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San José, San José to Tortuguero, Limon from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San José, Costa Rica
to
Tortuguero, Costa Rica

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

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$16 - DriveBest price
123 kmDistance
2h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San José to Tortuguero 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  58m
Estimated price
$188-714
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$55-360
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 123 km
Duration: 2h 1m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  27m
Estimated price
$16-1880
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$70-300
Company
various
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  1m
Estimated price
$79-99
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Traveling From San Jose (Heredia) to Tortuguero

Your journey from San Jose (Heredia) presents a striking shift from bustling city life to the serene beauty of Tortuguero, where lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tortuguero

Tortuguero's neighborhoods offer distinct experiences, perfect for every traveler.

Tortuguero Village
• Close access to Tortuguero National Park
• Vibrant local culture and community
Punta Vargas
• Scenic views of the Caribbean Sea
• Ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts
San Francisco
• Quiet atmosphere away from the main tourist areas
• Easy access to local dining options

Best Times To Visit Tortuguero's Attractions

Timing your visit to Tortuguero can enhance your experience at its attractions.

Tortuguero National Park
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and wildlife activity.
Tortuguero Village
Weekdays are quieter, allowing you to interact more with locals.
Green Turtle Nesting Sites
Check nesting season schedules to witness nesting between July and October.

Tortuguero Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tortuguero enjoys a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and consistent rainfall throughout the year, making it essential to prepare for wet conditions. The best times to visit typically fall during the dry season from September to October, offering a more pleasant experience for exploring the area's natural beauty.

Dining Recommendation in Tortuguero

Try the traditional 'casado' at Miss Miriam’s, where fresh local ingredients showcase the rich flavors of the region, offering a delicious contrast to San Jose's urban dining scene. Dining here combines the laid-back atmosphere of Tortuguero with the chance to savor dishes influenced by the area's lush surroundings and diverse wildlife.

San José - Tortuguero operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+506 2755 1024
Website
http://williestourscostarica.com/transfers/

Bus from San José to La Fortuna

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$1885-1886

Bus from San José to Tortuguero

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$1881-300
Contact phone
1 800 715 1970
Website
https://www.ridecr.com/

Bus from La Fortuna to Tortuguero

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$55-1887
Contact phone
+506 2221 7878
Website
http://jungletomsafaris.com

Bus from San José to Tortuguero

Average Duration
5h 55m
Estimated price
$70-300
Contact phone
+506 222 0610

Bus from San José to Guápiles

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$1889-0
Shuttle
Contact phone
+506 2750 0626
Website
https://www.caribeshuttle.com/

Shuttle from San José to Tortuguero

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$55-360
Contact phone
+506 2222 6262
Website
http://exploradoresoutdoors.com

Shuttle from San José to Tortuguero

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$7141-7141
Taxi

Taxi from Guápiles to Tortuguero

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$1881-7142

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

Traveling between San José and Tortuguero 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 journey from San Jose to Tortuguero, spanning 77 miles with enticing views along the way. Driving time typically clocks in at around 2 hours and 27 minutes, promising a smooth and exhilarating ride through Costa Rica's lush landscapes. 💰 Prices for the trip to Tortuguero from San Jose by car range from $16 to $24, offering flexibility for travelers on various budgets. This affordable option allows you to tailor your expenses while enjoying the freedom and control of navigating the road at your own pace.
Average price
$16 - $24
🚌 The journey from San Jose to Tortuguero by bus is a scenic route that departs twice daily, taking approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. 🌊 While the prices for this bus ride may vary from $188 to $714, the scenic trip lasting 3 hours and 58 minutes offers a picturesque route for tourists exploring Costa Rica's diverse landscapes.
Departure Point
San José station
Arrival Point
Tortuguero station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Jose and Tortuguero in Costa Rica is approximately 58 miles, with a road distance of 76.6 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. Traveling by bus and then taking a taxi takes around 2 hours and 1 minute. Taking the ferry from San Jose to Tortuguero takes about 4 hours. On the other hand, driving from Tortuguero to San Jose by car is approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes, while taking the bus back to San Jose from Tortuguero takes around 3 hours and 58 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Jose to Tortuguero is by driving, which costs $16-$24 and takes approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes. This allows you to have flexibility in your schedule and explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, if you're looking for a time-efficient option, taking the bus and then a taxi is the quickest option, taking only 2 hours and 1 minute, but costs $75-$95. This allows you to reach Tortuguero in a shorter amount of time while still being relatively affordable.
The prices for traveling from San Jose to Tortuguero can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. If taking the bus, prices range from $178 to $694. On the other hand, if opting for the ferry, prices range from $55 to $360. It's important to consider these price ranges when planning your trip and to check for any potential discounts or promotions that may be available.
To get from San Jose to Tortuguero without using public transportation, you can drive the 77-mile distance. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 27 minutes by car. It is advisable to have a rental car or hire a private driver, and the prices for this option can range from $16 to $24. Driving allows you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and enjoy the scenic route to Tortuguero.
To travel from San Jose to Tortuguero without a car, the best option is to take the bus via La Fortuna. This route takes approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $170 and $700. The bus journey will provide scenic views and is a convenient and affordable way to reach Tortuguero from San Jose without needing a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Jose and Tortuguero. There is a bus service operated by Willie's Tours Costa Rica Shuttles and RIDE CR SHUTTLE that departs twice daily from San José and arrives at Tortuguero. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. This means that travelers can easily reach Tortuguero from San Jose without having to transfer or change modes of transportation.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Tortuguero. You can choose from over 75 hotels in the area, with prices starting at $25 per night. There is a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

Trips from San José