About the journey from La Fortuna to San Jose
Trade the awe-inspiring landscapes of La Fortuna for the urban jungle life of San Jose in Costa Rica.
Some people will advise you to skip the capital city of Costa Rica. Although it’s not as green as the rest of the country, and you probably won’t find sloths hanging from trees, there’s still beauty to be found there.
San Jose's architecture, museums, and people have stories to tell about the country's history and culture that you won’t find anywhere else. It is a fascinating opportunity to experience another side of this pura vida country.
To get from La Fortuna to San Jose, you’ll need to cover 85 km (53.1 miles), which can be done by minivan or car.
The journey takes between 2.5 and five hours, depending on the transportation and your arrival/destination spot. Multiple departures throughout the day arrive at your San Jose hotel, the city center, and San Jose Airport.
Once you’ve booked your transport, all that’s left to do is hop on board and watch as the scenery evolves throughout the journey.
Fun things to do in San Jose
Many people overlook and underestimate San Jose, branding it as a busy city that isn’t particularly safe. But they’re missing out on some awesome things to do in the capital:
National Theater: If you are only going to do one thing in San Jose, it should be this. It’s an iconic cultural and historical monument of the city. The paintings inside are remarkable as well as educational. The best part? The 1.5-hour guided tours will take you on a fascinating journey through Costa Rica’s history.
Walking tour: If you want to continue your history lesson of Costa Rica, a walking tour is a brilliant way to do so. A few hours with a local guide will reveal hidden spots and stories you’d otherwise not know.
San Jose Central Market: A sensory delight offering local produce, crafts, and almost anything else you can think of. Make sure to eat at one of the local restaurants inside for a cheap, tasty, and unforgettable experience.
Pro tip: Try Lolo Mora’s Ice Cream. There’s only one flavor available, but there’s no need for more.
Costa Rica’s National Museum: Housed within the Bellavista Fortress built in 1917, the museum is a historic gem even if you don't enter. Inside, you’ll find Costa Rica's history and culture, spanning from pre-Columbian times to the present day.
DIY craft beer tour: Unbeknownst to most people, San Jose has a surprisingly excellent craft beer scene. There are plenty of breweries boasting light lagers, fruity IPAs, and hearty stouts. Order a flight of beer so you can try a few.
How to get from La Fortuna to San Jose
The 85 km (53.1 miles) between La Fortuna and San Jose can be covered in two ways: by minivan or car.
By minivan
Minivans are among the most popular ways to get from La Fortuna to San Jose. They’re relatively fast, usually 3-5 hours, and offer a comfortable ride.
The best part about taking the minivan is that even the shared minivans offer a door-to-door service. It couldn’t be easier!
All minivans offer air conditioning, while some also provide WiFi, charging points, water, and reclining seats.
Several departures are available, mainly in the morning and early afternoon. Prices start from $39, including luggage (20-25 kg, depending on the operator).
If there’s a big group of you and you’d also like to speed up the journey a little, consider hiring a private minivan.
By car
A private car is a more expensive option but offers greater convenience, privacy, and comfort.
The cars are all SUVs, ready to tackle any tricky terrain, and have air conditioning.
Private cars can accommodate groups of up to three to four people, making them ideal for families or small groups.
What to expect from the journey from La Fortuna to San Jose
The trip from La Fortuna to San Jose is one of the shorter journeys in Costa Rica, taking 3-5 hours, depending on traffic and your transportation choice.
Along the way, the picturesque nature and small villages will gradually change to highways and busy streets as you get closer to San Jose. For the most part, the scenic views will keep you occupied as the hours fly by.
Most minivans stop halfway, giving you time to grab a snack and go to the toilet. If you’re taking a private transfer, you can just ask the driver to stop when you need to.
Pro tip: Make sure to have some small changes on you, as not all bathrooms are free.
When is the best time to visit San Jose?
The best time to visit San Jose and Costa Rica is during the dry season between December and April. During this time, there will be loads of sunshine and warm temperatures, but even more tourists.
If you don’t mind a bit of rain, the shoulder months of November and May can be a great option. Plus, prices are often cheaper. But be prepared: When it rains in Costa Rica, you feel Mother Nature's full wrath.
How many days should you spend in San Jose?
There might be better places to spend your time in Costa Rica than San Jose, yet it still deserves some of your time.
Most people arrive and depart from San Jose Airport, so give yourself a day or two to explore it.
Brush up on your history, do some shopping, and make the most of San Jose’s plethora of delicious restaurants.
Where to visit after San Jose?
San Jose is the country's transportation hub, meaning your options for where to go next are almost endless. Consider hopping over to the Caribbean coast and visiting the surf town of Puerto Viejo.
Love turtles? Why not visit Tortuguero, where 20,000 green turtles lay their eggs every year?
Other places to think about include Manuel Antonio, Jaco, and Corcovado National Park.