If it’s your first time in Costa Rica, booking transportation can feel like one more thing to figure out. What happens when you land? How do you find your driver? Can you stop along the way?
The good news is that a private shuttle is one of the easiest ways to travel around the country. To take the guesswork out of it, we’ve put together a simple walkthrough of what to expect, from the moment you book until you’re dropped off at your hotel.
The word “shuttle” can be a little confusing. In Costa Rica, you’ll find both shared shuttles and private ones, and they’re quite different.
A shared shuttle runs on a fixed schedule and picks up several groups along the way. A private shuttle is just for you. It’s your own vehicle with a professional driver, it leaves when you want, and it goes straight to your destination.
That means:
Booking usually takes just a few minutes. You’ll share your flight number, arrival time, the number of travelers, how much luggage you have and where you’re going. If you need child seats or have surfboards or extra bags, this is the time to mention it.
The more details you share, the easier it is to match you with the right vehicle. Our Costa Rica private shuttle service covers airport transfers, hotel-to-hotel trips and multi-destination itineraries, so you can book a single ride or your whole trip at once.
Not to Do! Don’t wait until the last minute during the high season. From December to April, and around major holidays, vehicles book up quickly, so it’s best to reserve as soon as your flights are confirmed.
After a long flight, the last thing you want is to wander around a busy airport. That’s why your driver tracks your flight and adjusts to any delays.
Once you’ve cleared immigration and customs, head out of the terminal. Your driver will be waiting outside with a sign showing your name, ready to help with your luggage and walk you to the vehicle.
The process is the same whether you land at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José or Guanacaste Airport in Liberia. If you’re flying into Guanacaste, our Liberia airport transfer gets you to the beaches quickly, often in less than two hours.
Once you’re on your way, it’s time to relax. Vehicles are clean and air-conditioned, and you’ll have plenty of room for both people and luggage.
One of the best parts of traveling with a private driver is the freedom to stop. Some favorites include:
Our bilingual drivers are also a great source of local tips. Ask about restaurants, tours or the best time to visit a park, and they’ll be happy to help.
!!! Not sure where to stop? Just tell your driver what you’re interested in, and they’ll suggest the best options along your route.
Private shuttles can take you almost anywhere in the country, but a few routes are especially popular:
If your trip starts in the capital, a San José airport pickup can take you to any of these places, or to your first night in the Central Valley.
Private shuttles work especially well for families and groups. Everyone travels together, with no need to split up or squeeze into a small car.
Vehicles range from sedans and SUVs for smaller parties to spacious vans for larger groups. Child seats are available on request, and there’s room for strollers, surfboards and all the luggage that comes with a family vacation.
For kids, the freedom to stop makes a big difference. Bathroom breaks, snacks or a quick leg stretch are never a problem, which keeps long travel days much calmer for everyone.
A few small things can make your transfer even easier:
A Short Guide to a Stress-Free Transfer:
That’s really all there is to it. Once you’ve booked, all you have to do is land, find your name on the sign and enjoy the ride. No crowded buses, no confusing directions and no waiting around in the heat. Just a comfortable vehicle, a friendly driver and the first views of Costa Rica rolling past your window. Whether it’s a single airport pickup or transfers for your entire trip, we’ll plan every ride around your schedule. Ready to plan yours? Send us your trip details, and Costa Rica Horizon will take care of the rest.
