About this route
The drive from Juan Santamaría International to La Fortuna winds through coffee country around San Ramón before dropping into the northern lowlands, where Arenal's cone appears on the horizon long before you arrive. It's one of the most scenic transfer routes in the country — and one of the most requested. Your driver knows where the best coffee stop is (Chuck's in San Ramón, if you're asking) and times the trip around San José traffic so you don't sit in it.
How it works
Your driver is waiting in arrivals with a sign before you clear customs — or at your hotel lobby at the agreed time. Luggage goes straight into the vehicle and you're moving within minutes. We track flight numbers, so delays never strand you. Where routes allow, we run electric vehicles.
What's included
- Private vehicle and licensed bilingual driver — never shared with strangers
- Flight tracking and free wait time for delayed arrivals
- Door-to-door service: any hotel, lodge or rental on the route
- Child seats and boosters at no charge
- Short comfort, photo and coffee stops along the way
- Bottled water on board
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from San José Airport (SJO) to La Fortuna & Arenal?
Around 2.5–3 hours door to door (130 km), depending on traffic and stops. Your driver tracks conditions and picks the best departure window with you.
Can we stop along the way?
Yes — that is the point of going private. Rest rooms, coffee, photo lookouts, a supermarket run before a remote lodge: just tell your driver. Short stops are included.
What if my flight lands late at night?
We monitor your flight number and adjust pickup automatically — delays included. Your driver waits in arrivals with a sign, at any hour, at no extra charge.
Do you have car seats for kids?
Yes. Infant seats and boosters are available at no charge — just tell us ages when you book so we install the right ones before pickup.
Can I book the return trip at the same time?
Yes — and it pays to: book both legs together and we take 10% off the full round trip. One WhatsApp message covers both pickups, and your return driver is confirmed before you even land.
Plan the rest of your trip
Read our local guide to La Fortuna & Arenal, or pair this transfer with the most popular tour in the area. Arriving fresh? See when to visit Costa Rica.