How much does a private shuttle in Costa Rica cost?

Private shuttles with Can't Wait Travel CR start at $115 per van (1-6 passengers) for short Guanacaste airport transfers and range up to $420 per van for longer routes like SJO Airport to Tamarindo. All prices include 13% tax, fuel, tolls, flight monitoring, child seats, and door-to-door service. There are no hidden fees and no surcharges for night arrivals.

Is it safe to take a private shuttle in Costa Rica?

Yes. Can't Wait Travel CR is an ICT-licensed Costa Rican company (#4121-2025) operating modern, insured vehicles with professional bilingual drivers. Costa Rica's main highways between SJO/LIR airports and tourist destinations are well-maintained and patrolled, and we operate at all hours with real-time flight tracking so the driver is always waiting on arrival.

Should I rent a car or take a private shuttle in Costa Rica?

A private shuttle is the better choice for first-time visitors and one-way transfers between regions. Rental cars cost $60-90/day plus tolls, fuel, and often one-way drop fees that double the cost — and driving in Costa Rica involves unfamiliar mountain roads. Most travelers book shuttles between regions and rent locally only when they want freedom inside one destination.

What's the difference between SJO and LIR airports in Costa Rica?

SJO (San José - Juan Santamaría) is Costa Rica's main international gateway in the Central Valley, closest to La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde. LIR (Liberia - Daniel Oduber) is in northern Guanacaste, closest to Tamarindo, Papagayo, Flamingo, Nosara, and Rincón de la Vieja. Flying into LIR saves 3-4 hours of driving if your destination is a Guanacaste beach.

How far in advance should I book my Costa Rica private shuttle?

We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance, especially during high season (December-April). However, we often accommodate last-minute bookings based on availability. For airport pickups, booking 3-7 days ahead ensures your preferred time slot.

What happens if my flight to San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR) is delayed?

Don't worry! We monitor all incoming flights in real-time. If your flight is delayed, we automatically adjust your pickup time at no extra charge. Your driver will be waiting when you arrive, no matter what time that is.

How much luggage can I bring on the shuttle?

Each passenger can bring up to 2 large suitcases plus carry-on bags. We have ample space for surfboards, golf clubs, and other sports equipment - just let us know during booking so we can prepare the right vehicle.

Are child car seats included in the Costa Rica shuttle service?

Yes! We provide child car seats and booster seats free of charge. Simply indicate the ages of your children during booking, and we'll have the appropriate seats installed before pickup.

What routes do you cover in Costa Rica?

We cover all major Costa Rica destinations including: San José (SJO) Airport, Liberia (LIR) Airport, La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano), Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Tamarindo, Papagayo, Puerto Viejo, Jaco, Santa Teresa, Uvita, and more. If you don't see your destination, contact us - we likely service it!

Is the driver bilingual? Will they speak English?

Yes! All our drivers are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish fluently. They're also trained to provide excellent customer service and can share local tips about Costa Rica during your journey.

What's included in the private shuttle price?

Everything! Our prices include: professional bilingual driver, fuel, all tolls, parking fees, airport meet & greet service, flight monitoring, bottled water, and vehicle insurance. No hidden fees or surprise charges.

Can I make stops along the way to my destination?

Absolutely! One complimentary 1-hour stop is included (perfect for lunch, groceries, or sightseeing). Additional stops can be arranged for a small fee. Popular stops include Carara National Park, crocodile bridge, and local restaurants.

What is your cancellation policy?

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before scheduled pickup time with full refund (minus 13% tax). Cancellations within 48 hours are non-refundable. We recommend purchasing travel insurance for maximum flexibility.

How do I pay for the Costa Rica private transportation?

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex), bank transfers, ACH, SEPA Direct Debit, and other secure payment methods through our secure online payment platform.

Private Shuttle Costa Rica - Arenal Volcano - Can't Wait Travel

Costa Rica Private Shuttle Service

Door-to-door transfers with bilingual drivers — from SJO and LIR to every major destination.

Book Your Private Shuttle

5.0 on Google Reviews

SJO

San José

LIR

Guanacaste

Every destination in between.

Run by locals, trusted by international travelers

Can't Wait Travel CR is a Costa Rican company (ICT #4121-2025) running private shuttles from SJO and LIR airports to the most popular destinations in Costa Rica — La Fortuna, Monteverde, Guanacaste, Manuel Antonio, Santa Teresa, the Caribbean, and more. Modern minivans for 1 to 12 passengers, hand-picked local drivers, and customer support that takes care of you from booking to drop-off. From $115 per minivan.

ICT licensed#4121-2025
SJO & LIRboth airports
Local driversEnglish & Spanish
Family-runCosta Rican company

Can't Wait Travel CR team and shuttle van in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Founded by Jorge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

What's included in our Costa Rica private shuttle

Every shuttle comes with a hand-picked local driver, real-time flight tracking, a clean A/C minivan with WiFi and USB-C chargers, cold water on board, free child seats (infant, toddler, or booster) on request, room for one large bag plus a carry-on per passenger, all tolls and the 13% tax, plus convenient stops on the way for photos or restroom breaks.

