Transfers Countries Costa Rica La FortunaLa Fortuna to Tamarindo

Private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

209km

One way

From €41 per person

Scenic view of Tamarindo - private day trip from La Fortuna - photo 1

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Private transfer in 3 h 50 min

209km

One way

From €41 per person

Trusted by 2+ million happy travelers across 130 countries

5.0

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2026

5.0

5176
Reviews

What's included

Door-to-door service

Pick-up and drop-off at any address

Flight tracking included

Your driver will wait if your flight is delayed

Professional English-speaking driver

Local expert, fully licensed and insured

Clean, air-conditioned vehicle

Comfortable ride with climate control

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours before departure

Luggage included

1 suitcase and 1 carry-on per passenger

Your trip at a glance

3 h 50 min

209km

Private driver

Pick up

Your driver will meet you at your address in La Fortuna.

Help with your luggage

Trip

You will travel in comfort for 3 h 50 min.

Smoke-free

Child seats

Pet-friendly

Air conditioning

Clean, comfortable car

Accessible

Free cancellation

Don't miss out on sightseeing stops!

Explore at your own pace and discover these hidden gems on the way.

La Fortuna Waterfall

Arenal Volcano National Park

Tamarindo

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Tamarindo.

Door-to-door service

Total distance↔ 209 km

Estimated time3 h 50 min

Rated across the web

Independent traveler feedback

Tripadvisor

5.05,176 reviews

4.6991 reviews

2+ million travelers like you

Verified reviews from 856 travelers who booked this route

Dec 31, 2024

"Stwart was an amazing driver. He was very knowledgeable of the areas we drove through and willing to share information and answer questions. He was very helpful with loading our luggage and getting us to the airport on time. The trip going to Tamarindo from San Jose Airport and returning a few days later were both very enjoyable with Stwart. He also has very excellent driving skills and people skills. "

Patricia B.

United States

Dec 9, 2024

"Our trip with Pablo was excellent as well. Even better because I was prepared with motion sickness remedies. Pablo was able to point out a toucan and monkey on the way. We had our pre-arranged stop at the waterfall and he took a great picture of us."

Andrea H.

United States

Mar 25, 2024

""Our driver, Johnson P.B., was wonderful! He had water and snacks for the trip, he stopped at a lovely place for lunch, he brought towels for when we went to the waterfalls, and he showed us some beautiful views on our route. We really appreciated his thoughtfulness. My friend and I had never used Daytrips before this vacation, but we were delighted with the results ""

Lisa A.

United States

Feb 20, 2024

"Jonathan was wonderful! We felt very safe and cared for. We would definitely book this service again."

Krista B.

United States

Jan 9, 2024

"One of the best drivers from My Day Trip we have ever had. Very helpful, informative, and pleasant. Hope we see you again, John, and thank you! Ashley and Colin "

Ashley G.

United States

Nov 3, 2023

"Oscar was great! My husband and I had great conversation with him which made the long trip feel a lot shorter. Made a couple of stops for us when we needed along the way and he was a fantastic driver. We felt very safe with his behind the wheel. Also appreciated that he confirmed he was on the way beforehand. "

Jennafer F.

Canada

Questions & Answers about Traveling from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

There are no direct flights from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, you will first need to get to the airport in San Jose from La Fortuna. Once you're in San Jose, you can get a flight to Tamarindo. The whole journey will take at minimum 6 hours and can become very costly given the short distance. A shuttle or private car with Daytrip will be cheaper and faster.

The fastest transfer option from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is a private car service or a group shuttle van, either of which will take just under 4 hours door-to-door.

On the way from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, you have the opportunity to visit sights such as La Fortuna waterfalls, offering incredible jungle trekking and swimming in the cool blue waters. Or, you can stop and see the perfectly cone-shaped Arenal Volcano, the most active in Costa Rica today.

The distance from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is about 129 miles (207 km), which takes about 4 hours by car or at least 6 hours with a bus or flight.

The easiest way to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is with a private car transfer or group shuttle service. Both offer convenient, direct transportation with maximum safety and comfort. When you take a private car with Daytrip, you can even stop for sightseeing along the way!

There is a public bus from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, but it requires a transfer to a second bus in Cañas. Crossing this distance by bus takes 6-6.5 hours, and tickets cost around $25-40 per person.

