One of the first questions we hosts receive during guest bookings is "How do I get from San Jose to Playa Zancudo?"
Every guest who visits this secluded paradise will have their own personal preference when it comes to transportation. Some of you will be influenced by how comfortable you might feel in any given scenario, while others might be influenced by a budget. Some of you may be limited in how much time you have-needing to prioritize quick and easy travel, while others may want to visit many stops along the way. To help you make a decision that works best for you, we've put together a list; which includes the pros and cons of each option, and pictures to give you an idea of what your experience could be like. So, without further ado! Here are 4 ways to get to Playa Zancudo, Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
*Disclaimer-All photos were taken prior to COVID-19. Costa Rica has taken great responsibility in minimizing the spread of the virus and all travelers should expect to wear masks, wash hands, and social distance in public areas.
1.) Domestic Flight from SJO to GLF via Sansa Airlines
~$90-$160 each way. *price varies depending on season*
Upon arriving in San Jose, travelers can make a quick 7-10 minute walk from the International Airport terminal to the Domestic Terminal down a sidewalk. Signs are clearly marked and there is no need for a taxi. The Sansa Terminal is clean, air-conditioned and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. Travelers can use a clean bathroom, connect to WiFi, and charge their devices in outlets on the chairs in the gate area, where there is also a nice coffee bar and souvenir shop.
PROS:
This is the fastest option at only 45 minutes in the air, making it the best option if you're pressed for time and want to spend the majority of your trip in Zancudo and the surrounding areas.
This allows you to see the Pacific coast from above. With clear skies, passengers can see many sights: including the palm oil farms, rolling hills, dense jungle landscape, tall mountain sides and the infamous whales tail in Uvita. There is no better way to experience this rock formation at low tide than from a Sansa plane seat.
This is the BEST VALUE, especially if you're traveling light. It's the fastest option at the medium price level while still allowing you to see magnificent sights.
CONS:
Sansa uses 10-15 passenger planes for travel to Golfito. If you have a fear of flying or small planes, this might not be the best option for you.
Sansa allows one carry-on and one checked bag. The carry-on can't be more than 20 lbs. and the checked bag can't be more than 30 lbs. If your bags are overweight, you will be charged an additional $2 per pound that they are over. The agents are generally pretty strict with this policy, but will sometimes let things slide if it isn't a full flight.
There are limited flights to Golfito each day. You must plan at least 2 hours between your arrival at SJO and your departure to GLF. Immigration and customs lines can be lengthy, especially during the high season, so to prevent running from one terminal to the next, or missing your connecting flight completely, be sure to give yourself a cushion.
ALSO NOTE:
Once you arrive in Golfito, you will need to find transportation to Playa Zancudo. You can choose to hire a car or boat taxi. By car, the travel time is a little over an hour. By boat, it's just 30 minutes. Both options cost about the same ~$60. At ZWB&B, we will assist in arranging this transportation for you to make things smooth and easy. If you are staying in different accommodations, we recommend asking your host for local contacts.
2.) Bus from San Jose to Ciudad Neily/Rio Claro/Paso Canoas.
~$15-$30 each way.
Upon arriving at SJO International Airport, travelers will exit the baggage claim and customs area to the departures sidewalk. Waiting at the doors are plenty of orange taxis available to provide transportation to the bus station downtown. Uber is another great option in which all pricing is discussed and paid up front and through the app, so there is no need to exchange cash. You can expect a ~$20 fare from SJO to the San Jose Public Bus Station.
PROS:
Taking the bus is the cheapest option (even with the cost of taxis on either end) making it the best for backpackers, adventure travelers, or just anyone on a budget.
This is also the cheapest option if you have heavy luggage. There is usually no limit to luggage weight.
It's a comfortable ride. The directo bus from San Jose to the Southern Zone is air conditioned and has large seats that recline for maximum comfort. There's plenty of leg room and even fold down trays for working or eating.
It's a scenic drive. Through the large bus windows, passengers can look out at all the nature and beautiful landscapes.
It's the best way to catch up on rest after what could be days of travel. Take a long nap, watch a movie, or listen to your favorite playlist completely uninterrupted while the driver does all the work.