Hand-picked local driver
Real-time flight tracking
A/C minivan with WiFi & USB
Cold water on board
Free child seats on request
Luggage: 1 bag + carry-on/pax
All tolls & 13% tax
Convenient stops on the way

Why travelers choose us

Door-to-Door

Picked up at your door and dropped off at your destination. No stops, no detours.

Private Only

Your own vehicle and dedicated driver for a comfortable, private ride.

Meet & Greet

Your driver will greet you at pick-up, ready to help with your luggage.

24/7 Support

Available around the clock to assist you before, during, and after your trip.

Two ways to travel

Choose Your Travel Style

Every trip is private and comfortable. The difference is how much you want to see along the way.

Standard

The fastest way to get where you need to be. A direct, private ride from your pickup to your destination with no detours and no waiting.

Direct A-to-B route
Available 24/7, any schedule
Door-to-door, no shared rides
Quick stops if needed

Included

Private vehicle

Just your group

Bilingual driver

English & Spanish

A/C vehicles

Modern fleet

Flight monitoring

We track delays

Child seats free

Request at booking

Luggage included

1 large + 1 carry-on

Free WiFi

Stay connected

Phone chargers

USB & Type-C

Bottles of water

Complimentary

Fully insured

ICT #4121-2025

Ideal for airport pickups, hotel-to-hotel, and tight schedules.

Browse routes & prices

Experience More

Discovery

Why just ride when you can explore? Travel between destinations with curated stops at waterfalls, viewpoints, hanging bridges, and local towns.

Scenic stops along the way
Your driver doubles as a local guide
Turn your shuttle into an adventure
Extended stops for photos, lunch & exploring

Welcome Kit

Costa Rican craft beers

San Pellegrino & premium water

Tropical snack box

Also included

Private vehicle

Just your group

Bilingual driver & guide

Local expertise

A/C vehicles

Modern fleet

Flight monitoring

We track delays

Child seats free

Request at booking

Luggage included

1 large + 1 carry-on

Free WiFi

Stay connected

Phone chargers

USB & Type-C

Bottles of water

Complimentary

Fully insured

ICT #4121-2025

Perfect for travelers who want to see more of Costa Rica between destinations.

Plan your discovery route

Booking perks

No hidden fees

Price = final price

Free cancellation

48h before trip

24/7 support

WhatsApp & email

Instant confirmation

Book now, ride confirmed

Routes & prices

Costa Rica private shuttle prices and drive times

These are some of our most-booked routes — door-to-door private shuttles from SJO and LIR airports out to La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Guanacaste, Santa Teresa, and the Caribbean coast. We run the same minivans between destinations too (La Fortuna ↔ Tamarindo, Monteverde ↔ Manuel Antonio, and dozens more). Prices shown are per minivan for 1 to 6 passengers. Bigger minivans are available for groups of 7 to 12, and airport pickups always include flight tracking.

Route	Distance	Drive time	From (1-6 pax)
SJO Airport → Jaco	100 km	1h 30min to 2h	$162	Book
SJO Airport → Puerto Viejo	215 km	4h 30min to 5h 15min	$342	Book
Liberia Airport → Flamingo	75 km	1h 30min to 2h	$131	Book
Liberia Airport → Rio Celeste	95 km	2h 30min to 3h	$180	Book
Liberia Airport → La Fortuna	130 km	3h to 3h 30min	$216	Book
Papagayo → Liberia Airport	45 km	1h 30min to 2h	$104	Book
Monteverde → La Fortuna	125 km	4h to 4h 45min	$243	Book
Monteverde → Tamarindo	145 km	4h to 4h 45min	$257	Book
Monteverde → Samara	165 km	4h to 4h 45min	$266	Book
Monteverde → Manuel Antonio	180 km	4h to 4h 45min	$297	Book
Nosara → La Fortuna	245 km	5h 30min to 6h 30min	$356	Book
La Fortuna → Puerto Viejo	325 km	6h to 7h	$378	Book

See all routes →

SJO or LIR — which Costa Rica airport should I use?

Fly into SJO (San José) if you're heading to La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Puerto Viejo, or anywhere in the Central Valley — it's the main international airport with the most flight options. Fly into LIR (Liberia) if you're going to a Guanacaste beach: Tamarindo, Papagayo, Flamingo, Nosara, Santa Teresa. Picking LIR saves you 3 to 4 hours of driving.

SJO

Central Valley

San José - Juan Santamaría International

Best for travelers heading to

·La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
·Manuel Antonio
·Monteverde
·Jaco
·Puerto Viejo & the Caribbean
·Uvita and the Whale Coast

LIR

Guanacaste

Liberia - Daniel Oduber International

Best for travelers heading to

·Tamarindo
·Papagayo Peninsula
·Flamingo & Conchal
·Playas del Coco
·Nosara
·Santa Teresa & Rincón de la Vieja

Private shuttle vs rental car in Costa Rica

For getting between regions in Costa Rica, a shuttle is usually the easier call. Rentals run $60-90 a day plus tolls, fuel, and one-way drop fees that often double the total. The mountain roads also get tricky after dark and cell coverage drops outside main towns. Most travelers we drive book shuttles between regions and rent locally only when they want to explore on their own around one destination.

