1map logoGo to main page

San José, San José to GUANACASTE, Guanacaste from $7: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San José, Costa Rica
to
GUANACASTE, Costa Rica

How to Get from San José to GUANACASTE: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$7 by busBest price
274 kmDistance
2h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San José to GUANACASTE with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  32m
Estimated price
$7-15
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  32m
Estimated price
$7-15
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 274 km
Duration: 2h 25m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  26m
Estimated price
$27-40
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  26m
Estimated price
$70-300
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$132-1103
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
$182-593
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Jose (Heredia) to Guanacaste

Experience the vibrant urban life of San Jose (Heredia) and then transition to the tranquil beaches and lush landscapes of Guanacaste, where adventure and relaxation intertwine.

Best Neighbourhoods in Guanacaste

Guanacaste offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and allure.

Tamarindo
• Vibrant nightlife with diverse dining options.
• Excellent surfing conditions year-round.
Playas del Coco
• Laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
• Great access to sport fishing and boat tours.
Santa Cruz
• Rich cultural heritage and local festivals.
• Authentic Costa Rican food at local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Guanacaste's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Guanacaste's top spots.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Visit early in the morning during the dry season for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Papagayo Peninsula
Late afternoon visits offer stunning sunsets and a peaceful atmosphere.
Liberia City
Explore on weekdays to experience local culture without the tourist rush.

Guanacaste Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Guanacaste enjoys a tropical dry climate, with a distinct dry season running from November to April, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan your activities, whether it’s surfing during the rainy season or lounging on the sunny beaches.

Dining Recommendation in Guanacaste

For a true taste of Guanacaste, try the seafood ceviche at Playa Samara's Restaurante El Timón, where fresh local catch is marinated in zesty lime with an ocean view that creates a relaxed atmosphere. This dining experience contrasts with the more urban culinary offerings in San Jose (Heredia), showcasing vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients that celebrate the region's coastal heritage.

San José - GUANACASTE operators

Explore transport companies operating between San José and GUANACASTE, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+506 2223 5876
Website
facebook.com

Bus from San José to Liberia

Average Duration
3h 32m
Estimated price
$7-72
Contact phone
+506 4404 0505
Website
tiguanacaste.com

Bus from San José to Liberia

Average Duration
2h 28m
Estimated price
$154-15
Website
facebook.com

Bus from San José to Liberia

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$72-72
Contact phone
+506 2673 0612
Website
facebook.com

Bus from San José to Liberia

Average Duration
4h 16m
Estimated price
$155-156
Contact phone
+506 2222 2666
Website
empresaalfaro.com

Bus from San José to Liberia

Average Duration
2h 34m
Estimated price
$154-157
Shuttle
Contact phone
+506 2221 7878
Website
jungletomsafaris.com

Shuttle from San José to Liberia

Average Duration
3h 26m
Estimated price
$70-300
Plane Show flights
Website
flysansa.com

Plane from San Jose (SJO) to Tamarindo (TNO)

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$73-74

Plane from San Jose (SJO) to Liberia (LIR)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$75-76
Website
worldticket.com

Plane from San Jose (SJO) to Tamarindo (TNO)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$77-78

Plane from San Jose (SJO) to Liberia (LIR)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$79-78
Website
klm.com

Plane from San Jose (SJO) to Liberia (LIR)

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$150-151
Website
flyedelweiss.com

Plane from San Jose (SJO) to Liberia (LIR)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$152-153

San José to GUANACASTE: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San José and GUANACASTE offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from San Jose to Guanacaste, covering a distance of 129 miles through the lush Costa Rican landscapes. The journey takes around 3 hours and 26 minutes, promising a picturesque drive filled with stunning views. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options to reach Guanacaste from San Jose by car, with prices ranging from $27 to $40 for the trip. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of driving as you make your way to the beautiful coastal region of Guanacaste, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture.
Average price
$27 - $40
🛫 Flying from San Jose Airport to Tamarindo Airport in Guanacaste is a quick and convenient option, with direct flights only taking 30 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between Guanacaste and San Jose can vary between $182 to $593, providing travelers with a range of options to choose from based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
San Jose Airport
Arrival Point
Tamarindo Airport
🌴 The journey by bus from San José to Guanacaste takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. Upon arrival in Liberia, you'll be greeted with the warm hospitality of the region. 💰 Prices for the bus ride between Guanacaste and San José can range from $7 to $15, making it an affordable and convenient transportation option for your trip. Sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of Costa Rica as you travel from the bustling city to the serene landscapes of Guanacaste.
Departure Point
San José station
Arrival Point
Liberia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San José to GUANACASTE.