Good to know

Child seats available on request
Pet-friendly travel
1 checked bag + 1 carry-on per passenger
Extra or oversized luggage can be added
Flexible payment: card online or cash to driver
Free cancellation 24 hours before departure
Tips are not included (optional ~10%)

Trusted by 2+ million happy travelers across 130 countries

5.0

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2026

5.0

5176
Reviews

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your pickup time

Overview: car trip from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

The drive from La Fortuna to Tamarindo covers 128 miles (207 km) takes just under 4 hours door-to-door. With a private car transfer, you will traverse the northwest of Costa Rica in exceptional comfort and safety. You will also have the opportunity to stop en route for sightseeing at fascinating sites you may otherwise miss out on!

For instance, check out La Fortuna waterfalls on your way, and tackle the 500-step hike to the top for spectacular views over the lush jungle before cooling off in the brilliant blue waters below. Or, visit the impressive Arenal Volcano National Park to witness the country’s most active volcano and admire its perfect cone shape. The surrounding jungle hosts over 800 bird species, making it one of the best stops for nature enthusiasts.

Of course, if you're in a rush to get to the beaches of Tamarindo, with both Daytrip's private car service and group shuttle service you can opt for a direct transfer.

About Tamarindo

Your La Fortuna to Tamarindo transfer deposits you in a tropical paradise, home to incredible sandy beaches, richly diverse nature preserves, and a vibrant surf culture. Tamarindo is best known for its abundance of watersport opportunities, with unmatched surfing, diving, snorkeling, and fishing. The town is one of the more modern fixtures in this area of Costa Rica, so it also boasts an energetic nightlife and ample shopping and dining choices.

Surfers, snorkelers, and sunbathers are spoiled for choice with renowned beaches such as Playa Tamarindo and Playa Langosta. From October to May, visitors can also head to Playa Grande to witness the nesting behaviors of hundreds of magnificent leatherback sea turtles. Other natural wonders include the bountiful mangroves, jungle scapes, and the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge estuary, home to crocodiles and howler monkeys.

Visitors to this coastal town can take part in surf lessons for every level, including private coaching for true beginners in need of basic instruction. Or, take to the treeline with ziplining through the jungle and hikes across the hanging bridges in Monteverde Cloud forest. There are also guided tours on horseback and whitewater rafting trips available for the more adventurous sightseer. Tamarindo is one of the most popular tropical getaways on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and is packed with outdoor recreation, surfing spots for every skill level, and plenty of chances to try the local food. A trip here showcases some of the best that the country has to offer, and may be made even more memorable with a Daytrip private transfer to start your visit out smoothly.

From La Fortuna to Tamarindo: travel tips

Before your journey from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, a few considerations can make your trip as seamless as possible.

Stay budget-friendly with a shuttle

If you want to save on transportation costs but still need comfort and convenience, consider the group shuttle offered by Daytrip. This service starts at only $32 and gets you direct transportation in just under 4 hours with a friendly, professional driver. This is also a great choice for avoiding the hassle of navigating public transit with all of your luggage.

### Book activities in advance For activities such as private surf lessons or smaller group tours on horseback, it’s a good idea to plan and book your guides as early as possible ahead of your trip. Particularly in peak travel seasons, the most in-demand activities can be filled for weeks! ### Stop along the way If you want to experience as much of Costa Rica as possible, make the trip to Tamarindo with a private Daytrip driver. You can stop at places such as the Arenal Volcano National Park or La Fortuna waterfalls. These slight detours will create lasting memories on your travel day without requiring you to stay the night outside of the major towns or factor in a separate day trip.

How to get from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

There are a few different options for getting from La Fortuna to Tamarindo depending on your priorities and budget, all varying in cost and travel time. The following options are organized based on practicality, from least to most efficient.

Flight from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

It is possible to take a flight from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, but the journey is not direct and ultimately does not save you time in comparison to driving. The trip will take you about 6 hours in total and begins with an hour-long shuttle to Alajuela, where you will have to catch the airport shuttle to INVU Las Cañas. From there, you can walk to the airport in San Jose and board a flight to Tamarindo. This can cost $179-$650, not counting transportation to and from the airport, depending on how far in advance you book.

