Arenal to San José: Private Driver

Time: about 3 hours 30 minutes. Priced per vehicle, never per person: message us for a quote to your exact route. Groups of 7 or more ride in a larger vehicle, priced when you book.

Your driver picks you up at your La Fortuna area hotel and drops you at your San José hotel, the airport, or wherever you're headed next. No shared shuttle, no waiting on other passengers' pickups.

Stops along the way

One hour of free wait time is included for stops such as:

• A coffee plantation or roadside soda for a casado lunch.
• A photo stop with volcano views as you leave the Arenal area.
• A stretch break in one of the small towns the route passes through on the way into the Central Valley.

Longer stops can be arranged for an additional fee, priced when you book.

Road notes

The drive is mostly two-lane mountain road with some fog and rain near Arenal, then opens up into the Central Valley. We advise against driving this route after dark, and the rainy season (June to November) can bring potholes and slower going. This is one of the reasons most first-time visitors do better with a private driver than a rental car.

Vehicles

A sedan or SUV covers 1 to 4 travelers with standard luggage; a premium van fits 5 to 8; a Sprinter is available for larger groups or extra bags. Child seats are available on request.

Reviews for our drivers

"We had a fabulous driver (Herman) who took us via private transfer to Arenal. Herman was very informative and spent his time showing us the sites, plants, fruits, and animals along the way."

Pamela G., SJO → Arenal

"Christopher the driver waited for us as we exited the airport. He was friendly and he agreed to stop for us to eat at a restaurant. The route to La Fortuna is not easy with all the mountains and fog and unpaved roads but Christopher's driving made us feel safe and enjoy the ride."

Ariel C., SJO → Arenal

FAQ

Is the price per person or per vehicle? Per vehicle, never per person: message us for a quote to your exact route and party size.

Where does my driver meet me? At your La Fortuna area hotel, or in the arrivals hall if you're coming from the airport.

Is it safe to drive this route ourselves? It's a mountain road with fog, rain and some unpaved stretches; most first-time visitors do better with a driver who knows it.

Can we stop for photos or lunch? Yes, up to an hour of free stops is included.

Can you plan the rest of our trip too? Yes: Anywhere Costa Rica plans private drivers, hotels and tours together, with a local insider on WhatsApp 24/7 while you travel.