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Tamarindo, Guanacaste to La Fortuna, Alajuela from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
to
La Fortuna, Costa Rica

How to Get from Tamarindo to La Fortuna: 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.

$1 ShuttleBest price
134 kmDistance
2h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tamarindo to La Fortuna 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
Willie's Tours Costa Rica Shuttles
Bus
Average Duration
2h  10m
Estimated price
$200-360
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h 
Estimated price
$1-460
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 134 km
Duration: 2h

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  47m
Estimated price
$27-40
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$237-618
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Tamarindo to La Fortuna

The journey from Tamarindo’s sandy beaches to La Fortuna's lush rainforests reveals a fascinating transition from surf and sun to waterfalls and volcanoes.

Best Neighbourhoods in La Fortuna

La Fortuna offers vibrant neighborhoods each with distinct charm and attractions.

Downtown La Fortuna
• Close to numerous restaurants and shops.
• Access to local markets and cultural events.
Arenal Volcano Area
• Stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
• Proximity to hiking trails and hot springs.
La Fortuna Waterfall Area
• Short distance to the iconic waterfall.
• Great for photography and nature walks.

Best Times To Visit La Fortuna's Attractions

Timing your visits to La Fortuna's attractions enhances your experience and minimizes crowds.

Arenal Volcano National Park
Early mornings or late afternoons provide cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
La Fortuna Waterfall
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery.
Hot Springs
Evenings offer a relaxing ambiance, especially under the stars while fewer people are present.

La Fortuna Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

La Fortuna enjoys a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season, making it crucial to choose your travel dates wisely. Visiting during the dry season from December to April ensures the best conditions for outdoor activities, while the wet season offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Dining Recommendation in La Fortuna

In La Fortuna, don’t miss trying the traditional Casado at Restaurante Don Rufino, a dish that brings together fresh, local ingredients like rice, beans, plantains, and your choice of protein, all bursting with flavor. The vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on farm-to-table dining create a culinary experience that contrasts beautifully with the beachside vibes of Tamarindo.

Tamarindo - La Fortuna operators

Explore transport companies operating between Tamarindo and La Fortuna, 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 Playa Tamarindo to La Fortuna

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$200-360

Bus from Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría to La Fortuna

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$110-2003
Shuttle
Contact phone
1 800 715 1970
Website
https://www.ridecr.com/

Shuttle from Tamarindo to La Fortuna

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$55-460
Contact phone
+506 2640 0093
Website
https://www.zumatours.net/

Shuttle from Tamarindo to La Fortuna

Average Duration
2h 47m
Estimated price
$2004-110
Contact phone
+506 2640 1900
Website
https://tropicaltourshuttles.com/

Shuttle from Tamarindo to La Fortuna

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$1-55
Plane
Website
https://www.flysansa.com/

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

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$2001-2002
Website
http://worldticket.com

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

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$55-2000
Drive

Drive from Tamarindo to La Fortuna

Average Duration
3h 47m
Estimated price
$27-40

Tamarindo to La Fortuna: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Tamarindo and La Fortuna 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 Tamarindo to La Fortuna, covering a distance of 129 miles in just under 4 hours. 💰 Explore the flexibility of travel costs ranging from $27 to $40 for the convenience and comfort of a road trip between these two Costa Rican gems.
Average price
$27 - $40
🚂 Depart from Tamarindo and embark on a scenic train journey to Alajuela Province, La Fortuna covering a distance of 148 km in approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes. 🚌 Upon arriving at Alajuela Province, catch a bus heading towards La Fortuna downtown, specifically Selina La Fortuna. This bus leg of the journey takes about 4 hours and 27 minutes, offering a smooth transition from the train station to your final destination. 🗺️ Plan your train and bus tickets conveniently through Daytrip agency, ensuring a seamless travel experience from Tamarindo to La Fortuna. Contact them at 011 44 20 3318 1119 or visit their website at https://mydaytrip.com/ for more information and booking details.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Tamarindo to La Fortuna is by taking a direct flight from Tamarindo Airport to San Jose Airport, which only takes 50 minutes.
Departure Point
Tamarindo Airport
Arrival Point
San Jose Airport
🌴 Sit back and enjoy the scenic ride as you travel from the beautiful beaches of Tamarindo to the lush landscapes of La Fortuna in approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. The buses provide a comfortable and safe way to reach your destination. 🎫 Ticket prices for the bus ride from Tamarindo to La Fortuna range from $200 to $360, offering travelers an affordable and reliable transportation option between these two popular destinations in Costa Rica.
Departure Point
Playa Tamarindo station
Arrival Point
La Fortuna station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Tamarindo to La Fortuna.

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The distance between Tamarindo and La Fortuna is approximately 83 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 129.2 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By ferry, it takes around 2 hours to reach La Fortuna from Tamarindo. By car, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes from La Fortuna to Tamarindo. If you prefer taking the bus, it takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes to travel from Tamarindo to La Fortuna.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Tamarindo to La Fortuna is to drive, which costs between $27 and $40. This option takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to take a shuttle, which takes around 2 hours and is slightly more expensive, ranging from $45 to $400. Both options offer different trade-offs between cost and travel time, allowing travelers to choose according to their priorities.
The prices of a bus between La Fortuna and Tamarindo can range from $200 to $360. On the other hand, the prices for a ferry journey between the two cities can vary from $45 to $400. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and can depend on factors such as season, availability, and the specific transportation company. It is advisable to check with different providers to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Tamarindo to La Fortuna without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car. The driving distance between the two destinations is 129 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes to drive from Tamarindo to La Fortuna. Rental car prices can vary, ranging from $27 to $40, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle. Renting a car provides flexibility and allows you to have a more personalized and convenient travel experience.
To travel from Tamarindo to La Fortuna without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $200 to $360. This is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach La Fortuna from Tamarindo, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between Tamarindo and La Fortuna. There is a bus service operated by Willie's Tours Costa Rica Shuttles that departs from Playa Tamarindo and arrives at La Fortuna. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, and the buses operate hourly, every day. This provides a convenient and reliable mode of transportation between the two destinations.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near La Fortuna. With over 387 hotels to choose from, you will have no trouble finding a place that suits your needs. Prices start at $119 per night, offering a range of options for every budget. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, cozy boutique hotels, or budget-friendly guesthouses, there is something for everyone in La Fortuna.