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from San Jose to Guanacaste is by taking a bus. The bus fare typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the exact destination in Guanacaste. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes. Buses are a cost-effective and convenient option for travelers looking to explore Guanacaste on a budget.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose to Guanacaste is by flying. There are several airlines that offer flights between the two locations, and the average flight time is around 2 hours and 40 minutes. The cost of a flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, with prices ranging from $130 to $1100. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
The distance from San Jose to Guanacaste is approximately 89 miles. If you are driving, the road distance is around 129 miles. It is important to note that travel times may vary based on traffic conditions and the route taken.
To travel from San Jose to Guanacaste without a car, the best option is to take a bus. There are regular bus services that operate between these two destinations. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $8 to $15. You can easily find the bus schedules and purchase tickets at the bus stations or online.
The journey from San Jose to Guanacaste takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes by bus. Buses depart from San Jose to Liberia, a city in Guanacaste, every three hours. The travel time includes transfers during the journey.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Guanacaste. You can choose from over 26 hotels in the area. Prices for hotels start at $30 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly options. Whether you prefer a luxury resort or a cozy guesthouse, there is something for every traveler near Guanacaste.
Yes, you can drive from San Jose to Guanacaste. The driving distance is approximately 129 miles, and it usually takes about 3 hours and 26 minutes to complete the journey. You can either rent a car or use your own vehicle to drive from San Jose to Guanacaste. Please note that traffic conditions and road conditions may affect the travel time.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Jose and Guanacaste. The bus departs from San José and arrives in Liberia. The bus service operates every day, with departures every three hours. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes.
To catch the bus from San Jose to Guanacaste you will need to go to the San José station. This is where the bus services, operated by Sociedad Tralapa LTDA, depart from. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance and arrive at the station on time to secure your seat on the bus.
The San Jose to Guanacaste bus arrives at the Liberia station. This is the main bus terminal in Liberia, which is located in the heart of Guanacaste. From the station, you can easily access various towns and attractions in the Guanacaste province. The Liberia station is well-equipped with facilities such as restrooms, food vendors, and transport options to continue your journey within Guanacaste.
To get to Guanacaste from the airport in San José, the best way is to take a bus. You can catch a bus from the airport to San José city center, which takes around 15 minutes and costs between $17 and $20. From San José, there are several bus options that can take you to different destinations in Guanacaste. The bus journey from San José to Guanacaste generally takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your specific destination within the region.
Three airlines that offer flights between San Jose and Guanacaste are KLM, Edelweiss Air, and World Ticket. These airlines operate flights from San Jose Airport to Liberia Airport. Passengers can check their respective websites or contact their customer service for more information on flight schedules, fares, and availability. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure the desired flight.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose to Guanacaste is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from San Jose Airport to Liberia Airport, which takes about 45 minutes. KLM, Edelweiss Air, and World Ticket are some airlines that offer flights between these two destinations. The total travel time by plane is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. The prices for flights between Guanacaste and San Jose range from $132 to $1063.
The flight from San Jose to Guanacaste takes approximately 45 minutes. The quickest way to reach Guanacaste is to take a direct flight from San Jose Airport to Liberia Airport. There are multiple airlines that offer this route, providing convenient and efficient travel options for passengers. It is advisable to check the flight schedule and book in advance to secure the best rates and availability for your desired travel dates.
The cost of a flight from San Jose to Guanacaste can vary. Prices typically range from $132 to $1063, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It's recommended to book in advance or to compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal.
The cost of a bus ticket from San José to Guanacaste ranges from $8 to $15. The price may vary depending on the specific bus company, route, and any additional amenities offered on the bus. It is advisable to check with different bus companies and compare prices before purchasing your ticket.
Unfortunately, there is no direct ferry service between San Jose and Guanacaste. The ferry services in Costa Rica are mainly available for transportation between specific coastal destinations. Therefore, the only practical and cost-effective way to travel from San Jose to Guanacaste would be by bus or by renting a car. The ferry option would not be applicable in this case.
The cost to drive from San Jose to Guanacaste can vary depending on various factors such as the type of vehicle and the fuel prices, The estimated cost for the journey ranges from $27 to $40. It is important to note that this estimate does not include toll fees or any additional expenses such as parking or accommodation. It is advisable to plan and budget accordingly before embarking on the trip.

Trips from San José