### Bus from La Fortuna to Tamarindo There is a public bus route from La Fortuna to Tamarindo that takes about 6.5 hours and requires at least one transfer to a new bus in Cañas. There is also often a stop required in Tilaran about 30 minutes before you reach Cañas. This is likely the cheapest option, averaging around $25-40 for tickets. However, keep in mind that buses can sometimes fill up before you get a seat, and you will still have to navigate to and from your accommodation in either city. ### Group shuttle from La Fortuna to Tamarindo Daytrip offers a group shuttle service for up to 7 people at a time, with multiple daily departures. It’s more reliable than the public bus, and you get better service, with a friendly, English-speaking driver to talk to along the way. Since it’s direct from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, it’s also faster, taking just under 4 hours in a comfortable van. Prices start at just $32. ### Private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo A Daytrip private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is the best option for many travelers, as it provides stress-free door-to-door transportation and lets you stop along the way to experience more of Costa Rica. You will also receive local insights from your friendly English-speaking driver, providing you with a more personalized experience. A private car service is more reliable and cheaper than relying on local taxis, and you can let Daytrip know if you’re traveling with large luggage like surfboards. Starting at $48 per person, it’s a great deal considering the service you get.

Things to do when you get to Tamarindo

Once you arrive in Tamarindo, there are a wide variety of activities for the whole family to take part in. However you choose to travel from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, be sure to plan ahead and include the most popular attractions of this tropical paradise in your itinerary.

For surfers, it is hard to beat the variety of surf breaks in Tamarindo. Different beaches will be suitable for different skill levels, and there is something for everyone from the very beginner to the advanced or expert surfers. The most popular beaches for every level are:

### Surf Playa Tamarindo This is the most popular beach for beginners, with small waves and a sandy bottom (no danger of reef incidents.) This is also the closest beach to the center of town and is great for swimming and sunbathing too if surfing isn’t the goal of your trip! ### Playa Casitas This charming beach may be suitable for all surfers, beginners and pros alike, as the different breaks offer smaller waves and larger swells depending on where (and when) you visit. The beach is named for the tiny houses scattered along the shoreline and is worth a visit for the quaint coastal scenery even if you won’t be surfing. ### Playa Langosta Langosta is known for larger waves and crystal clear waters coming in from Tamarindo Bay, and it may be best for intermediate-advanced surfers. ### Playa Grande As the name suggests, this is a very large beach offering a few different surf breaks. Generally, though, the waves are stronger and larger across all of the breaks and are best left to more advanced surfers. This can be a great spot to come watch others take on the powerful swells while you soak up the sun from the soft sand! ### Playa Avellana Avellana is perhaps the most famous beach in Tamarindo among experienced surfers, and is known by the locals as “little Hawaii.” The waves here are big, sometimes reaching heights of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters), so it’s best left to the most advanced surfers! ### Take a jungle trek Beyond the beaches, be sure to explore the surrounding natural beauty of Tamarindo with one of the many jungle treks or trips to the volcanic national parks. This town highlights the surreal beauty of Costa Rica, in the water and on dry land.

When is the best time to visit Tamarindo?

The most popular time to visit Tamarindo is in December and January, given the dry, sunny climate perfect for long days at the beach. However, as the dry season lasts from November to April, consider timing your visit for the shoulder months of late autumn and early spring.

You will still be avoiding the rainy season, and you’ll likely find much better deals on flights and accommodation. The surf schools and other popular attractions tend to be less crowded too. If you are a beginner surfer, the early spring months tend to summon medium-sized swells that may be less intimidating than those rolling in during the winter.

Visit these sights on the way

La Fortuna Waterfall

One of Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfalls paints a postcard-perfect picture of jungle beauty. A Jungle Gem

Arenal Volcano National Park

This still active volcano offers a taste of Costa Rica's diversity - from lush rainforest to lunar landscapes. The Cone

Centro de Rescate Las Pumas

This rescue center rehabilitates wild cats and many other animals in large, natural enclosures. Pouncing for Protection

Llanos de Cortez Waterfall

At one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls offers, you can go behind the curtain. The White Curtain

Ponderosa Adventure Park

Unlike anywhere else in Costa Rica, you can enjoy indigenous wildlife and an exotic African safari at this nature reserve. A Taste of Africa

Monkey Park

This non-profit shares the plight of endangered species with visitors while rehabilitating sick and injured animals. Primates with Purpose

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