The real one-way cost

Rentals run $60-90 a day plus tolls, fuel, and one-way drop fees that can double the total on cross-country trips. A shuttle is a flat per-minivan price — you know exactly what you're paying.

Time on arrival day

Your shuttle is already on the road while you'd still be in line at the rental counter. By the time you'd be leaving the lot, we're halfway to La Fortuna.

Mountain roads after dark

Drives to La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio have winding mountain stretches and patchy cell coverage. Our drivers do these roads every week — most travelers don't.

When renting makes sense

Many of our regulars take shuttles between regions and rent locally only when they want to explore around one base — Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, the Nicoya Peninsula.

Our Fleet

Modern Vehicles for Every Group Size

All vehicles are fully equipped with A/C, WiFi, and comfortable seating. Price is per vehicle, not per person.

1–6 pax

Standard Van

Perfect for couples & small groups

A/CWiFiLuggage included

7–9 pax

Large Van

Ideal for families & friends

A/CWiFiExtra luggage space

Maxus Deliver 9 van for 10-12 passengers

10–12 pax

XL Van

Best value for large groups

A/CWiFiMax luggage capacity

Traveling with more than 12 passengers?

We can arrange larger vans to accommodate your group. Contact us for a custom quote!

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Trusted by travelers

A 5-star service.
Promised & proven.

5.0

Google Reviews

Read reviews on Google

ICT Licensed
#4121-2025
20 Years
In CR tourism
Bilingual Drivers
English / Spanish
Door to Door
No detours, ever

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about booking private shuttles with Can't Wait Travel CR

Which route does the driver take from SJO to La Fortuna?

There are two main routes: (1) Via Route 702 through San Ramón - slightly longer but smoother roads, often used during heavy traffic or rainy season; (2) Via Vara Blanca passing Poás Volcano - more scenic with mountain views, used in good weather and lighter traffic. Our drivers choose the best route based on real-time traffic conditions, road status, and weather. Both routes take approximately 2.5-3 hours.

Can I book a shuttle if my flight arrives at night?

Yes! We offer airport pickups at any hour, including late-night arrivals. There is no extra charge for nighttime pickups. Your driver will be waiting with your name sign regardless of the time. We recommend booking your pickup 90 minutes after your scheduled landing to account for immigration and baggage claim.

What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

We monitor your flight status and adjust pickup times accordingly at no extra charge for delays. If your flight is cancelled, contact us immediately. SJO Airport to La Fortuna: FREE reschedule on flight cancellation — a limited promotion exclusive to this route. No add-on needed, no extra cost. All SJO Airport routes: We include flight monitoring as standard. We track your flight in real time and adjust your pickup automatically if delayed. La Fortuna departures: Free schedule flexibility is included, allowing you to change your pickup time up to 2 hours later (1-6 passengers). For cancellations on other routes, contact us via WhatsApp or email and we will work with you to find a solution.

How long does immigration take at SJO Airport?

Immigration at Juan Santamaría Airport typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on flight arrivals and time of day. Peak times (multiple international flights landing) can take longer. We recommend booking your pickup 90 minutes after landing. We monitor your flight in real-time, so if you clear faster, just WhatsApp us and we will have your driver ready.

What is the difference between Can't Wait Travel and shared shuttles like Interbus?

With Can't Wait Travel you get a 100% private service: the van is exclusively for your group, you choose your pickup time, and we go door-to-door (hotel, Airbnb, airport). Shared shuttles like Interbus operate on fixed schedules (usually 8am or 2pm), make 4-6 stops to pick up other passengers, and only stop at major hotels. For 4+ travelers, our private service often costs the same or less per person than shared options.

What if I am traveling with surfboards or extra luggage?

Standard luggage allowance is 1 large suitcase + 1 carry-on per person. For surfboards, golf clubs, or extra luggage, please mention it when booking so we can assign the right vehicle. Surfboards up to 7ft usually fit in our vans at no extra charge. For oversized boards or large groups with lots of gear, we may need to arrange a larger vehicle (subject to availability and pricing).

What is the Discovery upgrade?

The Discovery upgrade adds extra time to enjoy your transfer and a premium welcome kit. It includes: Costa Rican craft beers, San Pellegrino & premium water, a tropical snack box, and extra time for stops and meals along the route. You can add it during booking on any route and for any vehicle size. It is the perfect way to make the most of your ride.

Is Discovery available on all routes?

Yes! Discovery is available on any route and for any vehicle size. You can add it during the booking process. No matter where you are headed, you can upgrade your transfer and make the most of the journey.

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Direct Operator · ICT #4121-2025

Can't Wait Travel CR

Family-run Costa Rican company based in La Fortuna. We operate our own fleet, our own drivers, and our own booking platform — no third-party brokers, no markups.

Learn more about us

Can't Wait Travel van with Arenal Volcano in the background

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