The buses stop every 1-2 hours for a break. Passengers can get off, have a full meal, snack, or drink and still have time to go to the restroom. Most stops have WiFi and there are some authentic souvenir and fresh fruit stands.
CONS:
It can take 6-8 hours to get to any of the 3 closest stops to Zancudo. Though less expensive, it takes more time. This would not be recommended for someone trying to visit over a long weekend. Most of your trip would be spent in travel.
Though COVID-19 prevention policies are enforced, the bus might not be the safest option, since you are in close proximity to other people for an extended period of time. You will need to use discernment and make the best decision for you.
ALSO NOTE:
Wherever you decide as your final bus stop, you'll still need to find transportation to Zancudo. Inexpensive taxis are available at the 3 major stops in Ciudad Neily, Rio Claro and Paso Canoas. At ZWB&B, we offer a shuttle service from Bella Luz for our guests. No matter where you decide to stay in Zancudo, we always recommend asking your host for local contacts before arranging on-going transportation.
3.) Private Taxi from SJO directly to your accommodations in Playa Zancudo.
~$300-$450 each way
Arrange a Private car taxi during booking and be picked up right at the airport side walk or your San Jose hotel. The vehicle is clean and air-conditioned and the driver is a knowledgeable English speaker.
PROS:
Allows you to see all the sights of the pacific coast without having to make continuous stops along the way.
The best option for those that have a lot of luggage and don't feel comfortable on a bus.
Also the best option if you're traveling with a pet or emotional support animal.
Provides more flexibility if your flight arrives late into San Jose.
The easiest, most reliable and direct route to Zancudo, preventing you from transfering to or from a boat, plane, or other taxi at any point.
CONS:
One of the more expensive options and it still takes quite a bit of time.
Probably not the most comfortable or practical option for large groups over 4 people.
4.) Rent a Car from SJO or GLF
*Price varies depending on vehicle, season and availability.
Renting from San Jose:
Renting from Golfito:
It's common for guests to visit Zancudo while road tripping throughout Costa Rica. It's a great way to see the country and experience true Tico culture all along the Pacific coast. The southern zone is unique to any other part of Costa Rica in that it's secluded and the beaches are uncrowded with less development. Having a vehicle to explore on your own is the BEST way to visit Zancudo. If you decide to fly into Golfito, you can rent a car there to save on time and mileage from San Jose.
PROS:
The most flexible option. Have complete control of your own timeline and the places you want to go and see on the way and while staying in Zancudo.
See the popular tourist destinations of Jaco, Manuel Antonio, Dominical and Uvita before reaching the quiet secluded oasis that is Zancudo.
Saves money and time in the long run, if you're staying for an extended period of time.
All you need is a valid US drivers license and credit card.
CONS:
Cost can add up quickly with gas and mileage making it one of the more expensive options in total. Planning ahead will help keep things affordable.
Though the coastal road is paved and well maintained, the roads in and around Zancudo are bumpy dirt roads that can be uncomfortable for long periods of time, especially for someone who may struggle with back pain.
Some rental car companies will charge additional fees if they know that the Southern Zone is one of your destinations, because of the unpaved roads.
As you can see, there are many different ways to get to Zancudo and we hope that this list helps to weigh out the pros and cons of each, as you decide what works best in meeting your personal needs. This list includes travel options that we have personally experienced ourselves and can therefore recommend with full confidence. Every host has their own recommendations and connections, and we highly recommend discussing transportation and making travel arrangements in advance of your arrival.
At ZWB&B, we assist our guests in making these reservations and have connections to make things smooth and easy. When reserving your stay, ask for the "transportation package" and we'll assist you in making the best decision for you and bulk everything into one easy payment, so all you have to do is show up, relax, and enjoy your vaction!
One thing to know for sure, things rarely go according to plan in Costa Rica. Pura Vida! It's one of the many beauties of traveling here-you can't predict all that you'll get to experience. It's wise to know all of your options and be able to adapt accordingly. Traveling to Zancudo is an unforgettable adventure and there is something here for everyone. At ZWB&B, we have hosted guests from all around the globe: families, couples, adventure travelers, surfers, fishermen, bird watchers and more. It's an experience unlike any other. Once you get here, you'll understand why.
To reserve your stay at ZWB&B, visit the Accommodations tab and click BOOK NOW.