvita from Puerto Viejo by Shared Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples - 8hrs - $126
For those looking for a comfortable and budget-friendly option, shared shuttle services provide door-to-door transportation in air-conditioned vans. However, this route requires two separate shuttles with a layover in San José. Shuttle tickets cost around $126 per adult and $63 for children aged 9 and under, plus tax.
There is a waiting time of about 3 to 4 hours in San José before transferring to the second shuttle. Each leg of the journey includes a 15-minute rest stop. While the long layover may be inconvenient, this option is still a good balance of comfort and affordability.
Writer's Tips:
Reserve in advance, as these shuttles can fill up.
Kids under ten years old have a discounted rate.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles.
To Uvita from Puerto Viejo by Public Bus
cost-effective - 10hrs - $20 US - 2 bus transfers
Taking the bus from Puerto Viejo to Uvita is the most budget-friendly option, though it requires a transfer in San José. The journey takes approximately 9 to 10 hours in total.
Puerto Viejo to San José ($12.30)(5hr 30min)
Travelers take an Autotransportes Mepe bus from Puerto Viejo to San José. The trip takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes, with limited departures each day.
Bus Schedule: Monday – Sunday: 3:00 AM, 5:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM
San José to Uvita ($6)(3hr 30min)
From San José, travelers transfer to a Tracopa or Autotransportes Blanco Lobo bus to reach Uvita. The journey duration varies based on the type of service chosen.
Option A: Autotransportes Blanco Lobo ($5.50)(3hr 45min)
Bus Schedule: Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM
Option B: Tracopa ($6 – $12)(3hr 30min – 4hr 30min)
Bus Schedule: Monday – Sunday: 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:15 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:05 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:40 PM
Writer's Tips:
Most companies in Costa Rica provide services from early morning to late afternoon.
Leave as early as possible to make all your connecting bus transfers.
While taking a bus to Uvita is the most cost-effective, it is also the longest option. Consider taking a shared shuttle or flight 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 Uvita from Puerto Viejo by Car or Taxi
Fast and Easy - 7hrs - $500
Driving from Puerto Viejo to Uvita is one of the most flexible options, allowing travelers to explore Costa Rica at their own pace. The journey covers approximately 400 kilometers and takes around 7 to 8 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Rental cars cost between $40 and $80 per day, plus fuel and insurance. A four-wheel drive is recommended, especially in the rainy season when some roads near Uvita can be challenging.
Taxis are convenient but expensive for long-distance travel. A private taxi from Puerto Viejo to Uvita can cost anywhere from $400 to $600. While costly, this option eliminates the hassle of transfers and public transport schedules.
Writer's 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 Uvita from Puerto Viejo by Airplane
The fun and fast option - 4hrs - $300
Flying is the fastest way to travel from Puerto Viejo to Uvita, but it requires multiple connections. Since there are no direct flights between the two towns, travelers must first fly from Limón (the closest airport to Puerto Viejo) to San José and then take another flight to Quepos, the nearest airport to Uvita. You can also fly to Palma Sur airport, but the flights from San Jose to Palma Sur are less frequent.
Puerto Viejo to Limón Airport by Road (52min)
Puerto Viejo is about a one-hour drive from Limón Airport. You can take a taxi or a private transfer, which typically costs $50 to $80.
Limón to San José by Air ($125)(40min)
Domestic airlines like Sansa operate 40-minute flights from Limón to San José, with fares starting at $125.
San José to Quepos by Air ($110)(30min)
From San José, you’ll need to take another 30-minute flight to Quepos, which costs around $110.
Quepos to Uvita by Road (50min)
Quepos is approximately an hour’s drive from Uvita. You can take a taxi ($50 to $70) or a shuttle for a more budget-friendly option.
Writer's Tips:
Be aware that flying with extra 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 Uvita from Puerto Viejo by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visits - 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 go.
For more information, check our article: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Choosing your ideal route
The best way to travel from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to Uvita depends on your budget, schedule, and comfort preferences. Renting a car or taking a taxi offers the most flexibility, while flying is the fastest, but most expensive option. Shared shuttles provide a cost-effective and comfortable alternative, though they require a layover in San José. Private shuttles offer direct service with premium convenience, while the bus remains the most affordable but time-consuming option. No matter how you choose to travel, the journey between these two incredible destinations offers a chance to experience Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes along the way.
What is the best way to get to Uvita from Puerto Viejo?
0%By Private Shuttle
0%By Shared Shuttle
0%By Air Plane (domestic flight)
0%By Taxi or Rental Car
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Shuttle from Puerto Viejo to Uvita?
Yes, shared shuttles leave in the morning and can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Puerto Viejo to Uvita?
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